The 5 Best washing machine for hard water USA in 2024 (Buyer’s Guide & Reviews)

Hard water is good for human consumption because of the essential mineral contents, but it can be a nuisance when it comes to your laundry. The scum created by the hard water and the detergent will make your clothes look grimy. 

Your washing machine will be the most hit. Accumulated salts and minerals form an insulation layer on your heating unit, which makes it overheat. The result is a damaged washing machine even before your warranty expires. 

You can protect your machine with white vinegar and water softeners, but sometimes, that’s impossible. Forgetting regular cleansing and maintenance can cost you heavily. 

In most areas in the USA, you have no choice but to use hard water. But the water doesn’t have to break your washing machine. We have unique types that endure the salts. Once you soften your water and use descales, your washer will live longer. Don’t toggle your mind! We have all that information in this guide.

Bosch WTG86401UC is our best washing machine for hard water USA. Its unique features include a stainless-steel tub and a ventless dryer. The washer spins relatively fast and is powerful to withstand hard water.

At A Glance! List Of the 5 best washing machine For Hard Water in the USA.

1. Bosch WTG86401UC-Best washing machine for hard water USA (BEST OVERALL)
2. Samsung WF42H5000AW-Best Samsung washing machine for hard water (Best Overall, Front Loading)
3. Kenmore 25132 Top-Load Washer-Best washer for hard water (Best Triple Action Impeller) 
4. hOmeLabs Portable Washing Machine-Best portable washing machine for hard water (Best Budget)
5.  LG WM3488HW- LG washing machine for hard water (Best Front Loader)

Comparison Table

Features	Bosch WTG86401UC 24	HOmeLabs	LG WM3488HW	Samsung WF42H5000AW	Kenmore 25132
Weight	100 pounds	44.1 Pounds	150 Pounds	192 Pounds	134 pounds
Capacity	4.0 Cu. Ft	0.9 Cubic Feet	2.3 cu. ft.	4.2 Cubic Feet	4.3 cu. ft
Style	Front Load	Top Load	Front Load	Front Load	Top Load
Color	White	White	White	White	White
Material type	Stainless steel	Stainless steel	Stainless steel	Stainless steel	Stainless steel
Dimensions	23.62 x 25 x 33.46 inches	17.7 x 18.1 x 31.5 inches	25.5 x 24 x 33.5 inches	33 x 27 x 38 inches	27.8 x 27.5 x 43 inches
Voltage	240 Volts	120 Volts	120 volt	–	120 Volts
Wash cycles	15	5	–	8	16
Price	Click here	Click here	Click here	Click here	Click here

What Is Hard Water?

Hard is water that has a high percentage of dissolved minerals and salts. These minerals and salts include calcium, magnesium, lime, and chalk. 

When it rains, the water is soft, meaning that it doesn’t have minerals, but when it gets on the earth’s surface, it gets mixed with the minerals, making it hard. 

Is Hard Water Bad For Washing Machines?

Hard water is bad for your washing machine. It leads to the accumulation of limescale on the heating unit. The buildup becomes an insulator causing the heating unit to overheat. Overheating the heating unit can lead to premature machine breakdown.

Impact of Hard Water on Your Laundry

Hard water makes your clothes look dingy due to mineral deposits. This is because of the film and soap scum created by the minerals. The reaction of minerals and soap causes scum. 

Why Is Washing Machines With Hard Water Filter Important?

A washing machine with a hard water filter is important because it passes the hard water through a filtration process, which removes all the minerals from the laundry water. 

The filtration process safeguards your machine heating system from damage; however, it is important to note that there are specifically no washing machines with an inbuilt hard water filter. 

The filter comes separately, and you attach it to the water tap before your washing machine’s faucet connector.

The 5 Best Washing Machines For Hard Water In 2023 (Product Reviews)

Do you live in hard water areas? You probably have had several damaged household electrical appliances due to accumulated limescale from hard water. You are even looking forward to replacing your old washing machine. 

The question lingering right now in your mind is, what is the best washing machine for hard water? It can be intimidating if you are new in the laundry appliances. To get the best washing machine for hard water, you require an exclusive guide to help you make quick and informed decisions. 

In this simple and straightforward guide, our team of specialists has elaborated for you the five best washing machines for hard water in 2021. Keep reading!

1. Bosch WTG86401UC-Best washing machine for hard water

If you are looking for a Bosch washing machine for hard water, Bosch WTG86401UC is a perfect choice. It is one of the best washing machines for hard water that we have around because of its internal self-cleaning ability. You need to add a cup (118 ml) of white vinegar to your laundry, and all the limescale comes out with the hot water cycle.

