Buying Guide: Washing Machines

A washing machine is one of the most important appliances in the home, and in some cases can equate to a significant investment. That’s why it is important to choose a washing machine with care. If you’re struggling to identify what exactly you’re looking for in a new washing machine, considering just a few details can help you make the best decision possible.

What Is A Top-Loading Machine?

Top-loading washers can vary in terms of functionality, features, and price.

A traditional top-loading machine fills with water and rotates clothes using an agitator. These models are typically the least expensive top-loading option. You can easily stop a machine mid-cycle to add a misplaced item of clothing.

Traditional top-loading washers tend to utilize the largest amount of water to wash your clothes. While budget-friendly, these machines may be noisy to operate and may require extended drying cycles that require more energy to run than other machines.

High-efficiency top-loading machines fill only partially with water and tend to spin faster than traditional top-loading machines. These washers can hold a large amount of clothing and can efficiently dry loads by utilizing a higher spin speed. Never use a high-efficiency top-loading machine to wash waterproof items, or you may cause the machine to shake excessively as it spins.

What Is A Front-Loading Machine?

Front-loading washers fill partially with water, and clean by lifting clothes to the surface instead of rotating items through the water continually. Front-loading washers are typically more efficient than high-efficiency top-loading washers and may be able to spin at higher speeds for faster washing. A front-loading washer can be stacked with a dryer to save space in your laundry area.

What Is A Compact Machine?

Compact washers are smaller than top-loading or front-loading machines. Compact washers attach to your kitchen faucet. These washers can typically be tucked away when they are not in use. Compact washers can handle about half of the capacity of a typical top-loading or front-loading machine.

Does My Machine Come With Special Features?

Apart from bare bones models, most washing machines will come with special features that add to their functionality and convenience. While more features will add to the cost, they can offer you great value in the long run.

Automatic Settings

A washing machine may come with automatic bleach and detergent dispensers. These dispensers release at just the right time in a cycle, saving you time and effort. Because you fill a reservoir instead of a machine, automatic dispensers will typically enable you to spend less money on detergents over time.

Automatic temperature control will allow the machine to mix hot and cold water as necessary to get your clothes clean without using excessive energy. Meanwhile, automatic load sensing will enable your machine to detect the load size and add the correct amount of water without prompting you for any manual input.

High-Quality Interiors

Washing machine tubs may be made of plastic, porcelain, or stainless steel. Plastic and stainless steel tubs are resistant to rust and can withstand greater speeds during a spin cycle.

Efficiency Settings

Some washing machines come equipped with a time-saving option, which can reduce the time it takes to wash an average load of clothing. In addition to offering you convenience, efficiency settings can help save on water and energy costs.

Your washing machine options are extensive – take time to consider which washer is best suited for your lifestyle. In the end, the best option will be the washing machine that has exactly the features that you need.