There are several factors to consider when you’re choosing a new washer and dryer set for your home. We’ve compared front load and top load washers based on convenience, functionality, and efficiency to help you make an informed choice.
Front Load Washer: Large Loads, Small Footprint
White Whirlpool Front Load Washer & Dryer
(Gas or Electric)
Convenience
Front-load washers have a rubber gasket on the door that keeps them watertight throughout the washing cycle. Without this seal, front-loaders could easily overflow. The rubber gasket does a great job of keeping water in—perhaps too great since it also tends to retain moisture once the cycle ends, which can eventually cause mold!
Preventing and removing mold adds a layer of maintenance to front load washers that their top counterparts lack, putting them at a disadvantage as far as convenience goes.
However, the fact that front load washer doors are low to the ground makes it easy to teach your little ones how to load, unload, and even help clean the washing machine. Now that’s what we like to call a squeaky clean parenting victory!
Function
Front load washers have a large load capacity, making them perfect for families with young children who need to wash bedding frequently or large families who need to clean multiple kids’ sports uniforms throughout the week. These types of washers don’t have an agitator (the large pole that’s often installed in the center of top loading washers). Instead, front load washers move clothes around with a spinning drum, which can be much gentler on clothing in the long term.
Energy
For families who use their washing machine nearly every day, front load washers can help save on energy bills. Just check out our top-rated front loading Whirlpool washers! Because of their design, front load washers use less water during a wash cycle. They have a high spin rate, too, which can mean shorter drying times—and even more energy savings!
Remember! Key Benefits of Front Load Washers
- Large load capacity
- Chore-friendly height
- Agitator-less design = large load capacity
- High spin rate could result in energy bill savings
Top Load Washer: Easy Access & Fast Wash Cycles
Convenience
Top load washers don’t have a reputation for mold the way front loaders do but, like any other appliance, they do require occasional cleaning.
If someone in your home has back or joint problems, a top load washer could be a more convenient choice for your family—since loading and unloading it won’t require bending over as often. That being said, if you have kids you may have to wait till they grow to a certain height or provide a step stool in order to introduce them to laundry chores. Though promising, the step stool approach should be practiced under adult supervision as it could lead to messes, mischief, and more childhood-induced mayhem.
Function
The smaller capacity of top load washers makes them ideal for small families. Top load washers immerse clothing in water for the entire cycle, meaning that washing times are usually shorter. That’ll come in handy when you need that favorite shirt or sleepy time blanket cleaned ASAP!
Plus, some top load washers have built-in sinks. Yes, sinks! For example, this LG front load washer with a built-in faucet and matching dryer makes it easy for you to pre-treat stains, pre-soak stinky bits, and handwash delicates!
Energy
Top load washing machines completely immerse clothing in water, so they tend to use more water than a front loader. However, their design can help you cut down on the number of loads you need to do. Forgot to toss in one or two shirts when you emptied the hamper? There’s no need to start a separate load later, because a top load washer will allow you to add items mid-cycle. Over time, fewer single-item loads can lead to energy savings.
Remember! Key Benefits of Top Load Washers
- Minimizes the need to bend down
- Low maintenance and easy to use
- Allows for adding clothing mid-cycle
Front Load Washer vs. Top Load Washer: It’s Your Choice!
| Side-by-Side Comparison of Front vs. Top Load Washers | ||
|---|---|---|
| Front Load Washer | Top Load Washer | |
| Low(er) Maintenance | X | |
| Load Capacity | X | |
| Potential Energy and Water Savings | X | |
| Ease of Access | Low to the ground | Minimizes need to bend |
| Built-in Faucet Option | X | |
| Mid-cycle Loading | X | |
Front load washer or top load washer? Hot or cold cycle? Maytag, Amana, or Whirlpool? When it comes to showing that mountain of laundry who’s boss, don’t let questions stand in your way. Rent-A-Center is here to help you choose the best washer and dryer for your home and your family’s needs. Shop washing machines at your nearest Rent-A-Center today!