The compact condensation drier and washer combo series are made of stainless steel tub. With a capacity of four cubic feet, your family’s soiled clothes will be taken care of efficiently.

For maximum protection against hard water, the washer also goes well with a water filter to fish out all hard water mineral components before getting into the tub. With Bosch technology, a damaged washing machine heating system will be a thing behind your back.

Talk of perfect color. This washer comes in a sparkling pure white color, making it a perfect color design match for most of your home appliances. The white color is ideal for spotting traces of scum and dirt. It’s also easier for you to take note of and do the necessary cleaning. 

The four-inch 500 Bosch series is a technology by the famous German Bosch brand. Bosch brand is known for its sturdy home appliances that match the manufacturer’s warranty. 

This machine is a double win with its wide array of features from the European style see-through door to LED door ring display. The reversible door lets you access the tub from both the left and right sides.

With the Bosch WTG86401UC, noise is a thing of the past. Its anti-vibration circular walls reduce violent vibrations and offer you maximum serenity.

The washer is the best washing machine for hard water because of the powerful spin motion, which will not allow any residues to be left behind after wash. All you need to do is pour in a cupful of white vinegar in there during each rise. The hard water residue will be dissolved completely, thus freeing your machine from the limescale.

This Bosch series dries your clothes using compact condensation mechanism. The over 15 drying cycles and four temperature settings prevent the dryer from damage your laundry due to overheating.

Bosch technology uses warm and mild air to dry your clothes. It also utilizes warm and mild air to dry your clothes gently. The controlled automatic sensors are in place to protect your clothes from damage.  

Technology

Bosch WTG86401UC uses a powerful spin motion which will not allow the buildup of hard water limescale on the heating unit. It’s among the best washing machine for hard water. High-performance washers must be powerful enough to withstand hard water. 

Bosch’s hot water cycle swishes all the lime scales into the drain, protecting your washer completely from damage. To make sure that the powerful spin and hot water motion are effective, add cupful white vinegar during each rinse.

The white vinegar will remove all the hard water components from your washer into the drain.

Notable Features

• Washer and dryer combination
• White color
• Product dimensions-23.62 x 25 x 33.46 inches

 What We Like

The compact dimension saves space for you.
ENERGY STAR Qualified to save on power. 
Easy to install washer plugs.
Its ventless dryer doesn’t require an exit hose.
The washer comes with a cloth moisture sensor to prevent over-drying and energy wastage. 

 What We Don’t Like

 It takes longer to dry your clothes because of the condensation and ventless drying mechanism.
You have to arrange for additional maintenance for its condensation system.

User/Customers Reviews

Most of the users registered an excellent user experience meaning they are happy with Bosch WTG86401UC. The users found the service provided by the appliance supplier was top-notch.

The energy-saving option overrules the few cons that come with the washing machine. With a plethora of choices and special programs, the washer is a plus for many users, and they highly recommend its purchase.

• View On Walmart
• View On Best Buy
• View On Target
• View On Homedepot

 Verdict 

Bosch WTG86401UC is one of the simplest and easy to use machines with a wide range of choices. One of the most amazing features is the condenser dryer. 

Another one is the stainless steel drum that does not get damaged easily by minerals from hard water. It is an average capacity machine that will take care of your five to six family members. With the Bosch brand, you have assured the best washing machine for hard water.

You May Also Like:

• The 8 Best Washer Under $500
• The 8 Best Washing Machines For Clothes Diapers
• The 9 best Kuppet portable washing machines 
• The 5 Best And Cheap Washing Machines Under 200$

2. Samsung WF42H5000AW -best washing machine for hard water areas

Do you live in hard water areas? If yes, this Energy Star Samsung WF42H5000AW washer is top-on the range and the best washing machine for hard water areas. 

The washer’s self-cleaning technology scrubs all the residue buildup, including the dangerous hard water minerals that damage your washer after every wash. The smart technology washer comes with unique features to help you meet your schedules by minimizing your laundry time.

Talk of the serenity this machine offers you. You can even install this washer near your bedroom. Thanks to its anti-vibration feature. The feature minimizes deafening vibration noises that come with some washing machines. 

Another perfect feature that can deal with hard water problem is the robust high spinning speed. The 1,200 RPM is fast enough to prevent any buildup of limescale. Combining a hard water filter on your water tap to soften the laundry water will make your washing machine last longer. 

If you have delicate wear with eight preset wash settings, you can’t go wrong. The washing machine offers you more than nine settings to allow you to customize each laundry wash as you want. 

No more injuries at home with this sophisticated Samsung washer. Your toddlers at home are well taken care of by the door and child lock properties. The anti-tamper lock keeps off unwelcome guests on your washer. 

