Best Washing Machines

A good washing machine is essential to every household, and while they all serve the same purpose, the variety of machines available can make purchasing one a puzzle. We'll take you through each type of machine, and explain what to look for, to help guarantee you’re making the most informed choice possible when shopping. Continue reading...

Category

Brand
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Rating

Price$108.99 to $7,995
$108.99
$7,995

Capacity2 to 20 kg
2 kg
20 kg

Household SizeThe estimated average household size this product would be appropriate for.

Features
Show more

Energy RatingAt least 1 star(s)
1 star(s)

Water RatingAt least 2 star(s)
2 star(s)

Drum Material
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Colour / Finish
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Depth362 to 850 mm
362 mm
850 mm

Width410 to 870 mm
410 mm
870 mm

Height595 to 1,997 mm
595 mm
1,997 mm

Based on 4,723 Washing Machine reviews
Speed Queen AWNA62
  • Award Winner 2023
Top Loading Washing Machines

Speed Queen AWNA62

 · includes 2 listings
4.7 from 214 reviews
Capacity7.5 kg and 8.5 kg

Having an anti-vibration system, electronic controls, and a stainless steel drum that’s gentle on clothes make the Speed Queen AWNA62 easy to use and able to get your laundry as clean as it can be.

Price (RRP) $2,695 to $3,295

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Effectively cleans laundry
Spacious tub
Has user-friendly controls
  • Build Quality
    4.9 (95)
  • Value for Money
    4.5 (92)
  • Ease of Use
    4.9 (94)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.9 (90)
  • Noise Level
    4.1 (91)
  • FeaturesAuto Balancing
  • Energy Rating1 star(s)
  • Water Rating3 star(s)
  • Drum MaterialStainless Steel
  • Colour / FinishWhite
  • Max Spin Speed 710 rpm
  • Maximum Noise Level66 db
  • Number of Wash Cycles10
  • Temperature Settings 3
  • Country of ManufactureUnited States
Speed Queen AWNE92 Black
Top Loading Washing Machines

Speed Queen AWNE92 Black

4.7 from 44 reviews
Capacity8.5 kg
Household Size 3-4 people

The Speed Queen AWNE92 Top Loader has a spacious 92L tub, durable stainless steel parts that thoroughly clean clothes, and 9 different wash programs so that you can do your laundry the way you want.

Price (RRP) $3,495

Gentle yet thorough cleaning
Straightforward control panel
Short wash times
  • Build Quality
    5.0 (31)
  • Value for Money
    4.6 (31)
  • Ease of Use
    4.8 (33)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    5.0 (31)
  • Noise Level
    4.0 (29)
  • FeaturesAuto Balancing and Door/Lid Lock (Child-proof)
  • Energy Rating2 star(s)
  • Water Rating3 star(s)
  • Drum MaterialStainless Steel
  • Colour / FinishWhite
  • Dimensions 1092 x 650 x 711 mm
  • Max Spin Speed 710 rpm
  • Number of Wash Cycles10
  • Temperature Settings 4
  • Country of ManufactureUSA
Haier HWF75AW Series
  • Award Winner 2023
Front Loading Washing Machines

Haier HWF75AW Series

 · includes 3 listings
4.1 from 116 reviews
Capacity7.5 kg

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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Hard-wearing
Variety of settings for all fabrics
Clothes come out almost dry
  • Build Quality
    4.0 (85)
  • Value for Money
    4.4 (84)
  • Ease of Use
    4.6 (84)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.3 (83)
  • Noise Level
    4.0 (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
Front Loading Washing Machines

Bosch Serie 8 Front Load Washing Machines

 · includes 17 listings
3.8 from 972 reviews
Capacity7.5 kg, 8 kg, 8 kg, 8.5 kg, 9 kg and 10 kg

Options 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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Easily adjustable settings
Consistently cleans well
Quiet when spinning
Some components not hard-wearing
  • Build Quality
    3.8 (313)
  • Value for Money
    3.5 (313)
  • Ease of Use
    4.2 (308)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.0 (296)
  • Noise Level
    4.1 (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 Series 3 Top Loader Washing Machines
Top Loading Washing Machines

Fisher & Paykel Series 3 Top Loader Washing Machines

 · includes 4 listings
3.9 from 196 reviews
Capacity5.5 kg and 6 kg

Perfect for smaller households, the Fisher & Paykel Series 3 Top Loader Washing Machines have thorough wash programs and high spin speeds, leaving you with fresh, clean laundry in no time.

