Best Front Loading Washing Machines
Front loading washing machines, or front loaders, can clean your clothes more gently while using less energy and water. Choosing between the features of different machines can be overwhelming, so it’s important to know what means what so you can find a front load washer that suits your home and your laundry. Continue reading...
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Features like a high water rating, inbuilt anti-bacterial treatment, and a delay start function make using the Haier HWF75AW Front Loaders clean, convenient, and easy on the wallet.
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- Build Quality4.0 (85)
- Value for Money4.4 (84)
- Ease of Use4.6 (84)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.3 (83)
- Noise Level4.0 (81)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof)
- Energy Rating3.5 star(s) and 4.5 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles15 to 16
Bosch Serie 8 Front Load Washing Machines
· includes 17 listingsOptions to adjust the Bosch Serie 8 Front Loading Washing Machine’s programs to be more speedy and more energy efficient help give you more control over how you like to do your laundry.
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- Build Quality3.8 (313)
- Value for Money3.5 (313)
- Ease of Use4.2 (308)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.0 (296)
- Noise Level4.1 (293)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Reload/Add Wash, Auto Dispense and Auto Balancing
- Energy Rating4 star(s), 4.5 star(s), 4.5 star(s) and 5 star(s)
- Water Rating4 star(s), 4 star(s), 4.5 star(s), 5 star(s) and 5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm, 1,400 rpm, 1,400 rpm, 1,600 rpm and 1,600 rpm
- Maximum Noise Level71 db to 75 db
- Number of Wash Cycles13 to 15
- Country of ManufactureGermany
Fisher & Paykel QuickSmart Front Loader
· includes 7 listingsThe current model in the Fisher & Paykel QuickSmart Front Loader range has 9 wash cycles, high energy and water ratings, and wash boost options that help you ensure optimal clothing care.
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- Build Quality3.7 (58)
- Value for Money3.5 (56)
- Ease of Use4.3 (58)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.0 (55)
- Noise Level3.8 (55)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof) and Auto Balancing
- Energy Rating4 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm
- Maximum Noise Level55 db
- Number of Wash Cycles9
- Temperature Settings 5
- Country of ManufactureChina
Euromaid WM5 / WM7
· includes 4 listingsThe Euromaid WM5PRO and the WM7PRO both have 15 wash programs (including Cotton, Delicates, and Allergy) and extra wash options to let you choose what’s best for your laundry.
Price (RRP) $549 to $849
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- Build Quality3.2 (49)
- Value for Money3.6 (48)
- Ease of Use4.1 (47)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.0 (45)
- Noise Level3.4 (42)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof)
- Energy Rating2.5 star(s) and 3 star(s)
- Water Rating3.5 star(s), 4 star(s) and 4.5 star(s)
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,000 rpm and 1,200 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles12 to 15
Bosch Serie 6 Front Load Washing Machines
· includes 7 listingsThis Serie 6 front loader washing machine from Bosch is available in an 8kg capacity that’s suitable for 4-5 person households. This front loader will set you back $1, 599.
Price (RRP) $1,399 to $1,899
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- Build Quality3.4 (68)
- Value for Money2.9 (68)
- Ease of Use3.5 (68)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 3.4 (61)
- Noise Level3.8 (66)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Reload/Add Wash, Auto Dispense and Auto Balancing
- Energy Rating4 star(s) and 5 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s) and 5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialPlastic and Stainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm and 1,400 rpm
- Maximum Noise Level69 db to 74 db
- Number of Wash Cycles12 to 14
- Country of ManufactureGermany and Turkey
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- Build Quality4.3 (26)
- Value for Money4.0 (26)
- Ease of Use4.3 (26)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.2 (24)
- Noise Level3.8 (25)
- FeaturesAuto Balancing, Auto Dispense, Door/Lid Lock (Child-proof) and Steam Function
- Energy Rating4 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Dimensions 850 x 600 x 590 mm
- Motor TypeDirect Drive (Inverter)
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm
- Number of Spin Speeds3
- Number of Wash Cycles9
- Temperature Settings 5
Speed Queen AFNE9B/BSS
· includes 2 listingsPrice (RRP) $4,495 to $4,995
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- Build Quality4.2 (5)
- Value for Money3.8 (5)
- Ease of Use4.8 (5)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.4 (5)
- Noise Level3.8 (5)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof) and Auto Balancing
- Energy Rating2.5 star(s)
- Water Rating3 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishStainless Steel and White
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles10
- Temperature Settings 4
LG WV5 Series
· includes 5 listingsFront loaders in the LG WV5 Series have intelligent clothing care, 6 motion wash technology, and come in different capacities for different sized households.
