Wondering about the most reliable brands of washers and dryers? Check out the top 5 recommended by experts and tested by our staff.
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5 Most Reliable Washer Dryer Brands, According to Appliance Repair Techs and Expert Testing
Updated on Nov. 05, 2024
Whether you’re shopping for your first home or just in the market for a new laundry appliance, you’ve probably asked yourself, “What are the most reliable brands of washer and dryer?”
The short answer is there’s no single best washer or dryer brand, and the long answer is that some brands make washer-dryer sets that are better for some people than others. A large family requires a machine with good capacity that can handle frequent use, whereas a washing machine for apartment-dwellers needs to be more compact.
However, we also know that the answer doesn’t provide much guidance in the way of narrowing down the most reliable brands of washers and dryers. Regardless of your laundry needs, you likely want to know what the buying and using experience is like before you throw down hundreds or thousands of dollars. So, we did the research, listened to what repairmen from across the country have to say about them, and even had our staff test washers and dryers from each of the five brands on this list.
Find out which brand is right for you with our guide to the best washer and dryer brands below.
LG
Pros:
- High-tech machines
- Laundry can be monitored via ThinQ app
- Stackable and side-by-side washer and dryer sets
- Multiple color options
Cons:
- Repairmen say machines often have draining issues
LG was formed in the 1980s when plastics company Lucky and electronics manufacturer Goldstar merged to create the brand and name we know today. Goldstar was known as a pioneer in the electronics industry before the merger and has shown no signs of slowing down in recent years.
Washer and dryer sets like the LG WashTower—which features a center control panel to operate both machines, a rarity among stackable washers and dryers—connect to the LG ThinQ app. Among other things, the app can alert you to problems with your machines, find the best washing and drying cycles for special fabrics, and let you know when your laundry is done.
Family Handyman Shopping Editor Mary Henn recently wrote an LG WashTower review. “I love the LG WashTower. It looks great in my space, and the space-saving, stackable design leaves floorspace in the laundry room for shelving and cabinets. It also makes it easier to walk into my laundry room without bulky appliances side by side.”
“I’ve enjoyed using the ThinQ app to program laundry cycles and routines. The remote start function is helpful when you don’t want to come home to wet clothes sitting in the washer. (You can delay the start of the cycle or trigger it to start remotely from anywhere.) The washer gets my clothes very clean, and the dryer works well, especially on the timed-dry setting,” Mary adds. “While I wish you could manipulate specific settings within pre-programmed cycles in the app and that the dryer’s sensor was more accurate, the WashTower’s efficiency, overall appearance and advanced features (like steam cleaning) outweigh the hiccups.”
Maytag
Pros:
- Highly efficient agitator for cleaning tough stains
- Great for large families
- Deep fill option
- Available app
- 10-year limited parts warranty
Cons:
- Machines may be loud
Maytag has been in the washing machine business since the late 1890s, so it’s safe to say they know a thing or two about creating reliable and functional washers and dryers. The company primarily manufactures top-load washing machines that focus on functionality over tech, though there is a companion app.
Senior Shopping Editor Caroline Lubinsky recently tested a new Maytag washer and dryer. “This washer and dryer combo far exceeded my expectations,” she says. All workout gear comes out smelling clean and free of lint and dog hair, which was a previous irritant with my last machines.”
“I’ve even washed and dried small dog beds without any issues. That used to be a real chore because I would have to clean the inside of the units afterward. Now, I don’t,” Caroline adds. “There’s plenty of room to get all the towels for the household washed in one round, and you can’t beat the fast, efficient drying times, and the steam and sanitize are great features, too.”
Other Maytag machines like the Maytag Pet Pro have a highly efficient agitator to scrub stains and pet hair from clothes and a deep fill option to add more water if desired. The brand is also known for making large washer and dryer sets with enough room for families of all sizes to clean their clothes in as few loads as possible.
Whirlpool 2-in-1 Removable Agitator Washer
Pros:
- More than 20 washer and dryer options
- Great for people of all budgets
- Some machines work with 120-volt outlets
- Portable
Cons:
- Low spin speeds can make draining issues more common
Whirlpool has come a long way in the washer and dryer space since 1911, when it produced its first wringer-washer. The company is known for offering more than 20 washers, dryers and washer-dryer sets for people with different budgets and lifestyles (speaking of budgets, browse our list of the best washer and dryer bundles under $1,500).
