Best front load washers 2024: for pristine clothes every cycle

Best front load washers 2023: Jump Menu

Man with a baby strapped to his chest loading a front load washer with laundry.

(Image credit: Getty)

1. The list in brief ↴
2. Best overall: Samsung WF42H5000AW
3. Best for ease of use: Electrolux ELFW7637AW
4. Best premium washer: LG WM9000HVA
5. Best for quiet cycles: GE GFW550SSNWW
6. Best smart front load washer: Samsung WF53BB8700AV
7. Best for regular needs: Electrolux EFLW317TIW
8. Best for large capacity: LG WM9500HKA
9. Buying advice
10. How we test

The best front load washers are a great option for those looking to save energy and space. They can be stacked on top of a dryer, making them ideal for apartments or small spaces, and choosing the best washing machine with an Energy Star certification can lead to long-term savings on energy bills.

A washer with a large capacity of over five cubic feet is a good choice for large families, and there are models with over eight cycles that offer different ways to remove stains, dirt, and grime - useful for people who play sports, spend time outdoors, or cook frequently.

The price of front-load washers varies from $700 to $2000, depending on their capacity, features, and cycle types. Smart features, such as AI-powered settings prediction or remote cycle scheduling, are often found in the best models. Steam settings are also gentle on stains.

Keep reading to see our top picks and head to our best top load washers guide for their counterparts.

The quick list

We have provided a succinct overview of the top front load washers. That way, you can scan through your options and their advantages or disadvantages before delving into the deeper analysis we've provided further down the page.

The best front load washers we recommend in 2024

Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

We're on a mission at Top Ten Reviews to review everything we feature in our buyer's guide. While we haven't been able to test every entry in this guide in person, we've instead honed in on top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best front load washers to help you make the right decision.

The best front load washer overall

(Image credit: Samsung)

1. Samsung WF42H5000AW

The Samsung WF42H5000AW is the best frond load washer overall for an affordable machine with a decent capacity

Specifications

Size: 38 3/4(h) x 27(w) x 33(d) inches
Capacity: 4.2 cu. ft.
No. of programs: 9
Warranty: 10 year (motor) 3 year (tub) 1 year (parts and labor)

Reasons to buy

+
Affordable
+
Decent capacity for families
+
App compatibility

Reasons to avoid

-
Missing a steam function
-
Fewer cycles than other models
Buy it if

✅ You like minimal noise: The washer’s VRT technology helps to balance the drum and reduce the noise made by vibrations when the drum is cycling at high speeds, which is great if you prefer a peaceful home.

✅ You’re a family: The Samsung WF42H5000AW has a family-friendly design that includes a child lock and a spacious drum that can fit the average family laundry load.

✅ You want to keep costs low: An Energy Star certification helps to keep your energy and water bills down for months and years into the future.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a steam setting: Steam settings can help to lift tough stains from your clothes, but unfortunately, the Samsung WF42H5000AW doesn’t provide this option.

❌ You want something groundbreaking: If you've heard of groundbreaking smart features like AI being able to predict your cycles and settings, you should know that you won't find that here.

❌ You want to set cycles remotely: Although the washer's compatible app can diagnose potential errors or repairs, this model does not offer the chance to control settings remotely.

The bottom line

🔎 The Samsung WF42H5000AW is a great companion for most laundry days, as it has all of your essential cycles, Self Clean+ technology, and app diagnostics for a low cost. That’s before you even consider its good 4.2 cubic feet capacity, which should provide plenty of space for the average family load. ★★★★½

For a washer you can depend on, the Samsung WF42H5000AW is a front-runner. Not to mention that it is one of the best picks for affordability, as it is one of the least expensive washers we reviewed. It has Self Clean+ technology, nine basic but effective programs, app compatibility, and a large capacity of 4.2 cubic feet. That's plenty of space to fit a king-size comforter or a family laundry load.

Design: The Samsung WF42H5000AW is very family-friendly, featuring a child lock and Self Clean+ technology, which helps prevent dirt from accumulating. The washer notifies you every 40 cycles when it needs cleaning, helping you to keep your washer fresh even when you’re busy with chores or childcare. VRT technology also reduces vibrations by balancing the drum at high speeds, so it runs quietly if you have napping children or work calls to take. 

The washer engages plenty of methods of attacking dirt and grime with its eight wash cycles, four spin speeds, and four temperature settings. Sadly, it lacks a steam function,  which is reasonable given the affordability of this option but something to keep in mind if you rely on steam power to lift heavier stains. 

