September 10th, 2024 | 14 min. read
Learn how to find the perfect laundry products with our Washer Buying Guide
Buying the biggest washer might sound like a great idea at first.
Why wash two loads when you can wash one and a half, right?
A larger washer is tempting, especially if you have a big family and feel like you're constantly doing laundry.
In this article, you'll learn about the largest front-load washers and their best features—just as you'd expect.
Then, I'll explain why you might want to think twice before going for the biggest machine.
We'll also cover the largest all-in-one or combo washers and dryers too.
Let's get started.
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How Washing Machines Have Evolved
I grew up in Needham, one of three kids.
My mom had the old Maytag A712, which was the best washer around at the time.
But the capacity was only about 2.3-2.5 usable cubic feet.
For reference, today’s smallest front-load washers start at 4.5 cubic feet and come packed with way more features.
So, the question is: Do you really need a washer with way more capacity than 4.5 cubic feet?
2024 Update
We've been updating this article for four years now, thanks to all the interest and because machines keep getting bigger.
Personally, I'm not a fan of most of these oversized washers.
Sure, you get more capacity, but many of them lack the newer features you find in the standard 4.5-5 cubic foot washers.
A few years ago, especially during the pandemic, the largest capacity washers could cost about $1,000 more than the smaller ones.
At least, that used to be the case. Recessions have a funny way of making things more affordable.
That’s why I’ve added sale prices to this list, along with tips on how to buy these washers when they’re on sale.
You can save a lot of money, and now, those bigger sizes are more reasonably priced.
Just make sure to measure your laundry room—and the hallways too.
Washers are the second most returned item in Boston (right after refrigerators) because they don’t fit.
When to Buy a Washer & Dryer
If you want to save 10-35% on appliances, it’s best to wait for a promotional holiday.
Luckily, there are plenty throughout the year.
For example, Presidents’ Day in February offers discounts for about two weeks. Memorial Day and July 4th are also good times to buy.
In Massachusetts, you can take advantage of Tax-Free Weekend in August, and then there’s Labor Day in September.
And, of course, there’s Black Friday—from late October to the Monday after Thanksgiving—which is the longest holiday shopping event of the year.
If you can wait, you should. The savings can be significant.
Read More: When Is the Best Time to Buy Appliances?
Now let’s dive into the largest front load washers available in 2024.
The Largest Front-Load Washers for 2024
LG Signature WM9500HKA
LG’s Signature washer offers a 5.8 cubic foot capacity.
You can add the LG SideKick, a 1.0 cubic foot mini washer underneath, giving you a total of 6.8 cubic feet of washing capacity—50% more than a 4.5 cubic foot model and nearly three times the size of the washers our parents used.
The TurboWash feature cuts any cycle down to 30 minutes by using five high-pressure water jets that quickly saturate clothes from different angles.
Note: The Samsung front load washer WF53BB8900AT offers a 28-minute cycle but only uses one high-pressure hose. How do they do that?
This washer’s direct drive motor makes it quieter and more reliable, with fewer moving parts. However, that also makes it harder to fix if something goes wrong.
You can usually find the LG Signature WM9500HKA on sale for $1,599, while the SideKick often goes for $829.
Pros: LG has the best reliability rate in the industry, with just 4.9% of washers requiring service within the first year.
TurboWash is great if you're in a hurry, and the 5.8 cubic foot capacity is the largest available in a single drum without the SideKick.
Cons: There’s no automatic detergent dispenser, so you’ll need to measure and pour detergent yourself. It also lacks mold protection, apart from the TubClean cycle.
The 9500 is tall (41.18 inches) and wide (29.625 inches), but not as deep as some other models at 33.08 inches.
However, that width and depth combo can make it hard to fit through doorways, so measure your space before buying (yes, I know I’ve said it before).
GE Profile PFW955SPWDS
GE Profile 5.5 cu. ft. Capacity Smart Front Load
Model: PFW955SPWDS | Price: $1,199 | Dimensions: 28" W, 39 3/4" H, 34" D | Capacity: 5.5 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 12 Cycles, 11 Options | Spin Speed: 1300 RPM | Reversible Door: Yes | Automatic Dispenser: Yes | Wi-Fi: Yes
GE Profile PFW955SPWDSThe GE Profile PFW955SPWDS has a 5.5 cubic foot capacity, giving you plenty of room for bigger laundry loads like comforters or a lot of clothes in one go.
