By Bryan Wall
Product Test Journalist | Kaipūrongo Whakamātautau Hautaonga
A washing machine could easily be one of the most expensive appliances you buy, so it’s vital to choose a model that suits your needs, performs well and is reliable.
Our expert testing can help you make this decision – we rate washers for how well (and gently) they remove dirt, rinse it out and spin moisture out. We also tell you how energy and water efficient they are (which can mean sizeable cost savings) and how repairable and reliable they are going to be.
Our buying guide can also help you choose. Find out what size washing machine you should buy, whether a front loader or top loader is better and which laundry detergents to use.
Stay on this page, though, for our top picks of washing machines, whether you want a front loader, top loader, large-capacity model or just the best bargain washing machine.
Top performing front loaders
Top performing top loaders
Best budget buy
Best large capacity
Best front loader washing machines
Best top loader washing machine
Top-loading washing machines don’t wash as well as front loaders and are less gentle, but they have shorter cycles and can be easier for people with reduced mobility. If you prefer them, here’s our pick.
Best cheap washing machine
Best extra-large washing machine
Best gentle washing machine
Which washing machine brands are best?
We asked thousands of Consumer members about their experience with products they've used to find out which brands are most reliable and satisfying to own. The results are available to members and Digital Pass holders.
How Consumer NZ tests washing machines
We test washing machines in our lab and record how well they remove dirt, rinse out detergent, spin the water out of the garments and how gentle they are on fabrics. We also measure how much water and electricity each model uses and how long a typical cycle takes.
These results are combined with reliability, satisfaction and repairability survey scores to help identify the washers that perform well, cost less to run and are more likely to last.
