Criterion washers range from $400-$900, offering stainless steel tubs and energy-efficient designs. They work well for budget-conscious buyers who need standard washing performance. However, criterion washer reviews reveal frequent reliability issues, difficult warranty claims, and poor customer service.
Choosing a washer shouldn’t feel like gambling with your budget. Criterion washers, manufactured by Menards Inc., position themselves as affordable laundry solutions that promise basic functionality without premium pricing. But do they deliver on that promise? This comprehensive criterion washer reviews guide examines real user experiences.
Who Makes Criterion Washers?
Criterion is Menards’ exclusive brand, manufactured by Menard Inc., a Wisconsin-based company operating 300 home improvement stores across the Midwest. Unlike established brands like LG or Whirlpool, Criterion focuses solely on the budget appliance segment.
The company markets these washers as American-made alternatives to expensive imports. Each model comes with a standard one-year manufacturer’s warranty, though customer experiences with warranty claims tell a different story.
Top-Load Criterion Washers: Features and Performance
Build Quality Reality
Criterion top-load models feature stainless steel tubs instead of plastic, which improves durability at this price point. The materials feel solid initially, but long-term reliability raises concerns.
Users report mixed experiences. Some appreciate the sturdy construction for the price. Others note that control knobs feel cheap, water control lacks precision, and machines require frequent maintenance.
Water Level Technology
Automatic water level sensors adjust usage based on load size, reducing waste and conserving energy. This feature works as advertised in most cases.
However, some customers report sensor malfunctions where the washer fails to fill properly or stops mid-cycle. When sensors fail, you’re left with partially filled tubs and wet, unwashed clothes.
Wash Cycles and Temperature Control
Multiple wash cycles include regular, intense, and quick wash options, offering flexibility for different fabric types. The variety matches what you’d find in mid-range washers.
Temperature control maintains consistent water heat during cycles. Users can switch between cold, hot, and warm settings, though advanced customisation features found in premium washers are absent.
The Agitator Trade-Off
Criterion uses a central agitator mechanism that creates strong water movement for thorough cleaning. This design effectively removes tough stains from heavily soiled clothes.
The downside? Aggressive agitation can damage delicate fabrics over time. If you regularly wash silk, lace, or other gentle materials, this design could cause premature wear.
Front-Load Models: Different Story?
Capacity and Design
Front-load Criterion washers feature large drums ranging from 4.5 to 5.2 cubic feet. This capacity handles bulky items like comforters and blankets without multiple loads.
The spacious drums reduce cycle frequency, saving time and energy for families with heavy laundry demands. However, users warn against overloading, which can compromise cleaning performance.
Steam Cycle Benefits
Steam cycle features improve stain removal and sanitise items like baby clothes or gym wear by eliminating allergens and bacteria. This makes front-load models particularly useful for families with young children or allergy sufferers.
The trade-off is increased wash time. Some users report that steam cycles make laundry sessions significantly longer, which can frustrate those juggling tight schedules.
Built-In Water Heater
Internal water heaters allow precise temperature control, enhancing cleaning power for heavily soiled items and improving detergent activation. This feature supports sanitising cycles that require elevated temperatures.
The downside is slightly increased energy consumption during operation, which may offset some of the advertised efficiency savings.
Noise Levels
Vibration reduction technology ensures relatively quiet operation, making these washers suitable for homes where laundry areas are near living spaces. You can run loads during evening hours without disturbing household members.
Some users still report minor noise during heavy loads, though it remains quieter than most budget alternatives.
Common Problems Found in Criterion Washer Reviews
The E4 Error Code
The E4 error indicates your washer is out of balance more than three times during spin operation or the machine isn’t level. This is the most frequently reported issue in criterion washer reviews.
The error typically signals unbalanced loads or motor tachometer problems, causing excessive vibration or mid-cycle shutdowns. You can usually fix this by redistributing clothes evenly or checking if the machine sits level on the floor.
Spinning Failures
Customers report clothes not spinning properly due to overloaded drums or mechanical malfunctions. When spin cycles fail, you’re left with soaking wet laundry that takes forever to dry.
Excessive Shaking
Too much shaking during operation, especially in spin cycles, happens when the washer isn’t properly levelled or clothes are unevenly distributed. This problem can damage internal components over time if left unaddressed.
Control Panel Issues
Some users experience control panels that don’t respond properly, preventing the washer from starting or adjusting water cycles correctly. This could stem from faulty sensors or connection problems between the control panel and the machine.
Drainage Problems
Slow or incomplete water drainage often results from clogged filters or pump blockages. Regular maintenance can prevent this issue, but it requires consistent attention.
Pricing and Value Proposition
Basic top-load models start at $400-$500, advanced top-loaders range from $500-$700, and front-load washers cost $600-$900. Washer-dryer bundles are available between $900-$1,500.
These prices undercut major brands by several hundred dollars. For first-time homeowners or rental properties, the initial savings look attractive.
The Customer Service Problem
Users consistently express frustration about poor customer service when trying to reach support. Warranty claims often involve weeks of back-and-forth, difficulty understanding service representatives, and extended wait times for repair appointments.
One user reported being unable to find anyone to repair their washer and ultimately received only store credit after returning the machine to Menards. This isn’t the experience you want when your washer breaks down and laundry piles up.
Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Many Criterion models carry Energy Star certification, meeting or exceeding energy-saving standards. Features like automatic water level sensing and eco-friendly cycles reduce water and electricity usage, cutting utility costs while lowering environmental impact.
However, some users note that energy efficiency occasionally impacts rinsing performance, requiring extra rinse cycles. This defeats the purpose of water conservation.
What Real Criterion Washer Reviews Tell Us
Analysing hundreds of criterion washer reviews across multiple platforms reveals consistent patterns. Buyers appreciate the initial affordability and basic functionality. The stainless steel tubs and energy-saving features deliver value for the price point.
However, criterion washer reviews also highlight recurring concerns. Reliability issues surface within 12-18 months for many users. Customer service difficulties create frustration when problems arise. Repair costs sometimes approach half the original purchase price.
The most positive criterion washer reviews come from users who maintain realistic expectations and perform regular maintenance. The most negative reviews come from buyers who expected premium brand reliability at budget prices.
Should You Buy a Criterion Washer?
Buy one if:
- Your budget maxes out at $500-$700
- You need basic washing functionality without advanced features
- You’re willing to handle regular maintenance
- You’re furnishing a rental property or temporary living situation
Skip it if:
- You need reliable long-term performance
- Quick customer service matters to you
- You wash delicate fabrics regularly
- You can stretch your budget another $200-$300 for established brands
Criterion washers deliver decent cleaning performance and energy savings at budget prices. They work adequately for straightforward laundry needs. But reliability concerns, durability issues, and customer service problems mean you might spend more on repairs and frustration than you save upfront.
For buyers who absolutely need to stay under $500, Criterion offers a functional option. For everyone else, spending a bit more on brands with proven track records and responsive support will likely save money and headaches in the long run.
