Of all the white goods in your home, the washing machine is perhaps the most important. You could argue that a fridge keeps your beverages cool and that a washing machine is relegated to the laundry, tucked out of sight and mind, but do you remember the last time your washing machine failed? Chaos reigns when your dirty laundry starts to pile up and you forget that having a clean shirt is actually a modern luxury. Washing machines are such a vital part of modern life that we often forget. So then, the right washing machine is important, and you should take your time before you buy. The real questions are: Front load or top load? What’s the difference?
Well, essentially, it’s in the name, but there are some characteristics of both that majorly affect their desirability. The types of fabrics you will be washing, the space you have available and how often you wash are key questions you need to ask yourself
Front load
Front Load Washing Machines are a relatively new evolution of the washing machine. As the name implies, laundry is loaded into the front of the machine. Front loaders are more energy efficient as the horizontal drum gets a hand from gravity when tumbling the clothes. Front loaders are more water efficient too and contain more cycle options than a front loader. Front load machines are a perfect choice for smaller households with specific laundry needs. A front loader does not respond as well as a top loader to detergents and fabric softeners, but it will use much less product per wash. A front load should be cleaned more often as it can develop problems with mould and mildew due to excess moisture. Front loaders in general are much less obtrusive, quieter, smaller and suffer from less vibrations compared to the venerable top loader.
Top load
Top loaders like this Haier 12kg top load remain a popular choice, and for good reason. Top loaders are the more traditional form of washing machine and offer the main advantage of handling larger loads. You get a lot more capacity for your money too, and if you want to do large regular loads a top loader can do it for not much cash. Another much loved benefit of the top loader is the ability to add items in after you have started the load. The cycle time is usually shorter on a top load and if you have back problems this is probably the best choice. A top loader can be made more economical by doing full loads with less frequency. Another benefit of the top loader is the stronger barrel. Overloading a front load can be fatal for the washer as the drum bearings wear down from the pressure. Top loaders will respond better to cleaning products but use considerably more hot water if performing a hot cycle.
So, a top load washing machine will be stronger, faster and cost less money up front, on the flip side it won’t be as energy efficient or smart as a front loader. Front loaders can’t be stopped mid cycle meaning a forgotten piece of laundry can cost you a lot of time. Front loaders can be a lot more expensive, but their efficiency will give you savings in the long run. If you have limited space a front loader can be the perfect choice, if you have a large family and have the room, a top loader is a no brainer. Many fantastic products exist out here, and some new hybrid front/top loaders have emerged in recent years. Weigh up your needs and budget and find the right machine for you.