Working as a home inspector, I have experience testing washers daily. I see which washing machine brands to avoid and which ones excel. These home appliances are critical to daily life and need reliable washers.
Based on my experience and research, the washing machine brands to avoid are Whirlpool and Samsung, the worst offenders, with 13 models on our list. In reviewing hundreds of online reviews, these brands had similar complaints of poor quality, machine failure, and poor customer service across multiple machine models.
Here are some of the worst washing machine brands and model numbers.
1. Whirlpool
When searching for a washing machine, you should be wary of Whirlpool. For decades, the Whirlpool name was synonymous with quality and customer satisfaction. Increasingly more reviews indicate that Whirlpool is now one of the washing machine brands to avoid. Consumer Reports reports a dismal 1-star Ownership Satisfaction Rating for Whirlpool as a brand.
Although none of the models were exceptionally poor, no one shined above the rest. Whirlpool seems to be now resting on its laurels, all while customer satisfaction with Whirlpool products is steadily declining.
| Model | CR Rating |
|---|---|
| WTW5015LW | 57 |
| WTW5057LW | 58 |
| WTW4955HW | 58 |
| WTW4855HW | 58 |
| WTW4950HW | 57 |
| WTW4850HW | 57 |
| WTW5057LW | 58 |
| WFW5090JW | 50 |
| WFW3090JW | 50 |
Whirlpool WFW3090JW & WFW5090JW
The most common difficulties owners of these Whirlpool front-loading washing machines experience are unsatisfactory washing results, lower-than-expected reliability ratings, and dissatisfaction with the product.
Numerous owners have had their machines’ control boards malfunction during the warranty period – stopping them from completing spin cycles or simply ceasing to function altogether – while waiting weeks for repair parts.
The washing performance of this front load washer is fair, with a relatively moderate amount of vibration, especially in the spin cycles. Otherwise, they seem to perform well from an energy and water efficiency standpoint.
Whirlpool WFW5015LW
The Whirlpool WFW5015LW top load washer with agitator sports numerous 1-star reviews from owners. The bulk of the complaints seem to center around:
- Issues with the spin cycle not activating and clothes not being wrung out enough in the spin cycle.
- Frequently goes off balance, and the clothes get stuck and wrapped around the agitator, which is loud and not user-friendly.
- Poor water and energy efficiency, with some customers noticing an increase in their energy bill.
- Frequent breakdowns with motor failures.
- Frustrating experience with the warranty process and waiting several weeks for replacement parts or technicians.
- Issues with the machine not draining and drain pumps.
Whirlpool WFW4855HW & WFW4955HW
The Whirlpool WFW4855HW and WFW4955HW top loader with agitator models have numerous complaints. Our key takeaways include the following:
- The washing cycle starts and frequently stops, making noise throughout the process, which can be too loud and distracting.
- The washer barely agitates and doesn’t clean clothes very well.
- The spin cycle leaves clothes wet, resulting in longer drying times.
- The water sensor is not allowing much water into the machine, resulting in poor wash performance.
Whirlpool WFW4950HW & WFW4850HW
The Whirlpool WFW4950HW and WFW4850HW top loaders are not immune to Whirlpool’s shrinking quality standards. Some of the common complaints are:
- Poor build quality and breaks down after a short period of use.
- Leakage and malfunction, with one customer stating that the tub separated from the base after 2 years of use and the repair price was half the machine’s cost.
- Excessive vibration after one year of use, rusting, and poor quality.
- Issues with the lid lock flashing and not spinning after wash.
- The deep water option is not filling enough water, and the agitator is not agitating enough to churn heavy loads.
- Customers express frustration with Whirlpool customer service, stating that they do not care about their customers.
Whirlpool WFW5057LW
According to owners, the Whirlpool WFW5057 top loader also suffers from poor washing performance. Some key takeaways include:
- Issues with the machine not filling up the correct water level, resulting in clothes not getting fully cleaned.
- Incredibly loud and can be heard throughout the house.
- It does not use enough water, resulting in clothes not getting cleaned well.
- Problems with the clutch not engaging, the actuator not being strong enough, and the machine not filling with water.
