11 Best Front Load Washing Machines in Australia for 2025
An impressed shopper says their new front loader makes washing 'almost effortless'—turning one of the hardest chores into a breeze.
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Front loader washing machines have been slowly replacing top loaders as Australia's preferred unit, with many favouring the larger drum capacity options, better efficiency ratings (hello, cheaper running costs) and gentler garment care.
Plus, you don't always need to spend big to get decent budget options available.
We've got our eye on the LG 10kg Front Load Washer (WV5-1410W), is a classic that you can trust, combining smart features with powerful performance such as AI Direct Drive technology, where it automatically detects fabric types and optimises wash motions for the best clean. Priced at just $888, it’s well worth it!
Searching for a good deal? Snag $511 off the Electrolux 10kg Front Load Washing Machine with SensorWash ($988, down from $1499). Designed for modern homes, this machine takes the hassle out of washing with SensorWash™ technology, automatically adjusting settings for the best clean every time.
You can also score a huge $579 off the Bosch 10kg/5kg Combo Washer Dryer (now $1520, down from $2099) leaving clothes "so clean and fluffy".
So, what should you look for? There are plenty of clever settings that experts such as Westinghouse Product Manager for Fabric and Dish Care Matthew Jaber say are a must-have for convenience.
He recommends looking for models with a “variety of programs” – like handy fast washes – and 'eco' programs that “use lower water volume and temperature to save on energy while still cleaning your garments to an amazing standard”.
RELATED: Best clothes dryers to buy in Australia
Whether you’re looking for for a new washing machine that can be controlled via your smartphone, something that lets you throw in items you’ve accidentally missed once it’s running or an all-rounder budget model, we’ve compiled a buying guide of some of the top-rated front loader washing machines to help you find the best option for your laundry room, your specific needs and your budget.
Note to readers: energy star ratings and water ratings are rated from one to six stars.
OUR TOP PICKS
BEST OVERALL FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINES
LG 10kg Front Load Washer, $888 at The Good Guys
LG Series 10kg Front Load Washing Machine
What You Need To Know
For an all-rounder, this LG front load washer (WV5-1410W) offers a great balance between size, price and power. Plus, it’s ideal for anyone wanting a washing machine with plenty of program options for a tailored clean but can’t quite figure out which setting to use. This takes the guesswork out by detecting the load weight and fabric softness, before automatically choosing the wash motion the machine thinks would be the most appropriate.
The LG front loader also packs 12 programs and a hefty 10kg capacity that makes washing bulky items like curtains and bedding a breeze. It also comes with decent efficiency ratings to help reduce water and energy consumption (which is good news for your utility bills in the long run).
For those households that struggle with allergies, this washing machine comes with an Allergy Care cycle and Steam function that can work together to help minimise contact between your garments and common household allergens.
“This is, hands down, my favourite washing machine ever! The 10kg capacity has seen us go from five loads a day to one," raved one shopper.
“I can put the wash on after the kids have all gone to bed and not worry about it sounding like a helicopter is taking off in the house and no annoying beeping. Clothes are so clean and smell fresh.”
Westinghouse 10kg Front Load Washer, $999 at the The Good Guys
Westinghouse 10kg Front Load Washer
What You Need To Know
Finding a large front load washing machine can be difficult since water and energy ratings typically decline as the size increases – which isn’t great for your hip pocket, including when you pay upfront at the checkout and in bills long-term.
But this Westinghouse front loader (WWF1044M7WA) has good efficiency ratings and a relatively reasonable price tag compared to other washers offering the same generous 10kg capacity. It’s loaded with a versatile selection of 15 programs, such as Anti-Allergy, Extra Dirty, Drain and Spin, Machine Clean, Fast 15 and Daily 39. You can also expect several wash settings, including Plus Hygiene which uses water vapour to neutralise common household allergens and bacteria.
“I love the fact that due to its size and the options of quick washes, I can get my washing done so fast. I also love the extra dirty wash (setting); it gets things so clean without having to pre soak and spray,” a happy reviewer posted.
“Extremely simple to use, great range of wash settings. The 15 minute fast wash is great for last minute emergencies and the full 10kg load makes light work of the weekly washing basket,” another wrote.
Westinghouse 9kg Front Load Washer, $727 (down from $849) at The Good Guys
Westinghouse 9kg Front Load Washer
What You Need To Know
While efficiency star ratings typically decline as the washer capacity increases, this family-size Westinghouse unit (WWF9024M5WA) doesn’t let size become a problem. It’s also fairly budget friendly compared to other 9kg front loaders, with many models costing at least $1200.
It’s loaded with 15 programs to suit most laundry needs, such as Fast 15, Extra Dirty, Gym Wear and Eco Cotton. There are also wash cycles like Plus Hygiene, start delay, soak and quick wash to further tailor the cycle.
