The best front-load washers are a great option for saving energy and space. They can be stacked on top of a dryer, making them ideal for apartments or small spaces. 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. The best models often have smart features like AI-powered settings prediction or remote cycle scheduling. 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.
Jason is a freelance tech journalist and product reviewer who has reviewed tech gadgets and household products for over 10 years. He is not a fan of doing laundry and is always looking for ways to simplify the task. He and his family tested the ASKO Steel Seal W4114CW for about six weeks in their home with their two young kids and German Shepherd doggie.
The quick list
The best front-load washer overall
The LG 4.5 Cu. Ft. Smart Front Load Washer improved Terri's laundry experience with its sleek design, efficient cycles, and impressive spin performance. It's easy to maintain.
The best front-load washer on a budget
The Samsung 4.5 cu. ft. front-load washer offers efficient cleaning, quiet operation, a compact design, Smart Care, multiple settings, and a 20-year motor warranty.
The best premium front-load washer
The ASKO Steel Seal washing machine offers 22 versatile wash settings, a compact design, easy controls, and efficient performance, making it ideal for family laundry.
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The best front-load washer-dryer combo
The LG 5.0 cu. ft. Mega Capacity All-in-One Washer/Dryer Combo is space-saving, efficient, and user-friendly. It features smart technology, a sleek design, and excellent cleaning performance.
The best compact front-load washer
The LG 2.4 Cu. Ft. Stackable Smart Front-Load Washer features AI technology, an Allergy cycle, energy efficiency, and remote control compatibility with LG ThinQ.
The best large-capacity front-load washer
The GE Profile 5.3 Cu. Ft. Front-load washer offers a large capacity, smart features, energy efficiency, and advanced cleaning technology for an easier laundry experience.
The best front load washers we recommend in 2024
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The best front load washers we've tested
Our team has thoroughly reviewed the following products featured in this buyer's guide. We strive to provide comprehensive and unbiased rankings based on our hands-on testing and expert research. Our evaluations consider top-rated brands and essential features to assist you in making informed purchasing decisions at the best value.
The best front load washer overall
The LG WM4000HBA 4.5 Cu. Ft. Smart Front Load Washer improved our reviewer Terri's laundry experience throughout testing. Its sleek finish made it stand out in her laundry room, unlike her previous white ones. In addition to looking great, it's scratch-resistant and has a tempered glass door. It's stackable, so you can use pedestals for easier access, and Terri added a drip pan underneath so it didn't leak.
AJ Madison did a great job with delivery and installation. Since Terri didn't remove her old washer/dryer set, the installation cost was $85 for the washer and $110 for the dryer. The LG ThinQ app didn't work for her due to some Wi-Fi problems, but she liked the touch controls.
After testing the washer for several months across various cycles such as steam, pre-wash, and delay options, Terri found the Speed Wash to be really handy for small loads. Using just 1/4 cup of detergent and vinegar can remove tough stains like grape jelly and coffee. The washer has multiple soil levels and temperature settings, so even cold washes work great.
The spin cycle is impressive, with great drainage and low noise levels—about 53.6 dB during regular cycles and 63.2 dB on spin. To maintain the LG WM4000HBA, Terri kept the door ajar, cleaned the seal after every use, and ran a Tub Clean cycle monthly to keep odors at bay.
"This LG WM4000HBA 4.5 Cu. Ft. Smart Front Load Washer is sleek and stylish, loaded with features, and performs well on various cycles. However, it takes a while to review all of the features."
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | straightforward, especially with professional assistance; design allows for flexible configurations, such as stacking or using pedestals | 8/10 |
| Washing Performance | variety of cycles; Speed Wash cycle particularly impressive for quick loads; effectively removes most stains | 9/10 |
| Rinsing Efficiency | options for extra rinses; ability to adjust rinse settings based on load type | 8/10 |
| Spin Cycle | powerful, extracting a significant amount of water and reducing drying time | 9/10 |
| Maintenance | straightforward, with regular tasks such as wiping down the door and seal, running a Tub Clean cycle, and cleaning the dispenser drawer | 8/10 |
The best premium front load washer
The ASKO Steel Seal washing machine is an efficient, high-quality choice for modern laundry needs. With over 20 wash settings, it can handle a variety of laundry tasks, though its compact size might not work for larger families. Considering the price point, potential buyers should compare it to their needs.
