Front load washers are an alternative to the traditional top load style, offering great cleaning performance while being gentle on clothes (see our article comparing top load vs front load washers for more info). They're also more likely to be ADA-compliant, so they can be helpful and easy to use for people with physical disabilities.
Our reviews of the best front load washer models of 2023 cover a range of price points, features, and capacities. Are you shopping for a new front load washer for 2023? Read our reviews to discover some of the great options available! And don't forget to check out our washing machine buying guide for even more great information!
Overview - 3 Things to Consider When Choosing a New Front Load Washer
Capacity & Dimensions: The average size of a front load washer is 4.5 cubic feet, which is plenty of room to wash a king-sized comforter! However, these new models may not share the same height, width, and depth as your old one, so make sure to measure your space and compare it to the dimensions of any new front loader you're considering. For closet installations, you'll also need to know the side and rear clearance requirements.
Control Layout: Different brands have different ways of organizing the control panels. Check to see if the setup seems easy to use. Whirlpool in particular has a simplified take on front load washer controls called "Whirlpool Intuitive Controls."
Features & Options: Many front loaders come with excellent specialty cycles and options. Consider steam cycles to reduce wrinkles and improve stain removal, or perhaps an option to presoak soiled loads. Bulk detergent dispensers are another great new feature being offered by brands like Whirlpool and GE: add 30+ ounces of detergent to a reservoir at a time, and the washer will automatically dispense the right amount for each load.
For more info on front loaders, watch our 3-minute video below - and consider downloading our washing machine buyer's guide as well!
1. Maytag MHW5630HW - 4.5 cu. ft. - $999
Maytag updated their popular entry level model MHW3505FW in 2019 that was originally featured in this article with the Maytag MHW5630HW, pricing at $999. They updated the stainless steel wash drum from 4.3 cubic feet to 4.5 cubic feet and added a few new options like Fresh Spin and the Extra Power button. The control panel has been rearranged slightly, but overall, it has the same look and feel as the previous model.
Made in the USA, this model includes a 12-Hour Fresh Spin option that tumbles clothes after the wash cycle has ended to help prevent odors, so you can take your time switching the load over to the dryer. Equipped with Maytag's PowerWash system, which claims to be "the best cleaning in the industry," you can now add the Extra Power wash option to fight stains more effectively with hot and cold water. Other fan favorites include the PowerWash cycle and Steam for Stains - read more about steam cycle washers here.
The warranty covers 10 years on the stainless steel tub and direct drive motor. If you're looking for an entry level front load washer that's tough on stains and soils, this Maytag model might be a perfect fit! It's one of the best front load washers under $1,000 (although promotions and rebates can take 20% or more off the cost of a new appliance)!
Features:
10 Cycles: Normal, Heavy Duty, Whites, Bulky Items, Towels, Delicates, Quick Wash, Wrinkle Control, Drain & Spin, Clean Washer with Affresh
9 Options: Temp, Spin, Soil, Steam, Cycle Signal, 12 Hour Fresh Spin, Delay Start, Extra Rinse, Control Lock
Internal water heater
Direct drive motor
Maximum spin speed: 1,160 RPM
Steam option for fighting stains
Dimensions:
Width: 27"
Depth: 31.313"
Height: 38.625"
Click here to read over 305 real customer reviews of this product!
2. GE GFW650SSNWW - 4.8 cu. ft. - $1,148
The next product on our list of the best front load washer models comes from GE. The GE GFW650SSNWW is available in satin nickel at $1,248 or classic white at $1,148. What really makes this model stand out is the UltraFresh Vent System with OdorBlock, an innovation that was two years in the making. GE combined strategic placement of Microban antimicrobial technology with improved tub drainage to prevent mold, mildew, and odors. There's also a fan built into the door so you no longer need to keep the door open a crack after a wash cycle to allow the tub to dry - just run the UltraFresh Vent "cycle" after a wash, and the wash tub will dry out up to twice as fast.
GE has also improved the balancing ability of these washers compared to previous generations and included a Smart Dispense feature - add 50 ounces of detergent into the reservoir and allow the washer to take care of dispensing it for you for each cycle (up to 32 loads). When it comes to cycles and options, you won't be disappointed - there's a Tumble Care option that uses intermittent tumbling to keep damp clothes fresh after a wash. There's also a Power Steam option to loosen stains, PreWash for heavily soiled items, and specialized cycles like Sanitize + Allergen and a 20-minute Quick Wash.
This model is an inch wider than the traditional 27" front load washer platform but maintains a closet depth design at 32" deep, and can be installed flush to the wall. GE offers a one year parts and labor warranty plus 10 years on the wash basket and motor.
With a solid set of convenient features and options plus a spacious interior, this front load washer has a lot to offer for a great price!
