Tips for Finding the Best Washing Machine for Your Home

Depending on the amount of use it gets, you can expect a washing machine to last eight to 14 years. Before you buy, spend some time planning your purchase. There are lots of special features to consider. Here are some basic things to think about: 

• Efficiency: Energy savings over the life of any appliance is worth noting. Most washers and dryers on the market today are already ENERGY STAR® certified, but it pays to also check the washer's performance according to the Consortium for Energy Efficiency (CEE). The CEE denotes tiers based on a machine's Modified Energy Factor (MEF) and Integrated Water Factor (IWF). The more efficient the unit and the less water it uses, the higher its tier. 
• Capacity: The washing machine that you choose depends on a couple of factors: the machine’s capacity (as measured in cubic feet) and the load size. The capacity is the amount of clothes the machine can hold in a load. Tub capacity refers to the inside tub and is measured in cubic feet. When shopping, you’ll see capacity numbers from about 1 cubic foot (you’d find this in a second wash basin on a pedestal washer) up to 6 cubic feet. For reference, a 4.5-cubic foot washer fits 25 to 30 bath towels (depending on towel thickness and weight). A breakdown of capacities is as follows: 
• Small capacity: <3.5 cubic feet. Ideal for small households and can hold up to about eight pounds of clothes per load. 
• Standard (Medium) capacity: 3.5 – 4.5 cubic feet. This machine can take up to 16 pounds of laundry. 
• Large capacity: 4.6 – 5.2 cubic feet. If you wash large or bulky items, consider a large-capacity washer, which can hold up to 20 pounds of laundry. Despite their large size, a large-capacity unit can be as energy efficient as a small washing machine, and they can offer the same features and wash cycles as conventional models. 
• Extra Large capacity: 5.2> cubic feet. This machine can accommodate families with lots of laundry. It can handle a load of up to 25 pounds, include a king-sized comforter.  
• Space: How much space do you have for a washer and dryer? In addition to the units themselves, you need room to open the doors completely. There are stackable and combination washer/dryer options available. If you have a top-load washing machine and are considering a front-load, make sure your space has clearance for the door to open fully. 
• Laundry Habits and Cleaning Challenges: Do you add items after the wash cycle starts? Do you leave clothes in the washer for a few hours after the cycle ends? Today’s machines offer features that cater to your unique needs. Fabrics (and people) requiring special care call for a delicate cycle; stains and allergens demand steam. 
• Sound Dampening: Where will the washer be located? A quiet machine is essential if it’s near a living or sleeping area. Check the machine for vibration reduction, and look for added insulation and improved suspension for less noise.

Top-load and front-load units share many of the same functional features. In terms of style, there are a few differences. Your best washing machine depends on your preferences.

Benefits of top-loaders:

• No bending or kneeling
• Largest capacity
• Traditional look
• Less expensive
   

Benefits of front-loaders:

• Large capacity
• Energy efficient/less water usage
• Stackable washer and dryer combo available
• Additional storage space underneath if on a pedestal
• Optional steam sanitation feature for a deeper clean
• Modern look
   

In addition, some washers are compatible with pedestal washers. A pedestal washer is a smaller washer that fits underneath your main washing machine, allowing you to do two loads of laundry at the same time. An advantage is that pedestal washers raise the main washer off the floor by 12 to 16 inches, making it easier to reach inside the wash bin. However, they take up more space. When looking for a pedestal washer, make sure it’s compatible with your current model of washer. Note: Not all front-load washers are stackable, so take that into consideration when searching for the best stackable washer and dryer combo.

High-efficiency (HE) washing machines use less water to clean a load of clothes. Front-load washers are typically considered HE machines. Top-load washing machines with an HE setting also qualify. HE detergent is required. These concentrated products are low-sudsing and use less water (and less energy) than traditional machines.

Some high-efficiency washers feature two separate washing compartments within the same machine to allow you to wash two loads of laundry simultaneously. There’s a large lower bin and a smaller top bin, which is ideal for separating colors and fabrics or tackling smaller loads when needed.

When space is at a premium, a combination washer and dryer offers the functionality of separate washers and dryers but takes up less space. These are also ventless, meaning no duct to the outside is necessary.

Generally, your laundry area needs to accommodate a washer and dryer. Your new machines need to fit your space. But before you measure your space, you must have:

• A floor with no more than a 1-inch slope
• Hot- and cold-water lines within 3 feet of washer hookups; it's a good idea to replace water supply hoses when you buy a new washer
• A drain connection for wastewater
• Consider using a drain pan for a second-floor washer installation
• A 3- or 4-prong power cord for your dryer, depending on the configuration of your outlet

It’s also important to know that your new appliance can be brought in to be hooked up. The door and hallways must be wide enough to accommodate the machine and a hand truck. Clear away furniture and other movable items before the delivery team arrives.

Measure Your Space

• Front: Plan for about 4 feet in front to allow for loading and unloading.
• Width: Washers and dryers need at least 1 inch of space on either side for noise reduction and air circulation.
• Depth: Add at least 6 inches of space for dryer vents, water hookups and drainage.
• Height: Top-loaders need a minimum of 20 inches of above-machine clearance for the door. Also consider any cabinets you have above the unit. Pedestals will add 7 to 16 inches of height to the minimum space requirement.

Take some time to read about your new washer before using it for the first time. Some new features may make the washing experience a bit different than you're accustomed to, especially if you’ve had your old washer a while.