Shopping for a washing machine shouldn’t feel like solving a puzzle. You want something reliable that cleans your clothes without draining your bank account. That’s where Criterion washers enter the chat—Menards’ house brand that promises solid performance at prices that won’t make you wince.
But here’s the thing: cheap doesn’t always mean good value. We’ve spent months analyzing customer feedback, technical specs, and real-world performance data to bring you the truth about Criterion washers. This isn’t about fancy marketing promises. It’s about whether these machines actually deliver when you’re knee-deep in laundry day.
If you’re apartment hunting, raising a family, or just need something that works without the premium price tag, you’re in the right spot. Let’s break down what Criterion really offers and whether it deserves a place in your laundry room.
What Makes Criterion Different from Other Budget Brands
Criterion washers come from Menard Inc., the Midwest home improvement giant based in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Unlike brands that outsource everything, Menards keeps quality control close to home with USA-made components. Their strategy is simple: strip away the unnecessary features and focus on what actually matters for everyday laundry.
You won’t find WiFi connectivity or smartphone apps here. What you get instead are stainless steel tubs, multiple wash cycles, and energy-efficient designs. The brand targets buyers who value function over flash. Think college apartments, first homes, and rental properties where reliability beats luxury every time.
Pricing sits comfortably between $400 and $900 depending on capacity and features. That’s significantly less than Samsung or LG models with similar drum sizes. The trade-off? You’re sacrificing some advanced tech and potentially longevity. But for many households, that’s a fair exchange.
Top Load Models: What You Actually Get
Criterion’s top loaders stick with the traditional agitator design rather than jumping on the impeller bandwagon. That central post creates aggressive washing action that tackles heavily soiled clothes effectively. Your work jeans and kids’ grass-stained shirts will come out clean.
The stainless steel tub resists rust and handles years of use better than plastic alternatives found in cheaper models. Automatic water level sensors adjust usage based on load size, helping reduce waste. Temperature controls let you switch between cold, warm, and hot settings easily enough.
Build quality feels sturdy for the price point. However, customer feedback reveals some durability concerns after 18-24 months of regular use. Parts like control knobs sometimes feel less robust than expected. The design lacks the sleek appearance of modern high-efficiency washers.
Energy efficiency meets standard requirements for the class without breaking new ground. Smaller loads benefit from reduced water consumption noticeably. Some users report occasional issues with uneven cleaning or inadequate rinsing that requires running extra cycles.
The central agitator can be rough on delicate fabrics over time. If you regularly wash silk blouses or lace items, you might want to reconsider. But for everyday cotton, polyester, and denim loads, it handles the job fine.
Front Load Options: Upgraded Features at Moderate Prices
Front-loaders from Criterion step up the game with larger capacity drums ranging from 4.5 to 5.2 cubic feet. That extra space means fewer loads for families or anyone dealing with bulky comforters and blankets. You can actually fit a king-size comforter in there without forcing it.
Steam cycle technology appears on select models, offering enhanced stain removal and fabric sanitization. This feature works particularly well for gym clothes, baby items, and allergen reduction. Built-in water heaters maintain higher temperatures during cycles for improved detergent activation and tougher stain fighting.
Vibration reduction technology keeps these machines remarkably quiet during operation. If your laundry room shares a wall with bedrooms or living spaces, you’ll appreciate the minimal noise. Even during high-speed spins, they don’t sound like they’re trying to escape.
Energy Star certification on many models confirms legitimate efficiency credentials. Water consumption drops significantly compared to older top-loaders, helping reduce utility bills over time. The digital control panels look modern and navigate fairly intuitively.
However, some users experienced delayed responses or occasional control panel malfunctions. Overloading the drum sometimes compromises cleaning performance despite the generous capacity. The steam feature adds wash time, which can be inconvenient when you’re rushing.
Real Performance: What Customers Actually Experience
Criterion washer reviews from verified buyers paint a mixed but honest picture. Positive feedback consistently highlights affordability and adequate cleaning performance for standard household laundry. Many users appreciate the straightforward operation without complicated digital interfaces that confuse rather than help.
Energy efficiency delivers on promises with noticeable reductions in water and electricity usage. The stainless steel construction holds up better than plastic competitors in the same price range. Multiple wash cycle options provide enough flexibility for different fabric types and soil levels.
On the flip side, durability complaints surface regularly after the first year. Users report issues like excessive shaking during spin cycles, water drainage problems, and control panel failures. The E4 error code appears frequently, indicating balance issues from overloading or uneven load distribution.
