Washing Machine Buying Guide - Front Load Vs. Top Load

Having a washing machine is a hugely convenient and time-saving amenity for tenants. However, residents need a laundry system they can rely on that offers a bit of convenience and delivers a clean laundry result. With the many washing machines on the market, it helps to have a wider perspective from the professionals. We always suggest that if you manage a multifamily property and need to decide on washing machines for your facility, choose dependability, efficiency, and innovation from reputable manufacturers.

The question now is what type of machine would be best and should go invested in. Front Load or Top load? Both types of appliances are widely available, and their specifications don't seem to differ much. This is why to help answer this question, we've compiled a guide that will deconstruct important differences between Top Loading and Front Loading washing machines. We will highlight both the strengths and the weaknesses of each design, as well as which unit might suit your needs. So you can rest assured that you've made the right decision when you purchase your new washer.

Front Load and Top Load Washing Machines: The Differences

The main difference between these two appliances is how you load and unload clothes. Apart from this, front load models generally use less water and take a little longer to complete a cycle. These models do not use an impeller or agitator to move clothes in a wash basket but rather tumble clothes to clean them.

Front Load and Top Load Washing Machines: Pros & Cons

Here are some of the top highlights to give you a fair idea about both types of appliances.

Pros: Front Load washing machines

• Use comparatively less water per load
• Have shorter drying times due to higher spin speeds
• Can stack and save space
• The tumbling motion is gentle on clothes

Cons: Front Load washing machines

• Do not have a washer pedestal which makes it uncomfortable to load and unload
• Vulnerable to mold or mildew problems
• Harder to add clothes mid-cycle
• They are generally more expensive

Pros: Top load washing machines

• They generally require less maintenance overall
• Most models in this category have faster cycle times
• Some models come with Deep Water Wash options

Cons: Top load washing machines

• Comparatively use more water and energy
• Can cause more wear and tear on clothing
• Not stackable

How do Front Load & Top Load washing machines clean clothes?

Front Load washing machines clean cloth by creating friction through tumbling laundry loads. Whereas, Top Load washing machines use an agitator or impeller to clean your clothes. An impeller is a disc or low-profile cone that spins, so clothes rub against each other, while an agitator is a tall spindle in the middle of the wash basket that twists back and forth to wash a load.

Front Load & Top Load washing machines: The capacity

Front Load washing machines usually have lower capacity and don't exceed 5.0 Cu. Ft. However, Top Load washing machines tend to have a slightly larger capacity. For impeller models, they are generally around a little over 5.0 Cu. Ft. and slightly less than 5.0 Cu. Ft. for agitator models.

Front Load & Top Load washing machines: Comfortable To Use

Generally, Top Load washing machines have waist height, so they could be easier to load depending on your height. On the other hand, Front Load washing machines may require some bending to load and unload. To cater this, adding pedestals can raise the washer to make it easier.

Front Load & Top Load washing machines: Efficiency

In terms of efficiency, Front Load washing machines are clear winners as they're designed to use less water even if they have slightly longer cycle times. Whereas, Top Load washing machines use more water.

Best Top Load Washing Machine Pick?

Now that we've highlighted some of the pros and cons, let's look at one of our favourite Top Load washing machines:

Frigidaire 4.1 Cu. Ft. High-Efficiency Top Load Washer | 12 Washer Cycles

• Comes with MaxFill™ options that allow for the maximum water level for the selected cycle.
• Offers 12 wash cycles.
• Offers durability with long-lasting performance with Stainless steel drum.
• Fit more in every load.
• Offers personalize wash experience with options such as Favorite Cycle and Max Fill.
• Easy to use electronic controls with digital read-out and cycle status lights.
• The Quick Wash Cycle washes clothes fast and efficiently.
• 5 Soil Level Options: Includes: Extra Heavy, Heavy, Medium, Light and Extra Light
• Allows to conveniently add fabric softener at the beginning of the wash cycle.

Best Front Load Washing Machine Pick?

Now, let's check out one of our favourite Front Load washing machines:

Electrolux 2.4 Cu. Ft. Compact Washer with LuxCare Wash System

• Offers thorough clean experience with the LuxCare Wash System
• Deep Clean Sanitization Cycle
• 2.4 cu.ft. capacity washer
• Unique touch controls and intuitive design
• Perfect Balance System ensures smooth and quiet operation

What's the Verdict?

The ultimate choice comes down to personal preferences. The Front Load washing machines are not only superior at cleaning clothes but are efficient as they use less water and are gentle on fabrics. Whereas, Top Load washing machines offer faster cleaning and are slightly more ergonomic. Front Load machines cost more to purchase and maintain, but they provide better cleaning performance than Top Load washing machines.

While we can't make up your mind for you, we can answer any questions you may have and help you find the right washing machine for your facility. For more information, feel free to call one of our experts at (877) 776-8228.