Best front-loader washing machines in Australia 2026

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Compared to top-loaders, front-loader washing machines typically use less water and energy. They offer a wider range of wash programs, provide a gentler clean and other handy functions. But with well over 100 models to choose from, shopping for a front-loader can be overwhelming.

The first thing to remember is that size matters both in a machine's washing capacity and in making sure it fits in your available space. After that, you can consider water and Energy Star Ratings to work out running costs, check the variety of wash programs and consider how easy a machine will be to use daily.

To help make your decision easier, we've compiled this list of the best front-loader washing machines in Australia. We evaluated models in retailers such as Appliances Online, Harvey Norman and The Good Guys. For each category, we compared front-loaders based on reviews and key features such as value for money, running costs, capacity and ease of use.

Read more detail on how we picked this list.

Bosch 9kg Series 8 Front Load Washing Machine with i-DOS

Best overall front-loader washing machine

• Reduced vibration and noise

Cons

• LCD control panel isn’t the most user-friendly
• Self-cleaning drawer still requires maintenance

Buy now

We picked the Bosch Serie 8 8kg Front Load Washing Machine WAW28460AU as the best front loader you can get online. It has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and took out the top prize as the best-rated washing machine brand in the 2019/20 Finder Retail Awards.

With an 8kg capacity, this front loader will be a good fit for a wide range of homes. It offers a maximum spin speed of 1,400rpm to ensure your clothes are thoroughly washed without getting damaged. Its Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) and energy ratings are at 5 and 4 stars respectively, so you can save on running costs.

Its brushless motor is designed with silent operation in mind, with 14 versatile wash programs to address all your laundry needs. These include a setting for people with allergies and sensitive skin, plus a SuperQuick 15-minute wash. You can add items mid-wash and it has load-sensing technology too.

Of course, its hefty price tag will make some buyers think twice about getting this machine. But with its low running costs and clever features, we still think the WAW28460AU is worth the money.

How do Australians rate Bosch's washing machines?

For washing machines, Bosch was ranked 1st for value for money, 1st for features and functions, 1st for quietness and 1st for washing performance.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Hisense 7.5kg Front Load PureJet Washer

Best value front-loader washing machine

• Pause & Add feature

Cons

• Quick wash feature isn’t suitable for heavier items
• Not for larger families

Buy now

For the budget-conscious, we recommend Hisense's 7.5kg Front Load PureJet Washer, which has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and The Good Guys.

This machine boasts an array of high-end features, such as Allergy Steam and Baby Care Steam technologies that use steam to eliminate 99.9%* of allergens and microbes, and an efficient Durable Inverter motor, making it a standout in its price range.

The convenient 15-minute Quick Wash option allows you to wash up to 1 kg of laundry in just 15 minutes - perfect for those last-minute emergencies. Meanwhile, the Pause & Add feature allows you to easily add or remove clothes during the washing process with just a press of a button.

However, this machine may not be the most suitable option for larger families due to its 7.5kg capacity. Furthermore, some users have reported that the 15-minute Quick Wash is great for small loads but may not perform as well with heavier items.

Fisher & Paykel 9kg Front Load Washing Machine WH9060J3 (DEAL: 45% off)

Best mid-range front-loader washing machine

• Eco mode for reduced energy and water consumption

Cons

• Occasionally produces excess foam
• A little noisy

Buy now

The 9kg Front Load Washing Machine WH9060J3 is our choice for the best midrange front-loader washing machine, earning a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on both Appliances Online and Bing Lee.

This midrange washer is equipped with standout features like the anti-fungal door gasket, auto out-of-balance correction, and SmartDrive technology, all of which contribute to its high performance and user-friendly operation.

Plus, it offers various fabric care cycles, a simple control panel, and the ability to customise your wash cycle, making it a versatile choice for any household. And with the Delay Start function, you can conveniently schedule your laundry to wash later, which is perfect for busy individuals who want clean clothes ready when they need them.
The Eco function also helps to reduce water and energy consumption, making it an eco-friendly option for those looking to decrease their environmental impact.

However, some users reported that the Vortex wash function can produce excess foam; others also mentioned that it can get quite noisy during the spin cycle. Nonetheless, this model is worth considering for medium-sized households.