You’ve probably heard of direct drive motor washers. They are the sturdiest of all and last for decades compared to the belt’s drive motor washers. Samsung WF42H5000AW is one of those. 

The strength of this washer surpasses the warranty. You don’t want to miss out on such a feature, only available on this Samsung washing machine for hard water.

Talk of the tub design, and you have it all. The diamond shape gives you a perfect wash without wearing and tearing your laundry. The tray dispensers for the softener, bleach, and main wash are strategically placed for ease of accessibility. 

If your washer breaks down, the smart care diagnosis connected to your mobile app will straight away show where the problem is. If the washer is overheating due to limescale buildup from hard water, the technician will know how to handle that. 

There is no reason why you should not get this washer to help you with your laundry, especially if you live in hard water areas. 

Technology

Samsung WF42H5000AW uses self-cleaning technology to scrub the entire hard water components that are likely to build up on the heater. This keeps your washing machine protected all through, giving it longevity. It is the best front loading washing machine for hard water.

Notable Features

• Energy Star Rating.
• Self Cleaning Technology to handle hard water residues
• Anti-vibration feature
• Smart care diagnosis
• Front-load

What We Like

The direct-drive motor is an added advantage if you want a long-lasting washing machine.
Robust high spinning speed guarantees you a perfect wash.
The washing machine is overly quiet.
The big load capacity allows less laundry time.

What we don’t like

The different manufacturer’s warranties on the same washer seem confusing.
It will take up a larger space with its 33 x 27 x 38-inch dimensions.

User/Customers Reviews

A majority of users indicated that Samsung WF42H5000AW is a perfect replacement for their old washers.

They couldn’t compare the whistling and belling sounds from the old washers because this is an overly quiet machine due to the modern anti-vibration features. Smart technology has stunned many users, and they have no regrets for buying the washer.

• View On Walmart
• View On Best Buy
• View On Target
• View On Homedepot

Verdict

We highly recommend this washer, especially if you live in hard water areas. The self-cleaning feature guarantees that residues will not pile up on your washer heating system, thus ensuring the machine’s longevity.

3. Kenmore 25132 Top-Load Washer-Best washer for hard water

Are you looking for innovative washing technology? Are you also looking for a washing machine that will last even in hard water? Kenmore 25132 is the best top load washing machine for hard water.

This washing machine is a triple action impeller. It has a big cleaning power that reaps off stains like baby food, muddy clothes, and greasy overalls without harming your fabric.

Kenmore is large; its 4.3 cu ft capacity means that it will easily wash bulky items like blankets and jackets in a single load. You can even regulate temperature to the perfect settings. Your cool whites will remain white, and your darks will remain darks. This stainless steel tub can never get worn because of hard water. It won’t chip or discolor.

Even more amazing is how the tub will resist odors and will not even discolor or snag your fabrics. With a stain boost feature, it is the perfect advanced cleaner and the best washing machine for hard water. The top loader is a portable space saver and easy to use. Its control panel is strategically positioned to allow you smooth operation.

Technology

Technology by Kenmore 25132 is great. It uses numerous wash cycles, including a hot water cycle. The hot water cycle is significant in protecting your washer from hard water.

Whenever you run the hot water cycle and add in a cleanser like white vinegar, the process cleans up any residues inside your washer, including hard water lime scales. The washer is top-notch and the Best washer for hard water.

Notable Feature

•  Direct drive mortar
• 4.3 cu ft capacity
• Bleach dispensers.
• Washer net weight -134lbs.
• Freestanding.
• Smart app.

What We Like

 

Self cleans to rid off lime scales.
Excellent after-sale service.
Portable and space saver.
A great washer that is easy to use.
Cleans and rinses well and removes all unpleasant smells.

  What We Don’t Like

 Overly loud
Doesn’t dry clothes properly

 

User Reviews

The most numerous user reviews about Kenmore 25132 was that the washer has easy-to-use features and straight forward control panel. With a 4.3 cu ft laundry load capacity, that is a plus for everyone because it saves water, energy, and time. It will also deal with hard water issues with its self-cleaning technology.

Verdict

Generally, Kenmore 25132 is a suitable washer. Its self-cleaning technology and the maximum spinning speed of above 1000 will not leave any hard water residues stuck on your heating appliance. You need to pour in some white vinegar in every wash cycle, and you are good to go. You can protect your machine further by installing a hard water filter on your laundry tap.  

4. hOmeLabs Portable Washing Machine-Best portable washing machine for hard water

Homelabs offers you a specific solution to your hard water issues. The portable top-loading mini washing machine with a six-pound laundry load capacity relieves you from manual handwashing. This 2.7 kg mini washer is ideal if you live in an apartment where space is a number one challenge. 

