Front loader washing machines have been slowly replacing top loaders as the preferred unit, with many favouring the larger drum capacity options, better efficiency ratings (hello, cheaper running costs) and gentler garment care.
There are also plenty of clever settings that experts like Westinghouse Category Manger for Fabric Care Mark Kampmann say are a must-have for convenience.
He recommends looking for models with a “variation of programs” – like handy fast washes – and eco programs that “use lower water volume and temperature to save on energy while still cleaning your garments to an amazing standard”.
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Whether you’re looking for a model that can be controlled via your smartphone, something that lets you throw in items you’ve accidentally missed once it’s running or an all-rounder budget model, we’ve compiled a buying guide with some of the top-rated front loaders to help you find the best option for your laundry room. One of our favourites is this Westinghouse front load washing machine, which is currently on sale for $795
Note to readers: energy star ratings and water ratings are given out of six.
BEST FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINES BUYING GUIDE
• Best overall front loader washing machines
• Best affordable front loader washing machine
• Best premium smart front loader washing machine
• Best energy efficient front loader washing machines
• Best quiet front loader washing machine
• Best front loader washing machine for big families
• Best quick wash front loader washing machine
• Best front load washer dryer
BEST OVERALL FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINES
Westinghouse 10kg EasyCare Front Load Washer WWF1044M7WA, $1099 at The Good Guys
Capacity: 8.5kg
Energy rating: four-star rating
Water rating: 4.5-star rating
Finding a large front load washing machine can be difficult since water and energy ratings typically decline as the size increases – which isn’t great for your hip pocket, including when you pay upfront at the checkout and in bills long-term.
But this Westinghouse front loader (WWF1044M7WA) has good efficiency ratings and a relatively reasonable price tag compared to other washers offering the same generous 10 kilogram capacity. It’s loaded with a versatile selection of 15 programs, such as Anti-Allergy, Extra Dirty, Drain and Spin, Machine Clean, Fast 15 and Daily 39. You can also expect several wash settings, including Plus Hygiene which uses water vapour to neutralise common household allergens and bacteria.
“I love the fact that due to its size and the options of quick washes, I can get my washing done so fast. I also love the extra dirty wash (setting); it gets things so clean without having to pre soak and spray,” a happy reviewer posted.
“Extremely simple to use, great range of wash settings. The 15 minute fast wash is great for last minute emergencies and the full 10kg load makes light work of the weekly washing basket,” another wrote.
PROS:
+ Includes wash programs such as anti-allergy, extra dirty, drain and spin, machine clean and favourite.
+ Offers six spin speeds.
+ Has an extra large drum opening.
+ Two-year warranty.
CONS:
– Only has a cold water supply.
Samsung 8.5kg AddWash Front Loader WW85T554DAW, $846 (down from $949) at The Good Guys
Capacity: 8.5kg
Energy rating: four-star rating
Water rating: 4.5-star rating
“I want to kiss whoever invented the AddWash,” one shopper joked, giving it a five-star review on Bing Lee.
Featuring AI technology that suggests (and automatically sets) settings based on your laundry habits, and a mini AddWash ‘door’ that lets you chuck in forgotten items after your wash cycle has started – it’s no wonder why Samsung’s front loader washing machine (WW85T554DAW) has got tongues wagging. Plus, it can wash small loads up to two kilograms within just 15 minutes. Talk about convenience!
This Samsung washing machine comes with 22 wash programs, such as Baby Care, Cloudy Day (which uses the optimal spin speed on very humid days), Towels and Silent. It also has built in Wi-Fi, which can connect to the SmartThings app to control your front loader and help solve any errors.
PROS:
+ Packed with features including Delay, Steam Cycle, BubbleWash, BubbleSoak pre-treatment and StayClean Drawer.
+ Uses a digital inverter that uses strong magnets to reduce noise and ensure a powerful clean.
+ Contains Drum Clean function that reduces odour-causing bacteria without requiring harsh chemicals. It also gets rid of dirt from the rubber door gasket and alerts you when the drum needs cleaning.
+ Generous 11-year warranty on digital inverter.
CONS:
– Can take time to learn all the settings.
Westinghouse 9kg Front Load Washer WWF9024M5WA, $795 (down from $949) at The Good Guys
Capacity: 9kg
Energy efficiency rating: four-star rating
Water efficiency rating: four-star rating
While efficiency star ratings typically decline as the washer capacity increases, this family-size Westinghouse unit (WWF9024M5WA) doesn’t let size become a problem. It’s also fairly budget friendly compared to other 9kg front loaders, with many models costing at least $1200.
