How To

How to Choose a Washing Machine

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(26 Ratings)

Whenever you buy a major appliance, you want to be sure you get the most for your money. Here are some things to look for when purchasing a washing machine.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  1. Step 1

    Consider how much noise the washing machine makes and where in your home it will be located.

  2. Step 2

    Measure the space where you plan to install your new appliance. If you're off by even an inch or two, it can make a huge difference.

  3. Step 3

    Look to consumer magazines or Web sites for repair histories of particular brands. Your $300 to $600 investment should last you at least 20 years.

  4. Step 4

    Shop for a washer in which the controls are easy to read and use. The touch-pad types are a little more expensive and not necessarily better.

  5. Step 5

    Make sure the lint trap is easy to reach and clean.

  6. Step 6

    Look at the insides carefully: Porcelain coating on the top surface is best. However, for the drum, stainless steel or plastic is preferable because a drum made from these materials won't scratch like a painted one will, or chip and then rust like porcelain coating.

  7. Step 7

    Save water and electricity with a front-loading model. These are also more gentle on clothes because they don't use an agitator. They also are typically quieter than top-loaders, and fit in smaller spaces. They require special detergent, however.

  8. Step 8

    Think about capacity - each brand has a different definition of high-capacity. Clothes are measured in pounds; you may want to weigh an average load before going shopping to make sure your new washer can handle your washing habits. Front-loading models only hold about 8 pounds.

  9. Step 9

    Look for extras such as bleach-, detergent- and fabric softener-dispensers, a hand-wash cycle, and automatic temperature controls.

  10. Step 10

    Compare prices from department and appliance stores with those found on the Web.

  11. Step 11

    Be sure to get a good warranty.

Tips & Warnings
  • Some utility companies offer a rebate for people who buy a washing machine with the "Energy Star" certification. Check with your salesperson and utility company for more details.
  • Self-leveling rear legs will keep your washer from rocking and walking if you have an unbalanced load.

Comments  

Mengineer said

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on 12/11/2007 Does anyone have an accurate relationship between pounds of clothes and volume of wash basin in a washing machine?

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 If the capacity of a top loader is measured in volume (rather than pounds of clothing) it ignores the agitator. Once the volume of this is removed - front and top loaders are much more comparable.

Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Front loading washing machines do not need the special/overpriced laundry detergent. I have researched front loaders (just bought one last week) and called the washer manufacturer and a few of my favorite laundry soap companies. Both said to use a much smaller amount. 1-3 tablespoons is all that is needed. Powders were recommended by the washer manufacturer since they do not produce as many suds. I like my liquid so I have marked the lid to the bottle so I know how much to use.
I love my front-loader

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