Miele 9kg Pwash & Tdos Front Load Washer WWI860

Best premium front-loader washing machine

• 4.5-star WELS rating

Cons

• Features may be overwhelming for some
• Expensive

Buy now

The Miele 9kg Pwash & Tdos Front Load Washer WWI860 is our pick for the best premium option. This machine boasts a highly commendable 4.3 out of 5 stars rating on Bing Lee and David Jones.

The washer offers a generous 9kg washing capacity and an impressive array of 22 programs, accommodating various laundry needs. It features the brand's PowerWash 2.0, which allows it to clean up to 40% more efficiently than required for energy efficiency.

The washer's energy rating of 4.5 stars and energy consumption of 261 kWh/year further underline its efficiency. It also has a 4.5-star water rating and WELS water consumption of 76L per cycle. Plus, the unique honeycomb drum creates a thin film of water, allowing laundry to glide gently and protect fibres, while convenient features like CapDosing, AddLoad, and Pre-Ironing add to its appeal.

Despite its numerous strengths, this machine is not without its drawbacks. The two cons worth mentioning are its high price point, which may not be within reach for all consumers, and the complexity of its numerous programs, which may seem overwhelming to users who prefer a straightforward, simple operation.

Electrolux 10kg Front Load Washer

Best 10kg front-loader washing machine

• 15 wash programs and 6 spin speeds

Cons

• You can only add items when the water level is below the door
• Noisy

Buy now

With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online, we recommend the Electrolux 10kg SensorWash Front Load Washing Machine as the best 10kg front-loader washing machine.

It offers a range of 15 wash programs and 6 spin speeds, catering to all your laundry needs, from delicate items to bulky bedding. It's particularly noted for its EcoInverter motor for quiet, efficient operation and the SensorWash technology, which optimises water usage. Plus, the Wi-Fi connectivity is convenient, allowing you to control your laundry from anywhere.

There's also a child lock for added safety and the option to save your favourite program for quick access. Meanwhile, the Twin sensor wash technology ensures a thorough clean while protecting your clothes, and the UltraMix & Jet system effectively dissolves detergent for better results.

However, it's worth mentioning that the Add Clothes feature only lets you add clothes when the water level is below the door and the temperature is less than 60°C. Some users also find it a little noisy at 52db.

How do Australians rate Electrolux's washing machines?

82% of surveyed Australians recommend Electrolux

How Electrolux compares

In the 2021 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 8,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 158 product categories.

For washing machines, Electrolux was ranked 7th for value for money, 7th for features and functions, 5th for quietness and 7th for washing performance.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Bosch 9kg Series 8 Front Load Washing Machine with i-DOS

Best 8kg front-loader washing machine

• Reduced vibration and noise

Cons

• LCD control panel isn’t the most user-friendly
• Self-cleaning drawer still requires maintenance

Buy now

With a rating of 4.85 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Bing Lee, the Bosch Serie 8 9kg Front Load Washing Machine WAW28620AU is also our pick for the best 8k option.

This machine offers precise measurements of water and detergent for each load, saving detergent and reducing unnecessary rinsing. The VarioPerfect feature allows you to toggle between SpeedPerfect and EcoPerfect wash modes on most programs, optimising wash results or energy efficiency as per requirement.

Plus, the brushless and energy-efficient EcoSilence Drive motor operates quietly, making laundry time a less noisy experience. The ActiveWater Plus technology automatically adjusts water flow according to load size for efficiency and saving resources. Thanks to the Anti-Vibration side panels, vibrations and noise during the spin cycle are significantly reduced, too.

However, some users did report a few minor shortfalls. Firstly, while showing program status, temperature, spin speed, energy consumption, and remaining time, the large multi-colour LED display was found to be slightly complex to navigate for some. Secondly, despite the self-cleaning detergent drawer that removes residue, a few users noted that it occasionally required manual cleaning to maintain optimal performance.

How do Australians rate Bosch's washing machines?

