Best Washing Machine 2017
Our pick of top washing machines includes models from major brands such as Hotpoint, Samsung and Whirlpool, with prices ranging from as little as $300 to above the $2000 mark.We examine the washing performance and power of every washing machine we test, and we know what constitutes a good and bad cleaning result. We scrutinise all areas from the design, capacity and range of programmes. We’ll even tell you how good a machine is at tackling tougher stains, like red wine and oil.
If you think it’s time for a change of washing machine, let’s review what each of the brands in this year’s ratings has to offer when it comes to front loaders, before offering some suggestions as to what you should consider before purchasing a new appliance.
In our tests, wash results were good for a model at this price point, and our test stain strip cleaned up relatively well, even using non-bio powder. A nice touch is the LED indicator on the right side of the fascia telling you what stage the wash cycle is at. It’s a neat and tidy machine that’s easy to operate, which makes it a no-brainer for those on a budget when you consider its overall washing performance and energy efficiency.
2. Hotpoint Ultima S-Line RPD10477DD / $656
3.Miele WKG 120 / $1443
The Miele comes with a family- and fashion-lover-friendly 8kg drum and enough cycle programmes to meet any eventuality, from rendering white sheets like new, to gently 'hand washing' your delicates. It even uses steam during the wash to make clothing easier to iron. However, what really sets this machine apart from its competitors is the silence during operation. Really, you might find yourself checking the wash a few times just to be sure it's still working. A smart bells-and-whistles model for the discerning, well-heeled laundry fiend.
4. Bosch Series 8 WAW28660GB / $655
Bosch is another high-end German manufacturer, known for making feature-rich front loaders and numerous other household appliances. Some of its washers are still made in Germany, with many models boasting WELS water efficiency ratings of four stars or higher. Some consume as little as around 60L per cycle, which is around half the consumption of a typical top loader. The Bosch range also includes the ‘iDos’ water and detergent saver, sensing and using the required amount of detergent and water. The drum detects the load weight, fabric type and degree of soiling, and adjusts the levels accordingly. Many models cost well over $1,000, but some can be found for less than that. Bosch was a solid performer in our 2017 review, rating four stars for overall satisfaction and for every other category except design, where it was rated three stars.
5. Hisense WFH8014 / $340
Good wash results, frugal electricity and water consumption with full loads, and sharp styling rarely come together on a washing machine at the Hisense WFH8014’s budget-busting price. The sub £300 machine uses sensor technology to determine the size of your load and adjusts water, energy and time for the most energy-efficient wash. What’s more, the big porthole door is right up there with current styling trends.
Day to day, the WFH8014 is a breeze to use – a feature busy families with big washing loads will appreciate. It performed incredibly well on our stain strip tests, and even comes with a rather old-school 95oC wash cycle, designed as an antibacterial wash for sterilising clothes and linens.
The real boon with this machine is its running cost. As long as you feed it a hefty load, it’ll bring big savings on electricity and water. Run lots of half loads, however, and even the machine’s Eco mode won’t save you. This is a washing machine for some serious heavy duty family use.
Not many washing machines include Hand Wash, Cold Wash, 20˚ Gentle Care, Baby Clothing and Fibre Duvet as part of their list of wash programs, but this one does. It’s also capable of washing a full 10kg load of lightly-soiled gear in a shade under 30 minutes and a small 2kg load in just 14 minutes. Another attractive factor is the size of its portal, which is larger than many other washing machines, meaning you won’t need to engage in a wrestling match when it comes time to wash the duvet.
Given its low price and so many useful features, you might reasonably assume the machine would be pretty inefficient at doing what it’s supposed to do but, against all odds, the energy-efficient Beko performs extremely well in most areas and is exceptionally quiet, too. Only one minor quibble to consider: its start/pause button is very sensitive and easy to switch off mid-wash simply by brushing past it. Despite that – and the rather naff name and unsophisticated logo – this Turkish delight comes highly recommended.
7. LG 6 Motion FH6F9BDS2 / $1508
Like the Miele, Samsung and Bosch machines, this features an automatic detergent dosing system. Simply fill the special compartment with your preferred liquid and the machine's intelligent sensors detect the size of the load, the fabric type and - though this is difficult to comprehend, the degree of soiling. It then trundles off on its cycle, using the precise amount of detergent and water required for the load. Expect up to 20 washes from each top-up. It's in the same kind of price bracket as the LG, offering more finesse, but a smaller, 9Kg maximum load. Your choice.
Given that many washing machines have such complicated interfaces, it’s a welcome relief to find one that’s such a doddle to use. Hence, it’s no surprise that the first setting you’re greeted with here is an everyday Mini 30 Eco setting that performs a simple 30-minute wash at 30˚C; perfect for oft-worn items such as underwear and T-shirts. Despite being A+++ rated for energy use, the Lindo100 uses more water than some of its competitors. Its synthetics program, too, takes an age to complete its course, though you can select the QuickWash option if you’re in a hurry. Thankfully, it washes both synthetics and cottons superbly and its rinse and spin modes are extremely thorough.