- Prone to breaking down, with some customers reporting issues only a few months after purchase.
- Poor experiences with customer service and warranty support.
- Malfunctionings, such as lid lock and sensors malfunctioning and water not draining properly.
2. Samsung
Regarding washing machines, Samsung may not be the best brand to invest in. Consumers have reported issues with Samsung washers, including breakdowns, water leakage, and poor customer service.
| Model | CR Rating |
|---|---|
| WA40A3005AW | 49 |
| WA45T3400AV | 60 |
| WA45T3200AW | 60 |
| WA55A7300AE – Recall Fire Risk | 69 |
The Consumer Products Safety Commission has missed a recall notice on several models of Samsung’s top-load washers with super speed wash.
The washers were sold in white, black, champagne, and ivory colors and include model series WA49B, WA50B, WA51A, WA52A, WA54A, and WA55A. You can read the CSPC Samsung Recall Notice.
Samsung WA40A3005AW
While the Samsung WA40A3005AW top-load washers can make laundry duties easier, it does have some reported issues that can cause frustration.
- Customers report a significant design flaw that holds mold and dirt, which can transfer onto clothes during the wash.
- Customers state that the liquid detergent drawer also grows mold that cannot be seen until it is taken apart.
- The balancing rods of the washer are known to go out within 2 years of purchase.
- The machine has poor extraction, and clothes come out wrinkled and soggy.
- The machine is also known to be loud and has a poor agitator.
- The washer is also limited in the hot water setting as it mixes with cold water.
- Unsatisfied with customer service and machine breaking down after 2-5 years.
Samsung WA45T3400AV & WA45T3200AW
Consumers have reported numerous issues with the Samsung WA45T3400AV and WA45T3200AW models of washing machines. From faulty parts to inefficiencies, many buyers are disappointed with their purchase of these models.
As a result, it is important to be aware of the potential problems with these washing machines before investing in them.
- Customers have reported that their washing machines had catastrophic failures within a year and a half of purchase.
- The weights on the spinner head are known to explode, and the suspensions are shot. The machine is known to have an issue with the unit’s suspensions, which fail over time.
- Three repair companies refused to take the job, stating that Samsung breaks too much and they don’t offer a good warranty.
- Customers are unhappy with the 12-month warranty, claiming that Samsung was of little help a few days after the warranty expired.
- Customers have reported the machine is loud and has mold growing in it.
- The machine does not completely drain, and there is no access to drain the water or change the filter.
- Customers have reported that the machine is very sensitive to being unbalanced, and for every other load of laundry, they have to readjust it.
- Clothes do not come clean, and large items are washed on only one side.
- The machine has a problem with starting and smelling like burnt plastic.
- Customers are unhappy with the 27″ top load washer, clothes are all in knots after washing, self-clean comes on whenever it wants, and water stays in the bottom.
Samsung WA55A7300AE
As one of Samsung’s latest washing machine models, the WA55A7300AE has boasted various advanced features to make laundry day more efficient. Unfortunately, some consumers have reported various issues with their washers, leading to frustration and disappointment.
- There is an open recall on this model due to a fire hazard.
- Customers say the washer does not take enough water and clothes come out dirty.
- Customers have reported that the machine does not spin dry properly, and clothes come out wet.
- Customers have reported that the washer breaks within 2 to 6 months.
- Customers have reported that the machine is defective, and the warranty company and Samsung have not been able to fix it.
- Customers have reported that the machine stopped working mid-cycle and is full of dirty water.
- Customers have reported that the machine broke down, and the support team will not have someone out for two weeks.
- Customers have reported that the spin function does not get the water out, and the drum does not have the power to wash bulky items like blankets.
3. Maytag
Be careful for those looking to purchase a new washing machine, as some Maytag models have made our list of washing machine brands to avoid.
| Model | CR Rating |
|---|---|
| MVW4505MW | 50 |
| MVWP576KW | 27 |
Maytag MVWP576KW
The Maytag MVWP576KW commercial washing machine seemed like a great choice for a reliable and efficient laundry solution. Unfortunately, some customers have experienced problems with this model that can leave them frustrated and in need of service.