Customer service experiences frustrate many buyers when problems arise. Getting timely support or warranty claims processed takes longer than expected. Replacement parts can be expensive and sometimes difficult to source locally.
Some reviews mention that aggressive washing action causes faster wear on clothing compared to gentler high-efficiency models. Noise levels increase when machines aren’t properly leveled or when loads exceed recommended capacity. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they’re worth knowing upfront.
Common Problems and How to Actually Fix Them
Excessive shaking during spin cycles tops the complaint list for Criterion washers. This usually happens when the machine isn’t level or loads aren’t distributed evenly. Adjust the leveling feet until the washer sits stable on all corners. Redistribute clothes before starting the spin cycle to prevent imbalance.
The E4 error code means your washer detected imbalance more than three times in one cycle. Don’t cram the drum past three-quarters full, and avoid washing single heavy items alone. Mix large items like towels with smaller pieces to help balance the load.
Water drainage issues often stem from clogged filters or blocked pumps. Check the drain filter monthly and remove lint, coins, or debris that accumulate there. Ensure the drain hose isn’t kinked or positioned too high, which restricts water flow.
Control panels that stop responding need a power reset first. Unplug the machine for five minutes, then reconnect and try again. If problems persist, you might have a faulty connection between the panel and internal components requiring professional repair.
Spinning failures can indicate problems with the lid switch, motor coupler, or drive belt. Inspect these components for visible damage or wear. Tightening loose parts sometimes solves the issue without needing replacements.
Pricing Breakdown: Getting the Best Deal
Basic top-load Criterion washers start around $400 to $500, offering essential features without frills. Advanced top-loaders with additional cycles and better capacity range from $500 to $700. Front-load models command $600 to $900 depending on drum size and features like steam cycles.
Washer and dryer combo packages run between $900 and $1,500, providing matched sets at bundled discounts. These packages make sense if you’re furnishing a laundry room from scratch. The coordination between machines looks cleaner and controls match for easier operation.
Menards carries the full Criterion line with occasional seasonal promotions and rebates. Home Depot stocks select models in some regions but with less variety than Menards stores. Online retailers sometimes offer competitive pricing, though delivery and installation costs vary significantly.
The standard one-year manufacturer warranty covers basic repairs and defects. Extended warranty options stretch coverage up to five years for additional cost. Given the durability concerns mentioned in customer reviews, extended coverage might provide worthwhile peace of mind.
Comparing Criterion prices against similar-capacity models from Whirlpool, LG, or Samsung shows savings of $200 to $400. That price gap represents the trade-off between established brand reputation and budget-friendly functionality. For tight budgets, that difference matters significantly.
Should You Actually Buy a Criterion Washer?
Criterion washers make sense for specific situations rather than being universal recommendations. First-time homeowners working with limited budgets find solid value here. Rental property owners appreciate the balance between cost and adequate performance for tenants.
College students, apartment dwellers, and anyone needing temporary laundry solutions get functional machines without overspending. Small families with moderate laundry loads will likely find the capacity and features sufficient. The energy efficiency helps keep utility costs manageable in smaller living spaces.
However, large families doing multiple loads daily should probably invest in more durable options. If you regularly wash delicate fabrics, the aggressive agitator action might cause premature wear. Those wanting smart home integration, advanced stain-fighting technology, or premium build quality need to look elsewhere.
Customer service limitations mean you need basic troubleshooting skills or access to local appliance repair services. Extended warranty coverage becomes more important given the reported durability issues after the first year. Consider your ability to handle minor maintenance and repairs yourself.
The biggest question is longevity expectations. If you need a washer lasting 10-15 years, spending more upfront on Whirlpool or LG makes better financial sense. But for 3-5 year solutions, Criterion delivers acceptable performance at prices that won’t stress your budget.
The Bottom Line on Criterion Washers
Criterion washer reviews reveal machines that deliver on their core promise: affordable, functional laundry cleaning without premium pricing. They’re not engineering marvels or design statements. They’re workhorses built for people who need clean clothes without empty wallets.
The stainless steel tubs, energy-efficient operation, and multiple wash cycles provide genuine value. Build quality holds up reasonably well despite some durability concerns after extended use. For budget-conscious buyers prioritizing basic functionality over advanced features, Criterion presents a viable option.
Just know what you’re getting into. Customer service could be better. Some components feel less robust than higher-end brands. You might deal with minor issues that require troubleshooting or occasional repairs.
If your expectations align with the reality of mid-range appliances, Criterion won’t disappoint. They clean clothes, save energy, and cost significantly less than premium alternatives. That’s exactly what they’re designed to do, and for many households, that’s enough.