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Front Load vs Top Load Washers: Differences, Pros and Cons

Buying a washer and wondering if a front load of a top load model is best for your laundry room?

First of all, you should decide if you are buying a washer and dryer set, an all-in-one combo unit or two separate machines. If you still haven’t figured this out, it’s a good idea to check this article first.

Drying machines and combo units are always front load.

For separate devices or washer and dryer sets, you will find both loading options for the washer.

Front load washers

Front load washing machines use the tipping system. This washing mode generates friction only between the clothes inside the drum that moves up and down.

Pros

• Less damaging to the clothes.
• Free space left on top of the machine, so it is the right choice in you want to make a countertop over the washer. See how to plan your countertop in our article on laundry countertops.
• Also the best choice for stack washer and dryer. Check on the products specifications whether they are stackable.

Cons

• The space in front of the machine is taken when the lid is open. This may be a problem in small laundry rooms.
• You cannot open the lid during washing.
• Uses more water.

Top load washers

Top load washing machines are the most common. These are whirlpool washers, a circular shaking mode with shovels, which causes friction with clothes.

Pros

• The space in front of the machine is never taken by the lid.
• You can open the lid at any time during washing.
• Uses less water. Depending on the capacity, they use 70 to 130 liters / 2.5 to 4.6 cu.ft. per cycle, while top load washers use 90 to 200 liters / 3.2 to 7 cu.ft.

Cons

• Because it causes more wear and tear on parts, this model is not suitable for delicate clothes.
• Cannot be stacked or placed under a countertop.

So, have you decided which washer model is right for you? Front load or top load?

You may also want to check other article on capacity, energy efficiency and features of washers and dryers.