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- Build Quality3.5 (65)
- Value for Money3.3 (66)
- Ease of Use3.9 (64)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.1 (56)
- Noise Level3.4 (62)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Reload/Add Wash, Auto Balancing and Steam Function
- Energy Rating4.5 star(s)
- Water Rating4 star(s) and 4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm and 1,400 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles6 to 12
- Temperature Settings 6
Haier HWF-AN1 Series
· includes 5 listings- Pictures
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- Build Quality3.9 (26)
- Value for Money4.0 (25)
- Ease of Use3.9 (25)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.0 (22)
- Noise Level3.9 (21)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Steam Function and Internet-Connected
- Energy Rating4 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishDark and White
- Max Spin Speed 1,400 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles12
- Temperature Settings 5
Whirlpool FreshCare Front Loaders
· includes 2 listingsThe 7kg FreshCare front loading washing machine aims to deliver laundry that feels fresh - better smelling and less wrinkled. It does this by tumbling clothes for up to 6 hours after a wash cycle ends.
Price (RRP) $849 to $899
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- Build Quality4.0 (13)
- Value for Money4.3 (15)
- Ease of Use4.3 (15)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.0 (13)
- Noise Level4.0 (16)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Reload/Add Wash, Auto Balancing and Steam Function
- Energy Rating4 star(s)
- Water Rating4 star(s) and 4.5 star(s)
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles14
- Country of ManufactureSlovakia
Price (RRP) $1,049
- Review Summary
- Specifications
- Build Quality3.7 (14)
- Value for Money3.9 (14)
- Ease of Use4.1 (14)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 3.8 (14)
- Noise Level3.9 (13)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof) and Reload/Add Wash
- Energy Rating4 star(s)
- Water Rating4 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Dimensions 848 x 598 x 550 mm
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm
- Number of Spin Speeds1,200
- Maximum Noise Level74 db
- Country of ManufacturePoland
Haier HWF-AN1 Series (UV Protect)
· includes 6 listingsThe Haier HWF-AN1 Series boasts 14 wash cycles, while being eco-friendly with its 4.5-star energy and water consumption rating, Eco mode, and Smart dosing features. It’s also bacteria-unfriendly with its UV Protect feature and self-cleaning functions.
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- Build Quality4.5 (12)
- Value for Money4.7 (12)
- Ease of Use4.2 (12)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.1 (11)
- Noise Level4.3 (12)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Steam Function and Internet-Connected
- Energy Rating4.5 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishDark and White
- Max Spin Speed 1,400 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles14
- Temperature Settings 5
AEG 8000 Series Front Loaders
· includes 5 listingsThe AEG 8000 Series Front Loaders are available in 8kg, 9 kg, and 10kg capacities. Advanced OKOMix technology blends detergents and softeners with water before these liquids enter the drum - for an extra thorough clean.
