At a Glance
Best Washers Sorted by Capacity
Choosing the Right Washer Size and Capacity
Why Trust East Coast Appliance?
There are two factors to consider when shopping for a washing machine: the dimensions and the capacity.
The dimensions include the width, length, and height, and ensure the appliance will fit in your living space. The capacity is the amount your washer can hold. The larger the capacity, the more your washer can handle with each cycle.
Understanding washer capacity is essential for choosing the best appliance for your family. A washer that is too small can’t keep up with your needs, but buying a washer that is too big is wasteful. Use this guide to learn more about washer sizes so you can choose the best washer for your needs.
Find Your Perfect Washer Size
Selecting the right washer size and capacity is key to making laundry day more efficient. Visit East Coast Appliance today to explore a wide range of washers that suit your needs.
Shop WashersUnderstanding Washer Sizes
Washing machines typically come in five different sizes: compact, small, medium, large, and extra large.
This creates a diverse range of options for homeowners of different lifestyles. Here is a breakdown of the typical dimensions and capacities for each size category.
- Compact: These machines usually hold less than 2.0 cubic feet of laundry. They are a maximum of 27 inches wide, 36 inches high, and 25 inches deep.
- Small: These washers will usually hold between 2.0 and 4.0 cubic feet of laundry, but some can be smaller. Both small and medium washing machines will be around 27 inches wide, 40 inches high, and 32 inches deep.
- Medium: Most medium-capacity washers can hold between 4.0 and 4.5 cubic feet of laundry.
- Large: A large-capacity washing machine will hold more than 4.5 cubic feet of laundry but less than 5.0 cubic feet. These are usually around 30 inches wide, 40 inches high, and 35 inches deep.
- Extra Large: An extra-large capacity washer will hold more than 5.0 cubic feet. They are usually about the size of large-capacity models but could get even bigger.
Knowing different washer sizes can help you narrow your options when you are shopping for laundry appliances. You will only look at the models that specifically meet your needs.
→ Learn More: The Best Washer and Dryer Brands
Best Washers Sorted by Capacity
When choosing a washer, capacity is crucial in ensuring your laundry needs are met efficiently. In this guide, we've ranked the top washers based on their capacity, helping you find the perfect model for large loads and busy households.
Small Capacity Washers
These washers are ideal for smaller households, condos, or living areas with limited space. They still allow homeowners to have washing machines even if they don’t have dedicated laundry areas.
Bosch 300 Series 2.2 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
Shop Bosch 300 Series 2.2 Cu. Ft. Front Load Washer
This is a great example of a small-capacity washer that still meets the needs of luxury shoppers.
With Bosch washers, you’ll enjoy 40% faster performance than the competition, ensuring quick and efficient laundry cycles.
This could be a good fit if you prefer to wash multiple small loads of laundry – sorting your delicates, whites, and unique items – instead of a few large loads each week. The EcoSilence motor also keeps the appliance quiet.
⭐Featured Bosch Washer #WGA12400UC Review:
"This washer is one of the quietest I've owned. It is easy to configure wash settings with the large knob in the middle. I've tried half a dozen options so far."
Compact Portable Washers
These washers are made for people who live in apartments and tiny homes, or for frequent movers. They are ideal for spaces where owning a washer and dryer seems impossible. Some people even install compact washers in their RVs.
Whirlpool 1.6 Cu. Ft. White Compact Top Load Washer
Shop Whirlpool 1.6 Cu. Ft. Compact Top Load Washer
This compact portable Whirlpool washer would be an asset to any home. It is designed to be rolled into place and connects to your sink.
When you aren’t using it, you can tuck your washer back into your closet or bathroom. It is an impeller model that doesn’t have a traditional agitator.
This is meant to increase the storage capacity without increasing the dimensions.
⭐Featured Whirlpool Washer #WTW2000HW Review:
"The top-load washer is so easy to load without an agitator being in the way. I've noticed the clothes come out so clean. I enjoy being able to choose a setting without having to go through the entire wash cycle."
→ Learn More: Maytag vs Whirlpool Washers Compared
Medium Capacity Washers
Medium washers are ideal for average-sized households. Couples and small families can use these washers easily and might prefer medium-size models to break up their laundry loads. These appliances will also fit in most spaces.
Maytag 3.8 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
Shop Maytag 3.8 Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer
With a medium load capacity, this Maytag washer still accommodates a generous amount of clothing. Choose from 12 cycles, including a Quick Wash and deep soak for tougher stains.
If you aren’t sure which cycle to choose, use the auto-sensing option, which will pick the cycle for you. Then, let the washer do the work.
⭐Featured Maytag Washer #MVWC465HW Review:
"The quietest washing machine I have ever owned. I love the automatic fill! No more guessing how big my load of laundry is and wasting water!"
