Best Top Load Washing Machine To Buy In 2024

Washing machines are the perfect support system for big families and professionals facing a time crunch due to hectic schedules. These electronic devices simplify and improve our lives by automating the repetitive task of doing laundry. This chore cannot be ignored since dirty clothes and linen need regular cleaning to maintain their looks and hygiene levels. Also, laundering by hand is a backbreaking task that consumes a lot of time. Thus, washing machines are a saviour for working mothers, students and busy professionals who enjoy the convenience of fully automatic machines.

These devices save the trouble of washing, rinsing, wringing, scrubbing and drying clothes and replace it with a few simple clicks to start the wash cycle. It is so convenient that you can set the timer and complete other household chores while the clothes get laundered. The big machines can accommodate heavy loads easily, including thick cotton bed sheets, duvets, curtains, denim and woollens. The new-age machines offer different modes for different cloth materials and volumes to ensure perfect cleaning without affecting the quality of the apparel. So, whether it is a precious silk scarf or old jeans, you can get it all rinsed and cleaned in the washing machine.

They help remove stubborn stains, dirt and sweat odour from clothes without impacting the texture or the colours. Thus, every home loves to bring a high-performing washing machine into their lives that can take care of their regular laundering woes. However, buying this home appliance can be tricky because of the myriad brands and variants available in the market. Most people prefer a top loading machine because it does not require bending over to place the clothes and remove them after the cleaning cycle is over. The user can stand straight while putting clothes inside the machine and taking them out for air drying. It is a blessing for new moms with a bulk of baby laundry. So, here is a list of the best top load washing machines to buy in 2024, along with information that can help you make an informed purchase decision.

What Is A Top Load Washing Machine?

Top loading machines open from the top to load and unload clothes and are covered with a top lid that can be either attached or removable. Customers prefer the top load design because of the convenience of handling laundry. It is similar to the comfort of using a robot vacuum cleaner that requires no supervision. These machines allow the mounting of clothes in a vertical position in the tub equipped with a water-pumping agitator in the middle.

The agitator helps rinse clothes after the tub is filled with water. The water moves in a circular pattern to remove all the dirt and stains from the clothes with the help of the liquid detergent added to the machine at the beginning of the cycle. The agitator moves in the opposite direction after a while for continuous pressure washing. Top loading washing machines have a complex internal mechanism and offer higher efficiency with the help of quality induction motors.

Some top loading machines come with an impeller washer that possess discs or cones that rotate and spin clothes in the tub to remove dirt. The action is gentler than the agitator that spins clothes vigorously. Since the motion is subtler for the impeller, it uses less water than an agitator machine. However, impeller has a longer wash cycle but dries clothes quickly. It can also accommodate a heavier load of clothes than an agitator machine.

Benefits of Buying a Top Load Washing Machine

The top loading washing machines have gained popularity over their front loading counterparts in the country for the following reasons:

1. Top Load Washing Machines Are More Affordable

Buying a top load washing machine in Australia is cheaper than the front load ones. The difference in prices is significant which makes budget buyers opt for this model from prominent brands. They are easier to maintain since they are not vulnerable to mould infestations that can occur in the front load machines. The vertical shape helps to flush out all the water from the tub and maintains airflow.

2. Top Load Machines Are More Convenient

The Australian population is ageing rapidly, and by 2026, over 22% of the population will be above 65 years. Thus, buying a top load machine offers ease of use to older people and those with mobility issues. These machines are also lighter and easier to move, which makes relocation easy when you move into a new house.

3. Top Load Machines Are Durable

The top load design has been in use for decades and is easy to repair and maintain. On the other hand, the front load machines often face issues related to mould and washer door locks that lead to water leakage.

4. Top Load Machines Have Faster Wash Cycles

Laundry is a big task that can make you postpone your plans because clean clothes in the wardrobe for the week are a necessity for children as well as adults. Thus, top load machines are more popular among families as they offer a quicker wash cycle. It allows large families to run two wash cycles in one day to finish the chore of laundry. They help distribute the detergent evenly to all the clothes and offer better cleaning.