Zanussi’s PowerJet technology, meanwhile, ensures the detergent dispenser isn’t clogged up with half-dissolved powder (a common occurrence with some washing machines). If you have a large family of rugby players, you may find its 7kg load capacity isn’t big enough, in which case we’d suggest one of Zanussi’s 8kg models.
The Hotpoint RSG964J is a solid, mid-priced machine with A+++ credentials and a good selection of programmes. It’s easy to use and delivers good cleaning results. It’s most energy efficient when dealing with larger loads, so you should think carefully about whether you’ll be able to use the RSG964J to the max before you buy.
While the machine boasts Hotpoint’s Smart+ symbol, this doesn’t suggest smart home connectivity or fancy app control. It actually refers to built-in technologies including an anti-microbial seal around the door to reduce mould and musty odours, automatic load balancing, load sensing and Direct Injection of pre-mixed water and detergent to best penetrate fibres.
The RSG964J is a slick looker too, with a stylish, solid-looking door, control knob, bright orange LED display and a novel pivoting soap drawer. Fairly low running costs and easy operation mark out the Hotpoint RSG964J as a solid all-rounder at the price.
Best Cleaners
Unless you have a penchant for laundrettes, a washing machine is something you simply can't live without. Granted, it's probably not something you desperately want to spend your hard-earned cash on, but make the right choice today and you'll end up with a washing machine that will last for many years to come.
If you think it’s time for a change of washing machine, let’s review what each of the brands in this year’s ratings has to offer when it comes to front loaders, before offering some suggestions as to what you should consider before purchasing a new appliance.
1. Indesit My Time EWD 81482 / $326
The Indesit EWD 81482 is a budget machine that offers a relatively quiet spin, sensor load adjustment and a host of standard programs that take less than an hour to complete. While the drum is cramped for an 8kg machine, this affordable washer is great for doing sensible sized loads while keeping your energy bills trim.
In our tests, wash results were good for a model at this price point, and our test stain strip cleaned up relatively well, even using non-bio powder. A nice touch is the LED indicator on the right side of the fascia telling you what stage the wash cycle is at. It’s a neat and tidy machine that’s easy to operate, which makes it a no-brainer for those on a budget when you consider its overall washing performance and energy efficiency.
If you're looking for a large washing machine that doesn't cost a fortune, the keenly-priced Hotpoint Ultima S-Line RPD10477DD could well be the right machine for you. It's excellent value for a 10kg machine, where its huge drum means that you can wash a lot of clothes in one go or tackle much bigger items, such as winter duvets.
This particular machine comes with Hotpoint's direct injection technology, which pre-mixes the detergent and water to tackle tough stains. It doesn't work that well at lower temperatures, but at 30˚C and above, cleaning performance is very good. Running costs, too, while not the lowest, are very competitive; our estimates suggest that it would cost around £42 a year to run at high usage.
Given the low up-front price of the machine, overall long-term costs are going to be very good. You can get lower running costs and cheaper entry prices if you opt for a smaller washing machine, but if you need capacity on a tight budget, this is a great value washing machine with sterling performance.
This particular machine comes with Hotpoint's direct injection technology, which pre-mixes the detergent and water to tackle tough stains. It doesn't work that well at lower temperatures, but at 30˚C and above, cleaning performance is very good. Running costs, too, while not the lowest, are very competitive; our estimates suggest that it would cost around £42 a year to run at high usage.
Given the low up-front price of the machine, overall long-term costs are going to be very good. You can get lower running costs and cheaper entry prices if you opt for a smaller washing machine, but if you need capacity on a tight budget, this is a great value washing machine with sterling performance.
Miele's domestic appliances consistently top the reliability ratings charts of Which? magazine and this mid-range model is a case in point. Granted, just shy of a grand is a lot to spend on a washing machine but in this instance your hard-earned wedge buys you a feature-packed machine of exceptional quality. Let's begin with the TwinDos and CapDosing automatic detergent dispensing features. Not sure how much detergent to use for a given wash or can't be arsed with faffing about with detergent liquid? This machine comes with two large detergent containers filled with Miele's proprietary detergent (you can refill them with your own brand, too). Simply open the bottom door and slide them in. Voila, you now not only have enough detergent installed for up to 30 washes but the machine will only use what it needs. Clever.
The Miele comes with a family- and fashion-lover-friendly 8kg drum and enough cycle programmes to meet any eventuality, from rendering white sheets like new, to gently 'hand washing' your delicates. It even uses steam during the wash to make clothing easier to iron. However, what really sets this machine apart from its competitors is the silence during operation. Really, you might find yourself checking the wash a few times just to be sure it's still working. A smart bells-and-whistles model for the discerning, well-heeled laundry fiend.
