We’ve been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.
- Appliances
- Washer Reviews
- 10 Best Washing Machines of 2023, According to Cleaning Experts
10 Best Washing Machines of 2023, According to Cleaning Experts
Top-load and front-load machines that can't be beat.
We updated this guide in October 2022 to include a new GE washer based on updated testing by the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care and Cleaning Products Lab and ensure all products were in stock, available and accurately priced.
From top-loaders to front-loaders, washing machines have advanced over the years with new features and styles. Today's washers are smarter, gentler, clean better and easier to use than the early models were. But as such, choosing the perfect one can seem overwhelming with all the options available.
To make easy work of finding the best washing machine, here at the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care and Cleaning Products Lab, we test washers as we have for 122 years for not only how well they clean and care for your clothing, but how easy and intuitive they are to use. In performance testing, we run stain removal tests on regular, heavy-duty and delicate cycles. In our most recent test of 12 washers, we took 288 stain removal measurements per load (over 860 measurements per machine, or more than 10,300 in all!). And if the machine has a specialty setting (such as bulky bedding or quick wash), we evaluate those cycles as well. We also test each model's control panel and score how easy and intuitive it is to use and its responsiveness, plus how much energy and water each machine consumes. Based on our extensive data collected over more than 122 years testing, these are the best washing machines you can buy.
Our top picks:
Read on for more details about our best washing machines of 2022, things to consider when shopping for the best washing machine and more. Complete your laundry essentials kit by shopping our best laundry dryers and best laundry detergents , plus find out what's the best way to clean your washing machine . And be sure to check the latest Black Friday deals around the internet and on Amazon on washing machines and other appliances.
- Option to dry machine and door to prevent musty smell
- Automatically adds the correct amount of detergent
- Can wash and dry a small load
- Door gasket, drawer, hose and other parts are treated to prevent germ growth
- Some reviewers say the washer is loud
The musty smell of a front-loading washer is a thing of the past with this GE washing machine. It prevents water from puddling inside, which causes that musty smell, with a venting option that automatically dries the inside of the machine and the door seal when your laundry is done . The machine pulls in outside air to dry the interior while the drum spins intermittently. And the door gasket, dispenser drawer and other internal components are treated with Microban , an additive to help keep mold at bay. Our experts were impressed that the drum and door seal were bone dry after a full vent cycle. The full cycle does take eight hours, though, so it's best to run it after your last load of the day or overnight.
This washer is packed with features, including SmartDispense bulk detergent dispensing. All you do is select the cycle and the washer automatically adds the correct amount of detergent. In addition, it has steam cycles, WiFi connectivity, and a one-step wash and dry option that washes and air dries a small load overnight. In our tests we found the wash cycles speedy and very effective, cleaning our cotton and polyester stain swatches in both warm and cold water. Even the quick wash removed a set-in stain in just 20 minutes. One thing to note, some reviewers say this washer is louder than they would like.
We found liquid detergent is a cinch to fill without spilling and up to 50 ounces of liquid can go in at a time. It's also backed by our Good Housekeeping Seal , meaning if anything goes wrong we'll send a certified technician to you to evaluate your washer at our expense.
Model #GFW850SPNRSCapacity5 cubic feetDimensions28"w x 39 3/4"h x 34"dWarrantyOne year
- Large capacity
- Energy-saving
- PowerWash cycle to clean extra dirty loads
- Some reviewers say they have a hard time reaching the bottom
Even though this top-loading washing machine has a center agitator, you'll never notice a compromise in capacity which is a whopping 6.0 cu. ft. We liked the clear control panel making it easy to decipher and found it was extremely responsive to the touch. While it’s energy-saving and efficient, you can add more water if you’d like to with the deep fill option.
For extra dirty loads, there's a PowerWash cycle and if you need a quick wash the RapidWash trims wash time to under 30 minutes for items you need in a hurry. In our tests, a down-filled coat that we washed on the bedding cycle in a slightly smaller version of this same model came out thoroughly clean, rinsed and free of suds. For folks on the shorter side, you may want to keep in mind that some reviewers stated they had a hard time reaching the bottom
Model #MVWB965HCCapacity6.0 cubic feetDimensions29.5" W x 43 7/16" H x 30" DWarrantyOne year full; two-10 years certain parts
- Sanitize cycle
- Option to add more water for loads that need a deeper cleaning
- Dedicated section for detergent packs
- No steam cycle
In our GH Cleaning Lab Tests, GE washers are always solid performers and this machine has luxury features at a great price. It has a sanitize cycle, which kills bacteria and an oxi additive can help boost your detergent's cleaning power. It also has all the key cycles including ones for washing workout wear and bulky items like comforters, down coats and sleeping bags. Unfortunately, there's no steam cycle, but that's expected at this price point.