Product Tester Sheri Kaz is a big fan of Whirlpool. Her Whirlpool review says the Whirlpool 2-in-1 Removable Agitator Washer is a laundry day game-changer. “I highly recommend the Whirlpool 2-in-1 washing machine for the intuitive interface and auto sensors that make it easy to use. The 2-in-1 removable agitator feature is the absolute best, and, as a result, this machine is gentle on all of my clothes, blankets and washable rugs.”
“With Whirlpool’s stellar reputation as a reliable brand for washers, coupled with the Energy Star certification and future-friendly features, you can’t go wrong with this washer. I have to admit that I became so enamored with this machine that I washed everything in sight, including my washable curtains, hand-wash sweaters, area rugs, pillows and dog beds,” Sheri adds.  “Plus, I appreciate the quick-wash feature, and this machine is significantly quieter than my previous unit. I’d recommend this washer for large families because the huge drum washes two to three baskets at once, saving a lot of time.”
Samsung
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Efficient and eco-friendly
- Impressive smart features and innovative technology
- Large loading capacity
Cons:
- Clogged drain hose is common cause of drainage problems in top-loading washers
- Problems may arise with ordering and delivery
If you’re looking for a washer and dryer that will last a long time, Samsung is right up there with LG and Whirlpool in terms of longevity. Like Maytag, Samsung appliances typically require fewer repairs. The highly rated Korean brand started making washing machines in the ’90s. Today, Samsung washers are known for their innovative technology and smart features.
Morgan Chaney tested the Samsung Smart Top Load Washer and Smart Electric Dryer with Pet Care. Despite initial delivery issues, Morgan enjoyed the large-capacity loads, the steam fresh feature and the Samsung app connectivity. Most of all, she was impressed by the washer and dryer’s ability to handle pet hair stuck on clothes and fabrics.
“If you have pets, I think the Samsung washer and dryer with pet care are well worth the investment,” Morgan says. “I’ve tried all the hacks and ‘dog fur removal’ items sold on Amazon and none of them come close to this. I love how clean my clothes and the dog bed cover come out. Plus, other features like quick wash and steam refresh really have changed how I do laundry.”
As for the delivery issues, they were significant. Morgan says the delivery team showed up unexpectedly without prior scheduling, and the dryer delivered did not function. After contacting several different Samsung departments, the issue remained unsolved. Finally, Morgan discovered the order for the replacement dryer had been canceled, and she actually had to go through the process of reordering a dryer. Other hiccups and inconveniences occurred during the delivery and ordering process. However, Samsung did eventually replace the faulty dryer, and Morgan has loved her machines ever since.
Electrolux
Pros:
- Durable machines last for years
- Large-capactiy loads
- Impressive stain-fighting and cleaning power
- Energy Star certified
Cons:
- Machines are pricey
- No top-load models
Electrolux is a Swedish home appliance manufacturer headquartered in Stockholm that has been making appliances for more than 50 years. It is widely considered the world’s second-largest appliance maker after Whirlpool. Electrolux owns Frigidaire and is known for making innovative, durable and stylish appliances.
Electrolux currently offers five front-load washing machines and doesn’t manufacture any top-load models. Depending on the model, several stain-fighting features are available, like a pre-cycle stain-soak, a stain treatment that uses cold water to prevent setting, and a special Optic Whites cycle to keep those whites looking whiter for longer. All Electrolux models are also Energy Star certified.
Senior Shopping Editor Caitlyn Fitzpatrick tested the Electrolux 6 Series Electric Washer & Dryer Set. “The washer drum has a 4.5 cubic feet capacity, and the dryer drum has an 8 cubic feet capacity. Both units can accommodate a king-size comforter. That’s one of my favorite parts about these units! My old washer could handle my comforter, but with my old dryer, it would typically get caught up in itself, and the center would still be wet at the end of the cycle. So, I’d have to unravel it and run it through another cycle—not ideal. But I don’t have that issue with the Electrolux dryer. It’s so big and can handle bedding,” Caitlyn says.
