Toploaders

Toploaders are washing machines in which the door is located on the top of the cabinet and clothes are loaded from above. They fill the tub from the top and wash either with a central agitator or with a bottom impeller. Traditional top-loaders use a central agitator that mechanically moves clothes, while high-efficiency (HE) top-loaders use an impeller to rotate clothes with less water.

Two main designs are common. The agitator version typically uses more water and can offer brisk agitation for stain removal, whereas impeller designs use less water and energy and often provide a more gentle wash action. HE top-loaders aim to balance performance with lower water and energy use, though washing behavior and cycle times can vary by model.

Advantages of top-loaders include easy loading and unloading, especially for bulky items or users who prefer not to bend low, and often lower upfront costs. Disadvantages can include higher water and energy consumption on non-HE models, longer drying times due to gentler spin in some designs, and more wear on fabrics from aggressive agitation in some older models.

Typical considerations when selecting a top-loader include capacity (in cubic feet), energy and water efficiency, available wash programs, spin speed options, lid design and safety features, and warranty terms. Maintenance generally involves cleaning dispenser drawers and filters, using appropriate detergent for HE models, and periodic tub-cleaning cycles to prevent residue buildup. Brands commonly seen in markets include Whirlpool, LG, Samsung, Maytag, and GE.