Front-Load vs. Top-Load Washers: Which Is Actually Better?
Let's go over the pros and cons for each.
Deciding between a front-load vs. top-load washer can be a time-consuming process. This guide will cover the pros and cons of each so you’re fully informed. Whether you’re concerned about saving energy or want a washing machine that can handle large loads, there’s a model out there that can do all the dirty work for you. We asked experts to weigh in on the different types of washing machines to help you find the best fit for you.
Meet the Expert
Myles Robinson is an appliance expert and owner of Boiler Central.
Joelle Battista is the head of culinary marketing at Designer Appliances.
Culum Retallick is a director at Specialised Cleaning Solutions.
NYS444/Getty Images
Front-Loading Washers
Front-loading washers open in the front—surprise! They use a gentler, more thorough cleaning cycle than top-loading washers, and while they can take longer to wash than top loaders, they’re actually more energy efficient. “Front-load washers tend to be 25 percent to 50 percent more energy-efficient than their top-load counterparts,” says Myles Robinson of Boiler Central.
Features
The tumbling action that front-loading washers use to clean clothes is what makes them so effective. “Front-load washers often provide better cleaning performance due to their horizontal drum rotation, which allows clothes to tumble and agitate more effectively,” says Joelle Battista of Designer Appliances.
Additionally, the tumbling wash mechanism uses less energy than the agitator washing method that top-loading machines use. Front-loading washers also use less water than top-load washers and require less detergent. They also spin faster than top-loaders, extracting more water from clothes, which reduces drying time.
Front-loaders often come in stackable designs that work well in small homes and spaces. In addition, front-loading washers usually offer the most washing options and features. For example, some front-loading machines have smart features that can connect with WiFi and use apps, voice commands, and remote commands to monitor wash progress and start and stop remotely.
Pros and Cons
There are many pros and cons to each type of washing machine. Cost is often a significant factor when buying a machine. Front-loading machines cost more than top-loaders initially. However, the energy, water, and detergent that front-loaders save can reduce your costs in the long run.
Pros | Cons |
Energy-efficient; uses less water, energy, and detergent | Requires more bending over, which can be challenging for people with back problems. |
Stackable and can work well in small spaces | Takes longer to wash loads than top-loading machines |
Superior cleaning performance | More expensive to buy than top-loaders |
Leaves clothes dryer after washing | Some models do not allow adding clothes once the wash cycle has begun |
Saves money on utilities and detergent costs | Mold can build up in the front of the machine, requiring regular cleaning |
More options for smart features and special wash options | Repairs cost more than top loaders |
Top-Loading Washers
Top-loading washers have loading and unloading space at the top of the machine, and employ a twisting motion to clean clothes. They usually have a large load capacity due to having a wider drum than front-loading machines. Top-loaders are popular for their affordability and ease of use, and for people with back problems, they're often easier to use than front-loading machines since they do not require as much bending over.
Features
Top-loading washers use an agitator or an impeller for cleaning. The agitator is a central post with fins that twist back and forth to clean clothes, and impellers use a small cone or disc to clean. Agitators can work better on more heavily soiled clothes, while impellers are gentler for delicate fabrics.
Top-loading washers wash more quickly than front-loading washers, so they work well for people in a time crunch. “They have shorter wash cycles (usually just 15 to 30 minutes), which can be beneficial if you are in a rush and need your clothes washed as soon as possible,” Robinson says.
Also, they can be easier to use than front-loaders as they require less bending to put clothes in or out.
Pros and Cons
Top-loading washers come with their own set of pros and cons. They save money on the front end (i.e. cost less than front loaders), but they use more energy and are harder on clothes than top loaders.
Pros | Cons |
Lower up-front cost | Uses more energy than front loading machines |
Repairs cost less | Can be harder on clothes, especially agitator models |
Can handle large loads | Higher energy and detergent costs |
Provides heavy-duty cleaning with agitator models | Noisier than front loading machines |
Fast wash times | Have higher amounts of lint from the agitator action |
Easier to use, requiring less bending than front loaders |
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You can easily add clothes once the wash cycle has begun |
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Energy Efficiency and Cost
Most washing machines cost between $500 and $1400. Front-loaders are on the higher end of the price spectrum, with smart devices costing the most. “Front-load washers tend to have a higher initial cost, while top-loading washers are more affordable,” says Culum Retallick of Specialised Cleaning Solutions. “In the long run though, front-load washers may be more cost-effective due to their energy efficiency.”