“Total game changer. Quiet and effective. Lots of cycle options including a quick one when I realise at 12pm I haven’t washed my shirt for tomorrow. And its saving me money on water and electricity,” praised a reviewer.
“Do yourself a favour. Don't hesitate and just get it.”
BEST AFFORDABLE FRONT LOADER WASHING MACHINE
Westinghouse 7.5kg Front Load Washer, $545 at The Good Guys
Westinghouse 7.5kg Front Load Washer
What You Need To Know
Sometimes having tonnes of features can be overwhelming and end up being unnecessary, so it’s great to see Westinghouse (WWF7524N3WA) offer a practical middle ground with this 7.5kg front loader washing machine. It includes quick wash settings like Fast 15 and Daily 39, along with a delay end option so you can plan when your load finishes. The budget-friendly washing machine also lets you pause mid-wash and add any items you might have accidentally missed, similar to other much pricier front loaders. And if you have limited space, the model has a space-saving design to suit a small laundry room.
“Surprisingly slim fit and well designed aesthetically,” a customer posted on the Westinghouse website.
“The cycles are quiet. The spin cycle is very powerful and a tad loud but clothes come out reasonably dry which has saved on drying time. All up I would happily recommend this product.”
Haier 7.5kg Front Load Washer, $599 at The Good Guys
Haier 7.5kg Front Load Washer
What You Need To Know
For a mid-range option, Haier (HWF75AW3) offers a wide range of home appliances at wallet-friendly prices worth checking out. This front loader comes with decent energy and water efficiency ratings, plus the usual 15 versatile wash cycles in pricier models so you can still cater to variety of needs.
Shoppers say the Haier machine is "great value", "easy to use" and offers "ample wash cycle choices", with many particularly loving the 15-minute quick wash cycle.
"Speedy delivery, easy to install and super easy to use. Much quieter than our previous washing machine too. We love it," raved a reviewer.
"This machine is easy to use even for a novice, the quick cycle is great and cleans it well even on that cycle! Easy to set up and keep clean. I would recommend this to anyone in the market for a washer very good value for money and good features!" another posted.
BEST PREMIUM SMART FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINES
ASKO 8kg Style Front Load Washing Machine, $2999 at The Good Guys.
ASKO 8kg Style Front Load Washer
What You Need To Know
This ASKO washing machine (W6088X) is a triple threat – thanks to its cold and hot water connections, which is ideal if you want to save water and electricity, and five-star energy and water ratings. The washing machine also packs a BLDC motor, which is said to be energy efficient and quiet, as well as a compact size that makes it great for homes with limited space.
The ASKO front loader (W6088X) additionally uses a Pro Wash system to ensure a thorough clean, by distributing water and detergent from the bottom of the drum and sending it to the top via the inlets so the detergent can be sprayed from above. You can also expect a wide array of programs to suit various laundry needs.
Unlike most other washing machines, this front loader replaces the standard rubber door with a Steel Seal door. This is said to reduce the risk of grime and mould build-up, allowing for a more hygienic wash and less maintenance.
BEST FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE FOR BIG FAMILIES
Fisher & Paykel 10kg Front Load Washer, $1249 at The Good Guys
Fisher & Paykel 10kg Front Load Washer
What You Need To Know
Ever wanted those fancy drying cabinets that refresh your clothes but couldn't justify the splurge? This Fisher and Paykel model (WH1060P4) comes with a Steam Refresh setting to de-wrinkle clothes and get rid of odours within 20 minutes, plus the usual front loader settings. Talk about upgrading an old machine.
This washer also includes the ever convenient Add a Garment function to throw in last-minute items after the cycle has started. It additionally has a few handy features to make maintenance easier, such as an anti-fungal door gasket and excess foam detection
"We were replacing a 7.5kg Fisher & Paykel (washing machine) and were pleased to find that this one doesn't take up much more space, is whisper quiet and has loads of extra features. I like the easy iron function, delay start and key lock," an impressed reviewer posted on The Good Guys website.
"The size has cut down noticeably on the number of loads per week we do per week. Premium delivery service is well worth it, all installed and the old one taken away with no fuss."
"I especially like that I can save my favourite settings so I’m not pressing multiple options every morning - daily wash really is just a one stop button now. The machine is very quiet, even the ending of the cycle (a difference from my previous one which had a little tune to signal the end). This has take some getting used to but it’s no deal breaker," another shopper wrote.
BEST ENERGY EFFICIENT FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINES
Fisher & Paykel 9kg Front Load Washer, $999 at The Good Guys
Fisher & Paykel 9kg Front Load Washer
What You Need To Know
This family-friendly size front load washing machine (WH9060J3) has nine wash cycles to suit everything from intimates to sturdy corduroy, and an easy to use digital control panel. Forget to throw the kids’ uniforms in the wash the night before? Fisher & Paykel’s Vortex Wash function means most cycles take less than an hour, although you can opt for a quick 30-minute setting when you’re in a pinch. The front load washer also SmartDrive technology, which automatically tailors the energy and water levels suit your laundry needs based on the load size detected.