The design isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s neat, tidy, and easy to use. It’s also stackable, which is great if you live in a small space. Another key benefit is that the machine’s Smart Care technology will flag potential repairs or errors in the compatible app. 

Performance: On Home Depot’s website, the washer has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars. Users praise how clean their clothes come out, as well as the powerful spin, which makes their clothes feel drier. However, there is no light inside the drum, which can make it hard to spot stray socks.

Value: Samsung WF42H5000AW retails for around $700, which is a great price for this sort of capacity. It's also Energy Star certified, saving you further money on energy bills; it has an impressive estimated annual running cost of $7. It lacks smart features, so if that’s what you’re after, you can check out models like the LG WM9000HVA instead.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignNothing groundbreaking but a great capacity and features.★★★★
PerformanceWashes powerfully, producing clean clothes every cycle.★★★★★
Criteria 4Very affordable for what it offers.★★★★★

The best front load washer for ease of use

(Image credit: Electrolux)

2. Electrolux ELFW7637AW

This is the best front load washer for ease of use if you want fuss-free laundry days

Specifications

Size: 38 (H) x 27 (W) x 32 (D) inches
Capacity: 4.5 cu. ft
No. of programs: 10
Warranty: 10-year Motor Warranty plus Lifetime Tub Warranty

Reasons to buy

+
11 cycles
+
Steam function
+
Large capacity

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
-
Missing smart features
-
The inside of the drum is slightly rough
Buy it if

✅ You prioritize ease of use: With an interior light and a dial and touchscreen to select between cycles and settings, this washer model is quick and easy to operate without studying the manual.

✅ You easily stain your clothes: While it's gentle on clothes, the machine can also efficiently deal with dirt and stains thanks to its steam setting and 11-cycle options.

✅ You find washing whites tricky: This model has a targeted Optic White cycle specifically designed to keep your white clothes bright and free from dirt or stains.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You’re looking for smart features: If smart features are essential for an efficient laundry day, you’ll want to pass on this model and look for a different, higher-end washer.

❌ You’re on a $1000 budget: The Electrolux ELFW7637AW costs around $1500, although if you're able to find a sale, you might find it listed for a price more within budget.

❌ You wash lots of kids-sized clothes: Some users complained that their children’s clothes and socks got caught in the rubber gasket of the machine.

The bottom line

🔎 The Electrolux ELFW7637AW is one of the most user-friendly front load washers around, with a simple dial and touch screen to choose between 11 cycles, as well as a steam function and sanitize setting. The only thing is, it lacks smart features. ★★★★½

Whether you find the best tech confusing or you're simply keen to accelerate the speed at which you get laundry done, Electrolux ELFW7637AW will help you along. It may not have the largest capacity out of all of the washers in our line-up, but it's easy to use.

Design: The Electrolux ELFW7637AW is fairly roomy, with 4.5 cubic feet of space to work with. It’s also stackable, Energy Star Certified, and comes in two colors (Titanium and White). If you need to save space, the reversible door hinge can be set to open to the left or the right.

More brownie points should be awarded to the washer for its wide variety of cycles and settings. Adjust the dial to choose one of 11 cycles before moving to the touchscreen for options like allergen mode, delay, or steam. The Optic White cycle can keep whites bright, while the steam function gently lifts dirt from fabrics. The Sanitize setting claims to remove up to 99% of bacteria. Plus, dispensers for bleach and PODs are another nice (and rare) feature to have if you want more cleaning options.

Performance: You can’t control the machine via a smartphone like other models in this line-up. However, there's a very helpful interior light so that you can spot any garments left behind. Users give the Electrolux Electrolux ELFW7637AW an average score of 4.8 out of 5 on the Home Depot website. They praised the design of the washer and how good it looks in their laundry room, but several reviewers were disappointed that their children’s clothes and socks got stuck in the rubber gasket of the machine.