Price (RRP) $1,699 to $2,499
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- Build Quality2.3 (38)
- Value for Money1.9 (40)
- Ease of Use2.9 (38)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 2.5 (37)
- Noise Level3.6 (34)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Steam Function and Internet-Connected
- Energy Rating5 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,400 rpm and 1,600 rpm
- Maximum Noise Level47 db to 75 db
- Number of Wash Cycles10
Asko W4086
· includes 2 listings- Pictures
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- Build Quality3.2 (44)
- Value for Money2.7 (44)
- Ease of Use3.9 (41)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 3.5 (41)
- Noise Level3.4 (38)
- Energy Rating4.5 star(s) and 5 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s) and 5 star(s)
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,600 rpm
- Maximum Noise Level77 db
- Number of Wash Cycles22
Simpson Ezi Set Front Loaders
· includes 2 listingsPrice (RRP) $749 to $899
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- Build Quality4.2 (13)
- Value for Money3.9 (13)
- Ease of Use4.1 (12)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 3.6 (13)
- Noise Level3.6 (11)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof)
- Energy Rating3.5 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles8
Whirlpool 6th Sense Zen Direct Drive Front Loaders
· includes 3 listingsPrice (RRP) $1,099 to $1,399
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- Build Quality2.2 (10)
- Value for Money2.4 (10)
- Ease of Use3.4 (10)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 2.8 (9)
- Noise Level2.6 (9)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof)
- Energy Rating4 star(s) and 4.5 star(s)
- Water Rating4 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,400 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles10
- Country of ManufactureItaly
Beko BFL7510W / BFL8510W / BFL1010W
· includes 3 listings- Pictures
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- Build Quality3.9 (15)
- Value for Money4.1 (15)
- Ease of Use3.6 (15)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.1 (15)
- Noise Level3.5 (15)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Auto Balancing and Steam Function
- Energy Rating4 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm and 1,400 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles15
- Country of ManufactureTurkey
LG WV9 Series
· includes 5 listings- Pictures
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- Build Quality2.8 (27)
- Value for Money2.7 (27)
- Ease of Use3.2 (27)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 3.3 (27)
- Noise Level3.3 (25)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Reload/Add Wash, Auto Balancing, Steam Function and Internet-Connected
- Energy Rating4.5 star(s) and 5 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishBlack and White
- Max Spin Speed 1,400 rpm
- Number of Wash Cycles10
- Temperature Settings 6
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- Build Quality3.7 (6)
- Value for Money4.3 (7)
- Ease of Use4.4 (7)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.3 (7)
- Noise Level4.8 (4)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof)
- Energy Rating4 star(s)
- Water Rating4.5 star(s)
- Drum MaterialStainless Steel
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Dimensions 850 x 600 x 660 mm
- Motor TypeDirect Drive (Inverter)
- Max Spin Speed 1,200 rpm
- Number of Spin Speeds4
- Number of Wash Cycles15
- StackableYes
Price (RRP) $1,699
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- Build Quality4.2 (5)
- Value for Money4.0 (5)
- Ease of Use4.8 (5)
- Cleaning & Maintenance 4.6 (5)
- Noise Level4.0 (4)
- FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof)
- Energy Rating3.5 star(s)
- Water Rating4 star(s)
- Colour / FinishWhite
- Dimensions 850 x 595 x 595 mm
- Max Spin Speed 1,400 rpm
- Maximum Noise Level78 db
- Number of Wash Cycles16
- StackableYes
What's better: top loading or front loading washers?
When shopping around, you’ll probably find that neither top loaders or front loaders are inherently better, but one will likely suit your laundry preferences more.
Front loaders
Front loaders have a drum that spins horizontally, using gravity to tumble the laundry and evenly distribute water and detergent to effectively clean it.
Top loaders · See all
Top loading washing machines use either an agitator (the upright tube in the middle of the drum that twists back and forth) or an impeller (a spinning cone or disc) to rub clothes against each other and clean them.
What to look for in a front loading washing machine
Capacity
The capacity you need will largely depend on the size of your household, and your specific laundry needs.
Below is a rough guide to what machine capacity you need for your household size, however it’s recommended to consult the product manual to see whether a machine is suitable for you.
Front loader capacity | Household size |
---|---|
5.5kg and under | 1 - 2 people |
5.5kg - 8kg | 3 - 4 people |
8kg and over | 4 or more people |
Programs
A machine with a wide range of wash programs, temperatures, and spin speeds will let you make the most of the machine and customise your washing to suit different types of laundry.