Upon receiving the ASKO washing machine and tumble dryer on a pallet, we moved them easily into our laundry space with a hand truck. The compact design gave us a lot of space, and they included the tools and accessories to stack them. Installation was easy, but the instructions were a little unclear.
The front layout is clean, with easy-to-reach controls. The detergent drawer is compatible with powder, liquid, or pods. The power button and selection dial are easy to use, too. Unlike rubber seals, the stainless-steel seal around the door keeps dirt and odors out. The machine has 22 programs, allowing you to customize the washing mode, temperature, and spin speed. It also has prewash and super rinse features.
The ASKO washer is easy to use, thanks to its simple controls, a huge improvement over the last one. Safety features like the Child Lock ensure peace of mind, while the machine recommends how much detergent to use. Even with its size, it handles large loads effortlessly, accommodating up to eight towels.
The Universal Wash was consistently effective, with a shirt program that reduced wrinkles significantly. With a peak volume of 67.2 dB during the spin cycle, the ASKO Steel Seal washing machine is our top choice for family laundry.
The ASKO Steal Seal W4114CW washing machine is a quiet, efficient, high-quality washer for the modern age. With more than 20 different wash settings, it’s more than equipped to handle any washing you need. It’s not the most spacious washer, so it might not be the best option if you’ve got a big family. It’s also quite expensive, so you’ll have to decide if it’s worth the investment.
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | straightforward and can be completed without professional assistance; instructions could be clearer in some areas; flexible installation options, such as side-by-side or stacked configurations | 8/10 |
| Washing Performance | excellent washing performance, effectively handling various loads and stains; Universal Wash program performs well; steel seal design prevents dirt and odors | 9/10 |
| Rinsing Efficiency | good rinsing efficiency; options to customize cycles for extra rinsing if needed; allergy mode, which uses extra water and rinsing, is particularly beneficial | 8/10 |
| Spin Cycle | spin cycle is efficient and quiet; noise level during the spin cycle is low | 9/10 |
| Maintenance | periodic tasks like running a Drum Cleaning cycle and cleaning the filter and detergent drawer; steel seal reduces the need for frequent cleaning compared to rubber seals | 8/10 |
The best front load washer dryer combo
This LG 5.0 cu. ft. Mega Capacity Smart Front Load All-in-One Ventless Washer/Dryer Combo eliminates these problems by streamlining the laundry process, while not taking up a lot of space. In addition to saving space, it's got smart technology, so you can wash and dry in two hours. LG's smartphone app lets you monitor and control the machine remotely, which makes it ideal for people with limited space or who just want a more convenient laundry solution.
Despite the snow, our reviewer, Paige, was able to move the machine up three stairs thanks to a friend's help. It arrived in excellent condition, well-protected by heavy-duty packaging.
It features a sleek design and is available in black steel and graphite. At 27 x 14 1/8 x 30 3/4 inches and 246.9 lbs, it easily fits standard spaces. Thanks to a detailed checklist and included tools, it's easy to install. Clear controls and dual touchscreens make it easy to use. The ventless design means there's no dryer vent, so it's super easy to set up.
The user-friendly features continue inside, with an interior light and responsive touchscreen controls. The power and start/pause buttons need to be pushed harder. It cleans well, but it had some trouble with pet hair. In general, it handles large loads, runs quietly, and works better than my previous GE top loader, especially on fresh stains.
"Traditional washers and dryers take up much space, and switching loads over is inconvenient. The LG 5.0 cu. ft. Mega Capacity Smart Front Load All-in-One Ventless Washer/Dryer Combo streamlines the laundry process, saves space, and includes plenty of smart features for good measure. It's efficient, with the ability to automatically wash and dry laundry in two hours. Plus, when paired with LG’s smartphone app, you can monitor and even control the machine without being in the house. As a result, this washer-dryer combo is an appealing option for anyone with limited space, wants more precise control over their laundry, or just wants an easier option than a separate washer and dryer."
