Washing Machine Buying Guide

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Washing machines are an essential part of the home. Explore our selection of washer types like stackable washer and dryers, front loaders, and top loaders to discover which washing machine will work best for you.

Shopping for a New Washing Machine

We offer a variety of washing machines to suit all of your needs. From front-load to stackable washer and dryers, you'll find the best washer for you and your family in no time. Shop in-store or online for the top brands and best prices.

Considerations When Buying a Washing Machine

Modern laundry room with a front loading washing machine and dryer.

Size of Living Space

The size of your living space is something to take note of. For instance, if you live in an apartment, a stackable washer and dryer saves space, while a larger home can manage with a side-by-side set-up. Be sure to measure twice and buy once. Have a measurement of the following dimensions before purchasing: height, depth, width, and combined width.

Note: When measuring depth, allow for a 3 inch to 4 inch gap behind the washing machine for plumbing.

Mother handing a teddy bear to her daughter in front of front loading washing machine and dryer.

Size of Family

The size of your family and the number of people using your washing machine should directly affect the size of your washer. An important rule of thumb: generally, the more people, the more laundry. A small washer is 2 to 3 cubic feet and can hold roughly 8 pounds of clothes; a mid-sized washer is 3 to 4 cu. ft. holding roughly 11 lbs of laundry, while a large washer is 4+ cu. ft and can hold 15+ lbs. A family of four may need a large washer, while a couple may only need a small to mid-sized washer.

Stainless steel front loading washing machine with door open

Washing Machine Capacity

While the size of washers is often a good measure of capacity, every unit is different in what it can actually accommodate. The amount of laundry a unit can handle - the number of pounds it can properly clean per load - is specific to the model:

Mid to large sized top-load washers: 10 - 15 lbs per load.
HE top-load washers: 12 - 18 lbs per load.
HE front-load washers: 12 -20 lbs per load.

Types of Washing Machines

Depending on your budget, preferences, and needs, there are four different types of washing machines to choose from.

Stackable Washers & Dryers

Stackable Washers and Dryers are a great way to save space when you live in tight quarters. Front-load washing machines are ideal when you're stacking.

Tip: Make sure to pick up a stacking kit to ensure the safest setup.

SHOP ALL STACKABLE WASHERS

Stainless steel front load washing machine

Front Load Washers

The HE front-load washer is the most efficient. The single direction, horizontal drum washer requires less high-efficiency soap and water than top-load washers and operates more quietly. Because the front-load washer can accommodate more clothing in less space than traditional top-loaders and has drum orientation, it is more effective at cleaning. It is the most expensive model of washer.

SHOP FRONT-LOAD WASHERS

Top Load Washer (HE)

HE top-load washers have the same top loading position but function differently. High-efficiency washers do not have the centre agitator, meaning there is more space for clothing. They also use specialized high-efficiency detergent designed to clean clothes with less water. HE washers have a higher spin cycle that allows them to separate more water from the clothing, reducing drying time. They are typically the mid-price model because, while being more efficient than traditional top-loaders, they require more water to complete a load than the front-load washer.

SHOP TOP-LOAD (HE) WASHERS

Top Load Washer

Top-load washing machines are the traditional style of washer and are the most commonly purchased. They use a vertically-facing drum that spins back and forth and a centre agitator to help clean. These models are easy to load and, while often lower in cost, are typically less efficient and can handle less clothing per load. Also, depending on your height, it could be difficult to unload your laundry with this type of washer.

SHOP TOP-LOAD WASHERS

Washing Machine Features to Consider

Wi-Fi Enabled

Complete your smart home with a Wi-Fi-enabled washing machine. Receive notifications directly to your smartphone or tablet so you can get your laundry done in a flash.
Double Wash

Wash two loads at once. Newer washing machine models come with a second compartment, either on top or near the bottom of the machine, which allows you to wash a second, smaller load of laundry.
Quiet Operation

While noise level isn't something you can test in store, front-load washers operate more quietly than top load washers. Machines transfer less vibration when on a pedestal, which can lead to reduced noise. Look for models of washing machines that come with LoDecibel Operation and Vibration Reduction modes.
Self-Cleaning

Let the washing machine do all the work, including cleaning itself. Some washing machines have a self-cleaning cycle that cleans out mould and other bacteria.
Automatic Detergent Dispensers

Washers with dispensary drawers regulate how much detergent, bleach, or fabric softener is used per wash depending on what setting your washer is on. This option takes the guesswork out of washing clothes and provides consistent results.
Wash Cycle
Standard washers are usually equipped with four washing options: normal, delicate, heavy duty, and permanent press. While these options are essential, many washers now come equipped with additional wash cycles like:
- Pre-wash: Extending wash time allowing clothing to soak, loosening dirt and grime from deeply soiled clothing.
- Steam: Uses steam to penetrate deep stains, specifically oils and stubborn stains.
- Bulky Wash: Uses more water to thoroughly soak large items.
Wash Temperature

Typically, the standard washer temperatures are: hot for whites and linens, warm for permanent press items (most commonly used), and cold for specialty garments and colours. Advanced models come with more specific temperature settings for a wider variety of garments and fabrics. Some models even have digital thermostats that let you set your water temperature to the degree. These options are extremely helpful for delicate items with specific washing instructions.
Spin Cycle

The spin cycle is the final cycle your washer goes through to remove excess water from clothes. Usually, washers spin at around 600 to 650 revolutions per minute (RPM) during the spin cycle, while high-efficiency models spin in excess of 2000 RPM, removing more water and decreasing drying time.

We'll Install it for You

We offer installation of most major appliances. Some installers will schedule an appointment to visit your home to measure the space and path where your washer will be installed. On delivery day, installers will disconnect your existing washer and hook up your new washer to existing electrical and plumbing lines.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR INSTALLATION SERVICES