The Best washing machines Buying Guide
End Your Dilemma on Washing Machine Type & Capacity!
Choosing the Right Washing Machine for Your Home
Washing machines are items that often cause a lot of deliberation when purchasing because their suitable type, capacity, and convenience features vary depending on the user. This results in a wide variety of products and prices.
We’ll explore which type and capacity of product is right for you, and among the additional features that cause price differences of hundreds of dollars, which functions are essential and which ones you don’t need to consider.
Chapter 1.
Top-Load vs. Front-Load
Understanding the Pros and Cons of Each Type: Washing Performance, Convenience, and More
1. washing machine Operating Principle
Top-Load: Uses water currents to scrub clothes
Front-Load: Uses Gravity to Tumble Clothes
Washing machines are divided into two types: top-load, and front-load. The accurate terminology based on where the laundry is loaded is:
-Top-Load Washer : This type uses strong water currents (vortex) created by the rotation of the wash tub to agitate and wash clothes.
-Front-Load Washer : This type uses the principle of gravity as clothes fall from the top to the bottom when the drum rotates, similar to the beating action of traditional washing.
2. washing machine Performance
Top-Load Washers Are Slightly Better, But Front-Load Washers Are Also Sufficient
| – | Top Loading Washer | Front Loading Washer |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | Relatively Good | Normal |
| Recommend wash load | 70% of Drum Capacity | 50% of Drum Capacity |
| Fabric care | Normal | Relatively Good |
| Dust Removal | Normal | Relatively Good |
While top-load washers have superior washing power due to the agitation effect from strong water currents, front-load washers can also effectively remove everyday stains.
You may occasionally find reviews saying that front-load washers don’t clean well, but this is often due to not following the recommended usage methods. For front-load washers, which use less water due to their tumbling method, two things are crucial:
-Only fill the drum halfway
-Use the correct amount of detergent specifically made for front-load washers
Most dissatisfaction comes from not following these guidelines. Additionally, if you’re worried about detergent residue due to less water usage, you can use the extra rinse option.
For the same capacity, top-load washers can wash more in a single load
Front-load washers need about half the drum space for the tumbling action, so they can handle about 20 to 30% less laundry than top-load washers of the same capacity (kg). Therefore, for washing thick comforters or large loads at once, top-load washers are more advantageous when comparing the same capacity.
Front-load washers are better for dust removal and fabric care
Top-load washers can cause more wear and tear on clothes, such as stretching or pilling, due to the strong agitation. They also have a drawback of lint and dust settling back on clothes during the draining process.
Front-load washers, on the other hand, cause less pilling and fabric damage. They also use pumps for quick drainage, reducing the time dust remains inside, resulting in less dust sticking to the laundry.
3. washing machine Usability
Front-Load Washers Are More Convenient for Loading and Unloading Less Tangling and Generally More Features
| – | Top Loading Washer | Front Loading Washer |
|---|---|---|
| Loading | Normal | Easy |
| Tangling | Occasional Tangling | Minimal Tangling |
| Noise Level | Relatively Noisy | Relatively Quiet |
| Wash Time | About 40 minutes | About 1 Hour |
| Boiling Wash | Generally Absent | Generally Present |
Front-load washers have a front door structure, making it convenient to load and unload laundry. On the other hand, top-load washers can be inconvenient due to their ‘top door design + depth of the wash tub’, requiring you to bend over and reach deep to remove laundry.
Moreover, in top-load washers, clothes continue to rotate with water, which can cause tangling after washing. They also tend to be noisier.
However, noise isn’t usually a problem in daily life as washers are typically installed in laundry areas with closed doors, unless the bedroom is directly adjacent.
Washing Time is Shorter for Top-Load Washers
For standard cycles, top-load washers take about 40 minutes, while front-load washers take about an hour, making top-load washers about 20 to 30% faster.
There aren’t many complaints about the longer wash times of front-load washers because people rarely watch the entire washing process, and quick modes are available when needed.
However, if you often need to do multiple loads in succession or need to wash quickly before going out, the shorter cycle time of top-load washers might be more convenient.
