When it comes to washing machines, there are various types available on the market. The most common options are front-loading and top-loading machines. To help you choose the right size, we often hear customers asking, "Which washing machine is good?" or "Which washing machine do you recommend?" To address these questions, we have gathered input from experts who have sold hundreds of washing machines, as well as recommendations from netizens. In this article, we will compare front-loading and top-loading washing machines.
Washing Machine Comparison: Top Loading VS Front Loading
Advantages and Disadvantages of Top-Loading Washing Machines
Pros:
Generally less likely to break down and require repairs
Faster laundry times
Affordable
The washing machine is lighter and therefore easier to move
Even when the washing machine is running, you can easily add more clothes at any time
Cleaning performance is generally better
No need to bend down or squat down to take out clothes
Cons:
Generally has greater friction against clothing
Uses more water than front-loading washing machines
When using warm or hot water for washing, the power consumption is relatively high.
Use more laundry detergent
The cost of each load of laundry is comparatively high
Advantages and Disadvantages of Front-Loading Washing Machines
Pros:
In addition to washing and drying functions, some washing machine models have a drying function, which allows the entire washing and drying process to be completed in the same drum without moving the clothes
Gentle when washing clothes
Usually requires less water and detergent
Lower power consumption when washing with warm or hot water
Relatively low running costs
Higher rotation speed
It can be installed under the kitchen cabinet because there is no need to reserve space above the unit, making the most of space.
Cons:
Expensive compared to top loaders
Higher speeds and less water consumption (higher wash temperature options) may mean more wrinkles in the clothes (some models have added "anti-wrinkle" programs)
Some models may not be able to easily add clothes while the washing machine is running.
The unit is heavy and not suitable for moving
Note that if it is placed on a wooden floor, some special brackets are needed
Need to bend down or squat down to take out clothes
The average model is noisier. For those who like a quiet home, this washing machine is not recommended.
What options are there for front-loading and top-loading washing machines? In fact, they each have their own advantages and disadvantages (see above), and there is no absolute comparison of advantages and disadvantages. According to BBE’s experience, many customers’ choice of washing machine depends on the kitchen space and layout, and both types of washing machines have some good models.
Things to Consider When Purchasing a Washing Machine in 2024
A. Washing Machine Size and Capacity
The laundry capacity is one of the simplest but most important factors to consider when purchasing a washing machine. The larger the laundry capacity, the more clothes you can wash each cycle. The laundry capacity refers to the maximum washing capacity of the washing machine, measured in kilograms.
The mainstream washing machines on the market have a capacity between 6 to 9 kilograms. Of course, there are also a few products which can handle larger volumes, up to 21 kilograms. For example, a washing machine product with a capacity of 8 kilograms means that it can wash up to 8 kilograms of dry clothes. If the clothes put in are very close to or exceed this weight, the washing machine will not operate smoothly as the motor would be overloaded, resulting in incomplete washing, and even damage.
Generally speaking, 1 kilogram is roughly equivalent to a set of clothing, including a pair of trousers, a top, plus underwear and socks. From this, you can estimate the daily laundry load. High-capacity models allow you to increase laundry efficiency and save time on housework.
Washing machines available at BBE are models ranging from 5 kg to 14 kg. If you have a large family or wash large loads of clothes regularly, we recommend a large-capacity front-loading washing machine. For example, for a family of three, a washing machine with a capacity of about 5 to 8 kilograms can meet daily needs. For a family of four, a product with a capacity of about 7 to 9 kilograms is completely sufficient. For families of five or more, it is recommended to purchase washing machines over 9kg.
In addition, you should also pay attention when measuring the size of the washing machine. We often encounter customers who cannot install the washing machine because they over or underestimate the size of the washing machine. Read on to learn how to measure the size of the washing machine, something to keep in mind when installing it in your home.
B. Washing Machine Rotation Speed
The rotation speed of the washing machine ranges from 600 to 1600 rpm. The faster the speed means more water can be extracted in a shorter time. Before drying, you need to pay attention to the material and size of the clothes. Some clothes, such as jeans and thicker clothes will take a longer time to dry.
