7 Best Front-Loading Washing Machines of 2025, Tested by Cleaning Pros

With its large capacity, fast cycle times, and sleek steel finish, this unit left little to be desired. In our latest evaluation of washing machines, this LG earned the highest overall score out of all the models we tested. We were particularly impressed with its short cycle times. In our performance evaluation, it completed its Quick cycle in just 16 minutes, and even full-size loads on the Normal setting took a little over half an hour from start to finish.

Still, it doesn't compromise cleanliness for speed. It proved to be a thorough cleaner in our soil removal assessment. While this machine wasn't particularly rough on clothes, it wasn't as gentle as some of the other machines we looked at.

Wash settings are selected with a dial in the center of the unit. Water temperature, spin speed, and more can be changed easily on the additional panel. We found using the control panel to be very easy, and we loved the screen in the center of the dial that displays the name and description of the selected cycle. This unit's drum light is also pretty bright, which helped us see into the back of its large drum. With its large capacity and exceptional speed, this machine is a great fit for anyone who needs their laundry done quickly without sacrificing cleaning power.

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Despite its low price point, this Whirlpool front-loader carries many of the same features we're used to seeing in higher-end units. It can automatically adjust wash settings based on soil level, has helpful extras like a Dry Drum cycle, and it topped the charts in our stain removal tests. At 4.5 cubic feet, the drum is pretty accommodating for larger loads of laundry.

This unit's door gasket has an antimicrobial coating to help prevent musty smells and mildew, and the Dry Drum cycle also helps with keeping the machine clean and odor-free. Aside from its excellent stain-lifting abilities, this Whirlpool also earned solid scores in other categories. In our tests, it wasn't too rough on clothing, it did a good job removing excess water from our test loads, and it was easy to use.

We did notice that this model doesn't have a drum light, which we missed when trying to spot small items like socks at the back of the machine. It also took over an hour to complete most wash cycles, making it one of the slower units we've tested. If you're not in a hurry, this machine's powerful cleaning ability makes it a worthwhile pick.

The new GE Profile two-in-one washer and dryer is a major timesaver that revolutionizes the way you do laundry, so much so that we gave it a Good Housekeeping Cleaning & Organizing Award. Instead of spending a lot of time going back and forth to switch the wash, you can put in a load, then set it and forget it until it's clean and dry.

In Lab tests, we found that the washer cleaned well, and the ventless dryer with heat pump technology was efficient and gentle. A normal wash-and-dry cycle took about two hours total.

The app and controls were easy to use, and the model occupies about the same space as a single machine. It performed well in our tangling tests, keeping shirts and sheets from getting tied up in knots. Like our other favorites, this uses Microban technology to help keep the machine fresh and clean while preventing the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

At 4.8 cubic feet, it holds a sizable load (although not the largest). While it is one of the pricier options on this list, you get both a washer and dryer, and the space-saving design is worth it if you live in a smaller place.

In the Cleaning Lab, we have tested many Speed Queen washers and dryers with great results, and this model definitely lives up to the name. The FF7 is one of the fastest machines we've tested, and it earned the top score for energy efficiency, too.

Speed Queen is a brand well-known for its reliability, and this unit has a five-year warranty to back it up. In our performance tests, this unit proved itself to be an effective cleaner while still being gentle on clothes. We also noticed that its spin cycle removed more water from our test loads than any other front-loader, meaning this machine might help you save time and energy when drying laundry as well.

Its great performance does come at a cost, though. The FF7 is more expensive than the other front-loaders on our list, and at 3.5 cubic feet, it isn't well-suited to oversize loads of laundry. Fortunately, we found that it reliably washed a typical 8-pound load in only 39 minutes.

This Samsung model runs quietly, cleans effectively and has impressive smart extras. The feature that stood out to our Lab experts: OptiWash detects soil levels and adjusts automatically to add more time or more detergent when needed. The Brushed Navy hue looks modern and sleek but the washer also comes in other colors as well.

We found the Samsung SmartThings app easy and fun to use. You can schedule wash cycles, receive alerts when the laundry is clean and remotely stop or start the wash. After a few uses, the machine remembered our favorite cycles. We like its large capacity and auto-dispense system that holds up to 20 doses of detergent and fabric softener.

If you don't have much space, consider stacking the matching dryer on top. You can set it up so the dryer can be operated from the washer's control panel, so you don't have to reach. If you change your mind, or your laundry room design, the washer and dryer can be installed side-by-side. Some online reviewers reported that it can be hard to find repair services for Samsung appliances.

For efficient space use in apartments, condos, small houses, or even deep closets with water and power connections, we recommend the LG WashTower washer-and-dryer set. Most front-loading machines can be stacked, but this tops that. It is one unit with the control panel conveniently located in the middle, where it's easy to reach.

The tower is equipped with features accessible via the ThinQ smart device app. It utilizes AI technology for sensors that customize wash and dry cycles based on detected fabric texture and load size. You can receive alerts when the wash is done.

In the Lab, we found the unit easy to load and unload. Cycles were fast, gentle, and effective, and you can choose a steam option to freshen up lightly worn items. After almost two years of regular use, we've never noticed a musty odor, and the dryer still performs as well as when it was brand new.

The 4.5-cubic-foot washer capacity should be big enough for most families. One drawback: If the washer or dryer fails and can't be fixed, you will have to replace both.

At 24 inches wide, this compact model from a high-end brand fits in small spaces yet performs in a big way, with 25 wash programs. We especially liked QuickIntenseWash. In our Lab rounds, this faster cycle—which completes in 49 minutes—capably erased stains on our test swatches. It's great when you're in a hurry and need to wash a soccer uniform or top and still get to the field or office on time.

The model features TwinDos Automatic Detergent Dispensing, a two-phase liquid detergent dosing system, which the company says saves 30%, on average, on detergent use versus manually adding it. If you live in a small home, condo, or apartment, this is a worthy investment. Miele also makes a matching 24-inch dryer to complete the set.