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Cleans and spins laundry well
Easy to understand controls
Quickly washes
Slightly flimsy agitator
Can be quite noisy
  • Build Quality
    4.1 (41)
  • Value for Money
    4.1 (42)
  • Ease of Use
    4.5 (40)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.3 (42)
  • Noise Level
    3.5 (39)
  • FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Auto Dispense and Auto Balancing
  • Energy Rating1.5 star(s) and 2 star(s)
  • Water Rating3 star(s)
  • Drum MaterialStainless Steel
  • Colour / FinishWhite
  • Max Spin Speed 1,000 rpm
  • Number of Wash Cycles4
Fisher & Paykel QuickSmart Front Loader
Front Loading Washing Machines

Fisher & Paykel QuickSmart Front Loader

 · includes 7 listings
3.8 from 262 reviews
Capacity7.5 kg, 8.5 kg and 9 kg

The 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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Great wash performance
Quiet
Efficient spin cycle
Not as durable as expected
  • Build Quality
    3.7 (58)
  • Value for Money
    3.5 (56)
  • Ease of Use
    4.3 (58)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.0 (55)
  • Noise Level
    3.8 (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
Front Loading Washing Machines

Euromaid WM5 / WM7

 · includes 4 listings
3.5 from 253 reviews
Capacity5 kg and 7 kg

The 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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Effectively washes laundry
Easy to clean and maintain
Inexpensive to run
Sometimes freezes mid cycle
  • Build Quality
    3.2 (49)
  • Value for Money
    3.6 (48)
  • Ease of Use
    4.1 (47)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.0 (45)
  • Noise Level
    3.4 (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
Fisher & Paykel Series 5 Top Loader Washing Machines
Top Loading Washing Machines

Fisher & Paykel Series 5 Top Loader Washing Machines

 · includes 5 listings
3.4 from 452 reviews
Capacity7 kg, 8 kg, 8.5 kg and 10 kg

With different models to suit anything from small households to large families, the top loaders in Fisher & Payker Series 5 range have high spin speeds and energy saving features that allow them to efficiently clean clothes.

RRP $989$799Bing Lee

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Effectively spins laundry
Simple to use
Energy efficient
Prone to going off balance
Only one hot wash setting
  • Build Quality
    2.8 (113)
  • Value for Money
    2.5 (118)
  • Ease of Use
    3.2 (118)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    3.1 (109)
  • Noise Level
    3.1 (113)
  • FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Auto Dispense and Auto Balancing
  • Energy Rating2 star(s), 2.5 star(s) and 4 star(s)
  • Water Rating3.5 star(s) and 4 star(s)
  • Drum MaterialStainless Steel
  • Colour / FinishWhite
  • Max Spin Speed 1,000 rpm and 1,100 rpm
  • Number of Wash Cycles6 to 12
Bosch Serie 6 Front Load Washing Machines
Front Loading Washing Machines

Bosch Serie 6 Front Load Washing Machines

 · includes 7 listings
3.2 from 133 reviews
Capacity8 kg and 9 kg

This 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 Quality
    3.4 (68)
  • Value for Money
    2.9 (68)
  • Ease of Use
    3.5 (68)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    3.4 (61)
  • Noise Level
    3.8 (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
Fisher & Paykel WH8060J3
Front Loading Washing Machines

Fisher & Paykel WH8060J3

4.0 from 28 reviews
Capacity8 kg
Household Size 3-4 people
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  • Build Quality
    4.3 (26)
  • Value for Money
    4.0 (26)
  • Ease of Use
    4.3 (26)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.2 (24)
  • Noise Level
    3.8 (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
Front Loading Washing Machines

Speed Queen AFNE9B/BSS

 · includes 2 listings
4.3 from 20 reviews
Capacity10 kg

Price (RRP) $4,495 to $4,995

  • Build Quality
    4.2 (5)
  • Value for Money
    3.8 (5)
  • Ease of Use
    4.8 (5)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.4 (5)
  • Noise Level
    3.8 (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
Front Loading Washing Machines

LG WV5 Series

 · includes 5 listings
3.1 from 80 reviews
Capacity7.5 kg, 8 kg, 9 kg and 10 kg

Front 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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Cleans laundry well
Large capacity
Long cycle times
Vibrates a lot
  • Build Quality
    3.5 (65)
  • Value for Money
    3.3 (66)
  • Ease of Use
    3.9 (64)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.1 (56)
  • Noise Level
    3.4 (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 HWT60AW1 / HWT70AW1 / HWT80AW1
Top Loading Washing Machines

