Front Load Vs. Top Load Laundry: What’s Better?

Posted on 04.18.24

Deciding if front load washers or top load washers are better can be determined based partly on functionality and preference. Washing machines are designed to keep our laundry clean by using motion agitators to remove stains or dirt off your clothes. This DeWaard and Bode guide gives you a better understanding of which type of washer makes laundry day easier.

How Do Top Load Washers Work?

At one point in time, top load washers were among the most popular and affordable home washing machines. It is true that many people in North America still choose top load washers over other options. What you'll find most often in top load washers are the affordability and lower price points.

Today, there are two main types of top load washers: ones that have agitators and ones that do not. An agitator is a post at the center of the washer that creates motion by shaking and moving the water around the drum of the washer. These types of top load washing machines are the fastest when it comes to washing your clothes.

For example, the Amana Top Load Washer NTW4516FW delivers one of the most thorough cleans with the high-efficiency agitator that rolls clothing cleaning it thoroughly while being gentle on clothes

Pros & Cons of Top Load Washers

Benefits of Top Load Washers:

• Loading: Easier and more convenient to use since you don't have to bend over to load and unload your laundry.

• Shorter cycle time: Washers with agitators wash clothes quicker and give you the ability to add clothes after the cycle starts.

• Maintenance: Easier to maintain with simple repairs and easier to clean

• Cost: Typically, they are more affordable.

• Less prone to mold and mildew: Top load machines have less risk of mold and mildew growth.

• Mid-cycle addition: In top loaders, you can add clothes mid-cycle, something that isn’t possible in most front load washers.

Disadvantages of Top Load Washers:

• Space: You can’t have stacked top load washers, so it takes up more space in your laundry room.

• Agitators: Agitators can be rougher on clothes due to friction, but some models feature impellers instead, which are gentler.

• Energy efficiency: top loaders tend to use more water and energy than front loaders.

• Lifespan: on average, top loads have a shorter lifespan than front loads.

• Noise: They tend to be noisier during the spin cycle.

Featured Top Load Washer

Whirlpool 4.7-4.8 Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer with 2 in 1 Removable Agitator - WTW5057LW

Features:

- Capacity 4.7-4.8 cu

- 2 In 1 removable agitator

- Built-In water faucet

- Pre-soak option

- Smooth impeller option

How Do Front Load Washers Work?

More contemporary front load washers clean clothes by moving them through the water and you won't find agitators in these types of washing machines. Front load washers feature molded vanes that move your clothes around and have drums or bins that spin both ways to force the dirt and stains off your clothes.

Typically, front load washing machines are a bit on the pricier end. However, there are many affordable front load washers you can choose from at DeWaard & Bode.

For instance, the Electrolux Front Load washer ELFW7637AT offers everything you are looking for in a quality washing machine. The SmartBoost premixes water and detergent before the cycle begins maximizing the cleaning power of the detergent. Best of all, this is an Energy Star-certified and energy-efficient appliance which means you know you'll be saving money on your utility bill!

Pros & Cons of Front Load Washers

Benefits of Front Load Washers:

• Energy and water efficiency: They use significantly less water and energy per load.

• Faster drying time: The drums move fast making them more efficient at removing water.

• Space efficiency: Some models can be stacked, helping users save more space in their laundry room.

• Cycle options: Most of the time, front loaders offer a wider selection of washing cycles.

• Gentler on clothes: Since front loaders do not have an agitator, they are less likely to damage delicate fabrics.

• Flexibility: Some have the option of reversible doors that make it easier to transfer your laundry to the dryer.

• Longer lifespan: on average, front loaders tend to have a longer lifespan compared to top loaders.

Disadvantages of Front Load Washers

• Cost: They are more expensive than other washer types.

• Loading: You need to bend down to load and unload your washer.

• Mid-cycle addition: Most front loads don’t allow users to add to the wash once it starts. However, some models like the LG 4.5 cu. Ft WM4000HBA, come equipped with Add Item function.

• Longer wash cycle: It can take longer to wash your clothes unless you use the quick wash setting.

• Potential mold and mildew: The door gaskets can trap moisture, aiding the growth of mold or mildew when not properly maintained.

Featured Front Load Washer

LG 4.5 cu. Ft Ultra Large Capacity Smart wi-fi Enabled Front Load Washer - WM4000HBA

Features:

- Capacity 4.5 cu

- TurboWash

- Stainless steel tub

- ThinQ Care

- Built-in Intelligence

What to Consider Before Purchasing a Washing Machine

What is your budget? Top load washing machines are indeed cheaper, but now with more advanced features, they could be pretty similar in price. Establish a budget before you start your search for a new washer to help you narrow down what size and added features you want.

What is the size of your laundry room? Once you've established where your washer and dryer will go you should measure the space you are working with. This might indicate from the beginning if you need a stackable washer and dryer to save more space.

Do you mind bending over to load the laundry? Bending over can inflame back pain and affect your joints significantly. Leaning over your top load can be difficult and bending over to load your front load washer can be tedious. However, front loading machines give you the ability to crouch down or you can invest in a pedestal that raises the washer making it easier to load your clothes.

When it comes to which one wins for the best washer type it would come down to preference and price. Either way, our product specialists can help you decide which washer is the best for your home and needs.

Shop for a New Washer at DeWaard and Bode

At DeWaard & Bode, we offer a range of washing machines you can choose from. Shop washer dryer combos, commercial washers, electric dryers, gas dryers, and laundry accessories. We offer delivery and installation services to take care of you throughout the entire process.

Contact our laundry appliance experts today or visit our washer and dryer store in Bellingham and Burlington, Washington.

Frequently Asked Questions About Washing Machines

What's better, a front or top load washer?

Both types have their pros and cons. Front-load washers are known for efficiency and cleaning performance, while top-load washers are usually easier to load and unload.

Are top load washers more affordable?

Top-load washers often come with a lower price tag compared to front-load washers, making them a popular choice for those on a budget.

How to clean a top load washer?

To clean a top-load washer, start by running a cycle with hot water and a cup of vinegar to help remove buildup. Then, wipe down the inside of the machine and the lid with a mixture of water and mild detergent.

How to clean a front load washer?

Cleaning a front-load washer involves wiping down the rubber gasket around the door regularly to prevent mold and mildew. You can also run a cleaning cycle with a specialized washer cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to keep it fresh and odor-free.

How do impeller washers work?

Impeller washers work by using a low-profile cone or disc at the bottom of the tub to create a gentle yet effective water flow. This flow helps to move clothes around for cleaning without the need for a central agitator. As the impeller rotates, it creates currents that push water and detergent through the clothes, providing thorough cleaning while being more gentle on fabrics.