| Attribute | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | straightforward with the included tools and detailed instructions; machine's weight and size make it challenging to move without assistance; ability to use existing water hoses | 7/10 |
| Washing Performance | strong washing performance, effectively handling various loads and stains; range of modes for different fabric types and washing needs; capacity is impressive, accommodating large loads and items like comforters | 8/10 |
| Rinsing Efficiency | provides good rinsing efficiency, removing most stains and dirt effectively; heavily soiled items may require additional cycles for complete cleaning; ability to adjust detergent dispensing | 8/10 |
| Spin Cycle | efficient, reducing moisture content significantly and preparing clothes for drying; design minimizes movement during operation | 8/10 |
| Maintenance | straightforward, with tasks such as cleaning the lint trap, wiping the door and seal, and running the Tub Clean cycle; design facilitates easy access to components; Smart Diagnosis feature | 8/10 |
More front load washers we recommend
Top Ten Reviews is on a mission to review everything we feature in our buyer's guides. Still, while we work hard to make this a reality—or where this isn't possible—some of our guides still feature rankings based on our team's considerable expertise and research.
While we haven't been able to test some of the units in this guide in person, we've instead honed in on top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best features to help you make the right decision for your home, all for the best price.
The best front load washer on a budget
This Samsung front-load washer, with an impressive 4.5 cu. ft. capacity makes handling large loads easier, cutting laundry time without wasting the earth. Vibration Reduction Technology+ minimizes noise and disturbance while using this washer, and with Self Clean+, the machine eliminates 99% of bacteria in its drum, making it hygienic to wash.
Customers have praised the washer for its quiet operation and user-friendly interface, often praising its power to clean clothes efficiently. It has a big capacity, so you don't have to load as much. However, there are concerns about vibrations, warranties, installation, and durability in some feedback.
This washer is engineered for superior efficiency and convenience. Its stackable design benefits those with limited space, fitting seamlessly into smaller laundry rooms. Some reviews claim it exceeds expectations, even acting as a worthy successor to older models that have been around for a while.
Samsung's 4.5 Cu. Ft. High-Efficiency Washer comes with Smart Care for easy troubleshooting via smartphone, Swirl+ Drum Interior for better water extraction, and a closet-depth fit so it fits anywhere. The machine also has ten preset washing cycles and six more options for fabric care needs.
This unit is the ultimate laundry solution, featuring five temperature settings and matching dryer options. It also boasts a 20-year warranty on the Digital Inverter Motor, giving you peace of mind.
The best compact front load washer
The LG 2.4 Cu. Ft. Stackable Smart Front-Load Washer's impressive features and stylish design stand out. With just 24 inches of width, this washer fits into tight spots like closets and laundry areas. With tempered glass doors and chrome accents, it's a stylish addition to any home.
The washer is equipped with built-in intelligence, utilizing advanced AI technology to detect fabric types and load sizes. It picks the right wash motion and temperature so your clothes get the best clean. A standout feature is the Allergy cycle, which eliminates more than 95% of allergens in your laundry using steam.
A compatible dryer can communicate with the washer to choose the best drying cycle, simplifying your laundry process. You can control your LG ThinQ washer from anywhere, get notifications when your laundry is done, and use voice commands to operate it with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa with the LG ThinQ app.
Not only is this washer efficient in terms of performance, but it's also Energy Star certified, so it uses a lot less water and energy. With a Direct Drive Motor, it's quiet and vibration-free, and the stainless steel tub keeps things going.
The best large capacity front load washer
The GE Profile 5.3 Cu. Ft. High-Efficiency Stackable Smart Front Load Washer is one of the best options for modern households when it comes to large-capacity front-load washers.
One of the standout features is the UltraFresh Vent System+ with OdorBlock, a unique system that detects and removes excess moisture, keeping your washer clean and fresh between uses. This washer comes with Microban Antimicrobial Technology, which protects critical components.
With SmartDispense Technology, you can keep up to 32 loads of detergent on hand. This feature simplifies the laundry process and ensures that the right amount of detergent is dispensed based on the load size and fabric type, improving cleaning results.
With its steam function, the GE Profile washer penetrates deep into fabric fibers, removing stains and sanitizing clothes. With Dynamic Balancing Technology (dBT), laundry runs quietly by sensing and rebalancing uneven loads during the spin cycle.
This washer is also ENERGY STAR certified and meets CEE Tier 2 specifications, so you can save on utility costs without sacrificing performance.
The washer's big capacity, efficient performance, and smart features get great reviews. If you're looking for a reliable, feature-rich front load washer that makes laundry day easier, the GE Profile 5.3 Cu. Ft. washer is a great choice.