It’s designed to handle everyday laundry without feeling cramped.
GE Washer Mold Control
About four years ago, GE redesigned all their front-load washers to include mold protection.
This includes Microban antimicrobial surfaces in the gasket, hoses, and dispenser.
The UltraFresh Vent System features a fan and a door vent that opens to the outside, pulling in air to dry the gasket.
This machine can even wash and dry a small load overnight, thanks to its high 1300 RPM spin speed. (By the way, LG, GE, and Samsung all offer high spins.)
AI Cycles
The washer's "My Setting" cycle uses AI to automatically personalize your cycle selection.
Dispenser
GE also offers the second-largest automatic detergent dispenser, holding up to 32 loads.
Automatic dispensers are one of the best new laundry innovations in the last decade because they prevent you from using too much detergent.
You can even scan your detergent brand to dispense the exact amount needed per load.
Pros: This washer has the best anti-mold package, a solid auto dispenser, and plenty of options. Plus, the washer and dryer doors are reversible if needed.
Cons: GE's front load washer service rate is 7.4%, which is decent but not as good as LG’s.
Alternate Model to Consider: GE Profile PFW870SSVWW
When on sale, the PFW870 is $949.99 and includes all the mold protection and auto dispenser features of the PFW955, with a 5.3 cubic foot capacity—saving you $250.
However, it doesn’t offer the overnight wash/dry or the "My Setting" cycles.
Pros: Top-notch anti-mold protection with an auto dispenser, and the washer door is reversible.
Cons: Higher service rates than LG.
Samsung WF53BB8900 Front Load Washer
Samsung Bespoke 5.3 cu. ft. Ultra Capacity Front Load Washer in Forest Green
Model: WF53BB8900AGUS | Price: $1,549, Sale Price: $1,099 | Dimensions: 27" W, 38 3/4" H, 34 1/2" D | Capacity: 5.3 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 25 Cycles, 18 Options | Spin Speed: 1200 RPM | Reversible Door: No | Automatic Dispenser: Yes | Wi-Fi: Yes
Spacious Capacity and Stylish Design
The Samsung WF53BB890 offers a large 5.3 cubic foot capacity, available in Forest Green, Silver Steel, and Brushed Navy.
It’s a great choice if you need space for big loads.
Smart Energy and AI Features
This washer uses Smart Energy technology to automatically adjust the detergent and cycle based on the load size and fabric type.
It also remembers your most-used settings with the Smart Dial, so you don’t have to keep adjusting it.
Super Speed for Faster Washes
With the Super Speed feature, a full load can be washed in just 28-40 minutes.
It uses powerful jets and sensors to adjust the wash time based on how dirty your clothes are.
Auto Dispenser for Detergent
The Auto Dispenser holds enough detergent for 32 loads, so you won’t have to worry about adding detergent every time.
Reliable Inverter Motor
The Inverter motor is quieter and more reliable, and it comes with a 20-year warranty (labor covered from years 2-20).
Multiple Wash Options
You’ll have plenty of flexibility with 18 wash options and 25 cycles, including steam for tough stains.
The door gasket and detergent drawer also feature an antimicrobial coating to help prevent odors and mold.
Alternate Model to Consider: Samsung Bespoke WF53BB8900AT
This model has a large 5.3 cubic foot capacity and comes in navy, green, and silver, letting you customize your laundry room.
It also offers more usable features, like Samsung's 32-load automatic dispense.
At 5.3 cubic, the Bespoke is large and available in navy, green, and white. However, this front-load washer has Samsung's 32-load automatic dispenser and mold control.LG WM6700HBA
The WM6700 offers 5.0 cubic feet of capacity and includes features similar to LG's larger models, such as the TurboWash 360 cycle.
However, this model adds an 18-load auto dispenser. While it’s not as big as GE or Whirlpool’s, it's still a handy feature.
You can also add the SideKick for an extra 1.0 cubic feet. (Note: The SideKick is $829. You can buy a 4.5 cubic foot washer for less.)
Pros: This washer has a great mix of features and excellent reliability at a good price. TurboWash 360 offers a fast, thorough wash.
Cons: This model doesn’t provide mold protection beyond the TubClean cycle.
