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Washing Machine Reviews, Top Rated Washing Machines

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In this review:
  1. Best Cheap Washing Machines, Cheapest Washing Machine
  2. Top Load Washers, Large Capacity Washers
  3. Front Loading Washing Machine
  4. Washing Machine Reviews, Top Rated Washing Machines
  1. Washing Machine Efficiency, Washing Machine Maintenance
  2. Washer Repairs
  3. Washing Machine Deals
  4. Discount Washing Machines Features Comparison Table
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Washing Machines Performance

Although there are certainly washing machines on the market for discount prices, the question we sought to answer by pouring through washing machine reviews is, are the cheapest washing machines any good? You probably don't want to pay for fancy options like steam cleaning, but neither do you want to sacrifice performance. Fortunately, washing machine reviews point to some good, reasonably-priced contenders.

These top-rated washing machines in the budget segment please most users and experts with their cleaning performance, efficiency, and overall dependability -- all for less than $650. The washing machine reviews we read, however, suggest that you'll need to make a few compromises. Designer finishes, cutting-edge technology, and high-performing brands are simply out of reach. Also, discount washers are built with cheaper materials, so there's no guarantee they'll last 15 or 20 years. Still, with careful selection and proper upkeep, a cheap washer may well exceed your expectations.

Washing Machine Cleaning.

According to the washing machine reviews that we read, consumers are stubbornly divided when it comes to the topic of washing machines' cleaning prowess. Those in the traditional top-loader camp remain doubtful that clothes get as clean in front-loaders or high-efficiency top-loaders, both of which lack agitators and require less detergent. Front-loader advocates counter that longer, gentler cycles are more effective. In fact, professional tests referenced on Wikipedia indicate that front-loaders do a better job overall of getting clothes clean. Point taken. But based on the washing machine reviews that we found, cleaning capability depends on the particular model you choose.

Reviewers cite the LG WM2101HW as a top rated washing machine. Users posting on the LG site comment approvingly on the sanitary cycle and stain-fighting abilities of this front-load model. Experts at consumer product review sites agree, ranking this unit tops for cleaning performance as well as efficiency and gentleness. Another front-loader, the Frigidaire GLTF2940FS, places slightly lower in expert assessments, although its cleaning ability and overall gentleness are still considered very good. Users' washing machine reviews, like this one on Buzzillions are enthusiastic about the way washables come out, even without pre-treating challenges like dark fruit stains. Then there's the Frigidaire FTF530FS. Owners' judgments of this front-loading washer's cleaning abilities are relatively positive, according to washing machine reviews on sites like Amazon, but loud groans about build quality (see below) drown out the favorable reports.

Review continues below

The two inexpensive top-loading washers on our list also do a fine job. Users contend the Admiral ATW4475VQ cleans impressively on the whole, although one washing machine review on Home Depot notes that water temperatures were cooler than expected. The majority of consumers are satisfied with the dirt-busting power of the Maytag Centennial MVWC6ESWW, including one who posted a washing machines review on Home Depot. Others, however, grouse that it doesn't meet even minimal expectations, like getting rid of grass stains or baby food, and some complain on Buzzillions that the auto-fill feature, which senses how much water is needed based on the load, is too miserly with the water.

When it comes to getting washables clean, using the appropriate laundry detergent is just as important as the machine you choose. If you buy a front-loading washer, you must use special high-efficiency (HE) detergent. HE laundry soaps are more expensive than traditional detergents, so it's tempting to opt out, but doing so can negatively affect the cleaning performance of your front-load washer. It's also likely to cause long-term damage, according to appliance repair experts at Fixitnow.com. Note that standard top-loading washers can take either HE or regular laundry detergent without messing up the machine.

by Gina Briles (Google+ Profile)

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Best Cheap Washing Machines

Admiral ATW4475VQ

 Read why »
Where to buy
Buy it from Home Depot

LG WM2101HW

 Read why »
Where to buy

Good Cheap Washing Machines

Maytag Centennial MVWC6ESWW

 Read why »
Where to buy

Frigidaire GLTF2940FS

 Read why »
Where to buy
 
 
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Don't Bother Cheap Washing Machines

Frigidaire FTF530FS

Another model absent from industry experts' lists, this 3.1 cubic-foot front-loader has a spotty track record with users. Most consumers like the energy efficiency and cleaning power this machine offers, and happy owners note it comes with knobs instead of an electronic control board, which is pricey to repair. However, complaints pop up frequently about bearings giving out, drum supports breaking, and door latches failing. Read more »

 
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