With its fully automatic features, it rinses and spins gently to protect your delicate wear, such as wool and silk, from the regular damages caused by most washing machines.

The top loader weighs 44.1 lbs which makes it one of the lightweights in the market. With sports roller wheels at the rear end, you will quickly move the washer unassisted.

Though this mini washer is small, it will bear up to six ponds of your laundry. Its durable rust-proof stainless steel body and the tub doesn’t go unnoticed. It is not only easy to clean but also doesn’t get spoilt by hard water. Stainless steel does not rust. Neither does it feel the effects of hard water. 

Homelabs has surprise three-water level settings for this mini washer. This will help you to use the water for the appropriate wash cycle efficiently. You can choose among the five flexible wash cycles where all the programs and buttons are easy to read and understand on the dashboard. 

You can choose Gentle, Heavy, Soak, Rapid, Normal, and any other program with a simple press of a button on the dashboard with the washer. The sleek and small washer is unique. It is quiet and will save you lots of energy. It runs at 200 watts of power.

All the accessories required for connection are available in the packaging. You will not need an expert to fix the machine for you because the faucets and the screws are already in their correct position. 

Though you sacrifice space, you have all the features found in large-capacity washing machines. Whether in an apartment, condos, RVs, camping, or anywhere else, you are all set with a Homelabs washing machine.

Technology

Though hard water destroys most metal surfaces, stainless steel is hardy. Homelabs are hardy because of the stainless steel surface and wash drum, but you can protect your machine by installing a simple hard water filter, which softens water and makes it safe for your washing machine.

Notable Features

• Portable size (17.7 x 18.1 x 31.5-inch)
• Top loader
• Rust-proof Stainless steel body and drum 
• Sports roller wheels for easy movement

What We Like

Slim features can fit in limited space.
Roller wheels are a plus for ease of movement.
The digital control dashboard is easy to use.
It has outstanding and varied features and washes programs.
The mini washer is portable and ideal for travel.
It is easy and quick to connect the appliance.
The washer is sturdy; therefore, it will withstand hard water.

What We Don’t Like

It does not have smart technology features.     
The small capacity isn’t ideal for a big family.

User/Customers Reviews

Most users had a fantastic experience with the washer. Connecting was quick and easy because the washer comes with all the accessories in place. Though the washer is small, it has various choices similar to those available in large washers.

View On Ajansev

Verdict

Homelabs washing machine is small but the best washing machine for hard water and a perfect choice if you live in hard water areas. As long as you use a water softener, regularly maintain your mini washer to protect it from hard water salts.

If you are a regular traveler or live in a limited space apartment, this washer will be perfect for you. The top loader is ideal for a small family of two; otherwise, you may have to get a larger capacity washer.  

 5. LG WM3488HW- LG washing machine for hard water

Are you are in dire need of a washer specifically for your hard water? We have LG WM3488HW for you. The washing machine is a combination of a washer and dryer that makes your washing cool even in hard water areas.

It is an LG intelligent technology that is already making a hit in the laundry industry. You can launder an average load with its enormous capacity, thanks to its 2.3 cu ft tub. 

This washer and dryer combo has the latest technology for internal drying, popularly called a ventless condenser. With the condenser, you do not need an external exhaust.

It also comes with a ten-year manufacturer warranty, which guarantees that the washing machine is high quality and durable product.  

LG WM3488HW is a high-performer, thanks to its maximum speed of 1400 RPM. No amount of residue or hard water salts can remain on its heating system during regular maintenance when you swish hard water, limescale cleaners, and hot water in the tub. The washer is one of the best washing machines for hard water.

This front loader is one of the fastest laundry appliances around. It will clean your laundry at a minimum water temperature and dry them instantly with a lower RPM. That saves on your energy.

 LG WM3488HW sensors weigh down and balance your laundry load, which controls water levels, saving again on your water bills. There are restart, open, load, and stop controls from monitoring your clothes while washing. LG WM3488HW has a delay setting of up to 19 hours for your convenience.

 Technology 

The self-cleaning tub cycle for LG WM3488HW makes it ideal and the best washing machine for hard water. The washer’s unique feature cleans all the hard water residues, including the biofilm hence protecting it. 

Notable Features

• Self-cleaning tub cycle
• Front loader.
• Washer and dryer combination.
• Ventless condenser dryer.
• Energy and water efficiency features.

What We Like

The self-cleaning tub feature helps to prevent damage by hard water and bio-film.
It’s a low noise washing machine.
The washer has many modern and smart high-tech features.
With a combined washer and dryer, you save on time and energy.

