At one point, front load washers were found exclusively in commercial laundromats, but once available to the public, they changed the home laundry game. With enhanced efficiency as their selling point, front load washing machines are the eco-friendly alternative to top loading models, and since their debut, front loaders have gone through a series of upgrades, making them quality appliances every home should consider having. In this article, we’re giving you five great examples of the best front load washer, each catering to a specific buyer.
At a Glance:
Best Overall Front Load Washer: GE® 5.0 Cu. Ft. White Smart Front Load Washer-GFW850SSNWW
Best Value Front Load Washer: Maytag® 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer-MHW5630HW
Best Steam Front Load Washer: GE® 4.8 Cu. Ft. White Smart Front Load Washer-GFW650SSNWW
Best Front Load Sanitation Washer: Maytag® 4.8 Cu. Ft. Metallic Slate Front Load Washer-MHW6630HC
While the obvious difference between a front load washer and a top load washer are the aesthetics, the design of a front load model has a purpose. The shallow tub uses the bottom portion of the tub as a reservoir, drastically reducing the amount of water needed to clean a load. Additionally, front load washers remove an agitator and opt for the gentle mechanics of tumbling to clean garments. As a result, these models tend to be easier on fabrics versus traditional washer agitators, though that also means top loaders are generally more effective at cleaning heavy-duty loads.
And then there’s the actual user experience. In general, most experts and product testers agree that the deep tubs used on top load models are a little harder to navigate, and often require reaching to grab clothes. On the other hand, front load washing machines keep everything front and center for altogether less bending and easier to access the drum. And since they can be placed on a pedestal, users have the option of further customizing their setup for even easier use.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Front load washers are generally more expensive than top load washers.
- On average, top load washers come in a larger selection of large-capacity models.
- Not all front load washers feature reversible doors.
- Front load washers can develop mold and mildew in the door and gaskets.
- Adding last-minute items to a front load washer isn’t always an option.
Our Top Front Load Washer Picks
In this list, we’ve reviewed the five best front load washers for a specific type of buyer. Whether it’s upgrading to a larger washer, a feature-forward front load washer, or one that does it all, you’ll find a winning option here in this list picked by our experts.
Best Overall Front Load Washer: GE® 5.0 Cu. Ft. White Smart Front Load Washer
Enjoy the largest front load washer capacity from the GE lineup with this model featuring 5 cubic feet to wash heaps of laundry in less time. Like all full-size GE front load washers, exclusive UltraFresh Vent System with OdorBlock and bacteria-resistant Microban technology come standard, keeping this appliance clean and free of harmful bacteria and mold. For a boost of sanitization, use the PowerSteam feature to target messes at the source for a deeper, cleaner wash.
Best Value Front Load Washer: Maytag® 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
With the power to fight stains using Maytag Extra Power, this front load washer priced under $950 is an affordable investment with efficient performance that will care for your wardrobe for years. Complete with a 15-minute wash option, steam capabilities, and an internal heater that boosts wash results, this 4.5 cubic-foot washer delivers a full range of features to handle any kind of load you give it.
Best Luxury Front Load Washer: LG 5.0 Cu. Ft. Black Steel Mega Capacity Smart Front Load Washer
Large is an understatement when it comes to this LG front load washer, which is why this high-end model gets an upgrade to mega-capacity. In total, 5 cubic feet of tub space provide the room to wash large loads from bedding, to towels, to jeans, so you can do less loads of laundry altogether. You can also expect great results thanks to TurboWash technology capable of running a load in 30 minutes. This washer comes equipped with an incredibly convenient 45 oz liquid detergent holder. An anti-microbial rubber boot keeps mold and mildew from forming at the door. LG’s TrueBalance anti-vibration system minimizes washer noise and vibration on practically any type of floor.
Best Steam Front Load Washer: GE® 4.8 Cu. Ft. White Smart Front Load Washer
Enlist in the PowerSteam feature of this GE front load washer to effectively lift stubborn stains and messes from clothes. Unlike regular washing, super-heated vapor goes deeper into fibers, better releasing soiling for a clean that’s on another level. This front loader also comes with GE UltraFresh Vent System with OdorBlock and Microban antimicrobial technology, both of which reduce mold and bacteria buildup commonly found on other front load models. And with WiFi-connected programming, Energy Star qualified performance, a fast 20-minute wash cycle, and SmartDispense technology that holds up to 32 loads worth of detergent, this smart front load washer offers a full showcase of intelligent design.
Best Sanitation Front Load Washer: Maytag® 4.8 Cu. Ft. Metallic Slate Front Load Washer
The spacious 4.8 cubic-foot tub capacity on this Maytag front load washer cuts laundry day down by washing large loads quickly and efficiently. Specifically, that equates the ability to wash up to 30 towels in a single load. The speedy 15-minute wash cycle is great for lighter loads, and with the exclusive performance of features like the Extra Power button and a steam option that work harder on stains, this washer makes your laundering routine easier.
Shop the Best Front Load Washers at Spencer’s
Front load washing machines are the way of the modern home, offering energy- and water-saving technology that is easier on clothes and effective at treating messes. With a growing number of models from some of the best laundry brands on the market, these appliances have now become the new norm, and our catalog is stocked with top-rated models for you to upgrade your laundry regimen.
Browse the entire lineup of appliances available at Spencer’s TV & Appliance to update every room in your home. Whether it’s the laundry room, the kitchen, your living room, or the outdoors, we supply reliable appliances, mattresses, electronics, and home water treatments to keep your home running at peak performance. Shop online or at one of 10 appliance showrooms throughout Arizona, including locations in Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, and Scottsdale!
Still have questions? Please feel free to give your local store a call to speak with one of our qualified experts?
Related Topics:
- The Best Washer and Dryer Brands
- Our Review of GE Front Load Washers
- 5 Large-Capacity Laundry Sets for Families