Value: With the Titanium model available for $1,549 and the white version for $100 less, the Electrolux ELFW7637AW is a tall order. Its high-end features, steam setting, and good capacity are convincing factors. A 10-year motor warranty and a lifetime warranty on the tub are added bonuses.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
Design11 effective cycles and steam and santize settings★★★★★
PerformancePerforms well although items sometimes get stuck.★★★★
ValueExpensive but comes with a good warranty.★★★★

The best premium front load washer

(Image credit: LG)

3. LG WM9000HVA

The LG WM9000HVA is the best premium front load washer for top-notch smart features and cycles

Specifications

Size: 40 3/4(h) x 29(w) x 33 3/4(d) inches
Capacity: 5.2 cu. ft.
No. of programs: 14
Warranty: 10 year (motor) 3 year (tub) 1 year (parts and labor)

Reasons to buy

+
Energy efficient
+
App compatibility
+
Quiet

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
Buy it if

✅ You want the ultimate control: Compatible with an app as well as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, you can bark orders at this washer without so much as lifting a finger.

✅ You want the best features: The LG WM9000HVA is packed with features considered to be the best in the business, including a steam setting that can tackle tough stains gently.

✅ Energy efficiency is important to you: This model has twice won awards with Energy Star for its innovation and efficiency, making it a good option if you want to save money on future bills.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You’re on a budget: With premium features and a huge capacity, this is not a washer that comes cheap. You’ll need to be willing to part with over $1500.

❌ You live alone: If you live alone or as a couple, you may find that the LG model’s 5.2 cubic feet capacity offers far too much space for your usual load size.

❌ You use basic cycles: If you’re accustomed to using only basic cycles and unlikely to try out a new approach, try buying a washer with a simpler selection of cycles and settings.

The bottom line

🔎 The LG WM9000HVA front load washer has a very strong set of features, including a steam setting, 11 other settings, 14 cycles, and an app that will let you start or monitor a cycle. You're also primed to bark voice demands via Alexa or Google Assistant, so it’s top-notch if you can afford it. ★★★★

Are you on the lookout for a high-end front-load washer to help you bust stains? The LG WM9000HVA is our top pick where this is concerned. This washer has an app that can download cycles and check the progress of your wash, as well as a steam setting, 14 cycles, and four temperature settings.

Design: The 14 wash cycles include sanitary and allergen settings, as well as 12 settings, including TurboWash, Prewash, Delay Wash, and Extra Rinse. A large dial with touch buttons makes selecting your settings easy, although you may not want to spend long at the machine because you can download new cycles or track progress directly from the app anywhere. It also listens to voice commands from Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for those who don't have time to tap or type.

The washer's 5.2 cu.ft. capacity is way above average, easily fitting large family loads. The washer has also been AAFA certified as allergy and asthma-friendly due to its ability to eliminate dust and deep clean. Meanwhile, the TubClean cycle sterilizes the tub and minimizes cleaning requirements. 

Performance: On Best Buy, users have given the model 4.7 out of 5 stars, which is quite an achievement. Its huge capacity, as well as the fact that it’s quiet to run, received praise. The only qualm most people have is the high price. This sets high expectations, meaning that small issues, such as the detergent drawer not always draining properly or trouble using the smart app, stand out more.

Value: If you’re looking for the best, you should expect to pay a premium. The LG WM9000HVA costs over $1500, but there’s plenty to justify the expensive cost. It comes with a good one-year warranty on parts and labor, three years on the drum, and ten years on the motor. Considering that the washer won Energy Star awards in 2018 and 2019, you should also expect running costs to be quite low.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignHuge number of cycles and premium settings ★★★★★
PerformanceQuiet to run, with only small inconveniences reported.★★★★
ValueExpensive but justified and has won Energy Star awards.★★★★

The best front load washer for quiet cycles

(Image credit: GE)

4. GE GFW550SSNWW

The GE GFW550SSNWW is a dream if you need quiet cycles for work or napping children.

Specifications

Size: 39.75 (H) x 28 (W) x 32 (D) inches
Capacity: 4.8 cu. ft.
No. of programs: 14
Warranty: 10 year (motor) 3 year (tub) 1 year (parts and labor)

Reasons to buy

+
Smart features
+
Quick cycles
+
Quiet to operate

Reasons to avoid

-
No steam setting
-
UltraFresh Vent has negative reviews
Buy it if

✅ You have young children: If you want a washer that won’t disturb napping young children or even work calls, this washer’s balancing technology handily helps to keep noise to a minimum.

✅ You run large loads: The washer's 4.8 cubic feet capacity should provide plenty of space if you regularly run large loads for a family or friends.

✅ Sometimes you’re in a hurry: The 20-minute quick wash cycle will speed up the laundry process, and on top of that, the digital controls and large glass door are easy and quick to navigate.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a steam setting: If you want to use steam to work out wrinkles or stains, you may want to look for a different model. This isn’t included in the ten wash cycles or settings.