- Common complaints include issues with the circuits, loud noise, difficulty getting the correct water temperature, and poor customer service response.
- Some customers have found the machine poorly designed, with issues such as not filling with enough water or having difficulty adjusting water temperature, resulting in dirty clothes.
- Some customers have expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s customer service and warranty policies.
- Some customers have found the machine very loud compared to other Maytag washers they have used.
- Some customers have also reported that their washers broke down within six months of purchase.
- Customers have also reported that the Maytag washer is not as good as older models and that the brand is not as good as it used to be.
Maytag MVW4505MW
If you’re in the market for a top-of-the-line washing machine, you may consider the Maytag MVW4505MW. While this model is advertised as having plenty of features and functions, some buyers have reported issues with the machine that can make its use difficult or even impossible.
- The customers have had issues with the transmission shaft spines being worn out, rusted, and breaking on the Maytag MVW4505MW washing machine.
- Some customers have experienced shaking and excessive noise during operation.
- There have been issues with the machine not spinning out clothes, not draining properly, and not being able to open or lock the lid.
- Customers have also had problems with the electronic control panel taking a long time to come on and the machine malfunctioning after only a few days of use.
- Some customers have found the machine poorly made and not worth the cost.
- The machine is unsuitable for large families with frequent washings as it takes a long time to start up and is always stuck in sense mode.
4. Amana
Amana may be a popular washing machine brand, but one model makes our list of washing machine brands to avoid. Consumers should be aware that Amana washing machines suffer from several common issues, including early breakdowns, poor customer service, and inadequate warranties.
| Model | CR Rating |
|---|---|
| NTW4516FW | 34 |
Amana NTW4516FW
The Amana NTW4516FW has been touted as a reliable and efficient top-loading washer. However, consumers have reported various problems with the model, ranging from excessive vibration to faulty parts.
- Complaints that it does not complete a full cycle and the spin/drain feature does not work.
- Poor cleaning performance and very noisy.
- Functional problems include not locking the lid, taking a long time to fill, and stopping and shutting off during the wash cycle.
- Customers report poor customer service and dissatisfaction with the product.
5. General Electric (GE)
As one of the top laundry machine brands, GE has a long-standing reputation for providing products built to last and are easy to maintain. With a wide selection of washers, dryers, and combo units, GE offers consumers an assortment of machine options to fit any budget and lifestyle.
Despite its strong track record of durability, its luster is starting to fade in recent years. For those looking for a dependable washing machine that won’t break the bank over time, it may be wise to avoid GE and opt for another brand.
| Model | CR Rating |
|---|---|
| GTW330ASKWW | 46 |
| PTW600BSRWS | 63 |
GE GTW330ASKWW
Customers are unhappy with the GE GTW330ASKWW washing machine’s performance and design. Common complaints about this top load washing machine include the following:
- Long wash cycles and poor cleaning performance
- High jet-like noise levels
- Vibration and movement during the wash cycle
- Hard on clothes, causing damage to clothing
- Laundry detergent residue remains on clothes after rinsing
Customers have expressed disappointment with this GE washer compared to older models and advise others not to purchase it.
GE PTW600BSRWS
The GE Profile washer is a popular choice for an efficient and reliable washing machine, but it’s not without problems. Consumers have reported various issues with the GE Profile washer, including poor performance, loud noises, and water leakage.
Common complaints include:
- Obnoxiously loud spin cycle
- Unbalanced when washing larger loads such as blankets, sheets, and towels
- The washer has moved during the wash cycle, blocking the laundry door from being opened.
- Tore up clothes and mattress pad, and plastic chunks broke off in the machine.
- The washer doesn’t rinse, spin or drain properly
- Difficult to use settings
- Tangles clothes
- Poor customer service, overall bad experience, and regret buying it
- Poor stabilization of the drum, poor design
- Total frustration, miserable experience
Customers advise others not to purchase it. They had a terrible experience with this machine and would not recommend it. They have also had a poor customer service experience.