Haier HWT60AW1 / HWT70AW1 / HWT80AW1

 · includes 3 listings
3.1 from 85 reviews
Capacity6 kg, 7 kg and 8 kg
  • Build Quality
    3.3 (32)
  • Value for Money
    3.4 (32)
  • Ease of Use
    3.9 (32)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    3.6 (31)
  • Noise Level
    3.5 (28)
  • FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof)
  • Energy Rating2 star(s) and 2.5 star(s)
  • Water Rating3.5 star(s)
  • Colour / FinishWhite
  • Max Spin Speed 650 rpm, 670 rpm and 810 rpm
  • Number of Wash Cycles8
Haier HWF-AN1 Series
Front Loading Washing Machines

Haier HWF-AN1 Series

 · includes 5 listings
3.6 from 31 reviews
Capacity7.5 kg, 8.5 kg and 9.5 kg

$695Billy Guyatts

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  • Build Quality
    3.9 (26)
  • Value for Money
    4.0 (25)
  • Ease of Use
    3.9 (25)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.0 (22)
  • Noise Level
    3.9 (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
Fisher & Paykel Series 7 Top Loader Washing Machines
Top Loading Washing Machines

Fisher & Paykel Series 7 Top Loader Washing Machines

 · includes 5 listings
2.8 from 265 reviews
Capacity7.5 kg, 8.5 kg and 10 kg
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  • Build Quality
    2.4 (69)
  • Value for Money
    1.9 (71)
  • Ease of Use
    2.8 (71)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    2.5 (66)
  • Noise Level
    2.7 (66)
  • FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof), Auto Dispense and Auto Balancing
  • Energy Rating4 star(s)
  • Water Rating3.5 star(s) and 4 star(s)
  • Drum MaterialStainless Steel
  • Colour / FinishWhite
  • Max Spin Speed 1,100 rpm
  • Number of Wash Cycles6 to 12
Whirlpool FreshCare Front Loaders
Front Loading Washing Machines

Whirlpool FreshCare Front Loaders

 · includes 2 listings
4.1 from 17 reviews
Capacity7 kg and 8 kg

The 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

  • Build Quality
    4.0 (13)
  • Value for Money
    4.3 (15)
  • Ease of Use
    4.3 (15)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.0 (13)
  • Noise Level
    4.0 (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
LG WTG6520 / WTG7520
Top Loading Washing Machines

LG WTG6520 / WTG7520

 · includes 2 listings
3.0 from 67 reviews
Capacity6.5 kg and 7.5 kg

The LG WTG6520 and WTF7520 have a delay start option, smart connectivity, and 7 different wash programs so you can easily use your top loader to produce clean, spotless laundry.

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Washes different fabric types well
Quiet
Easy to operate
Sometimes leaves lint on clothes
  • Build Quality
    3.3 (52)
  • Value for Money
    3.2 (51)
  • Ease of Use
    3.6 (53)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    3.2 (51)
  • Noise Level
    3.5 (51)
  • FeaturesDoor/Lid Lock (Child-proof)
  • Energy Rating2.5 star(s) and 3 star(s)
  • Water Rating3 star(s) and 3.5 star(s)
  • Drum MaterialStainless Steel
  • Colour / FinishWhite and White with Black Trim
  • Max Spin Speed 740 rpm
  • Number of Wash Cycles7
  • Temperature Settings 3
Sphere 3.3kg Automatic Mini Washing Machine
3.3 from 32 reviews
Capacity3.3 kg
Household Size 1-2 people

Price (RRP) $440

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  • Build Quality
    3.5 (13)
  • Value for Money
    3.8 (12)
  • Ease of Use
    4.3 (12)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    4.1 (12)
  • Noise Level
    3.8 (11)
  • FeaturesAuto Balancing
  • Drum MaterialStainless Steel
  • Colour / FinishWhite
  • Dimensions 740 x 410 x 420 mm
Simpson SWT1043
Top Loading Washing Machines

Simpson SWT1043

2.8 from 91 reviews
Capacity10 kg
Household Size 5+ people
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  • Build Quality
    2.5 (40)
  • Value for Money
    2.2 (41)
  • Ease of Use
    3.1 (41)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    2.8 (39)
  • Noise Level
    2.8 (38)
  • Energy Rating4 star(s)
  • Water Rating3.5 star(s)
  • Drum MaterialStainless Steel
  • Colour / FinishWhite
  • Dimensions 1076 x 670 x 680 mm
  • Motor Type
  • Max Spin Speed 850 rpm
  • Number of Spin Speeds3
  • Number of Wash Cycles11
  • Country of ManufactureThailand
Bosch Serie 4 WAN24121AU
Front Loading Washing Machines

