by Erin Hynes
Anyone who’s ever done laundry at a Laundromat appreciates the luxury of owning a washer. If you’re shopping for a washer, get answers to these 10 questions before you buy.
Does it meet my unique needs?
Think about the kind of laundry your household creates and your personal style for doing laundry. If you dislike hand washing delicates, consider a washer without an agitator that will gently bounce them around. If you wash your bedding often to keep allergies in check, a large-capacity washer can handle your queen-size comforter. Regularly wash greasy, grimy work clothes? You might like a washer that offers a heavy-duty cycle and second rinse.
How big is it?
The size question covers the physical size of the machine as well as how large a load it can handle.
Capacity. The size of the washer drum determines the size of the load you can do. It also influences the price, which increases with the washer’s capacity. Here’s the breakdown:
- 3.5 cubic feet — Washes 24 extra large T-shirts. This size can’t handle bulky items, like a queen-size comforter.
- 4.0 cubic feet — Washes 34 extra large T-shirts. It’s big enough for a queen-size comforter, but not a king-size one.
- 4.5 cubic feet — Washes 44 extra large T-shirts
Physical size. If your washer lives in the basement, its dimensions probably don’t matter. But the width and depth are critical if you’re squeezing it into a laundry closet. Stackable washer/dryer units are available for tight spaces.
What cycles does it have?
Basic washers offer basic wash cycles, such as Normal, Whites, Heavy-duty and Delicate. Step up to the next level, and you get more cycles, such as options for small loads, sheets and towels, and bulky bedding. Top-of-the-line washers offer options for specific fabrics such as wool and fitness gear.
Most washers let you control temperature settings and spin speed, but all temperatures and spin speeds might not be available for every wash cycle option. The owner’s manual explains the options for each cycle.
Does it save money on water and electricity?
Each machine has a yellow Energy Guide tag that shows typical energy use, so you can compare models. Standard top-load washers use more water and energy that high-efficiency models do, but they use far less than they did 10 years ago.
Washers bearing the ENERGY STAR® meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and US Department of Energy.
Is it easy for me to use?
Some people find front-load washers easier to unload because they don’t have to reach down into the drum and pull heavy, wet garments up; others like top loaders because they don’t have to stoop to remove the load. Before you buy, reach into the drum to see if unloading might be difficult for you — if so, you can buy elevate a front-load washer on a pedestal to minimize stooping.
Most people are used to push-button electronic controls, so learning to operate a new washer is usually easy. If you prefer turning knobs, you can still find some models with mechanical controls. Some consumers have complained of finding the electronic display on some models hard to read; ask the salesperson if it’s possible to turn on the machine so you can check.
Is it quiet?
The noise and vibration a washer creates are important if the washer is near living areas. Higher-end washers have enhanced noise insulation and shock-absorbing dampers. They also can detect and counteract unbalanced loads, so the washer doesn’t rock.
If you’re switching from a standard to a high-efficiency washer, you’ll discover the sounds it makes are completely different from the washer sounds you’re used to — don’t be alarmed.
Does it have steam?
Steam washers add steam at different points in the wash cycle to get rid of stains, wrinkles, odors and allergens. Steam washers are more expensive than non-steam, but offset the initial investment by using less energy. To learn more about steam washers, see Steam Washer and Dryer Guide.
What colors does it come in?
Although white is still the most common washer color, higher-end models often are offered in a few shades. If color is an option for the washer model you’re considering, you can add a splash of color to the laundry room.
What features does it have?
Manufacturers distinguish their washers with a host of features — stain treatment, second rinse, end of cycle buzzer, dispensers and more. You can find short descriptions of many features in our Washer Buyers Guide.
What do other people say about it?
Before you invest in a washer you’ll live with for 15 years, check out online reviews from people who own the product — also check YouTube for video reviews. You can expect to find people who love the model and others who regret having bought it. These often-detailed reviews point out the most popular features and flag common problems. Keep in mind that manufacturers continually improve product designs, so reviews that are a few years old might no longer be valid.
Erin Hynes owns a smoke-gray, large-capacity, top-load Kenmore Oasis Elite washer that has proven reliable and trouble-free.