It’s loaded with 15 programs to suit most laundry needs, such as Fast 15, Extra Dirty, Gym Wear and Eco Cotton. There are also wash options like Plus Hygiene, start delay, soak and quick wash to further tailor the cycle.
“Total game changer. Quiet and effective. Lots of cycle options including a quick one when I realise at 12pm I haven’t washed my shirt for tomorrow. And its saving me money on water and electricity,” praised a reviewer.
“Do yourself a favour. Don't hesitate and just get it.”
PROS:
+ Can wash a full load in 60 minutes.
+ Has a pause and add button, allowing you to throw in forgotten items.
+ Four spin speeds.
+ Door lock.
+ Good water and energy efficiency.
CONS:
– No dedicated woollens cycle.
BEST AFFORDABLE FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE
Westinghouse EasyCare 300 7.5kg Front Load Washing Machine WWF7524N3WA, $699 at The Good Guys
Capacity: 7.5kg
Energy efficiency rating: 3.5-star rating
Water efficiency rating: four-star rating
Sometimes having tons of features can be overwhelming and end up being unnecessary, so it’s great to see Westinghouse offer a practical middle ground with this 7.5kg front loader washing machine. It includes quick wash settings like Fast 15 and Daily 39, along with a delay end option so you can plan when your load finishes. The budget-friendly model (WWF7524N3WA) also lets you pause mid-wash and add any items you might have accidentally missed, similar to other much pricier front loaders.
“Surprisingly slim fit and well designed aesthetically,” a customer posted on the Westinghouse website.
“The cycles are quiet. The spin cycle is very powerful and a tad loud but clothes come out reasonably dry which has saved on drying time. All up I would happily recommend this product.”
PROS:
+ 12 wash programs and four spin speeds.
+ Customers agree the washing machine runs fairly quietly (aside from the spin cycle, similar to most models).
+ Slim and compact design.
CONS:
– Only has cold water supply.
BEST PREMIUM SMART FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE
Miele 9kg Front Load Washer WWR860, $4299 at The Good Guys
Capacity: 9kg
Energy efficiency rating: five-star rating
Water efficiency rating: five-star rating
High-end brand Miele packs 24 wash programs in this family-friendly sized front loader washing machine, and comes with both hot and cold water connections for an efficient performance. The WWR 860 washer can be controlled via your smartphone or tablet, similar to other smart washers, and includes an interactive Miele assistant that recommends suitable wash programs.
While the premium price tag certainly makes this model an investment, it’s worth remembering that you typically ‘get what you pay for’ when buying appliances. The Miele washing machine also has great efficiency ratings as well as both hot and cold water connections, helping minimise running costs in the long run.
“Top quality unit that is well worth the extra expense. Very easy to set up and use. Great selection of programs,” a customer wrote on the brand’s website, giving it a five-star rating.
PROS:
+ Maximum 1600rpm spin speed.
+ Includes AddLoad function, allowing you to throw in items after the wash cycle has started.
+ Contains drum lighting, so you can make sure nothing is left behind.
+ Features EcoFeedback to show how much electricity and water the machine is using.
CONS:
– Pricier compared to other front loader washing machines with similar capacity.
BEST ENERGY EFFICIENT FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINES
Hisense 8.5kg Front Load Washer HWFY8514, $595 (down from $899) at The Good Guys
Capacity: 8.5kg
Energy rating: 4.5-star rating
Water rating: 4.5-star rating
This Hisense front load washing machine (HWFY8514) is a relatively wallet-friendly unit that doesn’t skimp out on popular features added to high end washers. This includes a ‘pause and add’ function, which lets you throw in last-minute items after the washing cycle has started, plus a Drum Clean setting that uses a high temperature and powerful rotation speeds to get rid of odour-causing bacteria from the drum without harsh chemicals.
“It’s a good washing machine, very quiet, looks nice (and) has multiple programs. I like that it doesn’t leave any powder residue in the soap compartment. It also changes the running time based on the load,” a happy reviewer wrote.
“(I) was considering other brands but can honestly say I’m impressed for the value for money this washing machine offers,” another fan posted.
PROS:
+ Has a slim design, measuring a depth of 54 centimetres.
+ Offers 15 programs, such as baby care steam, allergy steam, 15-minute quick wash and bedding.
+ Contains a brushless inverter motor to make sure the appliance runs energy efficiently and with minimal noise.
+ Adjustable feet.
+ Three-year warranty.
CONS:
– Only has a cold water inlet.
