Pro Bites

Top Load vs. Front Load Laundry

 

Pepsi vs. Coke, Lays vs. Ruffles, McDonalds vs. Burger King…. Top Load vs. Front Load? It seems this is the age-old question when it comes to laundry and just when you think the debate is over, someone argues the other side and we’re back in the same place. We may not be able to solve the question for you, but we can help you determine which type works best for you. 

Keep reading below and tell us, which side are you on?
TOP LOAD LAUNDRY

Top load laundry for a long time was the standard type of machine in North America. There weren’t many other options out there, so deciding on what you wanted mostly came down to brand. Now, with the significant popularity of front load machines, it can be difficult to understand which one is best suited for you.


Ergonomics
The top load machine overall is the best in terms of ergonomics. If you’re a standard height or taller or have any issues with bending, top load machines make doing laundry a lot easier. Not having to bend over and over to load and unload laundry makes a huge difference, especially if you’re limited in your mobility.

Smell
Another major plus is you don’t have to worry about mold or smell issues with a top load. Since the top load machine doesn’t include the rubber seal, which is needed for front load, there’s no issues with having moisture trapped and creating mold or nasty smells.

Cost
Since top load laundry machines have been around for some time, their technology hasn’t changed very much and is not overly complicated in terms of how its made. As a result, the top load machines can be cheaper overall when compared to front load.

Functionality
Depending on your needs, top load machines can be a bit more ‘emergency’ friendly. If you forgot to throw in a pair of socks or spill something while a load is running you can easily open the lid and pop it in. Some front load machines have this functionality added in now with an additional small door, if you’re in need and don’t want to go top-load.

Overall the classic top load machine is not something to scoff at. It’s simple, clean, cost efficient and dependable.

 

FRONT LOAD LAUNDRY

Front load is still the shiny new coin in the North American laundry world. Though in Europe it has been the standard for many years, it was relatively new to the industry in North America in the late 1990’s. Since it arrived, its popularity has taken off, especially with the many European immigrants who had longed for the machines they left behind when immigrating.

Functionality
One main reason the front load washer was so popular is the ability to stack the machines on top of each other. They save so much space and for anyone living in close quarters, these machines were a huge relief. Not all front-loading machines available now are stackable but many nice models are and the flexibility of where you can put them in your home doubles with this option.


Energy Efficiency
Front loading machines are more energy efficient overall than top loading machines. Front loading machines use less water and can adjust the amount of water being used depending on the amount of clothing you put in. They can also handle small loads much better because of the ability to control the water more efficiently, so you don’t have to always let your clothing pile up to get a load done.

Clothing Handling
Another important feature that stands out about front load machines is the fact that they are much gentler on clothing than top loads. Since the clothing isn’t rubbing against itself and other clothes as much it tends to be gentler on the clothes overall. For those who take care in their laundry routine or have a lot of delicate clothing, the front load machine would likely be a better choice.

When it comes down to deciding between front load and top load laundry and which one is better, it really depends on your own personal preferences. Similar to buying any other appliances, it’s important to consider your lifestyle, preferences, the space you’re in and so on. Consider the points above and use them to determine which type would be the most ideal for your home and family.

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Published by Sharon - Your Tasco Pro on Thursday, December 12th