There are two general types of washing machines: those where you load the clothes into the top of the machine (top loaders), and those you load at the front (front loaders). Top-loaders are much more common in the U.S., and they're usually less expensive than front-loaders. However, front-loaders are more energy efficient.

If you're buying a top-loader, you can choose between the traditional model, which employs a central agitator, and the "high-efficiency" top-loader, which doesn't. Traditional top-loaders are probably the easiest to operate, and the most versatile. They use a lot of water, which could be a factor if you live where water is expensive, but they're the least expensive option in terms of initial cost. High-efficiency top-loaders can usually handle larger loads, and some people feel that they do a better cleaning job, but they can be expensive, and can sometimes tangle clothing.

Front-loaders are often found in laundromats. They're built for heavy use; they clean clothes efficiently; and their spin cycles extract a lot of water. They tend to be quieter than top-loaders, and more space-efficient, but vibration can be an issue. They can also be difficult to interrupt in mid-cycle.

A compact washer might be a good solution if your space is limited and you typically wash small loads (less than 12 pounds).

Today, many special features are available for washing machines, including automatic dispensing of detergent, bleach, and fabric softeners, an extra rinse cycle, programmable time delay, steam cleaning, and digital controls.

Finally, keep in mind that washing machines are often impractical or very difficult to move. Generally, if you don't expect to be in your house for a long time, don't spend much on major appliances. If this is where you'll be for many years, go for a fully featured, energy-efficient model.

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