“It does such a thorough job of spinning the clothes that they barely feel wet by the time I put them in the dryer. I hang-dry all of my daughter’s clothing, half of my husband’s and more than half of mine. With heavier pieces, like sweatshirts and sweatpants, it used to take at least 24 hours for them to be dry. But now, I’d say I can put most of the clothes away by hour 18. For my daughter’s clothes, it’s even less than that,” Caitlyn adds. “I appreciate how the washer sets me up for quick drying. And when it is time to use the dryer, I love that no matter if it’s sheets, clothes or towels, the unit completely dries everything the first time. I don’t find myself ever having to run it again.”
Caitlyn did mention that she had significant delivery issues when ordering through Wayfair, so you may be better off ordering your appliances directly from Electrolux. Additionally, she noticed that small items like children’s socks frequently get stuck near the front of the washing machine, which she’s remedied by using a mesh laundry bag. “There’s typically a little bit of water in the compartment where I put liquid laundry detergent—no matter if I actually used liquid laundry detergent that cycle or a pod,” she adds. “I empty it in the sink every time, so I wish I didn’t have to do that.”
If you’re deciding between Electrolux vs. LG, LG washers provide smart washing features, like AI technology and smartphone control, while Electrolux are great if you’re interested in specific wash cycles with a more stain-fighting focus.
What to Look for When Buying a Reliable Washer and Dryer
When looking for a reliable washer and dryer, see if the company has tested its machines’ longevity. Reliable brands such as LG, Whirlpool and Samsung receive high marks for longevity.
Next, consider the warranty. Even the most reliable washing machines and dryers have issues from time to time, and repairs can be costly and time-consuming. The majority of brands only offer 12 months, but some, like Maytag, offer 10-year coverage on the most important parts—motors and drums.
Beyond that, look at details like size, price and special features that fit your needs and lifestyle. A companion app isn’t necessary, but it’s nice to monitor your laundry while you’re in a different room. Some apps may also alert you to issues with your machines before they’re apparent to the naked eye.
How We Found the Most Reliable Washer and Dryer Brands
To find the most reliable washer and dryer brands, we put hours of research into customer reviews, machine specs and common issues with certain machines. We also combed through the brands offered at most major retailers. We ensured they offered multiple washers and dryers to fit different budgets and lifestyles, eliminating any with more negative reviews than positive. For the expert’s take, we turned to washer repair companies Shaper Service Solutions and Advanced Appliance Service Inc., as well as Puls Technicians, a nationwide service of appliance technicians, to see what they had to say about certain brands.
We also worked with Anthony O’Riley, a former New York City doorman who often did shopping research for high-profile tenants and has written about large home appliances like refrigerators and dishwashers.
Why You Should Trust Us
If the research process described above wasn’t enough (and we didn’t think it was), we had our expert shopping editors and product testers review machines from each of the most reliable brands of washers and dryers to report on everything from delivery and setup to usage and issues. That’s right; our staff got rid of their old washers and dryers to test new units from each of the most reliable brands.
After many months of testing, our editors found that the good heavily outweighed the bad with LG, Whirlpool, Maytag, Samsung and Electrolux machines. We’ll check in with them over time to ensure that remains the case so you can shop confidently, knowing your investment in a new washer and dryer is a good one.
Conclusion
As the old saying goes, there are different strokes for different folks, and the same goes for the best reliable washers and dryers. Maytag is a good fit for large families due to their larger load sizes, but it’s not a brand we’d recommend to a single person who might be better off with LG’s tech-inspired machines. Additionally, Samsung is a great choice for cleaning up after pets and large load capacity, while Electrolux is great for stains and ultimate cleanliness. Whirlpool, however, might be the most user-friendly.
That said, these five brands have some of the all-time best customer reviews and produce efficient machines that fit multiple lifestyles.
FAQ
What washers do repairmen recommend?
Whirlpool and LG were the two washing machine brands recommended by Puls who said they had the fewest problems and were the cheapest to repair, on average. Maytag came in at third.
Is Maytag or Whirlpool better quality?
Both brands make high-quality machines, but repairmen from Puls found that Whirlpool had fewer problems and was cheaper to repair than Maytag. Maytag, however, ranked third among most major appliance brands for reliable washer and dryers.
Which washer/dryer has the best warranty?
Maytag is known for its impressive 10-year warranty. Maytag brand offers a 10-year limited parts warranty for major appliances built after 2017.