For washing machines, Bosch was ranked 1st for value for money, 1st for features and functions, 1st for quietness and 1st for washing performance.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Esatto EFLW600 6kg Front Load Washing Machine

Best small front-loader washing machine

• Great value for money

Cons

• Spin cycle can get too loud
• Only 2.5-star energy rating

Buy now

For the best small front-loader, we recommend the Esatto 6kg Front Load Washing Machine, boasting a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online. It's a reliable and efficient machine with a 4-star WELS water rating.

The machine comes with 15 different programs, a delay start feature, a delicate wash setting to protect those precious items, and a Cotton ECO cycle specifically designed to utilise lower washing temperatures and less water over an extended period. The 1200 RPM maximum spin speed ensures moisture is efficiently removed from the clothes.

While its 2.5-star energy rating is decent, other models on the market have higher ratings for those looking to maximise energy efficiency. Additionally, some customers have reported that the machine can be pretty loud during the spin cycle, so it may not be suitable for use in living spaces or near bedrooms.

LG 10kg Front Load Washing Machine with Steam WV5-1410W (DEAL: $36% off)

Best LG front-loader washing machine

• Won’t break the bank

Cons

• ThinQ app is occasionally unresponsive
• Control knobs seem outdated

Buy now

The LG 10kg Front Load Washing Machine with Steam WV5-1410W is an excellent choice among LG's range of washing machines. It has earned a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Bing Lee.

This appliance is equipped with intelligent clothing care features, employing AI technology for optimal results. Notably, it has a steam cycle feature to efficiently reduce allergens and 6 Motion Wash Technology, ensuring an outstanding wash. The machine can be remotely started and monitored with the ThinQ app and even allows for mid-cycle addition of laundry items.

But, using control knobs may seem a bit outdated to some, especially in an era where touch controls are the norm. Additionally, there have been instances where the ThinQ App proves unresponsive, which could be inconvenient for users preferring to manage their laundry tasks remotely. Nonetheless, its pros significantly outweigh these minor inconveniences, making the WV5-1410W the top choice in LG's lineup.

How do Australians rate LG's washing machines?

97% of surveyed Australians recommend LG

How LG compares

In the 2021 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 8,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 158 product categories.

For washing machines, LG was ranked 4th for value for money, 5th for features and functions, 3rd for quietness and 3rd for washing performance.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Samsung 16kg AddWash Front Load Washing Machine WF16N8750KV

Best front-loader washing machine for large families

• 4.5 energy rating and 4-star WELS rating

Cons

• There are cheaper options in the market
• Bulky

Buy now

The Samsung 16kg AddWash Front Load Washing Machine WF16N8750KV is a powerhouse of a washing machine, making it an excellent choice for large families. With a 4.3 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and David Jones, this beast is thoughtfully designed to handle large loads of laundry with ease. The XXL 16Kg capacity is certainly a standout feature, ensuring no pile of laundry is too big to tackle.

It has a host of intelligent features like the Auto Detergent Dispenser and Auto Optimal Wash for precise detergent dosing and optimal washing conditions. Plus, the machine has BubbleWash and BubbleSoak functions, Q-rator Laundry Assistant, and Additional Cloud Cycles for overall convenience. Furthermore, it has impressive energy efficiency with an energy Star rating of 4.5 and a 4-star WELS water rating.

The machine can be bulky, which may be an issue in homes with limited space. It also comes at a higher price point than other models. But it remains worth considering if you're looking for a powerful and efficient washing machine for your large household.

How do Australians rate Samsung's washing machines?

98% of surveyed Australians recommend Samsung

How Samsung compares

In the 2021 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 8,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 158 product categories.

For washing machines, Samsung was ranked 4th for value for money, 2nd for features and functions, 5th for quietness and 2nd for washing performance.

7 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Save on washing machine with these deals and discounts:

24% off Haier 10kg Top Load Washing Machine

Save 24% on the Haier 10kg Top-Load Washing Machine HWT10AN1 at Appliances Online. While stocks last. T&Cs apply.

Fisher & Paykel Washing Machines from $549

Buy Fisher & Paykel Washing Machines at The Good Guys from $549. Limited time offer. T&Cs apply.