❌ You only wash for one or two people: You may find this washer to be too large for just one or two people, so instead, check out a smaller-capacity model that provides less energy wastage when running small loads.

❌ You want a separate spin cycle: Although this GE model has a rinse and spin cycle, it lacks a separate spin cycle, which can help to produce drier clothes.

The bottom line

🔎 The GE GFW550SSNWW is a stackable washer with 4.8 cubic feet of space, a delay wash function, and perhaps most conveniently, it comes with balancing technology, which helps to keep vibrations and noise to a minimum. ★★★★

When it comes to quiet cycles that won’t disturb sleeping babies or work calls, you can count on GE GFW550SSNWW. This front-load washer is also smart-enabled, and its handy delay wash function means that you can set the machine to start at a time that is most convenient for you.

Design: The stackable washer's UltraFresh Vent system eliminates the need to leave the washer door open for airing. Simultaneously, the Microban layer actively fights bacteria, helping to prevent smells even more so. With a large glass door and digital touch controls alongside a big dial, it’s ADA-compliant, which means that it’s deemed to be easy to operate and access by the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The washer’s 4.8 cubic feet capacity easily fits a king-size comforter. If you lead a busy life, you can also add any forgotten garments partway through the wash or schedule the machine to turn on at a specific time. The clever, smart technology means that the app will alert you with a push notification when the cycle is finished. 

You’re spoiled for choice with the ten wash cycles available. Unlike many other models in a similar price bracket, it includes a sanitizing cycle and a quick 20-minute wash cycle. However, it lacks a steam setting and a separate spin cycle.

Performance: The washer's maximum spin speed is 1,300 RPM, which is good but not the fastest in our line-up. Overall, it received an average of 4.7 out of five stars on Home Depot, with users praising the easy installation and how clean their clothes came out but criticizing the washer for being louder than expected on the spin cycle despite the balancing technology, which rebalances uneven loads.

Value: The washer retails for just under $950, although it is listed closer to $750 during sales. This can provide some excellent savings on what is already a fair price for a smart washer with a good capacity and an Energy Star certification. One downfall is that it only has a one-year warranty.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignHelpful cycles and settings but lacks a separate spin cycle.★★★★
PerformanceWorks quietly and produces clean clothes.★★★★
ValueA good price but it only offers a one-year warranty.★★★★

The best smart front load washer

Best front load washers: Samsung WF53BB8700AV

(Image credit: Samsung)

5. Samsung WF53BB8700AV

The Samsung WF53BB8700AV is the best smart front load washer

Specifications

Size: 38.75 (H) x 27 (W) x 34.5 (D) inches
Capacity: 5.3 cu. ft.
No. of programs: 24
Warranty: 2 years parts and labor, 20 years limited

Reasons to buy

+
Huge number of cycles
+
Smart features and Wi-Fi compatibility
+
Steam function

Reasons to avoid

-
Not quick to dry clothes
-
Expensive
Buy it if

✅ You want the ultimate control: With 24 cycles to choose from and customizable options, the Samsung WF53BB8700AV lets you play around with many different ways of washing your clothes.

✅ You’re an AI fan: The washer is equipped with an AI Smart Dial, which can give you cycle suggestions based on your previous washing habits and seasonal needs.

✅ You have a large family: If you have lots of people producing laundry, being armed with this washer’s 6.1 cubic feet capacity will mean that you can run bigger loads and save on your energy bills.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You don’t care for the latest tech: Whether you have trouble navigating apps or you prefer to work in an old-school way, you will lose out on many of this washer’s benefits if you’re not using its smart features.

❌ You want a budget option: This high-tech washer is worth $1,249, which is significantly more than some of the other front load washers we’ve reviewed.

❌ You use just a basic cycle: If you’re only going to use this machine to run one basic wash cycle, it’s worth saving your money and getting a budget-friendly washer with a smaller selection of settings and cycles.

The bottom line

🔎 The Samsung WF53BB8700AV will keep your laundry in order using top-notch smart techs like AI, Wi-Fi compatibility, and customizable cycles. Giving you 24 cycles to choose from, it’s almost like a laundry day playground. ★★★★½

Samsung WF53BB8700AV is a smart washer that makes life and laundry a lot easier. The front load washer comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, an app, a customizable cycle list, and even an AI Smart Dial, which learns your washing habits to propose which cycle you should use next.