We love that the dispenser has a dedicated section for detergent packs to help them dissolve better and the handy stain guide option adjusts the cycle's time and water temperature to better remove stains like tomato, wine, blood, grass and dirt. With the deep fill and deep rinse settings, you can add more water to loads that need them for more thorough washing and rinsing.
Model #GTW720BSNWSCapacity4.8 cubic feetDimensions27" W x 46" H x 27" DWarrantyOne Year; 10-year limited on motor
- Alexa built-in
- Voice commands will adjust wash settings for you
- Tangle prevention technology
- Does not have a self-cleaning setting
This top-loading washer from GE has made doing laundry a breeze with Alexa built-in that will recognize thousands of voice commands. If you've ever wondered what wash settings you need to wash cashmere or how to get a specific stain out, simply give Alexa a voice command and it will adjust the machine settings for you. In addition, the built-in Alexa functions like any other Alexa speaker and can play music, tell you the weather and more.
In our Lab tests, we found this washer easy to use and appreciate the large 5.4 cubic foot capacity, though it was a bit loud during certain parts of the cycle. We were also impressed with the technology to help prevent tangles, which means no more knotted sheets or twisted clothing. We were so impressed with this washer we even gave it a spot in our 2022 Cleaning Awards.
Model #PTW900BPTDGCapacity5.4 cubic feetDimensions27.9" W x 43.9" H x 28.0" DWarrantyOne year; 10-year limited on motor
- Removable agitator
- Stain-treating station
- Allows you to add detergent for up to 20 loads
- Some reviewers say it's louder than expected
If you can't decide whether to purchase a washing machine with or without an agitator, this unique Whirlpool top load washer allows you the best of both worlds allowing you to keep the agitator in for regular loads or remove it for bulky loads like washing a comforter.
Our experts were impressed with the stain-treating station and Load and Go dispenser which allows you to add detergent once without needing to refill for up to 20 loads. We also found the app useful and easy to use. Unlike some other washing machines we've tested, this Whirlpool impressed us enough to be named a winner in a previous year's Good Housekeeping Best Cleaning Products Awards . Take note, it may not be the quietest machine as some reviewers say it's louder than they anticipated.
Model #WTW8127LCCapacity5.2 cubic feet with agitator, 5.3 cubic feet without agitatorDimensions27.25" W x 42.5" H x 27.88" DWarrantyOne year; two to five years limited parts and labor
- Compact profile
- Comes with a seven year warranty
- Easily handles large loads
- Smaller capacity than some others at 3.2 cu. ft
This pick has a compact profile so this top-loader can easily slide into a smaller space. We found it easy to program with your choice of temperature, soil level and load size selections, or choose from eight special cycles. You can customize your own pre-set favorites that you can repeat with just the press of one button.At 3.2 cu. ft. it has a smaller capacity than some other washers, so it won't handle extra-large loads but in our tests, it was able to wash a bulky queen-sized comforter. The comforter came out clean and well-rinsed without the center agitator interfering. This machine is super-quiet, and the delay start setting lets you wash when it suits you — even overnight. We found this was a solid pick, and the seven-year warranty reinforces that.
Model #TR7003WNCapacity3.2 cubic feetDimensions25 5/8" W x 42 3/4" H x 28" DWarrantySeven year
- Extra large capacity with pedestal washer
- Works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa or an app
- Expensive
Whether you need to wash a large load or just a few items, there’s no laundry task this giant combo team can’t handle, and it’s super easy to load. It has a 5.2 cubic-foot mega-capacity washer sitting atop a 1.0 cubic-foot pedestal washer. The top washer can be used for your every day and oversized loads and we love the mini one below when you only need to wash a few items that need special care or that you need in a hurry.
Allergy sufferers can rejoice because it's certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America to sanitize and remove sniffle-causing allergens from fabrics. It also works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa or an app on your phone. While the pedestal washer is perfect for delicates, we found the top machine gentle on fabrics, too. Keep in mind that to cut the cost, the washer and pedestal washer can be sold separately, but even without the pedestal add-on, we still stand by the main unit as a great choice.
Capacity5.2 cubic feet (washer); 1 cubic foot (pedestal)Model #WM8100HVA (washer); WD205CV (pedestal)Dimensions29" W x 41 5/16" H x 33 7/10" D (washer); 29" W x 14 1/8" H x 30 7/8" D (pedestal)WarrantyOne year; three-year limited on drum; 10-year on drive motor
- Automatically detects soil level and adjusts the wash
- Easy to use app
- Quiet
- Can control the dryer from the washer when stacked
- Only comes in brushed black color
This Samsung washer makes doing laundry easier with loads of smart features. For instance, the Opti-Wash feature automatically detects the soil levels and adjusts to add more time or detergent if needed so your laundry always comes out clean. It can also be paired with an app that we found easy to use and convenient with features like remotely starting and stopping the wash, scheduling wash cycles, receiving alerts when the cycle is done and more. In our tests, we were impressed that after using the washer a few times, it learned our favorite wash cycle settings.
