Laundry
Scratch and dent washers
Washers live in a laundry room or a basement, usually side by side with a dryer. A dent on the outer side panel is the definition of a cosmetic flaw nobody will see.
Where the damage usually is
Most outlet washers have a scuffed or creased side or back panel, a scratched lid, or a dented top edge from stacking during shipping.
Side panels on most washers are covered by the dryer on one side and a wall or sink on the other.
What to check before you buy
- Lift the lid or open the door and spin the drum by hand. It should turn smoothly and quietly, with no scraping.
- On front-loaders, inspect the door boot (the rubber bellows) for tears. It is the part most likely to leak.
- Check that the shipping bolts are included for front-load models. Running the washer without removing them, or moving it later without them, damages the suspension.
- Make sure the inlet hoses, the drain hose clip and the leveling legs are in the box or on the unit.
- Confirm the warranty terms in writing. Many outlet washers keep the full manufacturer warranty because the damage is only cosmetic.
Stack the savings
An outlet discount and an ENERGY STAR rebate can apply to the same machine. Utilities and state programs have offered rebates for recycling an old washer when you buy an efficient one. See the rebates page for where to look.
Example washer models and prices
These listings come from this site’s earlier outlet pages and show the typical gap between retail and scratch and dent prices. They are historical references, not current offers. Models change every year; use the specs to compare with what you find today.
| Brand and model | Description | Retail | Outlet | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE WPRE6150K2WT | 4.1 cu. ft. (IEC) top-load, stainless basket, Precise Fill, HydroWave with Infusor, ENERGY STAR | $399 | 25% |