Washing machines
Find the best washing machine for your home with our buying guide and test results for 57 current and 108 discontinued models.
Can't decide which washing machine to buy? Find the best washing machines in NZ with our guide and expert picks. See test results for front and top loaders from Samsung, Fisher & Paykel, Haier and more.
Buy the best washing machine for your laundry
We test washing machines to find the best ones for real-world use. Our expert reviews are based on results from testing, member surveys and our decades of experience. We’ll only recommend washers you’ll love to own, that work well and will keep working well for a long time.
Our test results include how well each washing machine performs for:
• Dirt removal
• Rinsing
• Spin efficiency
• Gentleness
• Noise
• Water and electricity use
Plus, see the latest prices, product specs and features, member reviews and more.
Best washing machines of 2024
-
Top performing front loaders
-
Top performing top loaders
-
Best budget buy
-
Best large capacity
Get access to Consumer & see all reviews
✔ Personal support through our Consumer Rights Advice Line
✔ Premium articles and in-depth buying advice
✔ Add a Consumer magazine for even more exclusive content
What you need to know when buying a washing machine
A new washing machine should last 10 years or more, so it's important to make the right choice. Check out our buying guide for top questions, key features, energy use and other important info.
Front or top loader? We explain the difference between a front and top loader - which one is better?
Water efficiency: How much water does a typical washing machine use?
Cold washes: We tell you when should you use a cold or warm wash.
Capacity: To calculate what capacity washing machine you need, weigh the maximum load you wash.
Get the most out of your washing machine
Learn how to improve your washing machine's performance with our expert advice. Discover how to care for your washing machine, as well as money-saving laundry tips.
How to care for your washing machine
A little care and maintenance could extend its lifespan and save you money, so when was the last time you considered servicing your washing machine?
How to fix your washing machine
So, what goes wrong with a washer and what can you do to keep yours spinning? We explain how to fix six common washing machine faults.
10 ways to save money doing the laundry
We’ve put together tips to help you bring down the cost of washing your clothes.
How to save water in the laundry
One of the easiest ways to reduce your water consumption is to tweak your laundry routine.
3 laundry tips to prevent germs spreading
During normal daily wear or use, clothing, household linens and cleaning cloths pick up bacteria, viruses and fungi. To minimise the chances of catching (or passing on) a lurgy, we suggest a three-pronged attack when it comes to washing your laundry.
Are you making any of these 10 laundry mistakes?
Get the most out of your washing machine by avoiding these common mistakes.
Can't decide what you're looking for?
Whether you’re dealing with large loads or a small space, we guide you in choosing the right washing machine for your home.
Front or top loader? Seven myths debunked
We’ve been putting washing machines through the wringer since the 1960s. Here are some misconceptions about both types of machines.
People's Choice
Our People's Choice awards are granted to brands that consistently rate above average for customer satisfaction and meet out other performance criteria. Become a member and see which brands have earned a People’s Choice award.
Which brands are most reliable?
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.
Which laundry detergents should you use?
We’ve tested over 60 laundry detergents and 20 stain removers and found which are best at cleaning your washing and removing a wide range of stains.
Best ‘eco’ laundry detergents, according to expert testing
We analyse the results for “eco” products from our recent laundry detergents test. Which perform best and how well do they remove different stains?
Laundry scent boosters in high demand but are they worth it?
The latest laundry trend is to add a scent booster to your wash for an extra-fragrant load of washing. But is this trend fab or a fad?
Other appliances for your laundry
If you also need a new clothes dryer, perhaps consider a washer-dryer. Check our test results for washer-dryers and clothes dryers, plus irons and steam stations.
How we test washing machines
Washing machines are tested in an independent lab to accurately measure how well they perform.
The overall score combines test performance with predicted reliability (how likely models from the brand are to remain free of faults) and brand satisfaction (how likely owners of the brand are to be very satisfied).
We’ll only recommend washers you’ll love to own, that work well and will keep working well for a long time.