Are Front Load Washers Better Than Top Load?

 

One of the most common questions potential buyers of washers ask is whether a front load washer is better than a top load washer.

It’s not that one type is better than the other. It’s more about looking at the benefits one poses over the other. At the end of the day, both types will get your laundry clean.

Not sure if you’ve noticed but front load washers are becoming more and more prominent in stores than top load washers these days. For years you’d only find front-loaders in your local laundromat.

This page will aim to reveal some of the benefits each type of washer has over the other. In the end, you’ll have a better feel as to which washer will suit you the most.

 

Efficiency

One of the main things that’ll stand out when it comes to these washers is how efficient the front load washers are compared to the top load.

Front loaders use more then 50% less water to clean the same amount of clothes compared to a top load. Reason being is top loaders require that enough water to cover all the clothes to get your linens clean whereas front loaders utilize gravity to pull the clothes down into the water.

Another thing that puts top loaders at a disadvantage when it comes to efficiency is the fact they use agitators. Agitators aren’t found in front loaders which will allow you to clean more clothes.

 

Space

A great thing about having a front-load washer is the ability to stack another appliance on top such as a dryer. This allows you to take advantage of the vertical space in case having items side-by-side makes the space too tight.
If you have plenty of room then either type of washer will do just fine. It all depends on the amount of space you have.

 

Cost Savings

This is a biggie as we all want to keep more money in our pockets. Top-load washers will cost hundreds of dollars less but front load washers will likely be the better investment in the long run.

The reason is because top load washers will use up less energy and water whereas top loaders utilize 66% more water and aren’t built for energy efficiency.

You’ll lay out more cash in the beginning for a top load but you’ll recoup the money back plus the additional savings in your water and electric bill.

 

Longer Life for Clothes

Another great thing about having a front load washer is the fact you won’t have to replace linens as often compared to when using a top load washer.

The reason is because there isn’t an agitator present in the front load. The agitator’s purpose is to distribute the clothes throughout the wash.

The problem you have is the pulling and tugging that can take place as items become wrapped around it. This can cause things to stretch or possibly tear if you’re not careful.

Front load washers only utilize gravity to help distribute clothes throughout the wash cycle which eliminates the wear and tear during each wash.

 

Conclusion

In summary, there really is no right or wrong answer as to which type of washer is better. It all boils down to what you can afford and personal preference.

If space is an issue, you may want to consider a front load washer. If you don’t want to spend an additional $300+ for a front load, than a top load is the best choice.

Keep in mind that a front load will help you save on utilities in the long run because top loaders will utilize more resources which will end up costing you more money in the long run.

Below is a quick video highlighting some of the benefits mentioned above.