Washer Buying Guide
1. Types of Washers
Front Load Washers
Design: These washers open from the front and spin horizontally. They're known for efficiency and gentler cleaning.
Best For: Large households and those who want high-efficiency, quiet, and thorough cleaning.
Pros
Uses less water and energy
Better at cleaning heavy stains
Gentler on clothes
Stackable with matching dryers
Cons
More expensive up front
Can develop odor/mold without proper maintenance
Bending required unless elevated
Top Load Washers
Design: Opens from the top, typically with either an agitator or impeller.
Best For: Users who prefer traditional design, quicker wash times, and easier top access without bending.
Pros
Often less expensive
Easier to load without bending
Shorter cycle times (especially traditional models)
Cons
Uses more water and energy (non-HE models)
Agitators can be rough on clothes
Can’t be stacked
Agitator or Impeller Washers
When choosing a top-load washer, one key decision is whether you want an agitator or an impeller inside the drum. Both move clothes around to get them clean, but they work differently. An agitator is a tall post in the center of the washer drum that moves back and forth to scrub clothes. An impeller is a low-profile cone or disc at the bottom of the washer drum. It uses spinning and water currents to move clothes gently.
Agitator: Great for heavy-duty cleaning, removes tough stains well, usually has shorter cycle times, often less expensive
Impeller: Gentler on fabrics, more room in the drum for large loads, uses less water and energy, often has high-efficiency (HE) features
3. All-in-One Washer/Dryer Combos
Design: A single unit that washes and dries clothes in the same drum, typically ventless.
Best For: Small homes, apartments, or RVs where space is tight and convenience is key.
Pros
Saves space—ideal for small homes or apartments
No need to transfer clothes between machines
Easy to install—just needs one water hookup
Cons
Longer wash + dry cycles (2–6+ hours)
Smaller capacity (usually 2.0–4.5 cu. ft.)
Drying performance can be weaker than standalone dryers
Laundry Centers (Stacked Units)
Design: Washer and dryer combined into one vertical unit. Dryer on top, washer below.
Best For: Compact homes or rental spaces where saving floor space is essential.
Pros
Compact footprint (about 27" wide)
No need to buy separate machines
Simple, straightforward controls
Cons
Can be smaller capacity
Limited wash/dry options
Not as energy-efficient as modern separate units
2. Sizing and Installation Requirements
Before making your decision, make sure it fits in your setup.
Standard Washer Sizes
Most full-size washers are about 26–30 inches wide, 30–34 inches deep, and 38–43 inches tall, with drum capacities ranging from 3.5 to 5.5 cubic feet. European washers are typicllay 24 inches wide.
Types of Installations
Front-Load Washers: Can be installed side-by-side or stacked with a matching dryer. Needs a water hookup, drain, and 120V outlet. Optional pedestal drawers raise them to reduce bending.
Top-Load Washers: Always installed side-by-side with a dryer. Needs a water hookup, drain, and 120V outlet. Cannot be stacked.
All-in-One Washer/Dryer Combos: Ventless drying, so no dryer vent is needed. Installed like a regular washer: just a water hookup, drain, and 120V outlet.
Laundry Centers: Comes as one connected, vertical unit. Needs water hookup, drain, and either a 240V outlet (electric dryer) or gas line. Designed for closets, corners, or small laundry areas.
Measure your space
Measure doorways, hallways, and the appliance location carefully. Ensure access to a water line.
3. Key Features to Consider
Today’s washers offer more than just basic washing capabilities. Depending on your budget, you might want to consider these special features
Capacity
Typically ranges from 2.0–5.5 cu. ft., depending on the washer type and family size. Larger capacities handle bigger loads.
Energy Efficiency
High-efficiency (HE) models use less detergent, softner, water and energy, saving you money on bills.
Spin Speed
Measured in RPM (1,000–1,400), higher speeds dry clothes faster by spinning out more water.
Wash Cycles & Settings
Look for different wash cycles (delicate, heavy duty, quick wash, etc.) for versatile cleaning.
Steam Cleaning
Helps remove stains, wrinkles, and allergens, especially useful for delicate fabrics.
Smart Features
Wi-Fi or app control to start cycles remotely, get notifications, or adjust settings.
Load-Sensing Technology
Automatically adjusts water levels and cycle time based on load size, saving water and energy.
Self-Cleaning Cycle
Keeps the drum clean and fresh, preventing mold and odors.
Quiet Operation
Look for models with noise-reducing features, especially if your washer is near living spaces.
Design
Consider stackable, compact, or traditional side-by-side designs depending on space and convenience needs.
Drum Material
Stainless steel drums are durable and resistant to rust or damage, while plastic drums can be cheaper but may wear down quicker.
Agitator vs. Impeller Washers
When choosing a top-load washer, one key decision is whether you want an agitator or an impeller inside the drum. Both move clothes around to get them clean, but they work differently.
Agitator: Great for heavy-duty cleaning, removes tough stains well, usually has shorter cycle times, often less expensive
Impeller: Gentler on fabrics, more room in the drum for large loads, uses less water and energy, often has high-efficiency (HE) features
Big loads and delicate items