Best Washing Machines, According to Our Testing

Whether you’re moving into a new home or your washer is starting to show its last signs of life, a top-performing washing machine is an investment that you won’t regret. Not only have the latest generations of washing machines become more efficient, effective and easy to use, but some are even smarter so they take the guesswork out of how much detergent to use or which wash cycle is best for your load.

To evaluate the best washing machines, our product analysts and cleaning experts in the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab assessed everything from cleaning performance to the machine’s gentleness, water and energy usage, specialty cycles and much more. These are the best washing machines you can buy right now, according to our extensive testing data.  

Best Overall Front Loader
GE Profile UltraFresh Vent System Plus

    ProHas a venting option to prevent musty smells
    ProAutomatically adds the correct amount of detergent
    ProDoor gasket, drawer, hose and other parts are treated to prevent mold growth

Cons

    ConFull vent cycle is very long

Model #: PFW870 | Capacity: 5 cubic feet | Dimensions: 28" x 39.75" x 34" | Warranty: 1 year | Energy Star certified: Yes

Because of the unique design of this machine, the musty smell of a front-loading washer may just be a thing of the past. It has a venting option that automatically dries the door seal and the inside of the machine when your laundry is done to prevent water from puddling inside.

Here's how it works: The machine pulls in outside air to dry the interior while the drum spins intermittently. The door gasket, dispenser drawer and other internal components are also treated with Microban, an additive to help keep mold at bay. When we tested it, we were impressed that the drum and door seal were bone dry after a full vent cycle. On the downside, the full vent cycle takes eight hours, so it's best to run this feature after your last load of the day or overnight.

Besides this unique technology, the washer is packed with other enviable features, including SmartDispense bulk detergent dispensing. All you do is select the cycle and the washer automatically adds the correct amount of detergent. (We found liquid detergent is a cinch to fill without spilling and the machine can hold up to 50 ounces of liquid at a time.) In addition, the machine has steam cycles and WiFi connectivity.

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