Choose a model with a medium speed for efficient daily laundry (900 to 1,000 rpm). However, for people in Hong Kong where time is money, if you don’t like to dry your clothes slowly, or don’t want to wait for too long (especially when you want to wear your favorite or important clothes in a short time), you should consider choosing a washing machine with a relatively fast spin speed (1,200 rpm or higher).
Hong Kong's homes are relatively small, and washing machines are usually one of the noisier household appliances. When purchasing a washing machine, you should consider whether its volume is within an acceptable range. The noise program of the washing machine depends on whether it is fixed frequency or variable frequency.
D. The Washing Machine - Motor
There are different types of motors used in washing machines.
A fixed-frequency washing machine is equipped with a fixed-frequency motor, where it either rotates or does not rotate, and the rotation speed is fixed. The advantages of fixed-frequency motors are mature technology and reliable quality, and washing machines equipped with fixed-frequency motors are generally cheaper. The disadvantages are that they consume more power, have loud operating noise, strong vibrations, and have average cleaning effects.
Variable frequency motor washing machines have fully adjustable speeds. When it first starts, it will rotate at a low speed to disperse the clothes; after injecting the detergent, the speed will increase to shake the clothes evenly in the water; then it will slow down to allow the clothes to be fully soaked; then it will speed up further so that the clothes can be fully cleaned; and finally it will speed up to high speed. Spin and complete the washing process. The speed of the entire washing process is automatically adjusted according to the program.
Nowadays, open-floor plan homes are popular in Hong Kong, so it is even more important to choose a washing machine with less noise. Whether it’s a young family that needs to do laundry late at night or someone who needs to work from home, we recommend the purchase of a quieter inverter washing machine. In fact, the current frequency conversion technology is quite developed and excels in managing energy consumption and laundry cleanliness.
As for the price issue that everyone is more concerned about, inverter washing machines are no longer priced as high as when they first emerged. At present, washing machines are widely priced and have a wide range of options. In addition, users who are sensitive to noise and vibrations can also purchase variable-frequency direct-drive washing machines, which feature no need for belts and pulleys and are directly attached to the drum, greatly reducing noise and vibration. Nowadays, there are many models with fixed-frequency silent designs. You are welcome to inquire with BBE professionals.
E. Washing Machine Quick Wash Function
If you are in a hurry or only have a small amount of clothes to wash, we recommend you use the quick wash function. There are many washing machine models with a quick wash function that can handle these small, lightly soiled laundry loads expertly, with some models even able to complete a quick wash cycle in as little as 14 minutes.
F. Washing Machine Energy Label
How do you choose a cost-saving and environmentally friendly washing machine? First of all, according to the electricity consumption of the washing machine, the energy efficiency can be divided into levels one to five. A level one washing machine saves 23% of energy than a level three washing machine, and compared with a level five washing machine, it saves nearly 50% of energy. Therefore, it is recommended to buy a level five washing machine.
The energy label level can indicate the power consumption of the washing machine. Purchasing a washing machine with energy labels of levels 1 to 3 is a more energy-saving choice. Consumers should also note that they should try to fill the washing machine as much as possible when doing laundry because the battery capacity is not much different from half full. Finally, we suggest that when purchasing home appliances, you should not only consider price but also consider energy efficiency and choose the most energy-saving and cost-effective washing machine.
G. Recommended Brands of Washing Machines
A good washing machine should last more than ten years, which is why the brand of the washing machine is important. BBE provides a total of more than 20 brands and more than 250 models of washing machines for you to choose from. Most people choose Siemens, Whirlpool, Zanussi, Hitachi, or Electrolux. Here, we will also be highlighting several high-quality washing machine brands.
Impeller Type Washing Machine Saves Electricity and Front Load Washing Machine Saves Water
Front load washing machines have a heating function and therefore use more electricity than impeller washing machines. Reports show that the electricity bill for a front-loading washing machine to complete each washing cycle is $0.4 to $1.2, while that for an impeller washing machine ranges from $0.1 to $0.2. Assuming that the machine is turned on 260 times a year and the electricity consumption for washing cotton clothes of each sample is calculated, the annual electricity bill for a front-loading washing machine is $110 to $314, while for an impeller washing machine, it ranges from $27 to $43.
