Washing machines.(RATINGS)

Lower prices have helped traditional top-loaders outsell better-performing front-loaders. But the differences in washing ability have become more dramatic this year because of stricter energy standards. Indeed, for the first time in years, we can't call any washer a Best Buy because models that did a very good job getting laundry clean cost $1,000 or more. If your budget is limited, consider waiting for prices to come down. But if you need a washer now and can live with mediocre washing results, consider the top-loading Whirlpool WTW5540S[W], $400, or the front-loading Frigidaire LTF2940E[S] (Lowe's).

In our June 2007 report, we found that some top-loading washers left stain- soaked swatches nearly as dirty as before washing. Subsequent tests revealed that two models in a new line of high-capacity, high-efficiency General Electric front-loaders had significant enough performance issues for us to rate them Not Recommended.

Guide to the Ratings

Overall score is based primarily on washing ability, efficiency, capacity, and noise. We do not use special cycle or option buttons in our tests. Washing performance reflects the degree of color change to swatches of fabric that were included in an 8-pound test load of mixed cotton items using the machines' most aggressive normal cycle. Energy efficiency is based on the energy needed to heat the water for 8-pound and maximum loads using a warm wash and cold rinse. Water efficiency denotes how much water it took to wash our 8-pound load and each machine's maximum load. For top-loaders, capacity is based on how well the washer agitates increasingly large loads. For front-loaders, the score is based on our judgement of the maximum-size load that the washer holds. Models that earned lower scores for gentleness are more likely to treat your clothes roughly, causing wear and tear. Noise reflects judgments by panelists during the fill, agitate, and spin cycles. Cycle time is our measurements of the time, rounded to the nearest five minutes, to complete the most aggressive normal cycle. A stainless-steel tub is likely to be more durable than plastic or porcelain and can spin faster. Price is approximate retail.

Quick Picks

For better performance and efficiency:

22 Whirlpool Duet HT GHW9400P[W], $1,200