Design: Smart technology aside, the Samsung WF53BB8700AV nails the basics. Its 6.1 cubic feet drum capacity may offer way too much space for couples or singles, but it’s perfect for families who run large loads. There are a huge number of cycles to choose from, 24 to be exact, including a quick 28-minute cycle for when you’re very busy and a steam setting that can significantly freshen up clothes. It comes in Black or Stainless Steel, which are both sleek and slightly futuristic looking.

While it's stackable, the washer is on the larger side, weighing 496 lbs, and may not fit into smaller spaces. If it fits, you can count on the Swirl+ pattern drum to provide extra cleaning power. There are also 14 different ways to customize your cycle, such as a Pre Soak or a Child Lock.

The AI Smart Dial suggests cycles based on your previous washing habits and the season. The SmartThings App is also great for planning and troubleshooting, letting you monitor the cycle’s progress from the sofa.

Performance: The Samsung WF53BB8700AV has lots of features to its name, and with 4.7 out of 5 stars on the Samsung website, it seems that users are plenty happy with them. Some, however, complained that it takes a while to dry clothes.

Value: At $1,249, this Samsung washer will make a mark on your budget. However, for the fact you get AI technology and many premium smart features, we reckon this is a fair price. In its favor, the washer also has a Tier 3 Energy Star rating, which means it meets some very stringent requirements for efficiency and will save you money in the long run.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignAwesome smart features and cycles, plus a big capacity.★★★★★
PerformanceA consistently high performer.★★★★★
ValueVery expensive but has a Tier 3 Energy Star rating★★★★

The best front load washer for regular laundry needs

(Image credit: Home Depot)

6. Electrolux EFLW317TIW

For regular laundry needs and everyday tasks, the Electrolux EFLW317TIW is a reliable performer

Specifications

Size: 38(h) x 27(w) x 32(d) inches
Capacity: 4.3 cu. ft.
No. of programs: 5
Warranty: 10 years (motor & tub)

Reasons to buy

+
Large capacity
+
Energy efficient
+
Fits most spaces

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited cycles
-
No quick wash option
Buy it if

✅ You have basic needs: The Electrolux EFLW317TIW covers most of the essentials with its five cleaning cycles and basic settings for water temperature, soil level, and spin speed.

✅ You want to save on bills: As an Energy Certified model, the washer’s expected running costs are extremely low and range from just $7 - 8 dollars per year.

✅ You like to plan ahead: Using the delay start function, you can set a wash to start up to 12 hours in advance, saving you time during the day or in the evening.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You have a large family: With 4.3 cubic feet of space, this machine can handle regular laundry loads, but it will struggle to cope with the demands of a very large family, requiring you to run additional cycles.

❌ You want a white laundry setting: If you prefer to use a tailored cycle for your precious white laundry, the Electrolux EFLW317TIW sadly does not offer this option.

❌ You want to track your laundry’s progress from your phone: Some washers provide app compatibility so that you can keep tabs on your washing from afar, but this simple design does not.

The bottom line

🔎 The Electrolux EFLW317TIW may not have smart features, but if you want a quiet, reliable model that can easily handle all of your regular laundry needs, this is the machine for it. ★★★★

The Electrolux EFLW317TIW handles regular laundry needs like a pro, thanks to its straightforward approach. Working quietly and reliably, it certainly doesn’t offer the biggest capacity in our line-up, but its 4.3 cubic foot drum and big-brand technology guarantee you a reliable sidekick.

Design: This is a no-frills washer with a basic, white design. There’s no steam setting, nor are there options for Wi-Fi or app compatibility. What it offers instead is a very simple laundry formula. There are five cleaning cycles to choose from and options for water temperature, soil level, and spin speed, as well as settings for heavy-duty, normal, delicates, or a rinse and spin. It’s missing a setting for white laundry, which may be a dealbreaker for some.

The washer’s maximum spin speed is 1,100 RPM, which is not an exceptional score. However, it has a delay start function to schedule a cycle up to 12 hours in advance, and it's easy to operate with a simple LED display. If you need to save space, the machine can also be stacked using a separate stacking kit.

Performance: Reviews of the model’s performance on Electrolux and Home Depot are mostly positive and compliment the washer’s quietness and ease of use. Lower ratings mainly criticize the lack of features. The machine is also quiet, which is handy if you want to place it on the second floor of a home or in an apartment. 

