Top 8 Washing Machines of 2020

This double-duty machine offers flexibility thanks to two separately controlled washers in the same unit. The bottom is built for extra-large loads and has super-cleaning cycle options, which include sanitizing and steam settings. You even have the ability to add up to five rinses onto a cycle to remove every bit of detergent from larger items like a bulky down comforter or jacket. 

The smaller upper washer is made for delicates, items prone to bleeding, or single items like that dirty blouse you want to wear tonight. Cashmere sweaters we washed came out clean and without damage. In past testing, we found that Samsung washers exhibit excellent cleaning and fabric care performance. 

Capacity: 6.0 cubic feet

Never again will you have to worry about detergent staining your fabrics or laundry pods that won't dissolve: This washer works by pre-mixing detergent with water before dispensing it into the machine. It also features a dispenser drawer that accommodates single-dose detergent packs instead of tossing it in the drum. This way, no matter what type of detergent you use, it’s already dissolved by the time it reaches your clothes to clean fast and thoroughly. 

We found it left little water in the load so it spends less time in the dryer and gave us good cleaning results even on the quickest cycle. 

Capacity: 4.4 cubic feet

 In our tests, GE's washing skills rival more expensive machines. This classic top-loader with an agitator is super-straightforward to use. We’re impressed that at this price it offers options like an up to two-hour automatic presoak, deep fill and rinse for more customized water levels, has very good capacity, and is Energy Star Qualified.

Capacity: 4.2 cubic feet

This mighty mini is a Good Housekeeping Seal holder for good reason: Its deceptively large interior and space-saving exterior make it the perfect choice to install in small homes, apartments, or as second-floor laundry in a closet or bathroom. 

Most unique is its TwinDos system that automatically dispenses the correct amount of detergent and enhancer for top cleaning of both whites and colors. There are tons of special cycles to choose from, including QuickIntenseWash which in our tests whitened cotton test swatches and impressively removed tough stains in under one hour.

Capacity: 2.26 cubic feet

With a mega-capacity washer sitting atop a 1.0 cu. ft. pedestal washer, there’s no load this giant combo team can’t handle and it’s super easy to load. Use the top washer for your everyday and oversized loads and the mini one below for just a few items that need special care or that you need in a hurry. 

It features steam, works with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa or an app on your phone and is certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America to sanitize and remove sniffle-causing allergens from fabrics. While the pedestal washer is perfect for delicates, we found the top machine gentle on fabrics, too. Keep in mind the pedestal washer is sold separately. 

Capacity: 5.2 cubic feet (top), 1 cubic foot (bottom)

The most innovative feature of the Samsung AddWash is the mini door on top that lets you add a stray sock or t-shirt after the machine starts. The feature also gets rid of the problem of messy water drips that happen when you open the main door mid-cycle. With a quick wash cycle that washes clothes in about 35 minutes, this washing machine is great for busy families with lots of laundry to tackle.

Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet

One of the biggest consumer complaints about front loading washing machines is the musty smell that develops when water puddles inside. This new GE washer has a venting option that automatically dries the inside of the machine and the gasket when your laundry is done. The machine pulls in outside air to dry the inside while the drum spins intermittently, and the door gasket and dispenser drawer are treated with Microban to keep mold at bay. 

In our tests, the drum and gasket were impressively bone dry after a full vent cycle. We found the wash cycles speedy and effective — even the quick wash removed a set-in stain in just 20 minutes — and we love that this washer includes bulk dispensing and steam cycles at an affordable price.

Capacity: 5 cubic feet