Front Load Washer vs. Top Load Washer

Front load washers washers are designed as very powerful cleaning machines. They use a tumbling motion that forces water and detergent through your clothes. The tub spins both ways, loosening dirt and grime.

The whole process uses less water, is gentler on fabrics and can leave clothes fresher and cleaner than a top loader. Although the machine works slower than a top loader, it gives your laundry a deep clean without a bigger electric bill.

Front load washers also have longer wash cycles of 60 to 120 minutes or more. They have a capacity of 4 cubic feet to 4.9 cubic feet. Extra large front load washers can have a capacity of 5.0 cubic feet.

There are multiple pros and cons to consider when evaluating front load vs. top load washers.

Pros:

• Has several cycle options
• More water efficient. Uses 13 gallons per load vs. 41 gallons for top load machines
• Super cleaning power
• Can be stacked with a dryer
• Better for clothes, no agitator
• Reversible doors facilitate transferring wet laundry to the dryer

Cons:

• Mold can get stuck in the rubber seal
• Requires a higher upfront investment
• Can be more difficult to load and unload
• Heavier than a top load washer

Tip: Consider a laundry pedestal. A laundry pedestal will raise the unit 12 inches to 15 inches. This makes it easier to load and unload clothes without bending.

Top load washers cover clothes in water and detergent. As clothes float around in the tub, they rub against each and the machine’s agitator. This agitation removes stains and grime. Single-action agitators have paddles on the top and bottom. The paddles move the laundry around the tub. Dual-action agitators have paddles plus spirals at the top. The paddles and spirals force laundry down.

Top load washers have cycles that range from 49 to 60 minutes. They have a little more capacity than front load washers, from 4 cubic feet to 5.2 cubic feet. Some larger top loaders can have capacities of 6 cubic feet or more.

There are multiple pros and cons to consider when looking at top load washers.

Pros:

• Washes clothes quicker
• Budget friendly
• Load and unload without bending
• More built-in wash cycles
• Less likely to develop mold and mildew
• Add clothes after the cycle has begun

Cons:

• Not as energy-efficient, uses a lot of water
• Clothes experience more wear and tear
• Offers fewer cycle options
• Not ideal for cleaning pillows or comforters

Above is a quick overview of key differences between a front load vs. top load washer. Use it to help you choose which type of machine is right for you.