In terms of water consumption, front-loading washing machines use more than 2 times less water than impeller washing machines.
Washing machine warranty periods range from 1 year to 39 months, and annual renewal fees range from $320 to $780. The warranty period for all models includes free on-site inspection and waived maintenance labor charges.
6 Highly Recommended Washing Machine Brands and Models in 2025
Which washing machine is best? Many people rely on luck when buying a good washing machine. Even the same model may last for more than ten or twenty years, or it may break down and require repair within a few months. BBE has many years of experience in selling washing machines. Based on the after-sales opinions of our customers, we have integrated the following popular brands and models with very stable performance and quality to recommend to everyone.
This front-loading washing machine has excellent functions. The built-in 4D spray cleaning system ensures thorough cleaning of clothes. Its AntiStain function can easily remove stubborn stains, plus the AllergyPlus anti-allergic sterilization program and a variety of programs and additional functions, such as ultra-fast washing, shirt mode, and pre-wash which can easily cope with various laundry needs. In addition, it also uses EcoSilence Drive™ variable frequency motor and AntiVibration™design spiral anti-vibration sidewall design to ensure quiet and stable operation.
This Italian-made front-loading washing machine from Electrolux has a washing capacity of 8 kg and a maximum rotation speed of 1,400 rpm. It is equipped with a variety of programs, such as delicate clothes, and woollen clothing care, making it suitable for daily use. The steam-soft laundry function can reduce wrinkles in clothes; the wool clothing care program effectively protects wool clothing. In addition, the intelligent variable frequency motor provides a quieter and energy-saving laundry experience.
The ZWF8045D2WA is an affordable front-loading washing machine with a washing capacity of 8 kg and a maximum rotation speed of 1400 rpm and complies with Hong Kong’s first-class energy label. This washing machine has multiple washing programs and function options, such as pre-calibrated start and temperature selection. In addition, the washing machine has a rain-spray laundry system, which can evenly sprinkle water to soak clothes, clean efficiently, and reduce water consumption. The built-in 15-minute express wash function helps you quickly clean lightly stained clothes, saving time.
This top-loading washing machine from Whirlpool has a washing capacity of 7 kg and a maximum rotation speed of 1200 rpm. Its stainless steel roller uses a direct drive variable frequency motor. It has a variety of programs, including 45-minute mixed wash, cotton, synthetic fibers, delicates, wool (hand wash), sportswear, 60°C efficient sterilization and stain removal, 90°C drum cleaning, quick wash, and more.
This top-loading washing machine from Poland has a washing capacity of 7 kg and a maximum rotation speed of 1200 rpm. It has a special feature that sprinkles water and detergent evenly on the clothes, ensuring comprehensive and clean washing while reducing water use and achieving environmental protection and water conservation. Even when the washing machine door is closed, fresh air can be kept flowing inside, effectively reducing the buildup of odors, bacteria and mold caused by moisture, while keeping clothes fresh. With its automatic positioning device, the door will automatically return to the position of the top door cover after each wash cycle, making it convenient for you to take out clothes.
Made in Germany, this model combines the functions of washing and drying. It has a washing capacity of 8 kg, a maximum rotation speed of 1500 rpm, and a drying capacity of 5 kg, which can meet a daily load of clothes. Equipped with excellent PerfectCare technology, it is suitable for gentle and efficient clothing care. Users can also remotely control and use the prompt function through the Mielel APP to easily understand the washing and drying status.
Things to Note When Using a Washing Machine
1. When you buy new clothes and want to wash them for the first time, remember to pay attention to the laundry symbol on the clothing label to choose the appropriate water temperature and washing program to avoid damage.
2. When the washing machine is idle, try to keep the washing tub or drum as dry as possible (especially the position between the outer and the inner tub) to avoid the buildup of bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms in the washing machine.