Bosch Serie 4 WAN24121AU

3.9 from 15 reviews
Capacity8 kg
Household Size 3-4 people

Price (RRP) $1,049

  • Build Quality
    3.7 (14)
  • Value for Money
    3.9 (14)
  • Ease of Use
    4.1 (14)
  • Cleaning & Maintenance
    3.8 (14)
  • Noise Level
    3.9 (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
Page 1 of 5

Front loader washing machine with colourful clothes.

Types of washing machines

The most limiting factor to be considered before you begin looking at washing machines is the available space in your home. If your home has one designated spot for a washing machine, you will need to choose a machine that will fit that space.

Having several possible locations will open up your buying options, but it is still important to know the measurements of each space (don’t forget to leave a gap for pipes at the back, and room for the door to open at either the front or top!).

Once your space is figured out, the next factor to consider is the capacity you require, which depends on how much & how often you wash. Machines range in size from 5kgs to 10kgs, with a 7kg capacity machine being generally considered adequate for a four-person household. Having a rough budget estimate will also help you narrow down your decision.

Here is a brief summary of the different types of washing machines:

TypeMain FeaturesBest ForAverage Prices
Top loadersTypically available in larger capacities, they also have faster washing times than front-loading machines, and can be opened during wash cycle.Large, no-fuss laundry loads$500-$700
Front loadersTend to be more energy efficient and use less water. They are also quieter and have higher spin speeds than top-loading machines. A dryer can be stacked on top, if space allows.More control over special clothing types in a compact space$600-$800
Washer/dryer combosWash and dry your laundry in a single machine! Perfect for those with very limited space and frequent rainy weather.Anyone in a small apartment who doesn’t mind splashing out$1200+

*Pricing guides are based on a 7kg capacity washing machine

Top loading washing machines · See all

top loading washing machine

Top-loading machines clean clothes either with an agitator or an impeller. The agitator is the design most people are familiar with; it consists of a tube or pole that twists up through the middle of the machine.

In contrast, an impeller has low ridges that rotate on the floor of the machine to create turbulence and clean clothes. Both types remove dirt quickly, but are rougher on clothes than a front-loading machine. A model with an impeller offers maximum capacity, but is more likely to tangle clothes, and will cost more in electricity and water to run.

One advantage top-loading machines have over their front-loading cousins is the ability to open the machine after the wash cycle has begun.

This allows you to add last-minute clothes, or retrieve a forgotten phone from a pocket - something not possible in a front-loader, which needs to drain all water before it can be opened.

Large top-loading washing machines can have deep drums, so while you’re inspecting machines at a retailer it’s worth opening the machine to make sure you can reach all areas inside the drum. If you prefer standing instead of crouching when loading and unloading your washing, a top-loader is probably a better fit for you.

Pros
Typically found at a cheaper purchase price than equivalently-sized front-loaders.
Shorter wash cycles than front-loading machines (15-40 minutes, compared to 1.5-2 hours).
Items can be added or removed at any point during the wash cycle.
They can be loaded and unloaded while standing upright.
Cons
Uses more energy and water than a front-loading machine (of equivalent size), which means higher running costs.
They tend to be rougher on clothes, and models with an impeller are more likely to tangle clothes.
They use more detergent than front loaders, which will further increase running costs.

Front loading washing machines · See all

front loading washing machine

Front-loading washing machines have two big attractions; energy efficiency, and their space-saving design. With front-loading machines, you’ll also find that even entry-level units come with a variety of features or wash programs.

The reason for front-loading machines being considered more energy efficient than top-loaders is due to the differences in the way the two soak, agitate, and rinse clothes in water.

A top-loading machine fills with a pre-selected amount of water, and washes using a vertical spin action while pumping water in and out. Front-loaders spin their drum horizontally, tumbling the clothes over and using gravity to effectively distribute water and detergent throughout the load.

Modern front-loading machines use sensors to determine the appropriate amount of water to use for each wash, and they are able to be packed much fuller than an equivalently sized top-loader.

