Washing Machine Brands To Steer Clear Of (& Better Alternatives To Consider)

Washing machines have revolutionized daily life in ways we often take for granted. They turned a time-consuming and physically demanding chore that typically fell to women into an easy hands-off process. While the earliest electric washing machines were prohibitively expensive and mainly found in laundromats, today, laundry machines have become a common sight in typical American households. With a variety of brands and a wide range of prices available to choose from, doing the laundry has become more accessible and convenient than ever before.

If you're in the market for a new machine, you've probably noticed that the options are endless: there are front-loading, top-loading, combo units, portable, high-efficiency, and compact, to name a few. However, not all washing machines are created equal. While there are plenty of steps you can take to make sure your appliance is as efficient as possible – regularly clean them and leave the door open between cycles — some brands are notorious for needing constant repairs, poor performance, and shorter lifespans, while others have built strong reputations based around their reliability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Here are some brands you should avoid, as well as two that are worth the investment.

A washer-dryer combo sounds great in theory — two appliances for the price and space of one? However, Summit, a brand known for its compact appliances, also has a reputation for unreliability. While convenient for those with small living spaces, Summit's machines have been said to fall short on performance and durability, with frequent malfunctions and many users reporting breakdowns shortly after purchase, limited customer support, and challenges with repair services, making these units more costly in the long run.

One of the most common complaints about Summit combination washing machines is the dry time, with one reviewer lamenting that the drying cycle alone takes more than four hours and how it was going to take them "two days to do three loads of laundry." Other reviewers were more direct, calling the appliance a "piece of c***." Some customers also mentioned that it's challenging to detect the machine's water level and it rusts easily, potentially staining clothing.

Samsung washing machines have had their share of criticism over the years, often for issues that extend beyond typical wear and tear. While Samsung is a well-known brand with a wide range of popular appliances, from TVs to air conditioners to ovens, its washing machines have received complaints about reliability, especially with models prone to mechanical and electronic failures. Issues such as faulty water pumps, problematic door latches, and balance issues have led to frustration for users. Additionally, the brand has faced high-profile recalls related to top-load washers that were prone to vibration issues, sometimes resulting in the top detaching from the machine.

For some consumers, these drawbacks outweigh the brand's reputation. And while Samsung's machines are known to be high-tech and offer smart functions, these features sometimes seem to add to the complexity of repairs, leaving customers waiting for several weeks without access to their washing machine.

Whirlpool washing machines are widely recognized, making them a go-to brand for many households. However, despite their popularity, Whirlpool has received many complaints over the years regarding durability and performance. Users have reported issues with the control board, which can fail after only a few years of use, leading to expensive and frequent repairs. On Consumer Affairs, Whirlpool has just 1.1 out of 5 stars, with many reviewers complaining that they had to have their machine repaired several times shortly after purchasing.

Additionally, Whirlpool's front-loaders are known to have issues with mold and mildew, especially if the drum isn't dried thoroughly after each cycle, which can lead to bad odors and clothing stains. Some users have also noted inconsistent water levels during cycles, which can leave clothes dirty, tangled, and stained from the laundry detergent, as many people tend to use too much detergent. Whirlpool's customer service can also be hit-or-miss, with complaints about long wait times and slow repair response.

If you're looking for a reliable alternative to the above brands, LG washing machines often receive high marks for performance, durability, and customer satisfaction. Known for advanced features, quiet operation, and energy efficiency, LG models are praised for their strong cleaning power and innovative options like TurboWash, which reduces cycle time while maintaining cleaning effectiveness. In particular, LG's front-load models have a reputation for reliability and minimal mold issues, a common issue with other brands. Some of its newer models are also WiFi enabled, can be controlled from an app, and come in sleek designs like black steel.

In terms of service, LG also has good customer reviews, with fewer reports of extended wait times or difficulties securing repairs. While generally priced slightly higher than other brands, LG washers tend to justify their cost with lifespan, energy savings, and consistent performance, making them a solid choice.

Speed Queen has earned a reputation as the gold standard of washing machines, valued for its durability, simplicity, and top-notch performance. Known for its commercial-grade quality, Speed Queen machines are built to last for decades, even with lots of heavy, daily use. Unlike many consumer brands, Speed Queen focuses on function over flashy, high-tech features, instead emphasizing dependability and powerful cleaning cycles.

Speed Queen's top-load washers are a customer favorite because they rely on traditional agitator technology, which, though older, is highly effective for deep cleaning. In contrast to many newer machines, Speed Queens also tend to have shorter cycle times, contributing to their popularity among users who appreciate a quick and efficient wash. Though they're often more expensive upfront, the machines' long lifespan makes them a good investment in the long run. Speed Queen also supplies washers and dryers to laundromats, so you know their products are built to be used a lot. The company also offers one of the most comprehensive warranties in the business, ranging from three to seven years, depending on the model.