6/7

If you like the efficiency of top loaders, then you’ll love this Top Load Washer from Maytag. The Deep Fill setting is excellent for large loads, while the Quick Wash cycle thoroughly cleans small, lightly soiled loads in under 30 minutes. Plus, this washer has a drawer that dispenses liquid or powder detergents at the ideal times during the cycle.

Buyers like the slow-close glass lid that offers a view of the laundry and note the auto-sensing capability does a great job of adjusting the water level for each load to provide effective cleaning.

Pros

• Top-loading washer
• Deep Fill is great for large loads
• Quick Wash cleans small loads in less than 30 minutes
• Slow-close glass lid
• Wrinkle-control cycle

Cons

• Buyers noted some cycles take longer than average to complete
• Slow spin speed of 750 rpm

7/7

A portable washing machine is a great option for those with tight quarters. This Giantex Compact Machine doubles as a full washer-dryer combo. It’s a top loader that handles up to 8 pounds of laundry at a time and offers six different washing programs.

Additionally, it’s light and compact to easily move when needed, which is perfect for RV camping. It has a built-in pump and drainage tube, which buyers noted was easy to set up and use.

Pros

• Compact and lightweight
• Washer-dryer combo
• Affordable
• Easy to set up

Cons

• Not ideal for large families

What to Consider When Buying a Laundry Machine

If you’re in the market for a new washing machine, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. First, know that there are top-loading and front-loading machines, both of which have pros and cons. Think about capacity, spin speeds, settings offered and possible smart features before purchasing.

Types of Laundry Machines

• Top-loading washing machines are convenient since they are usually faster than front-loading machines, plus you don’t have to bend over when loading clothes inside.
• Front-loading units are known for getting your linens and clothes cleaner than front-loaders. Plus, they are often stackable, which can be convenient in tight spaces.

How We Found the Best Laundry Machines

As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject-matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.

FAQ

Which is better top load or front load?

Top-load and front-load machines are both great options, but the best choice depends on personal preference. In general, front-loading washing machines are best for fighting stains and getting clothes cleaner. However, if your clothing generally isn’t that dirty, top-loading machines work just fine and often outlive their front-loading counterparts.

What brand washing machine is most reliable?

In 2022, J.D. Power ranked Samsung, Maytag and Whirlpool as the highest-ranking manufacturers in customer satisfaction.

What is the life expectancy of a washing machine?

On average, most washing machines last about 10 years with normal wear and tear.