Not only did this washing machine do a great job cleaning but it was quiet as well. The drum is treated with an antimicrobial to help keep the washing machine smelling fresher longer and the Self Clean+ feature will alert you when it’s time for a cleaning. The matching dryer can be installed stacked or side by side. If you do stack them, you can set the dryer right from the washer's control panel.
Model #WE50A8800AVCapacity5.0 cubic feetDimensions27" W x 38 3/4" H x 33 1/5" DWarrantyOne year
- Controls for both washer and dryer are in center for easy access
- Built-in sensors can customize cycle
- Can control laundry remotely with app
- Pricey
- Can't replace them independently, if needed
While all front-load washers and dryers can be stacked, the LG WashTower makes the controls easy to reach by placing them in the middle for both appliances, so short folks no longer have to stretch to see and set the dryer cycles.
And they didn't stop with the innovation there, built-in sensors use AI technology to detect fabric texture and load size to customize the washing and drying cycles for better fabric care. When using the LG ThinQ app, you can set and monitor the washer and dryer and even alert the dryer to the load type coming its way. This particular pick comes with an electric dryer, but the unit is also available with a gas dryer for $100 more. But unlike two separately stacked appliances, the WashTower is one unit, so if either the washer or dryer needs replacing, the whole thing has to go.
In our GH Cleaning Lab tests, we found this unit incredibly easy to use and load and unload, especially for our five-feet and under testers! We liked the speedy, yet gentle and effective, and nice extras, like steam, allowed us to freshen gently worn items for another wear. The machines learn your most frequently used cycles and automatically choose the correct options when you turn them on. Convenient!
Model #WKEX200HBACapacity4.5 cubic feet (washer), 7.4 cubic feet (dryer)Dimensions27" W x 74 3/8" H x 30 3/8" DWarrantyOne year; 10 years drum and motor
- Saves space
- Carries the Good Housekeeping Seal
- Automatically dispenses the correct amount of detergent
- Can not handle overly large loads
This Good Housekeeping Seal holder measures 23.5 x 33.5 x 23.375 inches making it one of the most compact washing machines. The 2.26 cu. ft. capacity makes it a great choice for small homes, and apartments or as a second washing machine installed in a closet or bathroom. While it's small, the drum is roomy enough to handle large, but not jumbo loads.
Our experts love the unique TwinDos system that automatically dispenses the correct amount of detergent. There are a wide array of cycles to choose from, including silks, handwash, express and more. In our tests, the QuickIntenseWash cycle whitened cotton test swatches and we were impressed that it removed tough stains in under one hour. It's also WiFi-enabled so you can monitor and control your wash cycles via your smartphone.
Model #WWH860WCSCapacity2.26 cubic feetDimensions23 1/2" W x 33 1/2" H x 25 3/8" DWarrantyTwo year
How we test washing machines
The Good Housekeeping Institute has been testing washing machines for 122 years (since they were invented!). We base our tests on the industry standards developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM).
Jillian Sollazzo/Good Housekeeping
To evaluate the cleaning performance of each load — whether regular, heavy-duty or delicate — we include carefully-placed pre-stained strips of fabric with six stains on each. At the end of the cycle, once the strips have air dried, we take measurements on each stain (for a total of 288 measurements per load ) to calculate a total stain removal index for the cycle. For just three cycles on each machine, that's over 860 measurements . We also test any specialty cycles, such as bulking bedding or speed wash, to see if they perform up to our expectations, and confirm any sanitizing cycle can reach a high enough temperature for the required amount of time to adequately kill germs on fabrics.
Jillian Sollazzo/Good Housekeeping
Gentleness is tested by washing cotton swatches with five pre-cut holes. When they come out of the machine, the holes are frayed: The more fraying, the more damaging the cycle. For our last test of 12 washers, we counted over 1,000 frayed threads .
We also check the water and energy usage of each machine and score how easy the washing machine is to use, including if the control panel is responsive and intuitive to use, ease of loading with a set amount of laundry and how easy it is to open and close the door. And on top of performance testing, we evaluate the owner's manual for how thorough, clear and complete it is.
What type of washing machine is better: Top-loading or front-loading?
The first decision you’ll have to make is whether you want a front- or top-loading machine. In Good Housekeeping Institute tests, both types clean so well you likely will not notice a difference in your clothing, though our tests show front loaders do perform a bit better. Which you choose is really a matter of personal preference.