However, you can dry the gasket after each wash and leave the door open when not in use to prevent mold buildup.
Whirlpool WFW8620HW
Whirlpool 5.0 cu. ft. Front Load Washer with Load & Go™ XL Dispenser
Model: WFW8620HW | Price: $1,214, Sale Price: $999 | Dimensions: 27 W, 33 ¼ D, 38 5/8 H | Capacity: 5 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 37 Cycles, 11 Options | Spin Speed: 1,100 RPM | Reversible Door: No | Automatic Dispenser: Yes | Wi-Fi: No
Whirlpool offers the easiest controls with push buttons and the largest detergent dispenser, holding up to 40 loads.
My parents own this model and have never once called me with questions. Considering I’m their go-to tech support for everything, that’s a serious endorsement.
The 12-hour FanFresh option periodically tumbles clothes, preventing them from sitting in the drum for too long.
Pros: Whirlpool's push-button controls make it simple to operate. It also has the largest detergent dispenser in the industry, holding up to 40 loads.
Cons: The slower spin speed of 1100 RPM means clothes may come out wetter, which leads to longer drying times. Plus, it lacks mold protection.
Largest All-in-One Washers & Dryers
All-in-one washers are a great value: You put your dirty clothes in, and they come out clean and dry—no transferring between machines required.
However, combo washers and dryers often struggle with lint removal. Over time, lint can build up and cause the machine to seize, leading to expensive service calls.
The latest models have improved lint filters, but time will tell if they work well enough.
Samsung WD53DBA900
Samsung 6.1 Cu.Ft. D900 Series Bespoke AI Laundry Combo
Model: WD53DBA900 | Price: $2,699, Sale Price: $1,999 | Dimensions: 27" W, 34 1/2" D, 43 3/4" H | Capacity: 6.1 Cubic Feet | Number of Cycles: 18 Wash Cycles, 5 Dry Cycles | Spin Speed: 1,200 RPM | Reversible Door: No| Automatic Dispenser: Yes | Wi-Fi: Yes
Samsung’s WD53DBA900 is the largest all-in-one washer/dryer combo with a 5.3 cubic foot capacity.
It features Samsung’s AI Bubble powered wash technology, which mixes detergent, air, and water to create tiny bubbles that seep into fabrics for a more powerful wash.
There are two drawers at the bottom for auto-dispensing detergent and fabric softener.
The drawers can hold up to 47 washes worth of detergent or be adjusted for 34 loads of fabric softener and 25 loads of detergent.
With its AI capabilities, you’ll have access to endless cycle options—and yes, you can even play music on this machine.
Pros: Excellent capacity, AI Bubble Wash technology, and auto-dispensing.
Cons: Unproven reliability and no mold or odor protection. Plus, who’s going to service it?
LG WM6998HVA
The LG WashCombo all-in-one offers features similar to those of a traditional front loader, with a 5.0 cubic foot capacity and TurboWash 360 technology.
It also has AI that detects load size and fabric type to select the best cycle for optimal results.
The machine includes an auto dispenser to prevent overuse of detergent and offers 30 different wash programs.
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The direct drive motor has fewer moving parts, making it quieter and more reliable.
Pros: Fully loaded with plenty of wash options. TurboWash 360 delivers excellent cleaning performance, and the direct drive motor ensures quieter operation.
Cons: Like other all-in-one units, it’s unproven. LG doesn't offer the same mold and mildew protection that GE does.
GE Profile PFQ97HSPVDS
This GE Profile combo washer and dryer includes GE's anti-mold package and a 32-load auto dispenser.
Pros: You can throw a load in before bed, and it’ll be clean and dry by morning. Plus, it has great overall features.
Cons: It’s a new model, so reliability is still unproven. And with an average cycle time of two hours, you can still get more done with separate washer and dryer units.
Why You Should Not Buy the Largest Front Load Washer
Price
Last year, buying a Samsung 6 cubic foot washer would set you back an extra $700-$1,000.
This year, the price difference has dropped to around $300, but remember, it's only a 0.7 cubic foot difference.
LG's Signature washer, at 5.8 cubic feet, is now priced at $1,749—down from $1,999 last year.
However, you can get a solid 4.5 cubic foot washer for $899 on sale, or opt for the WM6700 at $1,099.
That’s $700 more for just 0.8 cubic feet of extra capacity.