3. If you have children at home and use a top-loading washing machine, avoid placing stools and chairs next to the washing machine to prevent the children from accidentally falling into the washing machine. There have been reports of many children being injured by washing machines in Hong Kong.
4. If you use a front-loading washing machine, make sure the door of the washing machine is closed at all times to prevent children from climbing in.
5. If there are hard objects such as buttons and zippers on the clothes, they should be fastened or zipped first, and then the clothes should be washed inside out to avoid damage to the clothes and the washing machine. Otherwise, the washing machine will make noise due to collision with hard objects when it is started.
6. Before each wash, remember to check whether there are any hard objects or money in your pants pockets or hidden compartments. I believe many people have the experience of washing banknotes into pieces and washing them wet, and hard objects will damage the washing machine.
7. Use a laundry bag for smaller items of clothing such as underwear, socks, and gloves. It will also be more convenient to collect them after washing.
Washing Machine FAQs and Usage Tips
1. Why do mold spots appear on the rubber ring of the washing machine door?
After using the washing machine, try to open the door and blow dry moist air to keep the washing machine dry and fresh, and avoid leaving clothes in the washing machine, which will increase the moisture that produces odor and mold.
2. Why do clothes smell bad after being washed in a washing machine?
This can happen when clothes are washed in weather with high humidity or when they are forced to dry in a place with no air circulation. You can try to use hot water during the laundry process (but pay attention to the instructions on the laundry label of the clothes) to reduce the buildup of mold and clean the laundry tub or drum. Alternatively, you can use deodorizing tablets to remove odor from the washing machine every two to three months.
3. Why can’t laundry detergent be used on some washing machines when using the “pre-calibrated startup” program?
The reason is that the detergent liquid will flow into the machine prematurely, dry up, and may stick to the pipe, so it is recommended to use washing powder.
4. After turning on the machine, I see a small amount of foam on the rubber edge of the door. Did I use too much laundry detergent?
You can first select the desired program and then press "Deep Water" (that is, use more water than usual, 3 times in total) to remove the foam. There is a chance that the detergent itself has too much foam. Generally speaking, European brands of laundry detergent will have less foam, while Japanese brands will have more foam.
5. When I’m using a drum washing machine, water is leaking from the door ring or washing box. What do I do?
If you find water leakage from the door ring during use, you can check whether the hatch is tightly closed and whether there is any foreign matter mixed in the hatch seal. At the same time, use low-foaming detergent. When putting the detergent into the washing box, do not put too much.
6. Should the washing machine be shaking back and forth when spinning?
In order to facilitate transportation, the washing machine has fixing screws to fix the inner drum, but they must be removed before use, otherwise the shock absorption system will not work, and very large vibrations will occur.
7. Why can’t I see a lot of water when washing clothes? Is it enough to wash clothes?
The washing principle of the washing machine relies on centrifugation. Too much water not only wastes waterbut also cannot form an effective centrifugation. In addition, washing machines produced in Europe take into account environmental protection and energy saving issues, so they are designed to use less water to achieve the ideal cleaning effect.
8. Can I pour hot water into the washing machine during washing?
If necessary, you can pour hot water by hand, but the water temperature should not exceed 50°C, because water that is too hot will damage the outer barrel of the washing machine.
9. Why does the washing machine not spin after adding water and turning on the power?
Fully automatic washing machines have a minimum protection water level. When the water level is too low, the washing machine will not start. At this time, add more water and it can run again. It is recommended that the upper and lower water pipes are connected, but there should be no such problem when in operation.
10. Why does the washing machine vibrate when drying clothes?
This may occur if the clothes are placed unevenly or the machine is unbalanced. When placing clothes in the washing machine, try to spread the clothes/sheets/quilts and distribute them evenly in the washing tub or drum. You can also try to put clothes of different sizes into the washing machine to improve the washing and spin-drying efficiency.
BBE is an expert in home appliances. If you want to buy or compare washing machines from different brands, you are welcome to visit our large stores in Tuen Mun, Mong Kok and Causeway Bay. After learning about it in person, place your order or contact us on Facebook. BBE is happy to recommend the most suitable washing machine for you.
Leave a Comment