Boiling Effect in Washing Machines
Most front-load washers can set water temperature even when connected only to cold water. They can adjust from cold to over 90°C (194°F), allowing for a boiling wash for items like towels, baby clothes, and underwear without actually boiling them separately.
However, be cautious as high temperatures can shrink or damage clothes. Most top-load washers require a separate hot water supply for temperature adjustment, though some can heat water themselves. Generally, their maximum temperature is around 60°C (140°F), which is not enough for a true boiling effect.
However, with increasing demand for sanitization features, some small 3-4kg top-load washers (like Samsung Aga-sarang, LG Mini Wash) now offer cycles with temperatures over 90°C (194°F). It’s important to check these detailed features based on your needs before purchasing.
4. Power Consumption & Water Usage
Top-Load Washers Use Less Power, Front-Load Washers Use Less Water
| – | Top Loading Washer | Front Loading Washer |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $220~$730 | $350~$2200 |
| Power Consumption | 300W~800W | Over 2000W |
| Water Usage per Cycle | 100~150L(26~40 gallons) | 60~100L(16~26 gallons) |
First, for similar grades and capacities, top-load washers are about $150 to $600 cheaper than front-load washers, making them more cost-effective.
Power Consumption is Higher for Front-Load Washers, But Little Difference in Cold Water Wash
Power consumption differs significantly: front-load washers use about 2000W, while top-load washers use 300-800W.
However, this is the maximum power consumption for front-load washers when using the heating function. If both are operated with cold water, the actual power usage difference is not significant.
Water Consumption of Front-Load Washers is 60-70% of Top-Load Washers
Top-load washers use 100-150 liters (26-40 gallons) of water per cycle, while front-load washers use only 60-100 liters (16-26 gallons).
Chapter 2.
washing machine Capacity & Size
Choosing the Right Size for Your Home
When purchasing a washing machine, capacity (lbs) is often the most challenging decision. As prices vary significantly based on capacity, it’s not easy to choose the right product for your needs.
So, what criteria should we use? Is bigger always better? Let’s look at the guidelines for choosing washing machine capacity.
1. The Meaning of Washing Machine Capacity
Capacity (lbs) Refers to Motor Power, Not Size
The capacity of a washing machine, expressed in pounds, refers to the weight of laundry the motor can handle, not the size of the drum. While larger capacities generally mean larger drums, there are ranges where only the motor power differs, not the drum size.
Since the space for laundry is crucial for washing large amounts or big items like comforters, if the drum size is the same, the amount of laundry per load will be similar regardless of the pound rating.
Some people choose higher capacities if they frequently wash materials that absorb a lot of water, as the increased weight during washing and spinning can strain the motor.
What’s the Difference Between Capacities (lbs) if the Drum Size is the Same?
Products with the same size but higher capacity (lbs) generally differ in:
-Motor output (power)
-Washing programs
-Partial structure
These are often higher-end models with additional features. Even if the same motor specs are used, differences in set output values and programs allow them to handle heavier loads.
However, since the actual drum size is the same, you may not notice much difference in maximum load volume or washing performance per cycle. In conclusion, rather than automatically choosing a large capacity for large loads, it’s generally more rational to buy a lower capacity product that’s cheaper if the features and size range are similar.
However, as manufacturers focus on different capacities at different times, it’s better to buy a larger capacity if it’s cheaper or similarly priced.
As of 2022, major manufacturers’ main products are mostly large capacity: 46, 53 lbs for front-load washers and 33-44 lbs for top-load washers. There are also small washers under 7 lbs for consumers who want separate washing or very small loads.
2. washing machine Capacity Selection
Choose Based on Washing Habits and Installation Space
Trend Towards Large Capacity
When selecting washer capacity, use the number of family members as a baseline, and consider the user’s washing habits and installation space.
Choose Cost-Effective Capacity Considering Family Size
For a typical 3-person family in the US, the average load is about 15 lbs (7 kg). If we consider half the capacity of a front-load washer as optimal, a 30 lb (14 kg) washer would be fully loaded.
While larger capacities are more convenient to use, there are ranges where drum sizes are the same or similar, so it’s good to consider this when choosing.