Large Capacity Washers
These models are designed for larger households or those with heavy-duty laundry needs. For example, someone who works in the medical field or who handles animals throughout the day might need to wash durable clothes or work uniforms each week. Families with many kids can always benefit from a little extra capacity.
GE 4.8 Cu. Ft. Satin Nickel Smart Front Load Washer
Shop GE 4.8 Cu. Ft. Satin Nickel Smart Front Load Washer
This large-capacity washing machine from GE proves you can still get a front-load washer without sacrificing storage. This is a beautifully designed model that is also packed with features. The SmartDispense™ option will automatically add detergent for up to 32 loads. The built-in Wi-Fi also makes it easy to choose different cycles and settings.
⭐Featured GE Washer #GFW650SPNSN Review:
"Far more quiet than my old machine. Clothes are much cleaner, too. I absolutely love the auto detergent dispenser. So convenient."
→ Learn More: Can You Really Buy a Quiet Washing Machine?
Extra-Large Capacity Washers
Extra-large capacity washers are suitable for large families or those with extensive laundry needs. They are optimal for people who prefer to wash large loads to get their laundry done with instead of breaking garments into smaller loads based on their washing needs. Most extra-large capacity washers can comfortably fit king-size comforters, so your bedding needs are accommodated.
LG Signature 5.8 Cu. Ft. Black Stainless Steel Front Load Washer
Shop LG Signature 5.8 Cu. Ft. Front Load Washer
This is an elite extra-large capacity washer. There are 15 different cycles to choose from and an AI sensor to help choose your settings for you.
You can monitor your LG washer through the ThinQ app and receive alerts when your laundry is done. The TurboWash® technology leads the industry and provides a deeper cleaning experience.
⭐Featured LG Washer #WM9500HKA Review:
"It is so nice to have an appliance you never have to even think about. It just works and has flawlessly for more than six years. It looks great next to the matching dryer."
Choosing the Right Washer Size and Capacity
Selecting the right washer size can be tricky because laundry needs vary by household. To start, ask yourself, “What is a large load of laundry?” If you tend to pack your washer full, a large-capacity model may be the best fit. On the other hand, if you prefer smaller loads, a compact washer might suit you better.
Key factors to consider are your laundry habits, available space, household size, and how often you do laundry. For example, someone living alone won’t need as much capacity as a family with kids. However, if you tend to let laundry pile up, a larger washer could save you time, regardless of how much laundry you typically have.
Finally, think about resale value. A large-capacity washer can appeal to future buyers, making it a smart investment if you plan to leave it behind when moving.
Washer Capacity and Load Size
Washer capacity measures how many clothes an appliance can fit at once. The larger the capacity, the bigger the load size. A large load of laundry could fill an extra-large capacity washer, filling more than 5.0 cubic feet of space.
When evaluating the dimensions and capacity of a washer, know that capacity measures what is inside while the dimensions are related to the exterior of the appliance.
Top Load vs. Front Load Washers
When someone asks for a washing machine load size chart, they often wonder whether the type of washer makes a difference. Some people believe buying a top-load washing machine will give them more room to work with, but this is a myth.
Both top-load and front-load washing machines come in various capacity sizes. You can just as easily find an extra-large capacity front-load washer as a top-load one.
The main difference between the two is that front-load washers use less water. This is great for homeowners that want to maximize efficiency, but isn’t right for everyone. Some people might prefer top-load models if they enjoy soaking their clothes before washing them.
Explore Different Washer Sizes at East Coast Appliance
The various washer sizes available allow you to choose laundry appliances that meet your needs. A small apartment dweller can find a washer just as easily as a large family.
Knowing your size and capacity options can help you narrow your appliance search so you will be happy with the washer you receive.
Visit East Coast Appliance to compare washers and dryers and sizes. Our helpful sales staff can help you review your options and explore different brands. Visit one of our large showrooms to understand how washer sizes can vary and let us help you measure different models to confirm they will fit in your home.
Why Trust East Coast Appliance?
Locally owned and operated since 1988, East Coast Appliance is the largest independent appliance dealer in Virginia. We sell it ALL — from new name-brand appliances to scratch-and-dent appliances to our refurbished ones. Aside from our huge selection of every major brand and everyday low prices, what sets us apart from our competitors is that we service what we sell and that we are locally owned and operated with factory-trained associates. And if you’re local, great news: East Coast Appliance is committed to providing the absolute lowest prices on the same available brand and model —bring in the ad of the local retail competitor while the lower price is in effect, and you'll receive your price match.
Shop Washing Machines at East Coast
There is a reason we are dubbed “The Discount King” — for unbeatable deals, shop laundry online at East Coast Appliance. Our friendly associates are always happy to help you find the best washer for your home, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by one of our showrooms to see why we are the best appliance store in Virginia. Visit us today!