“Never thought I would own a front loader but now would never go back to a top loader washer,” a happy shopper posted on The Good Guys website.
“Very quiet and so many functions to choose from and nice how it heats its own water. Spins to nearly dry. Very happy with my purchase.”
ASKO 8kg Logic Front Load Washer, $2399 at The Good Guys
ASKO PF 8kg Logic Front Load Washer
What You Need To Know
Another energy and water efficient washer is this one from ASKO (W4086PW). It boasts an impressive five-star rating for both water and energy efficiency, and a whopping 22 programs to cater different laundry needs. This includes allergy-friendly programs for cottons and synthetics, making it great for anyone with allergies. The model is also Sensitive Choice approved! And if something doesn't fit quite right, you can create your own wash program.
“Love this machine. It has everything I need. It’s built well, cycles don’t take forever and a day and everything comes out clean. Pro Wash is amazing and the spin cycle leaves everything almost dry!” praised a customer.
“I was dubious about buying a front loader washing machine but have absolutely been converted since getting my ASKO Washer W4086PW,” raved another.
“It has a great selection of cycles and is very economical on water and you use less detergent than with my top loader which has been retired after many years of service. I had an issue with towels being a little hard but did some research and learned to put them on a slower spin - so far this is the only issue I have had which has been resolved.”
BEST QUIET FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE
Electrolux 10kg Front Load Washing Machine with SensorWash
What You Need To Know
Who says you need to sacrifice peace and quiet for extra washing capacity? This family size washer from Electrolux (EWF1042R7WB) can operate at just 52dBA, which is as loud as a standard hair dryer.
It has an extra large door opening so you can easily load and unload bulky items like doona covers and curtains, plus decent water and energy efficiency ratings that make this hefty appliance as cost effective as smaller models.
The Electrolux machine offers 15 programs, such as vapour refresh and energy saver, along with six spin speeds, an Add Clothes function, Wi-Fi connectivity, twin sensor wash technology and an LED drum light.
BEST FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE AND DRYER COMBO
Bosch Series 6 10kg/5kg Washer Dryer Combo, $1520 (down from $2099) at Appliances Online
Bosch Series 6 10kg/5kg Washer Dryer Combo
What You Need To Know
Retailing for around the same price point as a mid-range front loader, this Bosch washer dryer combo (WNA254U1AU) is one way to cut costs and use minimal floor space without having to sacrifice washing capacity. It has a few handy features including 11 programs, a SelfCleaning Condenser, automatic stain removal system with four options, and a large LED display with touch controls.
If you’re worried about having a noisy machine, this model has AntiVibration Side panels in addition to a brushless motor to minimise sound as well as add durability and efficiency.
“Our clothes have never been so clean and fluffy!” a happy reviewer posted.
“We live in an apartment with a teeny tiny laundry, so this was the perfect, upgrade from our old washing machine to this combined washer dryer which not only fits in a small space, but is super quiet. I love that there are so many functions, and how customisable they are. I think my one wish would be a slightly more straightforward manual, or some kind of cheat’s guide to using the machine as there is a lot to take in.”
WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A FRONT LOADER WASHING MACHINE
What makes the best washing machine is different for everyone. Here are a few factors we considered when compiling our list.
Load size
Load capacity or (load size) refers to how many kilograms' worth of dry clothes the internal drum can hold and clean. Most washing machines offer between 6kg and 9kg. The Good Guys recommends a 6kg front load washer for singles and couples, while a model with at least 8kg will be suitable for larger households with three or four people.
Matthew similarly recommends choosing a front load capacity based on the household size.
“The amount of people in your household or family directly determines the best-sized machine for you. If you’re on the fence about which model is the right choice, we recommend choosing the larger of two options, given your needs may increase into the future,” he said.
“For example, a family of five (or) six may need a 10kg plus capacity, versus a family with a newborn who are looking to purchase a smaller machine with around 8kg capacity.”
Features
As technology advances, brands are constantly adding more intelligent features in front load washers to help remove tough stains and effectively clean clothes whilst cut down wash time and water usage. But keep in mind a front load machine with lots of special cycles won't necessarily be better if they're left unused, so make sure you're getting your value for money and familiarise yourself with the different settings. Here are several wash wash cycles and functions you might want to make laundry easier.
- Extra large door: This makes it easy to load bulky bedding and larger laundry items like curtains and rugs.