Fisher & Paykel 9kg Front Load Washer WH9060J3, $999 (down from $1099) at The Good Guys
Capacity: 9kg
Energy efficiency rating: four-star rating
Water efficiency rating: 4.5-star rating
This family-friendly size front load washing machine (WH9060J3) has nine wash cycles to suit everything from intimates to sturdy corduroy, and an easy to use digital control panel. Forget to throw the kids’ uniforms in the wash the night before? Fisher & Paykel’s Vortex Wash function means most cycles take less than an hour, although you can opt for a quick 30-minute setting when you’re in a pinch.
“Never thought I would own a front loader but now would never go back to a top loader washer,” a reviewer posted on The Good Guys website.
“Very quiet and so many functions to choose from and nice how it heats its own water. Spins to nearly dry. Very happy with my purchase.”
PROS:
+ Good energy and water efficiency ratings, especially for a large capacity washing machine.
+ Three spin speeds.
CONS:
– Spin speed of 1200rpm is a little slower than some models with the same capacity.
ASKO 8kg Logic Front Load Washer W4086PW, $2399 at The Good Guys
Capacity: 8kg
Energy efficiency rating: five-star rating
Water efficiency rating: five-star rating
Another option is this one from ASKO (W4086PW). It boasts an impressive five-star rating for both water and energy efficiency, and a whopping 22 programs to cater different laundry needs. This includes allergy-friendly programs for cottons and synthetics, making it great for anyone with allergies. The model is also Sensitive Choice approved! And if nothing doesn't fit quite right, you can create your own wash program.
PROS:
+ Sensitive Choice approved, making it suitable for people with allergies and asthma.
+ Multiple spin speeds (up to 1600 RPM).
+ Has wide selection of wash programs, such as Quick Pro, Steam Refresh, Wool/Handwash and Drum Cleaning.
+ Has a Pro Wash System designed to be ideal for larger loads.
+ Transparent door cover.
CONS:
– Expensive.
– Some reviewers complained about leakages.
Miele 7kg Eco Front Loader WCA020, $1549 at Bing Lee
Capacity: 7kg
Energy efficiency rating: four-star rating
Water efficiency rating: four-star rating
Similar to Miele’s nine kilogram front loader, the brand also offers this smaller option. The WCA020 washer contains decent efficiency ratings, and features an automatic load control function that adjusts water levels and energy consumption based on the weight of your load. The model also comes with Miele’s ProfiEco motor, for economical and quiet performance, and the brand’s honeycomb drum for gentle garment care.
PROS:
+ 12 wash programs.
+ Includes AddLoad function.
+ Includes delay start.
CONS:
– Only has cold water connection.
ASKO 8kg Style Front Load Washing Machine W6088X, $2999, Bing Lee
Capacity: 8kg
Energy efficiency rating: five-star rating
Water efficiency rating: five-star rating
This ASKO washing machine is a triple threat – thanks to its cold and hot water connections, which is ideal if you want to save water and electricity, and five-star energy and water ratings. It also uses a BLDC motor, which is said to be energy efficient and quiet.
The ASKO front loader (W6088X) additionally uses a Pro Wash system to ensure a thorough clean, by distributing water and detergent from the bottom of the drum and sending it to the top via the inlets so the detergent can be sprayed from above.
Unlike most other washing machines, this front loader replaces the standard rubber door with a SteelSeal door. This is said to reduce the risk of grime and mould build-up, allowing for a more hygienic wash and less maintenance.
PROS:
+ Includes 25 programs.
+ 1800rpm spin speed.
+ Includes Load Light so you can see inside.
+ Noise level is fairly low, operating at 50dB when washing and 78dB during the spin cycle.
CONS:
– No reversible door hinge.
Bosch Serie 8 10kg Front Load Washing Machine WAX32M41AU, $1899 (down from $2499) at Bing Lee
Capacity: 10kg
Energy efficiency rating: five-star rating
Water efficiency rating: five-star rating
When it comes to large capacity washing machines, this family-friendly sized Bosch front loader (WAX32M41AU) is a standout contender. It comes with good five-star efficiency ratings and several functions to minimise water and energy consumption, including a 4D Wash System and an EcoSilenceDrive motor. The washing machine also contains a SpeedPerfect setting, which can reduce the cycle time by up to 65 per cent.
Other nifty features include 15 wash programs, dial controls, pump protector, and an auto balance function to keep the machine stable when it’s running.
PROS:
+ Contains a Reload function, which lets you open the washing machine after the cycle has started.
+ Has an AntiStain system that automatically adjusts the water temperature and spin speed to remove common stains.
+ Free delivery. Appliances Online will also connect the new front loader and remove the old machine for free.
+ Two-year warranty.
+ Includes a pump protector.
CONS:
– Only has a cold water inlet.
– Left door hinge only.