Best Top Load Washing Machine to Buy in 2024

Buying the best top load washing machine requires thorough market research and comparing brands. To make the task easier, here is a list of the top-rated machines.

1. Speed Queen AWNA62 8.5Kg

The Speed Queen AWNA62 8.5kg top load washing machine is a durable and high-performing home appliance that comes with a 5-year warranty for all parts and in-home labour. The brand also offers a lifetime warranty on the outer drain tub and the stainless steel wash basket. With the highest customer rating on Product Review of 4.7, this quiet machine is suitable for medium-sized families. The long-lasting device has a steel base in addition to heavy-duty springs that offer excellent cleaning and less vibration during the cycle. The drum capacity of this model is 92 litres, and it has eight wash cycles. It has 3-star rating from Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) and self-levelling rear legs that offer stability. The stainless steel tub prevents corrosion, chipping and cracking, and the flex vane agitator offers 68 agitations per minute. The touch panel on the top of the machine has been quality tested and can last for years without damage. Thus, the device has become a popular choice among buyers in Australia, even though it is priced at $3,295. Budget buyers can look for other affordable options if they find it to be pricey.

2. Fisher & Paykel WashSmart WA7060G2 7Kg

This easy-to-use top load washing machine from Fisher & Paykel runs on the SmartDrive technology that offers a quiet wash. Priced at $999, this is a cost-effective product that comes with six wash cycles, including delicate, wool, quick and allergy. Since stubborn stains are challenging to remove, you can take advantage of the soak wash feature that gets rid of them effectively. It helps complete laundry quickly with high-speed spinning to eliminate excess water during drying. The model enjoys a positive rating of 4.1 on Product Review and can be installed easily with its self-levelling feet. It has a soft close lid, and SmartTouch controls that make laundry a cakewalk. The machine has a depth of 600mm and a height of 1045 to 1075mm. Its energy rating stands at 2 stars, and water efficiency has a 3.5 star (WELS) rating. It is one of the best buys at a reasonable price that uses a flexible finned agitator for the best results.

3. Haier Top Load HWT10ANB1 10Kg

Another top-rated brand in the top load washing machine segment is the Haier HWT10ANB1 10Kg, which works best for large families. Priced at $1,199, the product has a 4.5 star energy and 4 star water ratings, which makes it an eco-friendly device. The washing machine has 12 different wash cycles that offer a wide range to choose from, such as delicate, hygiene, wool, etc. Aesthetically designed, it has a toughened glass lid that closes softly for maximum safety. It keeps the dirty clothes arranged perfectly to balance the wash load correctly with its auto-balancing feature. Rated positively with 4.5 stars on Product Review, the machine has high capacity and adjustable rinse options for hassle-free washing. It is known for its quiet operations and reliable performance while taking care of a heavy load of soiled clothes and linen.

4. LG Top Load Washer WTG6520 6.5Kg

While LG is a highly reputed brand for front load washing machines, it has some affordable variants in the top load category too. Priced at only $599, the LG WTG6520 model is a wonderful option for couples or a small family. The brand was recognised as CHOICE Australia’s Best Top Load Washer Brand in 2022 and 2023. This machine comes with a quality washing mechanism that uses smart inverter control that ensures the speed and direction are perfectly balanced. The appliance does not vibrate much and offers a 10-year warranty on parts of the Smart Inverter Motor. The model has a 3.5-star rating on Product Review because of its exclusive TurboDrum technology that makes the drum and the water move in opposite directions to provide an effective wash. A unique feature of the machine is that it has no agitator and emulates the hand washing movements with the help of its inverter control motor. It also has a pre-wash + cotton cycle for removing stains from heavily soiled clothes. The device ensures there is detergent residue left on the clothes to prevent allergies and maintain optimum hygiene. If you have limited laundry and want a smart machine at a reasonable price, opt for this product.