Day to day, the WFH8014 is a breeze to use – a feature busy families with big washing loads will appreciate. It performed incredibly well on our stain strip tests, and even comes with a rather old-school 95oC wash cycle, designed as an antibacterial wash for sterilising clothes and linens.
The real boon with this machine is its running cost. As long as you feed it a hefty load, it’ll bring big savings on electricity and water. Run lots of half loads, however, and even the machine’s Eco mode won’t save you. This is a washing machine for some serious heavy duty family use.
6. Beko WMB101433LW / $459
Beko is a Turkish brand that produces a wide range of extremely affordable white goods that offer great value and are mostly well-liked by owners. This low-priced dirt buster comes with a large 10kg capacity (rare at this price level) and an inverter motor that’s guaranteed for ten years. It also sports a compelling range of washing cycles one would normally associate with appliances three times the price.
Not many washing machines include Hand Wash, Cold Wash, 20˚ Gentle Care, Baby Clothing and Fibre Duvet as part of their list of wash programs, but this one does. It’s also capable of washing a full 10kg load of lightly-soiled gear in a shade under 30 minutes and a small 2kg load in just 14 minutes. Another attractive factor is the size of its portal, which is larger than many other washing machines, meaning you won’t need to engage in a wrestling match when it comes time to wash the duvet.
Given its low price and so many useful features, you might reasonably assume the machine would be pretty inefficient at doing what it’s supposed to do but, against all odds, the energy-efficient Beko performs extremely well in most areas and is exceptionally quiet, too. Only one minor quibble to consider: its start/pause button is very sensitive and easy to switch off mid-wash simply by brushing past it. Despite that – and the rather naff name and unsophisticated logo – this Turkish delight comes highly recommended.
LG's model has a baffling quantity of features, but all Laundry Man needs to know is that its drum holds a massive 12kg of soiled rugby gear, it uses steam to remove 99.9% of allergens, the Turbo Wash function blitzes a wash load in just 49 minutes, it has six different washing motions, and it has a big control knob with lots of handy words written around it, like Sports Wear, Dark Wash and Duvet. Oh, and you can operate it remotely using your Android phone and LG's SmartThinQ appliance connectivity system. But that's not all. The LG's real pièce de résistance is its unique Centrum suspension system, which uses shock absorbers to soak up vibrations during heavy wash loads and spinning. And that means no more bits of plaster falling from the ceiling.'
8. Siemens Avantgarde WM14U640GB / $1797
Like the Miele, Samsung and Bosch machines, this features an automatic detergent dosing system. Simply fill the special compartment with your preferred liquid and the machine's intelligent sensors detect the size of the load, the fabric type and - though this is difficult to comprehend, the degree of soiling. It then trundles off on its cycle, using the precise amount of detergent and water required for the load. Expect up to 20 washes from each top-up. It's in the same kind of price bracket as the LG, offering more finesse, but a smaller, 9Kg maximum load. Your choice.
9. Zanussi Lindo100 / $459
In the mid-1980s, Italian manufacturer Zanussi was widely considered one of the most prestigious appliance brands. It’s since lost ground to the likes of mid- and –upper-priced behemoths Bosch, Miele, Siemens and Samsung, but remains a worthwhile budget brand.
Given that many washing machines have such complicated interfaces, it’s a welcome relief to find one that’s such a doddle to use. Hence, it’s no surprise that the first setting you’re greeted with here is an everyday Mini 30 Eco setting that performs a simple 30-minute wash at 30˚C; perfect for oft-worn items such as underwear and T-shirts. Despite being A+++ rated for energy use, the Lindo100 uses more water than some of its competitors. Its synthetics program, too, takes an age to complete its course, though you can select the QuickWash option if you’re in a hurry. Thankfully, it washes both synthetics and cottons superbly and its rinse and spin modes are extremely thorough.
Zanussi’s PowerJet technology, meanwhile, ensures the detergent dispenser isn’t clogged up with half-dissolved powder (a common occurrence with some washing machines). If you have a large family of rugby players, you may find its 7kg load capacity isn’t big enough, in which case we’d suggest one of Zanussi’s 8kg models.
10. Hotpoint RSG964J / $682
While the machine boasts Hotpoint’s Smart+ symbol, this doesn’t suggest smart home connectivity or fancy app control. It actually refers to built-in technologies including an anti-microbial seal around the door to reduce mould and musty odours, automatic load balancing, load sensing and Direct Injection of pre-mixed water and detergent to best penetrate fibres.
The RSG964J is a slick looker too, with a stylish, solid-looking door, control knob, bright orange LED display and a novel pivoting soap drawer. Fairly low running costs and easy operation mark out the Hotpoint RSG964J as a solid all-rounder at the price.
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