Additionally, you can easily throw laundry into a top-load washer after a cycle has started-this is a much more difficult task for a front-load washer, which has to pause the cycle so that the water doesn't spill out when you open the door. The sentiment isn't misplaced getting a machine similar to one whose layout and logic you're used to will make your laundry life easier, even if most top-load agitator washing machines have gotten a tech-induced face-lift, and will probably look slightly different than the one in your mom's basement. While recent studies indicate that front-load washing machines are overtaking top-load washers in the laundry popularity contest, some shoppers prefer to stick with what they know-top-loading washing machines with pole agitators (the big spiral column in the middle). Top-loaders use their rotation to rub your laundry items against each other to scrub out stains. In the case of top-loaders, the wash drum is oriented vertically, and you lift up a door on the top of the machine to drop your laundry in from above. Front-loaders can leverage gravity as they run, allowing them to keep your laundry tumbling to agitate it. With front-load washers, the wash drum is oriented horizontally: you put your dirty laundry in through a door located on the front of the machine. While the distinction between top-load and front-load washers might seem minor, they differ significantly in terms of their design and user experience. You've probably heard people bragging about their beautiful front-load washing machines (and rightfully so) why would you want to buy a top-loader? As it turns out, there are plenty of reasons to buy a top loader, but the three most important reasons are ease of use, extra water options, and ergonomics.
What You Should Know About Top-Load Washers Our main goal is to get the answer to one question: How easy is it to actually use this washing machine? This involves cumulatively assessing the control panel, the door, the detergent dispenser, and any smart features that are included.īy combining the performance data with our own observations, we can make solid recommendations for someone looking for any type of washing machine at any price point. The best washing machines have solid stain removal abilities, do not damage your clothes, retain little water, and have short cycle times.īeyond these performance tests, we also assess the usability of each washing machine, based on our experience, both during testing and during more casual use (one perk of working at Reviewed is that there is plenty of laundry machines on premises!).
While front-load washers are the hot new thing when it comes to laundry appliances ( for good reason), many people do prefer top-load washers. There are two types of washing machines: front-load washers and top-load washers.