Washing Machine Buying Guide
When you're buying a new washer, you have a choice of three different types of machines: regular top-loaders with center-post
agitators, top-loaders without center post agitators (also known as high-efficiency top-loaders), and front-loaders. There
are benefits and drawbacks to each.
- Getting started
- Types
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Sort our Ratings based on features, brands and other factors.
Getting started
Washers have become more energy-efficient over the last 10 years. Recently, some manufacturers took shortcuts to meet the federal energy standards—they lowered the water temperature and sacrificed cleaning ability in the process.
We've found huge differences in performance among the models we tested. Some of the models we've reviewed earned mediocre scores for washing. See our Ratings.
Fortunately, our tests also revealed washers that are both capable and efficient. Improvements include mid-wash soaking and more aggressive agitation. Several front-loaders have steam modes that improved cleaning and also claim to sanitize laundry.
Use our washing machine guide to find the right model for your home.
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