BEST QUIET FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE
Bosch 8kg Serie 4 Front Load Washer WAN24121AU, $899 at The Good Guys
Capacity: 8kg
Energy efficiency rating: four-star rating
Water rating: four-star rating
Can’t stand the loud rumbling of a washing machine? It’s hard to look past this Bosch front load washer (WAN24121AU), thanks to the EcoSilence Drive brushless motor that minimises noise. The appliance is also packed with a competitive price tag and good energy and water efficiency ratings.
Expect 14 wash programs to cater to different types of loads, plus ActiveWater technology that automatically adjusts the amount of water based on the weight of the load to ensure small loads are cleaned as efficiently as your heaviest.
Bosch’s VarioPerfect function additionally promises to lower your energy consumption by up to 50 per cent, or when short on time, reduce wash time by up to 65 per cent.
Shoppers are definitely impressed, with the front loader packing a 4.5-star average customer rating on The Good Guys website.
“This is an excellent machine that is virtually silent when operating. Easy to use, cleans perfectly. Best washing machine I’ve ever had”, a customer commented.
PROS:
+ Six wash programs.
+ Runs at 53dB when washing and goes up to 74dB during the spin cycle.
+ Standard two-year manufacturer’s warranty.
+ The Good Guys price checks products online, similar to price matching in-store.
CONS:
– Only cold wash option available.
– No reversible door – limited to left door hinge.
BEST FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE FOR BIG FAMILIES
LG 14kg Front Load Washing Machine WXL1014W, $1499 at Bing Lee
Capacity: 14kg
Energy efficiency rating: four-star rating
Water efficiency rating: four-star rating
Forget about starting your Sunday mornings with hours of loading and unpacking your washing machine. With an enormous 14kg load capacity and still, impressive four-star water and water efficiency ratings, this LG WXL1014W front loader washing machine is definitely worth considering for families. Compared to its other washing machines, LG has replaced the standard second deep rinse setting with a jet spray for shorter wash times.
For those with allergies, this washer has an Allergy Care cycle that uses steam to reduce the amount of contact between your clothes and common household allergens like dust mites and pollen. The front load washing machine also uses an inverter direct drive motor to minimise vibrations and noise.
“Great machine, cuts my washing time by half and I can put large items into this machine,” a reviewer commented on the brand’s website.
“It’s quiet and washes the clothing extremely well. The spin cycle is great as the clothing is only just damp when the cycle is finished, unlike my old machine, this saves on drying time too.”
PROS:
+ Can download new wash cycles, as well as start cycles from your smartphone.
+ Hot and cold water connections.
+ Contains load sensors that allow the washing machine to choose the ideal settings.
+ Compatible with Google Assistant.
+ Can add laundry after cycle has started.
CONS:
– Maximum spin speed is 1000rpm, which is much lower compared to other models (which usually provide up to 1200-1400rpm).
– Includes eight wash programs, which is fewer than other models. But it still covers the usual settings, such as cotton, delicates, sportswear, duvet and baby care.
Capacity: 10kg
Energy rating: five-star rating
Water rating: 4.5-star rating
Another large capacity front loader is this option from Electrolux (EWF1042R7WB). It has an extra large door opening so you can easily load and unload bulky items like doona covers and curtains, plus decent water and energy efficiency ratings that make this hefty appliance as cost effective as smaller models.
The Electrolux machine offers 15 programs, such as vapour refresh and energy saver, along with six spin speeds, an Add Clothes function, Wi-Fi connectivity, twin sensor wash technology and an LED drum light.
PROS:
+ Includes UltraMix feature, which reduces colour fading by ensuring detergent is fully dissolved.
+ Drum contains small holes to help water pass in and out quickly, and reduce the amount your clothes are pulled during the spin cycle.
+ Has a noise level of 52dBA, which is similar to a hair dryer.
+ Two-year warranty.
+ Appliances Online can remove your old front loader for free.
CONS:
– Only has a cold water inlet.
– No reversible door hinge.
BEST QUICK WASH FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE
Samsung 7.5kg Front Load Washer WW75T504DTW, $749 at The Good Guys
Capacity: 7.5kg
Energy efficiency rating: 4.5-star rating
Water efficiency rating: 4.5-star rating
In a rush? Samsung’s front loader (WW75T504DTW) washing machine has a 15-minute QuickWash function that lets you clean up to two kilograms of laundry in the same time it takes to make breakfast. This competitively priced front loader also comes with 21 wash programs and the usual features you would find in the brand’s front loaders, such as AI Control and Drum Clean+. The model also has the Hygiene Steam cycle, which releases steam from the bottom of the drum to saturate the clothes and get rid of 99.9 per cent of allergens and bacteria.
