If you’re in the market to purchase a new washing machine, you may be wondering if you should get a front-loading washing machine or a top-loading washing machine. Here are some pros and cons for each machine to help you make an educated decision when choosing the right washing machine for you.
Energy Efficiency
A top-loading washing machine is less efficient than a front-loading washing machine due to the amount of water needed to properly clean your laundry. A top-loading machine needs more water in order to cover your clothing vertically, while a front-loading machine uses gravity to drop your clothes into the water as it spins horizontally. This saves you about two thirds of the water you would normally use in a top-loading machine.
Ease
Both of these machines are easy to operate, but a top-loading machine is harder to reach into to get your laundry. Front-loading machines do require you to bend down lower to retrieve your clothing, so if you have bad knees or a bad back these machines may not be the right choice. A front-loading machine is more easily accessible, but has its downfalls. For example, you’re probably used to being able to open the lid and throw in a piece of clothing that was forgotten or dropped. With a front-loading machine, this isn’t an option. However, a front-loading machine also has more space inside (due to the lack of an agitator) so you will have to do fewer loads of laundry.
Money
A front-loading machine will usually cost more, but will save you money on your electric bill, water bill, and clothing budget. Since it doesn’t have an agitator, your clothes are washed more gently, which saves you money in the long run. You also don’t have to wash as many loads due its larger drum. Front-loading washing machines also require high efficiency laundry detergent, which costs a little more. Top-loading washing machines are not as picky about detergents, so you can spend less money in the grocery store.
Appearance
Front-loading washing machines are definitely more visually appealing, and can save you space in your laundry room. Top-loading machines take up much more space, are visibly more bulky, and cannot be stacked like front-loading machines. If you’re looking for a newer and sleeker washing machine, top-loading machines are not the best option. Front-loading washing machines save you space and look more modern.