Pros
Being able to fit under a bench or have a dryer stack on top makes these machines ideal for those with limited space.
More efficient use of energy, water and detergent compared with a top-loading machine.
Generally have faster spin speeds than top-loading machines (which makes drying easier too!).
They’re gentle on clothes, so your garments will last longer.
Cons
They can have a high initial purchase price.
The door is low to the ground, which makes the design unsuitable for those uncomfortable with having to bend down to fill or empty the machine.
Wash cycles can typically take around 2 hours to complete (although many models come with a ‘Quick Wash’ setting for getting through smaller loads in a hurry).
The higher spin speed may also mean noisier spin cycles, although this will vary by manufacturer and model.

Washer/dryer combos · See all

samsung washer and dryer

If you have very limited space, or are attracted by the all-in-one, “set and forget” style, then a combined washer and dryer could be the solution you’re looking for!

However, be aware that the machine’s drying capacity is always less than its washing capacity, so if you want your washing completed in one go you’ll have to adjust your load accordingly. It’s also worth noting that combo machines are only available in the front-loading design.

Pros
Super convenient! There’s no need to transfer clothes from the washer to a dryer.
Significant space saving - this one machine can find in a pantry or under a bench.
Most models don’t require outlet installation, and can be drained into a nearby sink.
You’ll be sacrificing capacity unless you’re willing to spend upwards of $1600 on a big model.
Cons
Very long wash and dry cycle length - from 3 to 6 hours.
They are typically cited as being less reliable, having the pitfalls of both a dryer and a washer.
They can have poor energy and water efficiency, although this is improving with newer models.

Features

If you’ve decided which type of washing machine fits your needs best, you can start to look at the extras and features that can turn a good choice into a great choice, and make a great machine indispensable.

Wash settings

If you think your clothes need special care and attention that an ordinary wash program can’t provide, look for a model that provides unique settings. A good machine will have you covered whether you need to get dirt out of sports gear, or want to use a ‘Handwash’ mode for delicate items; with some models even letting you program and save your own custom wash setting.

Drum material

washing machine drum

The washing drum or tub will take a lot of wear and tear, so it’s important that it is durable enough to last the lifetime of your machine.

Higher quality washing machines will have a stainless steel drum, while entry level machines may have drums made of porcelain or reinforced plastic. Porcelain drums may chip over time, while plastic drums are very durable, although neither are as gentle on clothes as stainless steel.

Automatic water level sensors

This feature is the key to ensuring your machine is as water-efficient as possible by detecting the washing load size and adjusting the water level to suit it. Assuming you keep this machine for 8-10 years, an efficient machine could bring you substantial savings, which offsets your initial outlay.

Anti-crease setting

If you iron a lot, this feature can help reduce the time you spend getting those wrinkles out. Various models will achieve this in different ways; some through steam, others through altering the rinse and spin cycles.

Stabilising features

Washing machines can vibrate a lot during their spin cycle, with front loading machines being more susceptible to vibration. Adjustable legs are one way to keep the unit steady, as long as they are correctly installed when setting up. Some top-loading machines will automatically adjust an unbalanced load mid-cycle, by either alternating the spin speed, or adding more water.

Adjustable spin speed

Spin speeds typically range from 1000-1600 rpm, with higher speeds reducing drying time, but resulting in stiffer, more wrinkle-prone clothes. Being able to manually select the correct spin speed can help your clothes last longer, and can make ironing easier, along with saving power.

Washing machine control panel

Controls & display

When exploring washing machines at a retail store, make sure you can easily read and adjust the controls, and that these controls logically make sense. The last thing you would want is to receive a machine and wonder why there are 25 different buttons on it. These buttons also need to be responsive, and sturdy enough to last the life of the machine.

Ease of installation

It’s worth looking at whether or not you’ll be able to install the washing machine yourself, or if you will need assistance. Some retailers and manufacturers will include the cost of installation in their pricing. Make sure you can fit the machine through all doorways, and if the machine will be installed above ground floor, make sure it is well supported underneath.

The bottom line

You want a washing machine that you will be happy to use for the next 10 years, so spending a bit of extra time researching and choosing the right model for you is well worthwhile. Don’t forget to keep the dimensions of your allotted space on hand, as not all machines of the same capacity are the same size!

Before making your purchase, take a moment to scroll up, and read genuine opinions from other Australians on what they love (or hate) about their own washing machines.

Most reviews discuss capacity, wash speed and noise level, with many also covering extra details, such as the usefulness of wash programs, or how often they may need repairs. If you’d like to know about one particular aspect of a machine, you are welcome to leave a question on that product page for either the manufacturer, or other product owners to answer.

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