6. Hotpoint
Hotpoint is a budget washing machine brand that is easy on the wallet. However, we identified it as one of the models on our list of washing machine brands to avoid.
The brand has been the subject of complaints from consumers who have experienced poor performance, unreliable parts, and costly machine repairs. As a result, many are now choosing to look elsewhere for their laundry needs and avoiding Hotpoint altogether.
| Model | CR Rating |
|---|---|
| HTW240ASKWS | 51 |
Hotpoint HTW240ASKWS
The customer reviews of the Hotpoint HTW240ASKWS washing machine are largely negative, with customers expressing dissatisfaction with the machine’s performance and design. Common complaints include:
- Constantly off balance
- Ties laundry in knots and creates holes
- Extremely slow
- Damaged clothes, bedding, and other expensive items
- Very noisy
- Large loads can’t be handled
- The lid lock feature is not good
- Unreliable and breaks down quickly
- Panel issue that takes two weeks to fix
- Poor customer service
- Controls are hard to use
7. Frigidaire
Frigidaire may be a popular brand for washing machines. Still, consumers should beware – the company has one model plagued with numerous reports of product malfunctions and customer dissatisfaction.
| Model | CR Rating |
|---|---|
| FFTW4120SW | 59 |
Frigidaire FFTW4120SW
If you’re having problems with your Frigidaire FFTW4120SW washing machine, you may be experiencing a variety of common issues. From not spinning properly to leaking water and even failing to drain, these problems can quickly lead to frustration and anxiety.
- Experiences unbalance issues when washing smaller loads due to the agitator redistributing items to one side of the drum causing unbalanced problems during spin cycles even after replacing the suspension rods.
- Experiences frequent E3 and E5 error codes caused by a malfunctioning lid lock and unlevel load setting, respectively.
- Difficulty determining the right amount of water needed, causing the clothing to bunch up and often leak.
- Frequently stops working mid-cycle, and the company’s customer service is not easily accessible.
8. Midea
Midea has made our list of washing machine brands to avoid due to its poor reliability ratings, massive customer complaints, and general lack of quality engineering.
Midea MLV45N3BWW
- Difficulty getting assistance from the company and have reported delays in receiving service.
- Power issues and defective performance
- Loud noises when washing, and the agitator came off
- Clothes are not spinning, and the machine is not doing on cycles medium or higher, leaving clothes soaked.
- Reported internal leaks, error messages, power issues, and defective performance.
- Customers have reported dissatisfaction with the product and have not recommended it to others.
9. Haier
Haier is a leading brand in the washing machine market, offering superior technology and reliability to ensure that your laundry needs are met. With innovative features like eco-friendly operation and intuitive control systems, Haier is not immune to having a few flaws.
| Model | CR Rating |
|---|---|
| QFW150SSNWW | 75 |
Haier QFW150SSNWW
- Problems with vibration and noise during the spin cycle and the machine stopping and locking the door a few minutes into a load of laundry.
- Difficulty getting assistance from the company and reported delays in receiving service; they have been without a working machine for weeks.
- Problems with the installation service and have experienced water damage to their floor.
10. Magic Chef
Magic Chef is one of the washing machine brands that many consumers should avoid. The compact washers are great for small spaces but can have big problems. They are known to be unreliable and prone to mechanical issues.
Magic Chef MCSFLW27W
Magic Chef MCSFLW27W front-load compact washing machines have been popular, but some users have experienced difficulty with their front-load washers. These issues can be difficult to resolve without professional help and may require costly repairs.
- Problems with the spinner being off center, the machine being unable to be used and having to return it, and the machine being extremely noisy even on the lowest spin setting and taking a long time to wash.
- Poor warranty experience with the brand that it took them up to 3 months to fix the washer.
- Problems with the drain pump go out after regular use.
- Some customers report incidents where water pours out of the door during use.
11. Summit Appliance
Summit Appliance is another washing machine brand to avoid due to its poor performance and low customer ratings. The company has earned a negative reputation for producing unreliable washing machines requiring frequent repairs.
Additionally, Summit Appliance’s customer service is unhelpful, and their parts are difficult to find. As a result, many consumers have had difficulty getting their machines fixed or replaced when needed.