Keep in mind, the average washer capacity is around 4.5-5 cubic feet.
You can get a 4.5 cubic foot washer for $699-$899.
Plus, the larger machines often lack key features. The top two models don’t include auto dispensers, advanced cycles, or mold protection.
Size and Depth
Attention Bostonians and other city dwellers: Be sure to pay close attention to dimensions when shopping for any laundry set.
Front-load washers are wide and deep, almost like refrigerators.
We can remove refrigerator doors, but washer doors? Not so much. That means washers can be too deep for many staircases and hallways.
At 33-34 inches deep, these machines simply won’t fit in many existing laundry rooms.
If you’re replacing a top-load washer, these likely won’t fit due to their depth.
Your closets would need to be very deep as well.
The shallowest 4.5 cubic foot washer is 30.25 inches wide and fits in many spaces (though not all).
Laundry machines are the second most returned appliances after refrigerators.
Stacking
The two largest models cannot be stacked and need to be placed side-by-side.
Read More: Best Front-Load Washer
What to Know When Buying a Front-Load Washer
Reliability
Reliability is so important because front-load washers are harder to repair due to their direct drive motors. Plus, chances are, you don’t have a lot of service availability in your area.
LG has been the most reliable brand over the past five years since we began publishing reliability reports.
Front-Load Washer Reliability 2024
The following service rates are based on a minimum of 100 products sold and a total sample of over 2,000 products within 12 months.
| Service Rates | |
| Whirlpool | 4.1% |
| LG | 4.9% |
| GE | 7.4% |
| Grand Total | 5.6% |
Whirlpool sold far fewer units than LG, but in terms of service, GE is the best due to its dedicated service department. LG comes in second.
Read More: Most Reliable Front-Load Washers
Automatic Dispensers
I’ve mentioned automatic detergent dispensers throughout this article, and they’re a feature you should consider.
An automatic dispenser releases the right amount of detergent at the right time.
Most people use too much detergent when doing laundry. You only need a capful.
Automatic dispensers prevent overuse, which can help reduce mold and mildew—potentially saving you from an expensive service call.
GE and Samsung offer the largest automatic dispensers for traditional front-load washers, each with a 32-load capacity, while Whirlpool offers an even larger 40-load dispenser.
Samsung's all-in-one model with drawers underneath can hold up to 47 loads.
Steam
Most high-end washers come with steam, which is great for loosening tough stains like wine or grass.
Spin Speed
Higher spin speeds mean less time in the dryer. GE, Samsung, and LG have the highest spin speeds for front-load washers at 1300 RPM.
Wi-Fi
All these models come with Wi-Fi. While Wi-Fi in appliances has been slow to catch on, you’ll appreciate it in your laundry room for one big reason:
You can see the remaining time and get notified when the cycle is done. How many times have you gone to check on the laundry, only to find out there are still five minutes left?
Wi-Fi also lets you control the washer remotely, so you can start a load from the office and have it ready by the time you get home.
Plus, you can download additional cycles, like baby clothes or sportswear.
If you buy the GE Profile combo washer and dryer, you won’t even need to worry about transferring clothes between machines.
Mold and Mildew Prevention
While most brands offer a washer cleaning cycle, only GE models come with Microban technology and an internal fan, known as "OdorBlock," to dry out any remaining moisture.
Pro Tip: Mold forms from standing water, so always dry the gasket and leave the door open after each use. Run a clean tub cycle once a month.
Reversible Door
GE and Electrolux are the only brands that offer reversible washer doors, which is super convenient when stacking the machines so the doors line up.
Read More: How to Buy a Front-Load Washer
Key Takeaways
Don’t feel pressured to buy the biggest washing machine.
You’ll pay significantly less for a 4.5-5.0 cubic foot washer, and at most, you’ll only gain 1.0-1.5 cubic feet more with a larger machine.
Instead, focus on investing in better features like an automatic detergent dispenser, higher RPM spin speed, and steam.
These features will have a bigger impact than the extra cubic foot.
And as always, make sure to find the best service providers in your area before purchasing any appliances.
Additional Resources
Want some more info on washing machines? Get the Yale Washer & Dryer Buying Guide with features, specs, and detailed profiles of all the brands. Well over 1 million people have read a Yale Guide.
Related Articles
Looking for answers about Washers?
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A Note About Pricing
Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.
