A Brief History of Washing Machines
Washing machines have come a long way over the past couple centuries, evolving from simple manual contraptions to smart appliances with advanced features. The first washing machines designed for convenient home use appeared in the early 1900s. These early electric models still required manually moving clothes between wash tubs and rinse tubs.
It wasn‘t until the 1930s-1950s when automatic washing machines that both washed and rinsed clothes in the same tub became common in homes. These appliances continued to become more advanced with the addition of spin cycles, multiple wash cycles, and built-in water heaters over subsequent decades.
The 1970s and 80s saw the introduction of more energy efficient front-load washing machines in Europe. These front-loaders eventually became popular in North America as well as governments and manufacturers pushed efficiency standards. The 21st century has brought smart washing machines with connectivity features, sensors, and software enhancements that make laundry even more automated.
Types of Washing Machines
There are several types of washing machines available with differing features, capacities, and installation requirements:
Top-Load Washers: The most classic washing machine design with laundry loaded into a lid at the top. They tend to be more affordable, have shorter cycle times, and are easier to load than other configurations. However, they generally use more water and energy.
Front-Load Washers: Washing machines with a door in the front that allow clothes to be loaded horizontally. Front-loaders tend to be more energy and water efficient. They also offer faster spin speeds, are gentler on fabrics, and have larger capacities. However, they can require bending to load and some users report issues with mold and mildew buildup.
High-Efficiency (HE) Washers: Designed to optimize water and energy usage. HE washing machines include special mechanisms, sensors, and software tuning to automate and enhance the laundry process while using less resources. Front-loader configurations tend to be the most efficient overall.
Stackable Washers: Compact washing machines that can be paired with a dryer and installed in a vertical configuration to save floor space. Ideal for apartments, RVs, or anywhere space constrained.
Key Buying Considerations
Washing Capacity
The capacity or size of the washer tub is measured in cubic feet (cu. ft). Match capacity to household needs based on family size and amount of laundry. Standard washers start at 3.5 cu. ft. going up to 6+ cu. ft. for larger families.
Cycles and Settings
Look for washers offering multiple cycles to handle various fabric types such as delicates or normal/everyday loads. Additional settings like soil level or spin speed let you further adapt the wash for best results.
Efficiency
ENERGY STAR certified washing machines indicate high-efficiency operation for saving water, energy, and money on utility bills. Look for HE washers with self-adjusting sensors.
Noise
Operation volume measured in decibels (dB). Quieter washing machines rated at less than 50 dB make for more peaceful homes.
Connectivity and Smart Features
For added convenience, some washers can connect to home WiFi networks and smartphone apps to monitor cycles, get notifications, and more. These "smart" models allow for remote control functionality.
Companion Dryer
Select a matching clothes dryer from the same manufacturer for streamlined styling and features between both laundry appliances. Stackable dryer/washer units also available.
Washing Machine Recommendations
Based on the buying factors, features, and average consumer reviews, here are my top recommended washing machines to consider purchasing in 2023:
Best Top Load – GE GTW685BSLWS
Price: $999
Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet
Cycles: 14 cycles including specialty cycles for active wear and quick washes
Efficiency: ENERGY STAR Certified
Noise: 51 dB quiet operation
This GE washer features a stainless steel wash tub, built-in water heater, sanitization mode, and WiFi connectivity. Owners love this model for being able to monitor cycle status and receive end-of-cycle alerts remotely. The washer is backed by GE‘s 10 year limited warranty on the motor and wash drum.
Best Budget Top Load – Maytag MVW6200KW
Price: $749
Capacity: 4.7 cubic feet
Cycles: 11 cycles with deep fill and power wash options
Efficiency: Not ENERGY STAR
While not the most efficient, this affordable Maytag washer includes a 10 year limited parts warranty. Owners praise the stainless steel wash basket and "PowerWash" cycle which uses higher water levels to tackle tough stains.
Best Front Load – LG WM3400CW
Price: $999
Capacity: 4.3 cubic feet
Cycles: 14 cycles with allergy and bedding specialty options
Efficiency: ENERGY STAR Certified
Noise: 51 dB
The LG WM3400CW is packed with features including sensor dry to prevent over drying and sanitize mode to kill bacteria. Users particularly like the 6Motion technology that uses multiple washing motions for improved cleaning performance and fabric care.
Best Stackable Washer – LG SideKick Pedestal Washer
Price: $999
Capacity: 1 cubic foot
Cycles: 10 cycles including active wear and hand wash/wool
Efficiency: ENERGY STAR Certified
Noise: 49 dB
The LG SideKick installs under a full size LG washer and dryer pair while only taking up minimal floor space. Despite the small tub, it operates effectively as a second washer thanks to various sensors and LG‘s TrueBalance anti-vibration system. Owners love this versatile option for apartments or laundries with limited space.