Front Load Washing Machine from $444 at The Good Guys

Refresh your laundry setup with front load washing machines from just $444 at The Good Guys. Enjoy powerful cleaning, energy-efficient performance, and great value on trusted brands. Valid for a limited time only. T&Cs apply.

26% off LG 10kg Front Load Washing Machine with Steam

Get 26% off LG 10kg Front Load Washing Machine with Steam for a limited time only at Appliances Online. Now for only $973 (RRP of $1,319). T&Cs apply.

39% off Haier HWF85ANB1 8.5kg Front Loader Washing Machine

Get 39% off the Haier 8.5kg Front Loader Washing Machine (HWF85ANB1) at Appliances Online. Features 8.5kg capacity, quick wash options, and energy-efficient performance. Now for only $579 (RRP of $949). Valid for a limited time only and while stocks last. T&Cs apply.

Washing machines starting at $359

Get a new washing machine from Haier, Electrolux, LG, Hitachi, and more with prices starting from just $349 at Bing Lee. T&Cs apply.

Up to 60% off washing machines

Enjoy huge savings on trusted washing machine brands like Bosch, Carson, Devanti, Euromaid, Kogan, Fisher & Paykel, and more. T&Cs apply.

Cheap washing machines from $106.60

Don't miss out on cheap washing machines from Esatto, Devanti, Euromaid, Kogan, and more. T&Cs apply.

Top load washing machines from $93.60

Shop eBay's wide selection of cheap washing machines from top brands starting from just $93.60. T&Cs apply.

Washing machines starting at $395.95

Get the best washing machine for your budget with prices starting from just $395.95 at MyDeal. T&Cs apply.

Save up to 25% on ASKO Front Load Washing Machines

Buy ASKO Front Load Washing Machines at Appliances Online and save up to 25%. Limited time offer. T&Cs apply.

More Finder best guides

• Best washing machines
• Best laundry detergents
• Best clothes dryers
• Best top-loader washing machines
• Best washer dryer combos

How did we pick this list?

We considered front-loaders from the following brands:

• AEG
• Akai
• Altus
• Ariston
• Asko
• Beko
• Bosch
• CHiQ
• Electrolux
• Esatto
• Euromaid
• Fisher & Paykel
• Haier
• Hisense

• Hoover
• LG
• Miele
• Samsung
• Seiki
• Simpson
• Solt
• Teka
• Whirlpool

To pick winners in each of the price-related categories, we split the washing machines as follows:

• Cheap front-loader washing machines: Models available for $650 or less from multiple Australian retailers.
• Mid-range front-loader washing machines: Models available for $651–$1,000 from multiple Australian retailers.
• High-end front-loader washing machines: Models available for $1,001 and above from multiple Australian retailers.

How to compare front-loading washing machines

Consider the following factors to find the best washing machine for your needs:

Capacity

The main way to distinguish between front-loading washing machines is by their capacity. This generally ranges from 5kg to 16kg. While a 5kg machine is usually adequate for singles and couples, large families should look for a capacity of 7.5kg or more. If you'd prefer to do fewer loads during the week, choose a model with a larger capacity.

Size

Check the dimensions of any machine you're considering buying to make sure it will fit in your laundry. Most models are designed to be small enough to fit under a bench. Also, don't forget to check whether there is sufficient space in your laundry to open the door and load and unload your clothes.

Programs and functions

Do you need a setting designed to hygienically clean baby clothes or to wash your clothes with minimal wrinkles? Some high-end machines come with sensors that choose a wash program automatically based on the size of your load and how dirty it is. It's worth checking how quick the "fast wash" function is when you want to get a load done in a hurry.

Price

You can get a budget, low-capacity front-loader for around $500. Prices rise as the capacity increases, with premium models retailing for $3,000 or more.

Water efficiency

Check the water-usage rating from Australia's Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme. Ratings range from 0 to 6 stars, the higher the better.

Energy efficiency

Check the energy rating label to find out how energy efficient a machine is. Ratings range from 0 to 6 stars, the higher the better.

Ease of use

Spend some time examining a machine in-store to find out how practical it is to use. Are all controls clearly labelled and easy to reach? Is it easy to add detergent and open the door?

Spin speed

Check the maximum spin speed (measured in RPM) before you buy. A faster speed means the clothes come out of the machine drier, but it may mean extra noise.