Value: We wouldn’t count the Electrolux EFLW317TIW as a ‘steal’, considering that it’s quite pricey for the limited features it offers. However, if you want a reliable washer that will get the job done, you may consider it worth the $999. It’s also energy efficient, being Energy Star certified, and comes with a great 10-year warranty. Its estimated running costs are impressively $7 - 8 per year.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA basic design great for regular laundry needs.★★★★
PerformanceQuiet and effective although it offers nothing exceptional.★★★★
ValueCheap to run but expensive for the limited features.★★★

The best large capacity front load washer

(Image credit: Home Depot)

7. LG WM9500HKA

The LG WM9500HKA has a large capacity suitable for bigger families and those who get through clothes quickly

Specifications

Size: 41.9(h) x 29.63(w) x 34.6(d) inches
Capacity: 5.8 cu. ft.
No. of programs: 14
Warranty: 1 year parts and labor, 10 years motor

Reasons to buy

+
Great capacity
+
Efficient
+
Smart features

Reasons to avoid

-
Not stackable
-
Bulky design
-
Expensive
Buy it if

✅ You have lots of laundry to deal with: As a washer with 5.8 cubic feet of space, it provides plenty of space to deal with a whole family’s laundry requirements.

✅ You’re a fan of smart features: The model comes with a compatible app and can be hooked up to Google Home or Amazon Alexa if you want to use voice control to give out instructions.

✅ You want extensive settings: The washer offers plenty of cycles and settings, making it a great choice if you want many different ways to wash and clean your clothes at your disposal.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want to stack your washer: With the detergent drawers positioned on the top of the machine, the already-bulky LG WM9500HKA cannot be stacked on top of a dryer to save space.

❌ You want to budget: This model is very expensive, thanks to its huge capacity and smart features, so if you’re on a budget, you may want to find a cheaper option with fewer features.

❌ You don’t get through much laundry: If you often run small or half-full laundry cycles, you’ll find that you waste a lot of energy and water running the LG WM9500HKA.

The bottom line

🔎 The LG WM9500HKA has a huge 5.8 cubic feet capacity, large doors, and smart features, making it a formidable force for family laundry days no matter how many towels or clothes you have to wash - just note that it all comes at a high price. ★★★★

If you regularly deal with lots of laundry, the LG WM9500HKA will be a good match. This large capacity washer has a huge 5.8 cubic feet capacity. It also comes with smart features, including smart speakers for voice control.

Design: LED indicators light up the LG model's central dial, which lets you select from various different cycles. A large door also makes it easy to peer inside, as well as to load your washer. The washer is handily twin-wash compatible, meaning that you can place a pedestal washer underneath to run two cycles simultaneously. Sadly, though, due to the detergent drawer being positioned on top, the machine is not stackable with a dryer despite being easy to use

You can bark orders to the washer via Google Home or Amazon Alexa. The app also lets you schedule a wash or diagnose any errors, even if you're sitting in a different room. The cycles and settings are also extremely extensive and include steam or allergen settings. New cycles can be downloaded via your phone, which is the ultimate in the latest technology.

Performance: The LG model’s 6Motion technology makes the machine a high performer, as the drum swings gently from side to side when dealing with delicate garments and switches to a scrubbing motion for heavily stained clothes. 

All the while, anti-vibration technology ensures that the washer doesn’t get too loud. The main complaints from users on Home Depot are that the machine is too large and that the control panel seems overly sensitive when selecting settings and cycles.

Value: The LG WM9500HKA is one of the most expensive washers we’ve reviewed at just under $2,000. However, it is Energy Star certified and backed by a good 10-year limited warranty to protect your money should the machine malfunction in the future. The high initial cost is to be expected, considering its huge capacity and elevated smart features.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignA smart model which is packed with great features.★★★★★
PerformanceUses different methods for different garments.★★★★
ValueA very expensive washer but the price is justified.★★★★

How we choose the best front load washers

We purposely selected a variety of front-load washers from major retailers to compare, taking into account popularity with customers. We made detailed charts comparing features that matter for front-load washing machines, including annual operating costs, total capacity, water used per wash, dimensions, warranty, and more. We gave better rankings to the units that have useful features like a wide variety of cycles, soil levels, water temperatures and presets.

How to choose the best front load washer for you

Here are the key features to look for when you're buying a front loading washing machine...