Summit SPWD2202W
The Summit SPWD2202W All-in-One washer and electric ventless dryer has good intentions but falls short of customer expectations. Made for small spaces like condos and apartments, the heat pump washer/dryer combo has left customers feeling dumped.
- Constantly fails to dry, errors out, gets stuck in a locked interface, and leaves clothes soaked.
- The machine is loud and has a high-pitched noise, and the drying cycle has an annoying high-pitched noise.
- The machine does not dry clothes all the way, leaving clothes damp after drying.
- Many buyers state they regret their purchase due to its poor performance.
12. Deco
Rounding out our list is another compact size front load washer, the Deco #1003929273.
- Poorly made plastic door hinges that break off easily.
- Some reviews indicate the machine leaks after two years of use.
- Some report difficulty getting service help from the website or customer service help at Deco.
How To Spot the Washing Machine Brands to Avoid
It’s not always easy to spot the washing machine brands to avoid. All brands can have a particular model that is a bad washer. Look for a brand that receives a lot of negative reviews. One bad apple can spoil the whole bunch.
The worst washers have a design flaw or some other issue that makes them repeatedly malfunction. This eliminates consumer confidence. If a model continues to be poorly received by consumers, this lets you know it is a bad buy, even if the marketing makes the product look quite good.
This is why, when researching the washing machine brands to avoid, there will be some general cons you will look for regardless of brand. Having a list of priorities and deal breakers helps you quality control what you walk away with at the appliance store.
Look for models with negative reviews compared to the company’s overall review profile. Look for washers with 4-star and 5-star reviews that total over 90% of the feedback.
1. It Doesn’t Clean Well
Soil levels are important in any energy-efficient type of washing machine. Despite its Energy Star rating, its failure to clean well is the number one deal-breaker for washing machines.
A common complaint with front loaders is that they don’t clean as well as the best top load washers. You want a machine carrying a cleaning job to the end without leaving laundry loads partially rinsed or soap stained.
2. Long Wash Times
It is a part convenience, part efficiency, that drives the purchase of a washing machine. You want a machine that will clean your dirty clothes in time for you to wear them the next day. However, you also want a machine that will not waste much energy or water with long wash cycles.
So for convenience and the value of home energy conservation, a washer with uncommonly long wash cycles or wash time will be a deal breaker for you.
3. Spin Cycle Malfunction
Several machines on the list of “worst” machines are called this because of bizarre spin-cycle malfunctions they can have. These machines tend to rock back and forth and vibrate violently. Therefore, it is advised to avoid brands that reviewers note have frequent spin-cycle mishaps.
4. Short Machine Life
Machines have a lifespan. Manufacturers’ warranties give insights into how long a machine can be expected to work well. For example, some washer models will have a considerably shorter machine life because of their design.
How To Select The Best Washers
Now that you know what you do not want in a washing machine, your next step is to make a list of outstanding features. Next, you can tick off boxes of downsides to narrow your search among great buys.
Then, you can be more customized in your search among good buys by knowing what makes a good washing machine. Finally, you can compare the best with your personal goals for the best user experience.
In general, you should look for the following things as indicators of good washing machine quality:
- Affordable
- A decent size, generally 24-27 inches
- Clear Energy Star label and a solid consumer energy consumption ranking
- Preset functions that consistently operate
Once you’ve cast out the worst washing machine models and narrowed down the nice-to-haves, you are almost ready to make a buying decision. Some additional guidelines will help you make your final choice.
- Refer to National Appliance Repair Reports.
- Compare reliability data from Consumer Reports.
- Check satisfactory guidelines.
- Plan your ultimate buy around your laundry room floor plan.
- Review lab test reviews for the best understanding of maximum clean efficiency.
According to Yale Appliance, an LG washer is one of the best washing machine brands you can buy.
Conclusion
Now that you have eliminated the washing machine brands to avoid and have some tips on picking the best washing machine, the next step and start researching which clothes dryer brands to avoid. Pairing the best with the best adds a boost of power to your laundry room and the long-term return on investment yield you get in it.