Consider Your Usual Laundry Amount and Washing Frequency
For 1-2 person households who do small, frequent loads 1-2 times a week and use laundry services for bulky items, a small capacity of about 20 lbs (9 kg) for front-loaders is sufficient.
However, if you’re washing more than 15 lbs (7 kg) per load (average for a 3-person family) or frequently washing bulky items like comforters at home, you should typically choose products with 37 lbs (17 kg) or more for front-loaders, and 22 lbs (10 kg) or more for top-loaders to complete the wash and spin cycles without strain.
For front-load washers, it’s better to choose a capacity with some extra room as space is needed inside the drum during washing.
Check if It Fits Your Installation Space
If your installation space is limited or you want a built-in washer, carefully check the external dimensions and built-in compatibility.
Consider whether the washer can be moved to the desired location, if there’s interference with surrounding structures during installation, if there’s enough space at the installation site, water supply/drainage locations and conditions, floor material, and level differences.
Even if you’ve decided on a 53 lb (24 kg) washer, you might need to choose a smaller 37 lb (17 kg) or 20 lb (9 kg) model depending on the installation space.
To avoid the hassle of purchasing a product after careful consideration only to find it can’t be installed and needs to be returned, it’s advisable to get a pre-installation check before buying.
If you plan to use a dryer as well, consider the size and location of the dryer when making your choice.
Chapter 3.
washing machine Cycles
Washing Methods, Types of Cycles, Drying Cycles
A washing machine that cleans dirty laundry effectively! Excellent washing performance is not an option, but a necessity. Many brands promote their specialized washing methods, touting their own advantages, and release products with various washing cycles.
So, what are the conditions for a washing machine with superior washing performance? Is there a big difference between products? Let’s find out.
1. Washing Methods & Cycles
Differences in Methods Are Hard to Notice
Most People Use the Standard Cycle
Therefore, It’s Not a Major Consideration
There are differences in washing methods depending on the brand and model, such as hand-wash effects, generating bubbles to enhance detergent effectiveness, or powerful water sprays (BubbleTech/WaterShot/AirSense/Air Bubble/TurboShot, etc.).
Despite these differences in washing methods between brands, when looking at consumer reviews of various products, it’s difficult to conclude that any specific product has inferior washing power.
In fact, in the quality comparison test of drum washing machines conducted by the Korea Consumer Agency, there was no significant difference in washing performance between brands.
Commonly Used Basic Cycles Are Standard Across Machines
Washing cycles are features that allow various wash settings with just one button press, depending on the fabric and level of soiling. Each cycle operates differently based on preset wash/rinse frequencies, water temperature, and spin power.
Depending on the model, machines may have anywhere from 5 to over 10 washing cycles, but:
-Only 2-3 cycles are commonly used
-It’s difficult to notice the difference in other cycles
-Settings can be manually adjusted if needed
For these reasons, the utilization of various washing cycles is relatively low.
Moreover, since the most commonly used cycles (standard, wool/delicate, etc.) are included as default in all washing machines, there’s no need to make ‘variety of washing cycles’ a selection criterion unless you have specific cycle requirements.
2. Drying Cycles
The Drying Function in Front-Load Washers Has Many Drawbacks
It’s Recommended to Purchase a Separate Dryer if Needed
While it’s rare to find drying functions in front-load washers released after 2019, earlier models with drying capabilities were priced about $150 to $300 higher than those without.
Although it’s convenient to wash and dry laundry in one go without moving clothes, satisfaction with the drying effect is generally low, and there are many drawbacks. As a result, even after purchase, many people end up not using this feature.
If you’re looking for a washer with a drying function, it’s recommended to clearly understand the differences and effectiveness compared to a standalone clothes dryer before making a purchase.
Chapter 4.
Additional Features
Additional Features That Greatly Affect Pricing
Recent washing machines come with a wide variety of additional features. These features can significantly affect the price of the washer.
Let’s explore whether these additional features truly enhance user convenience and which ones might be necessary for you.
1. Premium Features by Manufacturer
Very Convenient if Used Well
Price Differences Occur Based on Features
The features introduced below are not essential for “cleaning laundry” but are worth considering in terms of convenience and price.
How Smart is AI-Powered Washing?
