Front Loaders vs Top Loaders – Everything You Need to Know
The washing machine is probably second only to the fridge in its importance in a modern household. If your machine breaks down, it’s easy to panic buy. But if you are aware of the differences between front loaders vs top loaders, when that fateful day comes, you will be prepared to make the right decision for your needs.
Let’s have a look at some of the pros and cons of both types of machines:
Top Loaders
Pros
- More energy efficient
- More water efficient
- Require less detergent
- Usually have more cycle options
- Gentler on clothes
- Spin faster so clothes come out drier, reducing drying time
- Compact and stackable
Cons
- Generally smaller capacity, although larger models are becoming available
- If you dropped that sock, on some models you can’t stop the cycle to add it
- Longer wash cycles
- More expensive to buy
Front Loaders
Pros
- More energy efficient
- More water efficient
- Require less detergent
- Usually have more cycle options
- Gentler on clothes
- Spin faster so clothes come out drier, reducing drying time
- Compact and stackable
Cons
- Generally smaller capacity, although larger models are becoming available
- If you dropped that sock, on some models you can’t stop the cycle to add it
- Longer wash cycles
- More expensive to buy
Detergents – Horses for Courses
Because front loaders and top loaders wash differently, they have different needs in terms of detergents.
In top loaders, the ‘load’ is fully immersed in water during the wash cycle. This means you can use lower efficiency detergents designed to dissolve in much greater volumes of water, which will typically produce more lather. Essentially, any powder or liquid detergent is suitable to use in a top loader.
In front loaders, because the ‘load’ is not immersed, a detergent designed to dissolve in less water, and produce less lather is needed. These are referred to as high efficiency detergents. If you use the wrong detergent you may find a residue left on your washing. This might appear as white chalky traces on dark items, or even undissolved grains of washing powder. Using the wrong powder in a front loader can also damage your washing machine over the long term.
Powder vs Liquid
The other important choice to make in relation to getting your laundry clean is the question of powder or liquid.
Whilst powder is generally cheaper, liquid is less likely to leave any residue on your clothing. Powder works well on dirt and grass stains, but liquid is more suitable for hand-washing, soaking, and pre-treating.
Whether you prefer powder or liquid, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on whether the product is suitable for your machine – particularly if you have a front loader – and stick to the recommended amount of detergent. Adding more detergent won’t get your washing cleaner, but it may leave a residue on your clothes or damage your machine.
The Final Wash-Up
As with most things, which machine you choose depends a great deal on your needs. A family of five will have different needs than a retired couple. That said, we believe you will find the benefits of a front loader will outweigh the benefits of a top loader over time – if only in the savings you notice in your electricity and water bills.
Whether you have a top loader or a front loader, JAMAC have everything you need to get your clothes clean, and keep your washing machine operating at peak efficiency. If you would like further information or advice on the best way to tackle your particular cleaning related problems, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] or (02) 9838 1220.
Products Recommended In This Article:
Powders
Power – Top Loaders only
Ocean Fresh – Front Loader and Top Loader
Power Plus – Front Loader and Top Loader
Euco White – Front Loader and Top Loader
Super Conc – Front Loader and Top Loader
Turbo – Front Loader and Top Loader
Liquids
Laundry Liquid – Front Loader and Top Loader
Eucalyptus Woolwash – Front Loader and Top Loader
Specialty Cleaners – Suitable For Use With Front Or Top loaders
Emulsifier/Oil Remover
Concentrated Prewash
Prewash
Blood Remover
Fabric Softener
Eucalyptus Laundry Sanitiser
Nappy Wash