Warranty

Check the length of the manufacturer's warranty and exactly what it covers before you buy.

Additional features

The following are a handful of other features that can come with a front-loading washer:

• Child locks.
• The ability to pause mid-cycle and add an item to the load.
• Delayed start timer so you can run the machine at specific times if you want to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates.
• Automatic detergent dosing based on the size of your load.
• Automatic cleaning function so you don't have to clean your machine manually.
• Wi-Fi connectivity so you can monitor wash progress on your smartphone.

4 things to consider

Before buying a front-loading washing machine, don't forget to consider these 4 important factors:

1. Weight. Front-loading washing machines are heavier than top-loaders. As an example, 8kg capacity machines commonly weigh somewhere in the 70-85kg range. Keep this in mind when deciding whether you need delivery and installation and if you'll likely be moving house frequently in the future.
2. Noise. If you need to wash at odd hours of the day, or if you just want to do a load without it disrupting your TV viewing, noise may be a concern. Due to their faster spin speeds, front-loading washing machines are noisier than top-loaders.

1. Hot and cold water taps. Most front-loading washing machines come with an internal water heater. This means they only need a cold-water connection but still allow you to wash with warm or hot water. However, if you have solar hot water, it's usually more efficient to use the warm water from your solar system, so look for a machine with hot and cold water connections.
2. Washer-dryer combo. Unlike top-loading washing machines, front-loaders give you the flexibility of stacking a dryer on top of your washer. If you're looking for a dryer, check out our clothes dryer buying guide. Alternatively, you might like to combine 2 machines into 1 and get a washer-dryer combo. Check out our washer-dryer combo buyer's guide for more information.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best front-loader washing machine?

We picked the Bosch Serie 8 9kg Front Load Washing Machine WAW28620AU as the best front-loader you can get online.

What is the best washing machine brand?

LG was chosen as the best washing machine brand according to the Finder Retails Award 2023. It received high scores for features and washing performance, along with a near-perfect 99% recommendation rating.

Which is better - front or top loaders?

It ultimately depends on personal preference and specific needs. Front-loaders tend to be more energy and water-efficient, while top-loaders are typically easier to load and unload. Both types have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it's best to consider your priorities before making a decision.

How long should a front-loader washing machine last?

On average, a front-loader washing machine lasts 10-14 years. However, the lifespan can vary depending on factors such as frequency of use and maintenance.

How many clothes can go in a 7kg washer?

A 7kg washer can typically fit around 6-7 adult-sized t-shirts or a set of queen-sized sheets and pillowcases. Keep in mind that overloading the washing machine can affect its performance and cause damage, so it's always best to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for load capacity.

How to use a front-loader washing machine

Front-loaders have more knobs and controls than top-loading washing machines. But they're still fairly easy to use. Here's how:

1. Add the correct dose of detergent to the drawer. You can check the box or bottle to know how much detergent to use for each load. However, you might need more for dirtier clothes or heavier loads.
2. Place your clothes into the drum of your front-loaders. Make sure not to overload so your garments have enough space to move around.
3. Add fabric conditioner to the dispenser drawer.
4. Next, select your preferred spin cycle and wash program.
5. Close the door and let the washing machine do all the leg work.
6. Make sure to unload your clean laundry immediately.

For more information about using your particular front-loading washing machine, consult the manufacturer's user manual.

How to clean a front-loader washing machine

To keep your front-loader fresh, you should clean it once a month.

1. Empty out the drum and remove the dispenser and conditioner trays as well as any attachments. Wipe them clean.
2. Then, clean the gasket around the drum and the door. Wipe the surfaces with a microfibre cloth damped with a solution of 1 part bleach and 1 part water.
3. If your unit has a cleaning cycle, run it. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. You can use a specific cleaning product or distilled vinegar, depending on recommendations.
4. Let the unit cool down and wipe the exterior using a microfibre cloth.

Best rated front-loading washing machine brand award breakdown

2021 Best Rated Washing Machine Brand

2020 Best Rated Front-Loading Washing Machine Brand

2019 Best Rated Front-Loading Washing Machine Brand

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