Tip
High-efficiency (HE) washers use less water and energy and are larger than regular models. Both top-load and front-load washers are available in HE models. HE-specific detergents also use less detergent than their non-HE counterparts.
Key Factors to Consider
When you’re deciding what type of washing machine to get, consider a few factors before making your choice.
Cleaning Ability
Consider your laundry habits when deciding whether to get a front-load or top-load washer. If you want to maintain the integrity of your clothing while not skimping on cleaning power, a front-loader is your answer. Front-loading washers gently agitate clothing, making it cleaner than a top-loader.
Usability
A top-loader is the best choice if you often need to add clothing after a wash cycle has started. You can add clothing with a front loader, but you'll have to let it drain first if the drum is full of water.
Also, think about the labor it takes to load your washing machine. Front loaders, without a platform, require you to bend and twist yourself to load and unload. While top loaders require some bending, they also provide support to lean your body against while removing clothing to put it in the dryer.
Size
All other things being equal, if space is at a premium in your home, a front-load washer and dryer set may be a good choice. Front-loaders can be stacked, making them a popular choice for apartment living, closet laundry storage, or laundry connected to the kitchen.
For those who frequently tackle larger loads of laundry, a front-loader is the way to go. The drum on these washers is typically larger (unless you opt for an extra-large top-loader), allowing you to efficiently handle more laundry in a single cycle.
Cost
Whether you're looking to pay more upfront or need something budget-friendly is definitely something to consider when choosing a washer. While top-loaders usually cost less than front-loaders, remember that you can do larger loads in a front-loader, saving you more in the long run on water and energy bills.
Energy Efficiency
If energy efficiency is important to you, look for an ENERGY STAR-rated machine. These washers use around 20% less energy and 30% less water than non-rated washers. However, front-load ENERGY STAR-rated washers win here as they use about 13 gallons of water per load compared to top-loaders, which use about 19 gallons. However, non-ENERGY STAR-rated washing machines use an average of 41 gallons per load, so either ENERGY STAR-rated choice is better than a non-ES machine.
Repairs and Maintenance
Overall, top-loading washers are less expensive to maintain and repair than front-loading washers. Also, front-loaders tend to grow mold and mildew on the bottom of the door seal if they're not dried with a towel after each use, which makes them more time-consuming to maintain.
The Verdict
A washing machine is a major investment, and choosing the right one is crucial. When shopping for appliances, check out reviews and features and consider your requirements. A front-loading machine is probably your best option if you’re more concerned about a high-quality wash and energy efficiency. However, a top-loader may be perfect for you if you want a lower up-front cost, shorter wash times, and the capacity for large loads.
Also, keep in mind that within each category, different models will have varying features, energy demands, and space requirements. There are energy-efficient top-loading washers, for instance, and large-capacity front-loading machines. In general, front-load washers come out on top in terms of performance and energy efficiency. However, if initial cost is your biggest concern, a top-loading washing machine may be your best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of washing machine lasts longer?
Top-load washing machines typically last longer than front-load versions. Front-load washing machines have an average lifespan of 11 years, whereas top-load washing machines have an average lifespan of 14 years. Of course, the lifespan of your washer depends on other factors, such as how frequently it's used, what type of materials it's used on, and so on. On average, washing machines in general last between 10 and 15 years.
How do you clean washing machines?
The easiest way to clean a washer is to buy washing machine cleaner tablets and run them through on a hot water setting (or follow the instructions on the package). Some newer models have a self-cleaning setting that will alert you when it's time to run that cycle. If you're seeking a more natural method, put half a cup of baking soda in the drum, fill the detergent dispenser with vinegar, and run a cycle with hot water.
Related: Yes, You Need to Clean Your Washing Machine
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