Leading manufacturers like Samsung and LG are incorporating AI (Artificial Intelligence) and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies in most of their new products. For washing machines, weight sensing is standard, and they even recommend appropriate cycles considering fabric type, soil level, and weather.
However, many users don’t notice significant differences in washing results or are unsatisfied even when using AI-recommended cycles. Instead, users often prefer to manually edit cycles with their desired settings (adjusting wash, rinse, and spin frequencies) based on their laundry.
For those who use the same manual settings each time, features that learn patterns and automatically set preferences, as well as custom cycle saving functions, can be useful.
Features may vary by manufacturer and model.
As dryers, considered one of the three essential home appliances, become more widespread, the connectivity between washers and dryers has become an important selection factor. These features include:
-Automatically linking appropriate drying cycles to washing cycles when washing is complete.
-Controlling both washer and dryer from a single control panel (Samsung: All-in-One Control / LG: Easy Circle Control).
-Functions that allow remote control, status diagnosis, and energy monitoring using a smartphone.
When washers and dryers are installed in a stack, the dryer’s control panel is at the very top, making it difficult to operate by hand. Therefore, being able to control and check the status without directly touching the dryer’s panel is a very meaningful feature.
2-in-1 Integrated Washer :
Using Front-Load and Top-Load Simultaneously
2-in-1 integrated washers are very convenient as they allow separate washing of items like baby clothes, clothes needing boiling, underwear, mops, and white clothes without having to run the washer twice. They’re also useful for small loads.
The representative model is LG’s TwinWash, which has a small top-load washer (MiniWash) with a 4-9 lb capacity attached to the bottom of a front-load washer. It can be used simultaneously or individually.
While LG TwinWash has the advantage of utilizing the upper space of the washer, it has the drawback of having to bend down to use the MiniWash, and leaving the MiniWash open for drying after use can be unsightly.
For new models, adding the MiniWash increases the price by about $525-600. When installing a dryer in a stack, you need to separate it or use a separate rack, so consider its usefulness carefully before purchasing.
Samsung also had a FlexWash model with a small top-load washer on top of a front-load drum, but as of January 2023, Samsung hasn’t released new FlexWash models since 2019.
WashTower to Consider if Planning to Buy a Dryer Too
The WashTower is an all-in-one washer and dryer product released by LG Electronics.
Its advantage is a sleek integrated design with a single control panel in the center to operate both the washer and dryer. Compared to stacking separate units, not only is the overall height lower, but the dryer drum is also positioned lower, making it relatively easier to check inside the dryer.
Also, being an integrated unit, the washer and dryer automatically sync without additional settings, which is convenient.
Automatic Detergent Dispensing: No Need to Add Detergent Every Time
This feature automatically dispenses the appropriate amount of detergent and fabric softener based on the laundry weight, after you’ve pre-filled the compartments.
It’s a highly satisfactory feature as you don’t need to add detergent every time.
However, there can be inconveniences such as dispensing too little or too much detergent, or the detergent hardening and not dispensing. Using low-viscosity detergents instead of highly concentrated ones and cleaning the detergent compartment frequently can prevent these issues.
Auto Door Opening to Reduce Post-Wash Moisture Concerns
This feature, available in Samsung’s high-end Bespoke line, automatically opens the door when the wash cycle is complete. It’s useful if you often forget to take out your laundry after washing, as it somewhat ventilates the moist air inside the drum.
However, most users typically hang their laundry or transfer it to a dryer immediately after washing, and since laundry is still wet and clumped together after washing, this feature isn’t as beneficial as the auto-open feature in dishwashers.
2. Standard Additional Features
Choose According to Individual Needs
Delay End
Among the basic additional features, the most useful one is the delay end function. You can use it to set the washing to finish around the time you wake up in the morning if it’s difficult to run the washer late at night, or to have your laundry ready to hang right after you get home from work.
Full Stainless Steel Drum & Tub Clean
After using a washing machine for a long time, serious contamination can occur in areas that can’t be seen. This contamination can cause odors after washing or leave residue on clothes, making proper washing impossible.
A full stainless steel drum allows for more hygienic maintenance compared to plastic materials. Moreover, if the product also has a tub clean function, you can easily maintain the drum regularly, preventing severe contamination.
