Purchasing a washing machine can be an investment worth making for the amount of time and effort it can save you. The various features available make it simple to wash out even tough stains with minimal effort.
This is also true when you want to wash delicate materials, which can be washed evenly and without damage when you set the right mode and cycles on your washing machine.
If your lifestyle is already busy, a washing machine can be a saving grace to get clean your dirty laundry while you focus on other tasks, or take a break.
Since it is a piece of heavy electrical equipment, you need to also consider several factors before looking at what is available on the market.
This is particularly true for the type of washing machine you are going to buy – top load or front load.
Whether you are looking to get a washing machine for the first time or to replace your old machine this article will guide you through the differences between the two options and why you should consider one over the other.
What are the basic differences between Front Load & Top Load washing machines?
The most obvious difference between the top and front load washing machines is the placement of the door. To put clothes into a top load washing machine, you just have to open the lid and put clothes into it as you would into a bin.
For the front load, the placement of the drum, as well as the door, is different, and you will have to open a door on the front side of the machine.
Other than the obvious there are several other factors you may have to consider before making a final call.
Ease of use
Clearly, top load machines are winners in the user-friendly category. If you do not want to bend each time you do the laundry, or if the users of the machine are old and have some joint issues – front load machines will not be the best option to purchase.
How much Space is required?
Most top load machines are narrower and are easy to fit into smaller spaces. These machines also vibrate less and are an efficient choice if you have any space constrictions.
Efficiency: Energy consumption front load vs top load washing machine
When it boils down to efficiency – in terms of electricity, water, and even detergent, front load machines are better by a long shot.
The power consumed by the front load is around 50% less than the top load, and the water is cut by almost 30 – 40%.
This makes this front-load option far more environmentally sustainable given its low energy consumption as compared to that of the top-load machines.
Wash: Gentle or complete immersion?
Front-load washing machines may be a pain to your back but are gentle with your clothes. Unlike the top load machines, they completely immerse your clothes in water, irrespective of their size.
Cost: Bang for the buck or featured-packed model?
In general, top load machines tend to be cheaper than their counterparts. However, this trend of the price difference is also reducing with an increase in the number of features they offer.
Maintenance: Less frequent is more appreciated
The top-load machines depend on gravity to bring all the dirty water down and drain it out. However, in the case of the front load machines, this water may cause mold build-up near the bottom part of the door. This can be combatted with regular maintenance.
So, which is the best top-loading or front-loading washing machine?
Choosing between the two options boils down to what your needs are at the time. This ranges from who the main users are, to what available space you have to place the machine. When we place the differences side by side, we can gauge a better understanding of each option.
All things considered, a front-load machine is clearly a better investment. Even though it may cost more initially the ROI is better in the case of these front load washing machines.
This is not always the case, as the friendliness of the machine does not compare to the top load and neither does the compactness.
So, if what you are looking for in a washing machine fit for a smaller space, and older users you may be better off with a top-load purchase.
Front loading washing machine: All you need to know
How to use from load washing machine?
Front-load washing machines generally come with numerous features that allow you to customize the wash based on the number and type of clothes.
So, after loading your clothes into the machine, pour the recommended amount of detergent into the dispenser. After this, select the temperature of the water you wish to wash the fabric at and then the right spin cycle depending on the fabric type.
Allow the machine to finish running and remove the clothes and dry them within 2 hours of wash. Occasionally, wipe the door and the insides of the machine clean with a cloth to prevent any mold formation.
Pros
- Low power consumption and energy-efficient.
- Use less water and laundry detergent.
- Gentle on clothes and give them a longer lifespan.
- Most have built-in heaters to adjust the water temperature.
Cons
- Prone to dirt, line and mould build-up
- More expensive.
- Usually larger than their counterparts.
- Cannot add extra clothes in between the cycle.
Also read: Best Semi-Automatic Washing Machines in India Under 15000
Best front load washing machines available in India
You should always consider the capacity, budget, features, and popularity of the brand before purchasing a machine. To aid your search for the best front load washing machine, here are a few options from the best brands in India to get you started.
