Washing machines

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What's behind our washing machine Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 117 models in washing machines to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
This score is based primarily on washing ability, efficiency, capacity, and noise. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Washing performance
This reflects the degree of color change to swatches of fabric that were included in an 8-pound and maximum capacity test load of mixed cotton items using the machines' most aggressive normal cycle. (We do not use special cycle or option buttons.)
Energy efficiency
This score is based on the energy needed to heat the water for 8-pound and maximum loads using a warm wash and cold rinse. We consider both gas and electric water heaters, and include electricity needed to run the washer and energy needed for drying. Washers that extract more water are scored higher.
Water efficiency
This score denotes how much water it took to wash our 8-pound load and each machine's maximum load. On models that didn't set the fill level automatically, we used the lowest fill setting that sufficed for the 8-pound load. We then calculated water used per pound of clothing.
Capacity
For top-loaders, Capacity is based on how well the washer agitates increasingly large loads. For front-loaders, the score is based on our judgment of the maximum sized load that the washer holds.
Gentleness
Models that earned lower scores for gentleness are more likely to treat your clothes roughly, causing wear and tear.
Noise
This reflects judgments by panelists during the fill, agitate, and spin cycles.
Vibration
Reflects usage on a suspended wooden floor.
Cycle time (min.)
Our measurements of the time, rounded to the nearest five minutes, to complete the most aggressive normal cycle with our 8 lb. load. (We do not use special cycle or option buttons.)

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Recommended washing machines

Recommended washing machines are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended washing machines

Washing machine buying guide

To find the washing machine that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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In addition to finding Ratings for the latest models, you can now shop online using an ad-free interface where you can buy washing machines in a safe-shopping environment.

Learn more about our Price & Shop program

Washing machines have become more efficient in the last 10 years. But some new washing machines are having a tough time meeting updated federal energy rules without sacrificing cleaning. If you're looking for information about washing machines, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ washing machine reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our washing machine buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and washing machine reviews to help you choose the best washing machine for your needs.

Ratings & recommended washing machines

Front-loading washing machines (62)

Recommended models are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices among models, weigh performance, features, price, and attributes that matter to you, such as color, size, or style.

Top-loading washing machines (55)

Recently reviewed washing machines

Samsung WA5451AN[W] (Tested)

This Samsung Unconventional top-loader washing machine has
• Auto temp. control
• Auto detergent dispenser
• Auto fabric softener dispenser
• End of cycle signal
• Rotary dial
• Push button
• Stainless-steel tub
• Manufacturer recommends low-sudsing detergent.
• Comes with a 1 year warranty.

Samsung WA5451AN[W]

Whirlpool Cabrio WTW6500W[W]

Roper RTW4440X[Q]

GE Profile WPGT9150H[WW]

Washing machine buying guide

Stricter standards for Energy Star washers are the latest in a long line of efficiency improvements. But you can still pay top dollar for machines that left our test loads nearly as stained after washing as they were when we put them in. Indeed, we continue to find huge differences in performance among the models we test. Some of the models we've reviewed earned mediocre scores for washing. Some manufacturers also charge a premium for features and claims that didn't necessarily wash in our tests.

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