Features:
12 Cycles: Active Wear, Bulky/Bedding, Cold Wash, Delicates, Normal, Power Clean, Quick Wash, Rinse + Spin, Sanitize + Allergen, Self Clean, Towels, Whites
9 Options: Delay Start, Delay Wash, Extra Rinse, Power Steam, PreWash, Smart Dispense, Time Saver, Tumble Care, UltraFresh Vent
Max spin speed: 1,300 RPM
Wi-Fi connectivity
UltraFresh Vent system with Odorblock dries tub faster and prevents mold/odors
Can be installed flush to back wall - true 32" closet depth
Dimensions:
Height: 39.75"
Width: 28"
Depth: 32"
Click here to read over 1,260 real customer reviews of this product!
3. LG WM4000HWA - 4.5 cu. ft. - $1,149
Next up on our list of 2023's best front load washer options is the LG WM4000HWA. It has a large 4.5 cubic feet capacity and is available in white at $1,149 or black steel at $1,249. It is shallower than some other washers at 30.25" deep, so it may work better for closet installations. It’s also compatible with LG pedestals, including the LG SideKick mini pedestal washer, and LG’s SmartDiagnosis troubleshooting app. The SmartThinQ® technology allows you to start and monitor wash cycles and get notifications when a cycle is complete. The tempered glass doors are sleek, feel high-end, and won't get scratched by zippers and other items like plastic doors.
This washer has an inverter direct drive motor and comes with a variety of great new features. Steam technology helps gently release stains and soils, the FreshCare cycle helps keep clothes smelling fresh by periodically tumbling them after a cycle completes, and the Allergiene cycle uses high heat and steam to remove over 95% of common household allergens. AI Direct Drive technology helps to select the optimal wash and dry settings - and your washer can tell the dryer how to dry your clothes based on the current load being washed. New for 2020, AI DD doesn't just sense the volume and weight of each load - it can actually identify the fabric types in the load and determine the best wash cycle setting for improved cleaning. LG claims it can extended the life of your clothes by 15%!
Newer washers available with steam cleaning technology are one way to get serious stain removal performance without beating up your clothes. LoDecibel Quiet Operation and the TrueBalance Anti-Vibration System keep this washer steady and quiet. This washer is a great pick for busy households and people looking for premium features in their new front load washer.
Features:
12 Cycles: Normal, Heavy Duty, Bedding, Sanitary, Allergiene, Tub Clean, Bright Whites, Perm. Press, Delicates, Towels, Speed Wash, Downloaded
13 Options: TurboWash®, Steam, Fresh Care, Pre-wash, Remote Start, Delay Wash, Wi-Fi, Add Item, ColdWash, Extra Rinse, Rinse+Spin, Control Lock, Spin Only
6Motion Technology mixes up the washing motions for thorough but gentle cleaning
SmartThinQ® Technology and AI Direct Drive
Compatible with LG SideKick pedestal washer
Tub Clean cycle uses water jets and heats up to 149 degrees Fahrenheit
LoDecibel quiet operation
Dispenser with prewash option
Dimensions:
Height: 39"
Width: 27"
Depth: 30.25"
Click here to read over 385 real customer reviews of this product!
4. Samsung WF45T6000AW - 4.5 cu. ft. - $949
Another great choice for a front load washer in 2023 comes from Samsung. The Samsung WF45T6000AW is a 4.5 cubic feet capacity front load washer available in white at $949 and in platinum at $1,049. You’ll love its sleek and premium design that pairs perfectly with the Samsung dryer, giving your laundry room a great look and feel.
Do your laundry anytime of the day or night without worry of noise, thanks to the Vibration Reduction Technology+. And with the Self Clean+ Technology, you get rid of 99% of bacteria that could develop in the drum so you can keep your washer clean and fresh. It also has the Swirl+ Drum interior, an enhanced drum pattern that does more than washing. It prevents fabrics from snagging during the wash cycle while also extracting more water when rinsing.
And with Samsung’s Smart Care, it’s easy to check any issue of your washer through your smartphone. Definitely, this washer features the newest innovation in technology while providing cutting-edge energy efficiency.
Features:
10 Cycles: Normal, Heavy Duty, Permanent Press, Bedding, Bedding / Waterproof, Activewear, Quick Wash, Rinse + Spin, Delicates, Whites, Self Clean+
Options: Super Speed, Smart Care, Pre-Soak, Delay End, Alarm Off
Vibration Reduction Plus Technology
Self Clean+ cycle with cleaning reminders every 40 washes
Maximum spin speed: 1,200 RPM
Stainless steel Swirl+ drum design
Dimensions:
Height: 38.7"
Width: 27"
Depth: 31.3"
Click here to read over 125 real customer reviews of this product!
5. Electrolux ELFW7537AW - 4.5 cu. ft. - $1,149
Electrolux is a Swedish appliance manufacturer known for innovative appliances. One of their best front load washer offerings for 2023 is the Electrolux ELFW7537AW, available in white starting at $1,149 and titanium at $1,249.The LuxCare Plus wash system provides a thorough clean by distributing detergent and additives evenly, improving wash operations, controlling temperature, and measuring load size.