What We Don’t Like

The washer may not serve you better if you have a large family of six to eight people.
The washer doesn’t dry heavy bedding and upholstery.

User/Customers Reviews

Most people look for a combined washer and drier washing machine. With this and several other robust features, most users are comfortable with the LG WM3488HW.

Verdict

Looking for a washer that can withstand hard water, perform efficiently and last long is a daunting task. We recommend LG WM3488HW because of its self-cleaning tub cycle.

The feature, combined with homemade solutions like vinegar or a hard water filter on your laundry tap, will protect your washing machine and make it the best LG washing machine for hard water.  

How To Protect Washing Machine From Hard Water

If you only have hard water for your laundry, there are several ways you can protect your washing machine from hard water. That will include using a hard water filter, regular care during and after every wash, and routine maintenance when there is an accumulation of limescale on your machine’s heating system. 

1. Hard Water Filter

You fix a hard water filter on the tap just before the washing machine’s water inlet connector. It is specially designed to filter the hard water minerals components and salts. 

The tiny appliance makes sure your laundry water is soft before it gets into your washer. You can order that online from stores like Amazon. 

The filter will come with a manual on how to fix it on your water tap. An example is the Purifit and Water Science CLEO, all available on Amazon.

2. Special Hard Water Softening Powders And Tablets

Many companies have come up with special chemical combination powders and tablets for protecting your washing machine from hard water. They come with specific instructions on how to use them, but mostly, you will combine them with your laundry. 

The chemicals protect your washer’s heater system from limescale which causes machine breakdown. You can order these online or get them from your local supplier.

3. White Vinegar

White vinegar is a magical liquid. It has got many uses at home. One of those is to protect your appliances from hard water. It is an alternative to harsh powders and tablets that may be dangerous when handling. 

When running a wash, pour a cupful of vinegar into the washer. Dilute the vinegar with water and add in detergent. 

Vinegar controls the accumulation of limescale as a result of hard water. The simple solution also kicks of smell and bio-film from your washer.

4. Routine Washing

Another way to protect the washing machine from hard water includes routine maintenance. It involves a detailed but straightforward few steps here;

Step 1: 

Pour in a cupful of vinegar or lime solution and run a hot water cycle.

Step2: 

Unplug your washer from the power source. Detach the fabric softener tray and wash it thoroughly in hot soapy water mixed with detergent. Use a cleaning solution to work on the bleach dispenser. 

Clean up the drum and fix back both the fabric softener tray and the bleach dispenser. Plug on the empty washer and run a hot water cycle again. 

Step 3:

Use a special washing machine powder like washer magic to clean the outside. Wipe the washer with a clean, dry cloth.

How Do You Soften Hard Water In A Washing Machine?

If you live in hard water areas and you don’t have a hard water filter installed on your tap, you can soften water directly in your washing machine. That can go a long way to protect your washing machine from limescale accumulation on the heating unit. The accumulation causes overheating, which can be irreversibly damaged.  

Here is how to protect the washing machine from hard water by softening hard water in a washing machine.

• Using a commercial hard water softener is the best and guaranteed way to remove and neutralize the minerals present in the laundry water hard. They come in powder and tablet form. The water softeners will prevent the accumulation of limescale and get rid of odors from your wash drum. 

• Add half a cup of white vinegar into your laundry when doing the last rinse. The vinegar’s acidic nature will dissolve calcium in the hard water and make the water soft.

If you find yourself using hard water on your clothes, you can put half a cup of baking soda in your wash drum together with your laundry. Set the washer at your desired wash cycle and run it until the cycle is complete. 

The softened water will clean your clothes and rinse them effectively. Note that the baking soda will not filter the minerals out; therefore, this is meant to rinse the soap scum off your clothes. 

Bottom Line

Best Washing Machine For Hard Water, USA

Bosch 8 Kg WAT2846SIN “This machine is a unique washing machine for hard water use especially if you live in the USA. It is our best pick because of the self-cleaning tub that rips off any mineral buildup on the heating unit. It will is a large capacity washer and strong enough to last for a long time. “

Best Portable:

hOmeLabs Portable Washing Machine “A small portable and lightweight washer ideal for travels. Its durable features make it the best for moving around during trips. This sturdy mini washer will tolerate hard water damages.

All you need is to observe its routine maintenance procedures. The sleek and slim design helps you tuck it in your bathroom corner if you have no sufficient space. 

Best Front Loader:

LG WM3488HW “LG is a trusted home appliance brand, and so is this self-cleaning tub cycle washing machine. The special feature will protect the washer from hard water damage as it gives you optimal performance for many years.”