Look for a variety of programs that can tackle both heavy duty loads (such as stained or soiled clothes) and delicate materials. Some programs will also have different options for different materials (for example, cottons or synthetics), making it easy to know what’s appropriate for your load.
Size
Before choosing between a small front loader washing machine and a larger model, measure (and double check) the size of the space your machine needs to fit in. Check these measurements against the external dimensions (height, depth, and width) of any washer you’re thinking of buying.
Make sure you should also take into account the space needed for the door to open, as well as the width of all the corridors leading to the laundry, so that you can actually move your new machine there.
Features
There are plenty of features on front loading washers that make them easier to use and help them more effectively clean your clothes and linen.
- Delayed start: This lets you set a time for the cycle to start, so you can have it ready by a convenient time, or so you can take advantage of off-peak energy rates.
- Wi-Fi connectivity: Some machines connect to a mobile app that lets you start your machine when you’re out, and track the progress of the cycle from your phone.
- Child lock: A child lock prevents the door from being opened and the program from being changed mid-cycle, so that curious little fingers can’t make any changes. It can also be activated when the machine isn’t in use, to prevent little ones from playing with (or in) the machine.
- Add to load: This feature lets you add more items (and sometimes detergent) to the wash mid-cycle, so that you can quickly add that missing sock you’ve found under the couch.
- Auto balancing: Auto balancing detects an unbalanced load, and redistributes it so that your machine can efficiently wash your clothes.
- Steam function: Steam inside a washing machine relaxes the fibres of your clothes and helps lift stubborn stains, making a steam function a handy feature to have.
- Favourite program: This lets you save a customised program, so that you can easily set it at the push of a button.
Energy and water efficiency
An energy and water efficient machine is both more environmentally friendly and more easy on your wallet. Energy and water efficiency on a washing machine are indicated by star ratings - the more stars they have, the more efficient they are.
Larger washing machines often have more stars than smaller ones (as larger loads tend to save more energy), however they’ll use more power overall.
Build quality
We fork out quite a bit of money for washing machines, so it’s reasonable to expect to get years of use out of them.
Consider the material of the drum of your machine - most high-quality ones will have a stainless steel drum, which is both hard-wearing and gentle on clothes. You can also find plastic or porcelain-coated steel drums. Porcelain finishes are prone to chipping after a while, and while plastic tubs have a long lifespan, they can sometimes be a bit harsh on your laundry.
Read reviews to see how long a machine will last.
Reading front loader washing machine reviews is a good way to determine how hard-wearing a product is, as well as what the process to repair or replace parts is in the event that something does break down.
They can also help you see how easy it is to clean and maintain a machine, so you know what kind of work goes into prolonging its lifespan.
Ease of use
When shopping around, test out the controls on different machines, they should be easy to understand and use.
You should also consider whether or not you can install the front loader yourself, or if you’ll need a professional to fit it for you. Sometimes, the cost of installation will be included in the cost of the machine, so it’s worth reading the fine print to ensure you know exactly what you’re paying for.
Noise level
Most people accept that a washing machine will make quite a bit of noise, but this may be more of a concern if you have infants who need sleep in your home, or if your laundry is located quite close to your living area and bedrooms.
Some washing machines will list their noise level in decibels in their product description - this can make it easier to compare the noise across models.
Price
Is it worth paying more for a washing machine? A front loader can cost anywhere from $500 to over $4000. The more features you have, the more pricey your machine will be, so have a good think about whether or not you want your washer to have all the latest bells and whistles.
Consider water and energy consumption when you compare prices. A more efficient machine with 4 or 5-star ratings may cost more outright, but it may be more economical in the long run then buying a less efficient, cheap front loader washing machine.
The bottom line
There are many factors to consider when you’re browsing the appliance store for a new front loader, but prioritising your household's particular laundry needs should help you go home with the right machine that leaves your clothes and linen spotless.