✔️ A front-loading washing machine is the most energy-efficient option. It uses the least amount of water in each load. Clothes get cleaned when they tumble in a small pool of water that’s added by the machine once it senses the weight and type of load. Front-loaders can easily handle big, bulky items, like comforters and sleeping bags, but do require bending to load and unload the tub. Most manufacturers sell pedestal drawers to raise the appliances up off the floor and save some strain on your back.
If space is tight, a front load washer can be stacked with its matching dryer and placed in a closet, bathroom or any narrow area where water, electrical connections and venting are available. (Non-venting dryers are becoming more widely available for installation in spaces where outside venting is not an option and our tests show their performance rivals that of vented models, too.) Keep in mind that water often puddles in the door gasket, dispensers and even the drum itself at the end of the cycle and can lead to mold growth and odors. If you choose a front loader, you’ll need to be diligent about cleaning the gasket and dispenser and leaving the door ajar or drying the machine down so the drum dries out and odors don’t develop.
✔️ A top-loading washing machine is a good choice if you like a more traditional configuration. Because the water in top-loaders drains down and out, they are less likely to develop mold and odors than front-loaders, and that's the reason many consumers prefer them. However, it’s a good idea to clean the tub and dispensers of all washing machines about once per month. Newer, high-efficiency top-loading models provide excellent cleaning and are still energy efficient even though they use more water than front loaders.
Top loaders may or may not have a center agitator. Those without agitators have huge tubs for extra-large loads and gently bounce clothing under a shower of water. Some are so deep that reaching into the bottom to grab the last sock can be challenging for short consumers. And new models offer the option of adding water for deep washes and rinses, if desired, for more thorough cleaning. Agitator models may be less expensive but may be a little less gentle on fabrics, though they, too, are getting better. They get clothes clean by moving them through a pool of water so fabrics are well rinsed. Detergents, especially single-dose packs, are more likely to dissolve completely in them. Top loaders with agitators may have smaller tubs and generally use the most water of any style washer.
What to look for when shopping for a washing machine
Beyond deciding whether a front-loading or top-loading washing machine is best for your needs, here are a few other aspects you may want to consider:
✔️ Capacity: If you find yourself washing bulkier items often or especially large loads you’ll want to opt for a large capacity washer, usually without a center agitator. However, if you tend to wash smaller loads a standard capacity washing machine should be just fine. Make sure you try reaching inside the drum of whatever machine you are considering to make sure it's easily accessible to you.
✔️ Smart features: More appliances, including washing machines, are starting to come with smart features. These features make doing laundry easier by allowing you to schedule a load of laundry from your phone, send notifications when the cycle is finished, order detergent and more. And more machines use Artificial Intelligence to anticipate your cycle selections and care for fabrics for a better, more convenient laundry experience. Just keep in mind these extra features can be more costly.
✔️ Detergent dispensing: Rather than pouring detergent directly into the washing tub or into the dispenser every wash, some washers come with bulk dispensers that you fill once for multiple loads. These machines will automatically dispense the correct amount of detergent into each load according to the cycle and options you’ve selected and the size of the load the machine senses. Another thing to keep in mind when it comes to detergent: If you use detergent packs, some washing machines have special single-dose dispensers that ensure the pack is fully dissolved and released at the correct time in the cycle.
✔️ Cycles: Look for the cycles that you use most frequently or washing machines that are programmable if you like to customize your cycle. Other types of cycles that are useful are sanitizing options to kill germs and help with allergies, steam for better stain removal and quick wash for lightly soiled items that don’t need a full cycle to get clean or for items you need in a hurry. If you like having lots of control over how you do your loads, look out for machines that don't allow you to override the preset temperature and spin options on some cycles. You may find using these machines frustrating.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Carolyn Forté has been testing washers, dryers and other laundry room essentials, like laundry detergents and stain removers, for more than 40 years in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Products Lab. She often consults with the appliance industry, especially washing machine manufacturers, about appliance testing protocols and consumer laundry habits, researches and writes our laundry how-tos and personally tests or oversees all of the testing done for all of the Cleaning Lab's product guides.
Carolyn Forté Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Home Care and Cleaning Lab.
- Subscribe
- Give GH as a Gift
- Other Hearst Subscriptions
- Newsletter
- About Us
- Work for Good Housekeeping
- Media Kit
- Advertise Online
- Customer Service
- Events & Promotions
- Giveaways
A Part of Hearst Digital Media Good Housekeeping participates in various affiliate marketing programs, which means we may get paid commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites.
- Privacy Notice
- CA Notice at Collection
- Your CA Privacy Rights/Shine the Light
- DAA Industry Opt Out
