Washing Machine Buying Guide

Design: Clean Design Partners, Photo: Donna Dotan

Whether you're moving into a new home or are in need of an upgrade, it's important to know the washing machine options available to you. With all of the new features on the market today, it can be hard to pick the right machine to suit your needs. That's why we've covered the washing machine basics from style and technology to capacity and measurements.

WASHING MACHINE TYPES

Top-Load Washer
These washers load from the top of the unit providing users with a bend-free experience. Typically they are cheaper than front load washers, but their wash cycles tend to be longer. They are not stackable and require extra space above the machine for the door. Detergent and fabric softeners are poured directly on top of laundry.

Front-Load Washer
Laundry is loaded in to the front of the machine. The best front load washers clean better and are gentler than top load washers. A major perk to front load washers are that they are stackable with front load dryers. Typically their drum is larger than top load washers and can handle more laundry (but this depends on cubic feet). Detergent and fabric softeners are inserted through a special pull out drawer on the side of the machine.

Portable Washer
A washer that, with the help of an adapter, hooks up to a standard faucet and when not in use can be stored away. Typically these are much smaller than traditional washers and are perfect for apartments. They can range anywhere from 1 to 2 cubic feet. Drying is not included in this washer.

All-In-One Combo Unit
An all-in-one unit that both washes and dries your laundry. These units are meant to save space and are ideal for apartments or small homes

Laundry Center
A unit that has a separate washer and dryer but is a single structure. This machine resembles a stacked front load washer and dryer but cannot physically separate. 

CHOOSING THE RIGHT CAPACITY

Washing machine capacity is measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.). For every 1 cu. ft. of space your washer can hold approximately 3 to 4 pounds of laundry. For example, a 4 cu. ft. washer machine can wash up to 12 to 16 pounds of laundry. Typically, a complete adult’s outfit can weigh 3 to 5 pounds. So, if you have a 4 cu. ft. washer, you can wash approximately 3 to 5 adult outfits in one wash. Another way to look at it is a 4 cu. ft. washer can accommodate approximately two baskets of laundry. The size washer you choose should depend on the number of people in your household and how many loads of laundry you wash per week.

Guidelines

• 1 cu. ft. washing machine handles 3 to 5 pounds of laundry.
• 2 cu. ft. washing machine handles 6 to 10 pounds of laundry.
• 3 cu. ft. washing machine handles 9 to 12 pounds of laundry.
• 4 cu. ft. washing machine handles 12 to 16 pounds of laundry.

MEASURING FOR YOUR WASHER

Before bringing your washing machine home, make sure your washer will fit in your home by comparing the width of the washer to the span of your door openings. Secondly, if buying a top load washer, measure to ensure there is at least 20 inches of clearance above the machine for the door to fully open. If you’re buying a front load washer, measure the space in front of the machine, and allow for 20 inches. Once the areas in your home are measured and you're positive your washing machine will fit, make sure to leave a standard 6 inches between the unit and the wall for water hookups and about an inch between the washer and dryer. 

Width
The average washing machine is 27 inches wide.

Depth
The average washing machine is 25 to 28 inches deep.

Height
The average top load washing machine is 36 inches high.
The average front load washing machine ranges from 34 to 39 inches. 

FEATURES

Energy Star Certified
These washers reduce electricity and water use between 20 and 35 percent. Look for washers with this stamp to save energy and money without sacrificing performance. 

Child Safety Lock
This is a safe guard that prevents the door from automatically locking. 

High-Efficiency Washer
Most are better at cleaning, gentler on fabrics, use less water, and have larger capacities. They spin faster, which cuts down drying time.

Stackable
If you’re tight on space, look for a washer and dryer set that you’re able to stack. This set up is ideal for apartments, condos, small homes, and (depending on size) can fit in a closet.

Built-In Water Heater
This allows the machine to fill with cold water and gradually heat the water throughout the cycle. This feature is ideal for stained clothing because it allows the cold water to remove the stain before the hot water sets it.

Steam Function
This function is targeted towards heavily soiled laundry. This feature heats water up to 212 degrees Fahrenheit (most washers don’t reach over 130 degrees Fahrenheit), allowing the steam to power through tough stains. 

Door Lock Indicator
Notifies you when the washer door is locked or unlocked.

ADA Compliant
The ADA is the Americans with Disabilities Act. Washers that are ADA compliant follow guidelines ensuring that they are accessible for people with disabilities.