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
Choosing the best front-load washer involves several key considerations. Here's a guide to help you make an informed decision:
Capacity: There are many options for front-load washers, typically from 4.2 to 5.8 cubic feet. Your household size and laundry frequency should be taken into consideration. Larger capacity models are great for families because they let you wash more clothes in a single load, while smaller models are good for singles or couples.
Energy Efficiency: Washers with the ENERGY STAR label use less water and electricity, saving you money on utility bills and helping the environment.
Spin Speed: When you wash your clothes, the spin speed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), determines how much moisture remains after washing. Higher RPMs (around 1200-1400) mean drier clothes, which means less energy and drying time.
Cycle Options: Ensure the machine has specialized wash cycles for delicates, heavy-duty items, or quick washes. Additional features like steam cleaning and sanitizing can also improve cleaning.
Smart Features: Modern washers can be controlled with smartphone apps or voice commands. Features like notifications and remote monitoring can make laundry easier.
Brand Reputation and Warranty: A good warranty means the manufacturer believes in the product. Look for models with a one-year warranty.
Glenn Lewis was named president of Mr. Appliance, North America’s leading appliance repair franchise providing customers with full-service residential and light commercial appliance repair, in May 2024. He is responsible for the overall leadership and growth of Mr. Appliance throughout the US and Canada. Before Neighborly, Glenn served as Executive Vice President at The Décor Group in Lubbock, Texas.
Glenn Lewis, the president of Mr. Appliance, a Neighborly Company, spoke to us about the benefits of front-load washers:
Lewis adds, "Open from the front, and the drum is horizontal. These machines tumble clothes using gravity, which is more gentle on fabrics and uses less water and detergent. They’re also more energy-efficient and typically provide better cleaning. The downside is that they can take longer to finish a wash cycle, but they come with various advanced features and settings to cater to different fabric types.
"A wash-dry combo machine is an all-in-one unit that washes and dries clothes. It’s perfect for small spaces where you can't fit a washer and a dryer. However, the drying process in these machines, often ventless, can take longer than traditional dryers. They're convenient but might not dry large loads as efficiently as separate units."
Matthew Glynn is Hisense's Product Marketing Manager for white goods and appliances. Matthew has worked in a product development/management role for over 10 years and has previously worked across marketing and R&D functions with FMCG and CE. Matt focuses on the consumer arm of products at Hisense, focusing on white goods, with a passion for the products and ensuring consumers have the best experience.
‘“The better the energy rating on a washing machine, the more money you’ll save in the long run,” says Matthew Glynn, Product Marketing Manager for Hisense UK, on how to save money on your laundry.
“You can also use specific programs on the machine, such as Eco Wash, as this best combines low temperature and energy consumption. If your machine has a large capacity, you’ll also save on energy by doing fewer loads of washing. I’d recommend this, particularly for larger households.”
Front load washer FAQs
How do front load washers work?
In contrast to top-load washers, front-loaders have a door on the front, allowing easy access to the drum. The drum is mounted horizontally, allowing gravity to assist the washing process. This design allows larger loads and better cleaning.
High-efficiency (HE) detergents make fewer suds, which ensures optimal cleaning while preventing overflow. When you start the wash cycle, the washer fills with water and detergent. A front load washer uses tumbling rather than an agitator. The drum rotates, lifting and dropping clothes, mimicking the motion of hand washing. This gentle tumbling helps remove dirt and stains.
After the wash cycle, the washer enters a spin cycle. The drum spins at high speeds to remove excess water, which reduces drying time. Modern front-load washers have sensors that detect load size and soil level, adjusting water levels and cycle duration to maximize efficiency.
After washing and spinning, water is drained through a pump. Front load washers also have drain filters to catch lint and debris.
How much do front load washers cost?
Depending on its features, brand, and capacity, a front-load washer can cost between $800 and $2,300.
For smaller households or those with lighter laundry needs, entry-level front-load washers start around $800 to $1,000. Mid-range washers range from $1,000 to $1,500 and offer more advanced features like steam cleaning, larger capacities, and enhanced energy efficiency. They usually have smart technology that lets you control them from your smartphone.
High-end front-load washers usually cost between $1,500 and $2,300. These models have the latest technology, bigger drums, and extra features like advanced wash cycles, noise reduction, and energy efficiency. They're good for larger families or people who do laundry a lot.
The initial investment in a front-load washer can be more than that of a top-load washer, but they're usually more energy-efficient in the long run. Compared to top loaders, front load washers use about one-third less water, saving you $30 in electricity each year.
If you're stacking your washer and dryer, don't forget to factor in additional costs like delivery, installation, pedestals, or stacking kits.
How long do front load washers last?
On average, a front-load washer lasts about 11 to 14 years. This is based on regular use, usually around seven loads a week or one load a day.
A front-load washer's longevity can be affected by various factors. Usage frequency plays a big role; machines that are used frequently tend to wear out faster. Also, the quality of the washer can influence its life. A higher-end model has better components and technology to last longer.
A front-load washer's life depends on maintenance, too. By keeping it clean, checking for leaks, and ensuring proper drainage, you can prevent many common problems that can lead to premature failure. If you follow the manufacturer's maintenance tips, you can make the washer last a lot longer.
When is the best time to buy a front load washer?
Several factors come into play when considering the best time to get a front-load washer deal, which can help you get the best price.
The best time to buy a front-load washer is during big sales. Retailers usually offer huge discounts on large appliances like washers on holidays like Memorial Day, Labor Day, and Black Friday.
“Ahead of Black Friday, we’d suggest doing some initial research on models and look into what key features you’d like to have on your washing machine, for example, a quick wash feature, an eco-mode, or larger capacity,” says Glynn, Product Marketing Manager for Hisense UK.
“When it comes to purchasing on Black Friday, stick to the budget you’ve set out, and by using your research, you’ll find the best model you can for the price you want to spend.”
Another great time to buy is when manufacturers release new models, usually in the spring or fall. When new models come out, retailers often discount older models to get rid of them. It's a great opportunity to get a high-quality washer for a good price, even if it's not the latest one.
Off-peak seasons, like late winter or early summer, tend to have lower washer demand, so you can often get better deals.
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.