1. Energy Efficiency

All the washing machines we reviewed are Energy Star certified by the U.S. Department of Energy. That means they are at least 20 percent more energy efficient than the minimum required federal standard. Many of these machines go far beyond the Energy Star level. If you want a machine with a low running cost, you should pay attention to other energy stats as well, including the estimated annual operating cost, power cost, water costs, and water usage. The DOE also provides information about the average water used per wash and the water factor (WF), which is the number of gallons per cycle per cubic foot. The lower the WF, the better.

A fair amount of energy efficiency is determined by the size of the machine – if the washer has a smaller wash drum, it will use less water and power. As such, it is definitely worth buying the smallest machine that accommodates your needs. However, the correlation is not always exact. We saw many machines of roughly the same capacity that have quite different energy efficiency numbers. See our energy scores for more information, and check out the DOE's site for specifics about energy-efficient machines.

2. Wash Cycles & Options

Washing machines with a great amount of cycles are generally better, but look at the types of wash options, too. If you plan to use cloth diapers for your baby, for instance, you will want a sanitized cycle. If you have athletes in your household, you may want a heavy-duty cycle that can power through stains. We gave higher scores to machines that have NSF-certified cycles. This means they can reduce 99.9 percent of microorganisms without carryover to future loads.

Some machines also have allergen cycles for anyone who has more sensitive needs and must have their washing machine reflect this. For anyone in a rush, Quick cycles, which can be completed in just 30 minutes, will be a godsend, as they allow you to get through your mountain of clothes a lot quicker and don’t compromise on washing power. 

Another new and popular feature is machines that can automatically dispense detergent for you. All you need to do in order to get up to 40 excellent washes is inset your detergent once, and your machine will use the weight of your load to determine exactly how much detergent it needs. Many users have said this feature saves them time and also a lot of money, as they aren’t overusing laundry products anymore and repurchase them less frequently. 

3. Design & Dimensions

Before shopping, measure the space you have available for your washer. Even if you have a tiny laundry room, you can find innovative features on a compact unit. The best compact washers offer design features so you won't feel like you have to sacrifice functionality for size.

You may also want to consider a front-load washer with a reversible door so that you can transport your machine to your laundry room or for anyone with disabilities who needs improved access.  

4. Warranty

A washing machine represents a significant investment, so look for one with strong coverage from the manufacturer, especially on the motor. You should be able to count on the most expensive part of the washing machine for years to come.

Front load washers FAQs

Are front load washers better?

Front-load washers are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their energy efficiency, water conservation, and cleaning capabilities, and they are generally more efficient than top-load washers and use less water since they tumble clothes through a small amount of water rather than filling the drum completely.

Front-load washers don't have an agitator, so they are slightly better for washing delicates. Another benefit is their ability to handle larger loads. The drum is typically more extensive than a top-load washer, so you can wash more clothes in one load. This can save time and energy, as well as reduce the number of loads you need to do.

Are front load washers stackable?

Front-load washers can be stacked on top of a compatible dryer, which makes them a great space-saving option. Most manufacturers offer stackable front-load washers and dryers as a set, or you can purchase them individually and stack them using a stacking kit. Stackable front-load washers and dryers are typically designed to fit in a standard-sized room and can be installed by a professional - or yourself if you're handy.

How do I maintain a front load washer so it lasts longer?

Front-load washers are notorious for smelling like mold and mildew. It may even deter you from buying a front-load style washer. But there are ways to keep the smells in check. It really is as simple as airing things out, maybe more than you are used to with a top-loading machine. Some washers offer self-cleaning functions, but you'll still need to manually clean from time to time. There are three things that really need attention between uses.

  • The Gasket: The seal around the machine's door has folds in it that need to be cleaned out on a regular basis, or gross things will start to grow. Wipe it down with a paper towel or a rag often.
  • The Door: Keep it open when you are not using the machine. This allows the tub to air out and helps keep it dry. Less moisture, in general, is a good thing for these machines.
  • The Detergent Tray: Keep the air circulating around the detergent tray, too. Pull it out so air circulates through it, and remove it regularly for thorough cleaning.
Sophie Bird

Sophie is Home Editor at Top Ten Reviews. Starting off her career in print journalism, Sophie then moved to digital and now specializes in lifestyle, home interiors and social media. While she has scooped awards for her journalism, Sophie likes to whip up a storm in the kitchen when she's not writing.

With contributions from