The Best Front Loading Washing Machines
Electric-powered washing machines were first developed by Louis Goldenberg in the early 1900s, and by 1940, millions of electric washing machines were sold in the United States. Traditionally, a washer features a top-loading design and an agitator to maneuver clothing throughout the washing drum. This machine type is user-friendly, yet uses excessive energy and water to clean laundry. Front-load washing machines do not feature an agitator, and the washer door is on the front of the washer. If you're interested in finding the best front-loading washer, you'll need to consider all the available features to find the best washer for you. Does this Spark an idea?
-
Capacity
-
When compared to a traditional top loader washing machine of the same capacity, front-loading washers offer up to 30 percent more space because a front loader does not feature an agitator. Thus, you will have full access to the washing drum. The best front-load washing machine for you will allow you the flexibility to wash large loads of laundry at a single time, which reduces your energy consumption as you will reduce the number of loads. Take time reviewing front-load washer capacities within your price range to discover the ideal appliance. As a general rule of thumb, front-load washers are able to hold anywhere from 12 to 20 pounds of wet laundry, thus allowing you to wash anywhere from 10 to 16 pairs of jeans.
Cycles
-
The best front-load washing machine is one that offers you ample cycle and cycle options. If you are an average washing machine user, which means you use your washer to clean jeans, shirts, sweaters and delicates, then you'll want a washer with normal, delicate, heavy-duty and extra-rinse cycles. Of course, if you want more control over how your clothing is washed, then you'll require a front load washer with specialized cycles. Washing cycle options differ from standard cycles, as they are additions to the main cycle. Options to look for include soil level, water temperature and "deep clean." If you desire washer capable of removing bacteria and deep-set stains, then ensure that the washer features a steam cycle.
-
Features
-
Since a front-load washing machine utilizes high spin speeds to extract moisture from clothing, it is important that the appliance is outfitted with some form of vibration reduction system. Depending on the number of cycles and cycle options, the control panel should make navigating and selecting cycles as simplistic as possible. It is also important that the washing drum is manufactured out of stainless steel, as this material is resistant to rust and chipping, which protects your clothing from damage.
Price
-
The total price of a front-load washing machine varies dramatically based on the features and cycles. While the price of a front-load washer is typically more than for a comparable top-load washer, finding the best washing machine for you depends on what you wish to spend. As of 2011, the entry-level Whirlpool WFW9050XW front load washer costs an average of $600 ,while the high-end Whirlpool WRW97HEXL front-load washer has an average price of $1,600.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Towels in the washer image by Stephen VanHorn from Fotolia.com