PROS:
+ Compatible with SmartThing, so you can control, monitor and troubleshoot errors from your smartphone.
+ Child lock.
+ Includes pre-wash treatment to tackle stubborn stains.
+ Can save favourite cycle.
CONS:
– Delivery can cost $55.
BEST FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE AND DRYER
LG Combo Washer-Dryer WVC5-1409W, $1199 (down from $1299) at Bing Lee
Capacity: 9kg washer, 5kg dryer
Energy efficiency rating: 4.5-star rating (washer), four-star rating (dryer)
Water efficiency rating: 4.5-star rating
Proving that washer-dryer combos don’t need to suck the life out of your energy bill to function, this popular machine from LG (WVC5-1409W) is a space and energy saver in one. This is partly thanks toLG’s AI Direct Drive technology, which assesses the weight and quality of fabrics in a load and then selects the optimal wash motions to thoroughly clean and care for your garments.Allergen-sensitive members of the household are taken care of with the allergy care cycle and steam feature, which promises to remove up to 99.9 per cent of allergens.
“It’s a beast! Large, quiet combo washer and dryer. Economical. Great buying and space saving,” a customer posted on The Good Guys website, giving it a five-star review.
PROS:
+ Includes 14 programs.
+ Runs quietly.
CONS:
– Some customers found it took a total of three hours to wash and dry laundry.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FRONT LOADERS AND TOP LOADERS?
Mark says the biggest differences between the two washing machines is efficiency and convenience.
“Front-load washing machines are generally more efficient, using less water and energy which is handy for both your bills and the planet. Front loaders are also gentler on your clothes due to the tumbling action, giving your clothes a longer life,” he said.
“Top-loader washing machines generally have a larger drum which can be valuable to people with a high and regular volume of laundry.
“As well, the convenient design of a top-loader makes for easy loading and there’s always the benefit of being able to open the machine and add more items later in the cycle.”
WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINES?
Front load washers are seen as more water and energy efficient, and more gentle when handling clothes.
Unlike traditional top load washing machines, front loaders use gravity to assist the cycle process, instead of relying on the constant motion of agitators or impellers to thoroughly wash clothes.
This helps save electricity and potentially result in lower running costs than top loaders. It also minimises the amount your garments rub against each other, ensuring less friction and wear and tear.
Front load washing machines are also typically more expensive than top loaders, but there are still plenty of options to suit most budgets.
Plus, there are fewer models that let you add items after the wash cycle has started, although more brands are making this a standard feature in newer models.
Here are a few more benefits and disadvantages of buying a front loader:
Pros of a front load washing machine:
+ Generally uses less water and electricity compared to top loaders.
+ Gentle on clothes.
+ Tumbling action is seen as more gentle on garments and effective at cleaning.
+ More options available if you’re shopping for a large capacity washing machine.
+ These generally have higher efficiency ratings, which means lower electricity and water bills in the long run.
+ Clothes come out dryer compared to items washed in a top loader, helping cut down on drying time.
+ Can stack front loaders.
Cons of a front load washing machine:
– Typically more expensive to buy upfront compared.
– Can be tiring or difficult to load and unload laundry.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT SIZE FRONT LOADER
Mark recommends choosing a capacity based on the number of people at home.
“The amount of people in your household or family directly determines the best-sized machine for you. If you’re on the fence about which model is the right choice, we recommend choosing the larger of two options, given your needs may increase into the future,” he said.
“For example, a family of five-six may need a 10kg plus capacity, versus a family with a newborn who are looking to purchase a smaller machine with around 8kg capacity.”
HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR WASHING MACHINE
Here are some of Mark’s expert tips on how to make your washing machine last for as long as possible:
• Avoid overloading and under-loading your machine because it can affect the wash programs, which can cause your appliance to become unbalanced.
• Occasionally run the cleaning cycle to “keep your machine in excellent condition”, he said.
• Don’t forget to empty pockets since some items can damage your washing machine.
• Make sure you’re familiar with the wash care instructions.
• Separate clothes.
WHAT IS AN ENERGY STAR RATING AND WATER EFFICIENCY RATING?
Brands are legally required to display an Energy Rating Label to show consumers how much electricity a certain model uses compared to other products of the same type and capacity. That’s why most kinds of appliances – including dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, fridges and freezers – display an energy efficiency rating out of six stars and the number of kilowatts per hour the item consumes annually. Some exceptionally efficient models have a rating between seven and 10 stars.
The Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme is a similar Australian government initiative that compares the water efficiency of different products. The label will also usually list the flow rate and how many litres the machine uses per wash.
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Originally published as 16 best and top-reviewed front load washing machines of 2023
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