subject: Choosing between a top loading and front loading washing machine - what are the differences? [print this page] Choosing between a top loading and front loading washing machine - what are the differences?
The two types of washing machine, front loading, and the more traditional top loading washing machine, both have their advantages and disadvantages. But what are they, and why should you choose one over the other?
There are a lot of differences, so it's important, especially if you're looking at buying a new washing machine, to understand what will work best for you.
Front loading washing machines have a lot of benefits, it has to be said. They use a lot less detergent than a top loading washing machine, and require less use of water in order to run. In comparison, a top loading washing machine has to fill the entire drum, which can be quite a height, and therefore a lot of water.
As well as the economical advantages of using less detergent and less water, a side loading washing machine is significantly less noisy as well. This is because it runs more delicately than a top loading washing machine, collecting the clothes together and submerging them with bubbly water. A top loading washing machine on the other hand will beat the clothing backwards and forwards with a central agitator. The lighter nature of the front loading washing machines also ensures that garments have a longer life span. With the louder and more violent nature of a top loading washing machine, it's also a habit for a top loading washing machine to, over time, become unbalanced and rock from side to side, which therefore increases the noise output further.
Alongside all this, a front loading washing machine can also fit better into a kitchen environment. On a top loading washing machine, all the top area of the washing machine is taken up by the door of the machine. In comparison, a front loading washing machine's top is almost entirely bare making it useful for additional kitchen space if needed.
However, it's not all bad with a top loading washing machine. A front loading washing machine might have economical and environmental advantages in terms of using less water and detergent producing less noise, and giving your clothes a longer lifespan than a top loader but, there are advantages of using a top loading washing machine too.
Ergonomically speaking, a top loader is a much better preference. With all your clothing being able to be loaded into the washing machine without having to bend down, it's perfect for those who might have back trouble, and is great for preventing back trouble in the future. It's therefore often the best choice for the elderly, where bending down to load a front loading washing machine might prove to be a difficult task.
Overall then, if you want to save money on detergent, water bills, and keep your clothes lasting longer, then a front loading washing machine is the way to go. If however you want to look after your back or if you have back troubles already, then definitely go with a top loading washing machine to avoid the pain and discomfort.