LG 9Kg Inverter Wi-Fi Fully-Automatic Front-Loading Washing Machine
Features include
Fully-automatic
9 kg capacity makes it suitable for average and large-sized families
5-star Energy rating
14 basic washing cycles
1400rpm spin speeds
Two-year warranty
Pros
Compact
Can be controlled through the smartphone app
stainless steel drum for long term usage
Auto-restart in case of power cuts
Less noise
Cons
Not many follow-up services
Samsung 8 kg Inverter Fully-Automatic Front Loading Washing Machine
Features
Fully automatic washing machine
8 Kg capacity suitable for average Indian family
1200 rpm spin speed
Digital Inverter technology
Eco Bubble technology
Two-year warranty
Pros
Not as expensive as its peers
Less noise
LED panel with attractive features
Cons
Some features like hand wash and gentle wash mode
Long washing time
Also read: What is Smart Inverter Technology in Washing Machines?
Bosch 8Kg Inverter Fully Automatic Front-loading washing machine
Features
Fully-automatic washing machine
8 Kg capacity suitable for average Indian family
15 wash cycles
Anti-vibration design
Pros
Anti-tangle technology
Reduces wash time up to 20%
ActiveWater Plus – adjusts water level according to fabric type
Variodrum is a dual-sided system to protect delicate fabrics
Cons
The power cord is shorter than most others
Short warranty cover
You may also like: Best Liquid Detergents for Front Load Washing Machine in India
Top loading washing machine: Everything you need to know
How to use Top loading washing machine:
Most top-loading washing machines are pretty simple and straightforward to use, which make them well fit for even first time users. First, add your detergent into the provided space.
When loading your clothes, make sure not to overload the machine – as the clothes might not get completely immersed and will not be washed completely.
These machines also have several options, along with the option of cycle time and water temperature. Depending on the type of fabric, choose the right option, close the lid, and click start.
These clothes remain fresh only if you unload them within 2 hours of finishing the wash, so unload them as soon as possible and air dry then clothes.
Pros
- Low-cost investment.
- Ease of usage makes it a great option for first-time users.
- Ergonomic and compact design.
- Can add clothes during the cycle, unlike front load machines.
Cons
- Not energy efficient – consume more power in the long run.
- Utilize more water as well as detergent.
- Not gentle on the clothes they wash, may cause tears on delicate fabrics.
- May have shorter life spans as compared to front-load machines.
Best top load washing machines available in India
You should always consider the capacity, budget, features, and popularity of the brand before purchasing a machine. To aid your search for the best top load washing machine, here are a few options from the best brands in India to get you started.
Whirlpool 7 kg 5 Star Fully-Automatic Top Loading Washing Machine
Features include
Washes clothes even with hard water.
ZPF technology allows thorough wash even with low pressure water supply
Auto Tub Clean feature keeps the stainless steel drum clean.
7 kg of capacity well fit for medium to large families
Pros
12 wash cycle options
Easy to use
Can use hard low-pressure water supply
Express Wash feature cuts down the wash time by 30%-40%
Cons
Powerful motor makes more noise than other options
Outlet pipe is slightly shorter
Godrej 7 Kg Fully-Automatic Top Loading Washing Machine
Features
Toughened glass lid
Active soak of 5-8 minutes to ensure stain removal
Auto-restart in case of power-cuts
Child lock feature
Pros
Robust plastic outer body for rust prevention
Attractive features and wash cycles
Compact and attractive design
Cons
No time display on the LED
Slightly noisy
Haier 7.5 kg Fully-Automatic Top Loading Washing Machine
Features
The magic filter prevents lint
Softfall technology allows the lid to fall gradually without noise or damage
8 wash programs
Can wash even on very low water pressure
Pros
Low cost
Easy to use even for first-timers
Low noise option
Cons
No auto-restart option if the water supply is stopped
The Inlet pipe is very short
Must read:
- Best Fully Automatic Front & Top Loading Washing Machine in India
- Best ways to clean your washing machine
Final Words
Picking the right washing machine is an investment for the next decade or so, and is thus an important call to make and must be well researched.
You now have a clear idea of the differences between the two types of washing machines available, and can weigh the pros and cons for yourself.
The list of options in this article is subject to change with new products and features in the market. However, this guide should have given you a good idea of what to look for depending on your current needs and other factors.
Use the options here to compare other options as well before making your final decision.
So, go ahead and start looking for a good washing machine that will make washing clothes more efficient and easier than it is manually.
