Washing Machine Comparisons

Top-Loading Models

This conventional style is typically the least expensive, full-size option. Top-loaders usually have the fastest wash cycles but are normally noisier and have smaller baskets than front-loading styles. They are also prone to shifting the clothes during cycles, causing the load to become unbalanced, interrupting the washing process and necessitating manual manipulation for the cycle to continue. Basic top-loading washers use agitators that are tough on clothes, although larger, more expensive models use gentler fabric repositioning techniques to clean fabrics with less water. High-efficiency models require HE detergent, which is widely available. Top-loading washers are typically 27 inches wide, about 25 1/2 inches deep and 42 inches tall.

Front-loaders are pricier than some top-loading styles but have many advantages for the extra cost. They are more energy efficient than traditional top-loaders and use less detergent and water per cycle. Their internal mechanisms clean clothes better with gentle motion and less noise than conventional washers. The superior spin cycle of top-loaders removes more moisture from fabrics than top-loading models, which significantly reduces drying times. Newer, pricier front-loaders are available with steam wash cycles.

One drawback of top-loading washers is the need to bend down to load and unload the machine. Putting the machine on a pedestal or other platform can make this easier. If you don't use a detergent labeled HE, the machine can lock up from too many suds. Front-loading washing machines are usually 27 inches wide and deep, and 36 inches tall. To save space, a matching dryer may be stacked on top of most models, using an appropriate rack or other hardware to secure the appliances together.

Although not commonly sold in the U.S., washer dryer combinations dry the clothes in the same compartment after they are washed. The drawbacks are their smaller capacities, a tendency to slightly under-dry clothes and lack of repair technicians who are qualified to fix them. Washer-dryer combinations are 23 inches wide, 22 inches deep and 33 inches high.

One-piece laundry centers are good for apartments and condominiums since both the washer and dryer are built together, with the dryer compartment stacked above the washer. The unit can be installed in a closet and hidden from view. These units are about 75 inches tall, 31 inches deep and 27 inches wide. Portable washers have wheels for easy storage and mobility, are low priced and are the smallest washers, at 33 inches tall, 22 inches deep and no more than 24 inches wide.

Washing machines vary considerably in cost and capacities. According to washing machine reviews provided at Cnet.com, as of 2009, the cost of front-loading washers ranged between $700 and $2,700, regular top-loaders between $300 and $650, high-efficiency top-loading machines between $600 and $1,600, laundry centers between $900 and $1,900, compacts between $450 and $1,700 and washer-dryer combinations between $800 and $1,800. Capacities range between 12 and 20 pounds for front-loading machines, 12 to 16 pounds for top-loaders, 8 to 12 pounds for compacts and stacked laundry centers and 8 pounds for washer/dryer combinations.