Shopping For A New Washing Machine? Here Are Features You Don't Want To Miss Out On

Shopping for a new washing machine is a big task, whether you've got a big budget to work or if you're trying to find quality washing machines under $500. For some people, the shopping process may be exciting, but others will feel daunted by the array of options. Sure, you want to find something that looks nice and works well, but how do you know what features will actually suit your needs? 

Well, once you've finished looking over the most reliable washing machine brands in 2025 and narrowed down your choices, it's time to examine which aspects of each machine best fit your specific lifestyle and family.  All the bells and whistles may be nice, but most of the time, they are just icing on the cake. Before you start looking at all the extra settings and fancy functions, make sure you consider everyday features that impact usability and efficiency. The most important parts that you don't want to miss out on are the ones that simplify use and work best for your family — like depth, capacity, noise level, and energy rating.

With so many features to look for, it can be easy to forget about the most basic feature: cycles. Check every potential washer to make sure it has all the cycles you plan to use in your home. Of course, most washers will have cycles like heavy duty, normal, and delicates, but keep an eye out for extras like whites, bulky items, or permanent press. You may also want to consider a washer with a pre-wash cycle. It may not sound like much, but this lesser-known washing machine setting could revolutionize your laundry routine.

Many modern washers come with automatic dispensers that can simplify your laundry routine and improve efficiency. Also known as "auto-dosing," this feature is beneficial because it reduces human error; dispensing the same amount of detergent for each load, no matter how much you accidentally pour in. This saves money on wasted detergent and can help clothes last longer. 

The venting system in your washing machine can mean the difference between a good and a bad laundry experience. A venting system is designed to circulate the air through the machine to remove moisture after a cycle. While most washers have a form of venting system, some have specialty systems meant to kill mildew and absorb odors. For instance, some GE models come with an "UltraFresh Vent System with OdorBlock," while Maytag offers a "Fresh Hold" option that keeps fresh air circulating – allowing forgotten clothes to smell clean for up to 24 hours. 

One of the most common complaints customers have about their washing machines is the noise level. If noise is a concern, check the decibel rating before purchasing a new washer, which is usually found on the energy label. A rating between 40 and 55 for wash cycles and 70 for spin cycles is generally considered quiet. You can also read online reviews or check noise and vibration ratings from professional product testers like Consumer Reports. 

You wouldn't want to spend your entire washing machine budget on a fancy new unit just to find out it can only handle half of your washing needs. Larger households will want to look for a washer that can handle larger loads, but even a single-person household may want to consider a large-capacity washer if you have bulky items you need to wash regularly, such as bedding. Just make sure you can comfortably reach clothes inside the drum without straining your back!

Energy usage is another big feature to pay attention to when you are shopping for a new washing machine. Not only does energy usage have an impact on the environment, but it also has an impact on your monthly operation costs. A washer either labeled high efficiency (HE) or a washer that is Energy Star certified will use less water and power than standard washers, without a dip in performance. 

Washing machines with auto sensors are designed to automatically determine the weight of the load and fill the drum with the exact right amount of water. This helps conserve water and prolong the life of the machine. While sensors aren't one of the most common issues in a washing machine, check the ratings before buying. A faulty sensor could lead to serious issues, like overfilling or your washing machine's drum not filling with water.

Smart connectivity features are one of the most advertised features on modern washers. While some features are more for show, many smart features can improve the usability of the washing machine, especially for busy individuals and families. Some common features include specialty cycle suggestions,  maintenance alerts, family notifications, and voice controls, but one of the best features of a smart washer is the ability to schedule and track a load — even if you aren't at home. 

If you settle on a top-load washer, you may want to consider a model with a removable agitator if you run a lot of delicates or bulky items. One of the benefits of a top-load washer is usually a larger capacity, which is helpful for big items like comforters. However, the agitator can get in the way or even cause damage, such as tearing or stretching. For delicates, things can get caught on the agitator and be destroyed. Having a removable agitator prevents damage and provides a gentler wash cycle.

Steam cleaning is a function that will usually cost you a little more, but provides peace of mind when it comes to bacteria. The benefit of steam cleaning is not overall cleaning power, but in sanitation. Steam cleaning can remove allergens or sanitize bedding and garments that have been soiled. It can also prevent wrinkles, care for delicate fabrics, and conserve water. So while it may not be more effective at removing stains or dirt than a normal wash, it can be a great option for people with allergies, pets, or children.

Automatic temperature control features are designed to help maintain the quality of your fabric by adjusting the temperature of the water as it enters your machine. Machines are generally equipped with cold, warm, and hot water temperature options that use your household water heater to input water from the cold or hot intake. Temperature control features include a temperature sensor that adjusts the intake from each valve to keep the temperature at a consistent level for the desired load type. 

Self-cleaning is a feature that isn't always included as a standard feature for washers, but it has been gaining popularity in high-efficiency washers. Why? Because a self-cleaning feature could be the answer to a mold-free washing machine. Mold can cause irritating conditions that you may be blaming on your detergent, like itching and sneezing. When there is mold in the washer, the spores can get on your clothes and trigger a response. It can be beneficial to run a self-cleaning cycle once per month to remove odors and prevent mold and mildew.