On top of that, this Electrolux front load washer comes with the world's first adaptive dispenser designed to accept PODS as well as traditional liquid detergents. It also has Perfect Steam technology that releases steam at the bottom of the washer so it rises up and penetrates the fabrics for maximum effect on stains and wrinkles.
The Electrolux Platinum Star Limited Warranty provides three years of coverage on parts and one year on labor, plus it comes with a ten-year warranty on the motor and a lifetime warranty on the tub. If you're looking for a front load washer with a large capacity for a smaller space, this front load washer is a great option! We think it's definitely one of the best front load washers with steam. Interested in seeing more Electrolux laundry products? Check out our Electrolux washer reviews for more info.
Features:
10 Cycles: Heavy Duty, Whitest Whites, Normal, Delicates, Rinse & Spin, Clean Washer, Fast Wash (15 minutes), Activewear, Colors, Towels
7 Options: StainTreat II, Pure Rinse, Perfect Steam, Allergen, Extended Refresh, 1-12 Hours Delay Time, Steam, Control Lock
Brilliant LED display
Adaptive dispenser for PODS
Perfect Balance System/Second Floor Guarantee
Dimensions:
Height: 38"
Width: 27"
Depth: 32"
Click here to read over 580 real customer reviews of this product!
Electrolux ELFW7537AW - $1,149
6. Whirlpool WFW560CHW - 4.3 cu. ft. - $1,049
The Whirlpool WFW560CHW is a 4.3 cubic feet capacity front load washer pricing at around $1,049. This model features a closet-depth design, allowing you to save space.
Whirlpool updated their washer and dryer model lineup for 2019 with Intuitive Controls intended to simplify the process of customizing your wash cycle. First, you choose from a handful of "What to Wash" options, then choose "How to Wash" the load. You can customize your wash care with a relatively simple control panel! Add an automatic presoak, sanitize your fabrics with ease, or customize up to 35 of your own.
The Smooth Wave stainless steel wash basket protects against snags and rust, and the Single Load Dispenser allows you to run a wash cycle with a different detergent at the proper time. You also get cycles and options like Sanitize w/ Oxi, Quick Wash, Presoak, and Cold Wash. Check out this front load washer and see if the new control setup appeals to you!
Features:
What to Wash: Regular, Delicates, Bulky Items, Whites, Colors, Towels
How to Wash: Normal, Wrinkle Control, Heavy Duty, Sanitize with Oxi, Cold Wash, Quick
4 Options: Clean Washer with Affresh, Drain & Spin, Extra Rinse, Pre Soak
Smooth Wave Stainless Steel Wash Basket
Whirlpool Intuitive Controls
Dimensions:
Height: 38.625"
Width: 27"
Depth: 31.563"
Click here to read over 70 real customer reviews of this product!
7. Speed Queen FF7005WN - 3.5 cu. ft. - $2,099
Last but not least on our list of the best front load washing machines is the Speed Queen FF7005WN that retails at $2,099 in white. This model was released in mid 2019 after Speed Queen discontinued their old front load washer dryer pair in 2017. This model is far from the cheapest or largest option on our list of the best front load washers, but Speed Queen guarantees the reliability of its products, making this a great investment for the long haul.
Every major component of Speed Queen's washers and dryers is tested to last 25 years. With truly heavy-duty components plus dynamic balancing technology to reduce noise and vibration, this washer is a match made in heaven for people who value reliability and durability over all else. And in the event that you have any issues with your front loader, Speed Queen's warranty covers a full five years on the entire machine, and their machines are built with ease of repairs in mind.
Customize your wash with nine wash cycles, four temperatures, four spin speeds, and four soil levels. Patented baffles and tumble rhythms ensure that your fabrics are totally saturated with water and detergent for the best possible clean. If you're looking for an investment that will give you years of dependable service, you should definitely consider Speed Queen.
You can read more about this new washer and its sister model, the FR7002WN, in our Speed Queen front load washer review.
Features:
10 Cycles: Heavy Duty, Favorite, Whites, Bulky, Normal Eco, Quick Wash, Permanent Press, Sanitize with Oxi, Delicate, Spin
5 Options: Soak, Extra Rinse, Delay Start, Pre-Wash, Allergy Rinse (plus Signal On/Off and Control Lock)
Maximum spin speed: 1,200 RPM
Digital time remaining display
Tested to last 25 years; designed to be easy to repair
Dimensions:
Width: 26.875"
Depth: 27.75"
Height: 40.4375"
What do you think of our picks for the best front load washer models of 2023? With plenty of energy efficient options available and new features like steam cleaning and better vibration reduction, this is just a small sampling of the many amazing options out there! The cheapest front load washer on our list comes from Samsung at $949, while the largest model options are around 4.8 cubic feet from GE. If you're looking for more XL models, check out our reviews of the largest front load washers of the year as well!
In your opinion, what makes a front load washer better than a top loader? What features are you looking for in a front load washing machine? Leave us a comment below - We'd love to hear from you!
Editor's Note: This blog was originally written in July of 2018 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy as of the publication date noted above.