How to choose the best front load washer for you
Here are the key features when 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. Suppose you want a machine with a low running cost. In that case, you should also pay attention to other energy stats, 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.
The size of the machine determines a fair amount of energy efficiency—if the washer has a smaller wash drum, it will use less water and power. It is 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 with 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 many cycles are generally better, but look at the types of wash options, too. For instance, if you plan to use cloth diapers for your baby, you will want a sanitized cycle. If you have athletes in your household, you may wish a heavy-duty cycle to 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 with more sensitive needs, and their washing machine must reflect this. Quick cycles, which can be completed in just 30 minutes, will be a godsend for anyone in a rush, 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 automatically dispense detergent. To get up to 40 excellent washes, you need only insert 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 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, a compact unit can offer innovative features. 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 to anyone with disabilities who needs improved access.
4. Warranty
A washing machine represents a significant investment, so look for one with strong manufacturer coverage, 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 washer FAQs
Are front load washers better?
Front-load washers are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency, water conservation, and cleaning capabilities. They are generally more efficient than top-load washers and use less water since they tumble clothes through a small amount rather than filling the drum.
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.
Can a front load washer and dryer be stacked?
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.
Do front load washers use less water?
Opting for a front-load washer can help with your household bills and benefit the environment. According to energy watchdog Energy Star, front-loading washers use 25% less energy and water, so you should see a big difference in water and energy bills if you switch to a front-loading device. The reduction is even more impressive when compared to traditional top-load agitator washers, with a front loader using 45% less energy and 50% less water. Front loading washes rinse clothes by spraying them with high-pressure water rather than soaking them in a large amount of water. Better for your bank and the environment!
Do front load washers have mold problems?
Some front-load washer owners find they have had problems with mold, but that tends to be lessened in washer-dryer combos. You can try to reduce the risk by leaving the washer door open between uses to allow it to dry out and wiping around the rubber seal with some kitchen roll to remove any water droplets. You can also run an empty self-cleaning cycle once a month with some bleach or a specialty washer cleaner. This will also help to prevent bad odors.
Can front load washer doors be reversed?
Most front-load washer doors are attached on the left-hand side and cannot be reversed due to all the electronics required to lock the door securely to keep the water inside while it is running. A handful of models allow you to reverse the door but double-check the manual to be sure before purchasing.
How we test the best front load washers
We test front-load washers on several key areas: setup, design, performance, and maintenance.
During setup, we ensure that all the parts are included, such as the washer unit, hoses, user manual, etc. The washer is then placed on a level, stable surface so that it is easy to access water, drainage, and electrical outlets. We assemble it according to the manufacturer's instructions, making sure the hoses are securely attached. The machine's level is checked with a level tool, and its legs are adjusted to minimize vibration.
In the design evaluation, we evaluate the control interface for intuitiveness and clarity, making sure buttons and settings are clearly labeled. We also check the ease of loading and unloading laundry, so make sure the door opens wide enough for convenience. You shouldn't have any trouble selecting wash cycles, including temperature and spin speed. Durability is determined by the materials used in the washer's construction, especially the drum and housing.
We run a full cycle on a bunch of dirty fabrics and assess their cleanliness afterward. The spin cycle is tested by weighing wet laundry before and after to measure water removal efficiency. We feel for detergent residue after washing and can use pH test strips to confirm rinsing effectiveness.
Meet the team
Terri is a freelance writer living in Birmingham, AL. She has tested hundreds of products, including kitchen appliances, vacuums, bedding, furniture, luggage, and tech gear. Terri has bylines at Architectural Digest, Forbes, Popular Science, CNN Underscored, NBC News Select, The Daily Beast, USA Today, US News & World Report, Tech Radar, Homes & Gardens, and Tom's Guide. Follow her adventures @Territoryone. Terri tested the LG WM4000HBA 4.5 Cu. Ft. Smart Front Load Washer for several months, evaluating design, performance, user-friendliness, and maintenance. She was allowed to keep the set for ongoing use.
Paige Cerulli is a freelance writer and copywriter specializing in equestrianism. Her work spans product reviews, home renovation, and health articles, featured in outlets like Family Handyman and Business Insider. Based in Western Massachusetts, she lives with various pets and extensively tested the LG Mega Capacity Washer/Dryer combo.
