Front Loader vs Top Loader

Julie-Ann · #1 05-06-2010, 11:37 AM

Do you prefer a top loader to a front loader washing machine?
People (actually let's face it - women because we do the washing) seem passionate about this choice. It has taken me awhile to get used to a front loader but I do think it is less damaging on the clothes.

Which do you prefer?

rachel · #2 05-06-2010, 04:40 PM

Front. For the reason you've mentioned, and they use less electricity and water too.

Yes they do take longer to wash, but we tend to use the timer function so it is ready when we get up in the morning, or use the quick wash function. Ours also has a function if you need to add a sock partway through a wash cycle

Julie-Ann · #3 05-06-2010, 04:49 PM

We have a 1 hour cycle on ours that does a good wash of most clothes so it doesn't take too long. That sock function is very cool- what brand is yours Rachel?

rachel · #4 05-06-2010, 05:03 PM

Ours is an Asko, Julie-Ann. The drum sits in a way that allows you to open the door without all the water sloshing out. It just drops the water level slightly then adds it back in, so it is a little bit environmentally naughty (but it doesn't happen often).

Ours is the older version of this one (I think!): http://www.asko.com.au/laundry-appli...machine-w6863/

Julie-Ann · #5 05-06-2010, 05:04 PM

Such a great brand Rachel

Belinda · #6 05-06-2010, 07:29 PM

After trying the front loader, I ended up going back to the top loader..

Its quicker, you can fit more in and when you have realised you forgot to put something in the load you can lift the lid on the top loader to add it to the load. WIth the front loader once you have pressed the start butter there is no going back to open the door until the load is finished. So.. my preference is a top loader.

Julie-Ann · #7 05-06-2010, 07:59 PM

I think this is what many people find Belinda. It certainly took awhile for me to get used to the front loader. Thanks for sharing your thoughts

indigohalo · #8 06-06-2010, 05:56 PM

I own a top loader, as does my mother. I had a funny conversation with a friend of mine a while ago during which we came to the conclusion that you buy the same type of washing machine as your mother has used all her life. I'd love to hear your opinions on that !!!

Another friend however, has mentioned that front loaders use less water and are also better for your clothes. So when its eventually time for a new washer (hopefully not in the near future $$) I will be buying a front loader and breaking the family tradition ...

Julie-Ann · #9 06-06-2010, 06:04 PM

Very interesting theory. Thank goodness you don't buy the same as your MIL- mine had for decades one of those machines where you had to transfer the clothes from 1 section of the machine in to the other. That always seemed silly to me and a waste of time. My mum and I have both recently changed to a front loader.
Another reason I converted was because we renovated the laundry and by having a front loader on the floor I could have a benchtop over it. More bench space and a neat finish- how could I resist

with2ns · #10 06-06-2010, 06:16 PM

I have a top loader and I love it. It's one of those ones that only fills to the level of clothes you put in the machine. I tend to keep my clothes for a long time and have personally found that the quality of my clothes has stayed very good.

It's interesting to hear how you love your front loaders, I have only known people who have them and have nothing but problems. Maybe they got a shoddy brand?!