Consumer Reports tested the performance of more than 70 washing machines -- doing eight tons of laundry in the process -- to discover which ones are the best.
"You need to consider how energy efficient the washer is, how much it costs, and most importantly, how well it cleans your clothes," said Bob Markovich of Consumer Reports.
Front-loader washing machines can take an hour or even 1.5 hours to complete a load, which is far longer than a typical top-loader. Yet the energy bills are likely to decrease with a front-loader.
"Front-loaders tend to leave a lot less water in your clothes. The wetter your clothes, the longer they take to dry, and that's where you really run up your utility bills," Markovich told CTV News.
Testers washed an identical eight-pound load and weighed it afterward. The laundry in the top-loader weighed almost 16 pounds, while the front-loader laundry weighed approximately 13 pounds.
"That'll save you $130 a year or more on utility bills. And front-loaders use a lot less water, too," Markovich said.
Front-loaders tend to cost more and can retail for more than $1,000. A well-rated LG washing machine costs $1,200, but the Frigidaire Gallery is considered a best buy at $800.
If you prefer a top-loader Consumer Reports gave top ratings to the Whirlpool WTW6300WW that costs $950.
If you are wondering what to do with your old machine you can contact the Recycling Council of B.C. You can also ask the store where you are buying a new machine to take your old one away for you. Many will do it for a reasonable fee.
With a report from CTV British Columbia's Chris Olsen.