- Auto water level sensing: Many washing machines now come with smart features specifically designed to detect the weight of the load or check how heavily soiled the items are and automatically change the settings accordingly to ensure efficient water and energy use. The feature varies between models, but auto sensors generally have the same goal of optimising the wash cycle to minimise unnecessary energy and water consumption by catering to the specific load's washing needs. There are different names for it, such as Fisher & Paykel's SmartDrive technology.
- Steam function: Some front load washing machines have a steam function, such as for sanitising clothes and and softening fabric fibres to reduce creases in your clothes. Steam can also be used for maintenance whenever you use the tub clean program.
Special wash cycles
A successful laundry day isn't just about cleaning dirty clothes, it's also about ensuring good fabric care. After all, no one wants to end up with shrunken pants, shirts with holes or clothing that has faded after just a few washes. Depending on the load type, you can optimise your wash results with special cycles like these.
- Delicates program: For washing machines without a dedicated woollens setting, you can use this wash cycle to clean delicate fabrics like wool, knits, cashmere and merino.
- Different rinse cycles: You can give your clothes an extra rinse by adding a bonus rinse cycle at different stages, such as the end when you're washing towels and want to make sure the front loader gets rid of any leftover detergent residue that might still be lurking.
- Quick washes: Save time with a quick load and finish your laundry in 15 or 20 minutes instead of an hour, but bear in mind these these shorter washes are generally limited to small loads of lightly soiled items.
- Allergen cycle: For those who have sensitive skin or allergies, you can find front load washers with anti-allergy or allergy care cycles specifically designed to any detergent and allergens like pet dander and dust mites from the fabrics. These often use a combination of very high temperatures and extra rinses.
HOW WE CHOOSE FRONT LOADER WASHING MACHINES
Our team of experienced writers spend hours researching products to include in articles. We find out what factors make a good product by talking to experts, reviewing test results and analysing thousands of customer reviews.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WHEN BUYING A FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINE
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN FRONT LOADERS AND TOP LOADERS?
Matthew says the biggest differences between the two washing machines are efficiency and convenience.
“Front-load washing machines are generally more efficient, using less water and energy which is handy for both your bills and the planet. Front loaders are also gentler on your clothes due to the tumbling action, giving your clothes a longer life,” he said.
“Top-loader washing machines brands generally have a larger drum which can be valuable to people with a high and regular volume of laundry."
“As well, the convenient design of a top-loader makes for easy loading and there’s always the benefit of being able to open the machine and add more items later in the cycle.”
WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF FRONT LOAD WASHING MACHINES?
Front load washers are seen as more water and energy efficient, and gentler when handling clothes.
Unlike traditional top load washing machines, front loaders use gravity to assist the cycle process, instead of relying on the constant motion of agitators or impellers to thoroughly wash clothes.
This helps save electricity and potentially results in lower running costs than top loaders, which is great for your utility bills in the long run. It also minimises the amount your garments rub against each other, ensuring less friction and wear and tear.
Front loading washing machines are also typically more expensive than top loaders, but there are still plenty of options to suit most budgets.
Plus, there are fewer models that let you add items after the wash cycle has started, although more brands are making this a standard feature in newer models.
Here are a few more benefits and disadvantages of buying a front loader:
Pros of a front load washing machine
+ Generally uses less water and electricity, making them more energy and water efficient compared to top loaders.
+ Tumbling action is seen as more gentle on garments and effective at cleaning tough stains.
+ More options available if you’re shopping for a large capacity washing machine.
+ These generally have higher efficiency ratings, which means lower electricity and water bills in the long run.
+ Clothes come out dryer compared to items washed in a top loader, helping cut down on drying time.
+ Can stack front loaders.
Cons of a front load washing machine
– Typically more expensive to buy upfront compared.
– Can be tiring or difficult to load and unload laundry.
WHAT IS AN ENERGY STAR RATING AND WATER EFFICIENCY STAR RATING?
Brands are legally required to display an Energy Rating Label to show consumers how much electricity a certain model uses compared to other products of the same type and capacity. That’s why most kinds of appliances – including dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, fridges and freezers – display an energy efficiency rating out of six stars and the number of kilowatts per hour the item consumes annually. Some exceptionally efficient models have a rating between seven and 10 stars.
The Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme is a similar Australian government initiative that compares the water efficiency of different products. The label will also usually list the flow rate and how many litres the machine uses per wash.
HOW TO LOOK AFTER YOUR WASHING MACHINE
Here are some of Westinghouse's expert tips on how to make your washing machine last for as long as possible:
- Avoid overloading and underloading your machine because it can affect the wash programs, which can cause your appliance to become unbalanced.
- Occasionally run the cleaning cycle to “keep your machine in excellent condition”, he said.
- Don’t forget to empty pockets since some items can damage your washing machine.
- Make sure you’re familiar with the wash care instructions.
- Separate clothes.
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