Best Smart Washer – Samsung FlexWash WVG50T3200AW
Price: $1,600
Capacity: 5.0 cubic foot main compartment + 1 cubic foot mini washer
Cycles: FlexWash has dedicated cycles for both compartments
Efficiency: ENERGY STAR Certified
Noise: 51 dB
The innovative Samsung FlexWash has a second mini washer integrated on top for simultaneously or independently washing two loads. Owners love the flexibility this provides. The FlexWash model also includes integrated WiFi/SmartThings compatibility to monitor laundry from anywhere.
Best Premium Washer – Miele W1 WWH860
Price: $1,899
Capacity: 4.1 cubic feet
Cycles: Fully customizable programming
Efficiency: Exceeds ENERGY STAR standards
Noise: Ultra quiet at just 44 dB
The Miele W1 series represents the ultimate washing machine on the market today with programable cycles, best-in-class efficiency, and extremely quiet operation. Miele washing machines are built to last 20+ years and come with an industry leading 10 year parts and labor warranty. If budget allows, the Miele W1 delivers exceptional performance and still earns rave reviews from happy owners after years of reliable service.
Washing Machine Installation and Maintenance Tips
Follow these best practices with your washing machine for smooth installation, operation, and longevity:
- Carefully transport and place the washing for stability and to avoid damage
- Choose a laundry room location away from freezing temperatures and with appropriate clearance
- Level the legs of top load washers and secure all mounting hardware for front load units
- Use braided stainless steel hoses for water connections rather than rubber hoses
- Allow for proper drainage by confirming drain hose is correctly positioned with no kinks
- Adhere to utility capacity limits to avoid electrical and plumbing issues
- Wipe the washing machine interior, gasket, door, and exterior periodically to prevent mold/mildew growth
- Run cleaning cycles monthly using either bleach or other tub cleaning solutions
- Check hoses and seals; replace damaged or worn parts
Additionally, minimize detergent and leave the washer door open between loads so air can circulate and dry out interior surfaces.
Washing Machine FAQs
How long do washing machines last on average?
With proper installation and maintenance, most washing machines last between 8-12 years before needing replacement. Higher end models can function even longer with some designed to operate reliably for over 20 years.
What are the benefits of a front loading washing machine?
Compared to traditional top loading washing machines, front load washers offer better efficiency, are gentler on fabrics, achieve higher spin speeds, have larger capacities, and produce less noise. They also allow for easy stackable configurations paired with a dryer.
What wash settings should I use for cotton clothes?
Cotton fabrics should be washed using a normal or cotton heavy duty cycle with warm water temperatures and full wash/rinse agitation. This allows detergents and soils to fully dissolve while avoiding fabric damage from excess mechanical stress.
Can I control my washing machine remotely?
Yes, many newer washing machine models come equipped with WiFi and app connectivity. Features enabled by smart technology include remote start/stop, cycle notifications, scheduling, troubleshooting, and monitoring energy/water usage history.
Why does my washing machine smell between washes?
Excess moisture and residue trapped inside the washing machine between loads leads to growth of mold, mildew and bacteria – causing undesirable odors. Be sure to leave the door open to ventilation and moisture evaporation when not washing laundry.
The Future of Washing Machines
As washing machines continue getting smarter, we can expect even more innovations in the coming years:
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More advanced sensors will enable washing machines to automatically customize cleaning for optimal fabric and stain care
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Increased connectivity with home automation systems to integrate laundry needs into schedules and digital assistants
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Usage of data like stain type, dirt sensors, wash history, etc combined with AI to continually enhance wash programming
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Specialty cycles utilizing steam and advanced temperature control for sanitization
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Leak prevention mechanisms to protect against bursting hoses and overflow
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Integrated stain treatment applications through mixes of detergents, carbonated water, and other solutions activated automatically
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Voice activated operation and audible notifications when laundry cycles are disrupted or complete
While modern washing machines already harness quite impressive technology to do our dirty work, the laundry process is poised to get even smarter thanks to the innovative work of manufacturers. With enhanced automation, efficiency, convenience and customization, the humble chore of doing laundry stands to be revolutionized in the coming years.
In Summary
From removing odors to saving time and energy, today‘s washing machines pack in advanced cleaning functionality. Make sure to match washer capacity, efficiency, cycles, and features to your household needs. Stackable and smart washers offer versatile installation and remote control. Top brands like LG, Samsung, and Maytag deliver reliable performance backed by great warranties. Maintain any washer properly to ensure longevity. Equipped with this guide, finding your perfect washing machine match gets easy.