5. Samsung WA90T6250BW 9Kg

Samsung is a well-known name in the electronics category and dominates the home appliance market. This high-capacity model is known for its intensive cleaning and 20-year digital inverter warranty. Priced at $849, this machine prevents lint and gets rid of tough stains without leaving any detergent residue on the clothes. The product is known for its intensive wash mode for cleaning all kinds of stains and a quick wash cycle to complete laundry in 39 minutes for small loads. It allows you to get your sportswear or office wear cleaned quickly when you are in a rush. The machine does not make a lot of noise and works with minimal vibration, giving you a relaxed experience. Cleaning the machine can be hard, but Samsung has made it easy with a tub clean feature that notifies the user about the time to clean it. The tub clean cycle helps to eliminate all the accumulated dirt in the drum. With a 3.5-star rating on Product Review, the product has become popular among large families. The smart device helps to check errors through the mobile app and error-monitoring system. It has a slanted rear control panel that ensures protection from water splashes. If you are looking for a sturdy machine with a not-so-high price tag, this is perfect for your family.

6. Westinghouse WWT 1084C7WA 10Kg

Families with five to six members looking for a large-capacity washing machine can choose this model from Westinghouse, which can be bought between $996 and $1,099. The machine offers a gentle wash easy-to-use control panel that helps to track the cleaning progress. Its 800 RPM spin speed helps to get rid of excess moisture during drying and helps to get the laundry done quickly. With a 3.5-star water rating, it is a highly efficient machine that has a 4-star energy rating. Another attractive feature of the device is its 12 programs, including delicate, extra dirty, fast 20, spin, full load 60, etc. With a 3-star rating on Product Review, the machine has been able to capture the large family market. Keeping the needs of customers in mind, it comes with child lock, delay end, rinse and spin options. In addition, it has an auto water level sensor that helps save water by adjusting the water level according to the load. It falls in the best mi-range top load washing machines in Australia.

7. Fisher & Paykel Top Load MW60 6Kg

Small families do not have heavy loads and can easily complete the chores for the week with a 6 kg washing machine. This Fisher & Paykel model is known for its powerful performance even with a smaller size. It works on the SmartDrive technology and ensures low noise while completing the wash cycles. Priced reasonably at $849, this device has four wash cycles and an auto out-of-balance correction feature. It can be used for all types of cloth materials ranging from cotton and synthetic to woollen and heavy apparel. The machine has a flexible finned agitator that keeps the quality of the clothes intact for delicate wear items. Its maximum spin speed of 1000RPM allows quick drying, which helps people who are pressed for time while doing laundry. It has a 4-star customer rating on Product Review, which displays its credibility and reputation in the market. It has a 3-star water efficiency and 2-star energy rating with a 10-year warranty for its SmartDrive motor. If you are looking for a good device with decent functionality and smart features, you should grab this product.

8. Devanti Mini Portable Washing Machine 4.6Kg

Budget buyers with limited laundry needs can choose the Devanti washing machine, which is also the perfect mate for your camping trips and long travels. The portable and compact device has a lightweight design with a strong wave pulsator for outstanding cleaning. The device has simple traditional-style knob controls and a detachable spin basket. The large opening lid offers easy loading and unloading of clothes and overheats protection saves clothes from damage. The sturdy machine has a copper-wire motor that ensures durability and efficiency. Offering a quiet performance, the appliance has a 0 to fifteen minutes timer control. The device has a 3.4-star rating on Product Review and can be bought for $238.99. It can be easily moved around, which makes it an ideal choice for renters and travellers. The 15-minute wash cycle can help you get the stains and dirt wiped off quickly when you are in a hurry. Travel enthusiasts looking for a washing machine for their caravans or those living in small units can take advantage of this useful appliance.

9. LG WTL3-09 Top Load Washing Machine 9Kg

This smart device is an ideal addition to homes with large families who need laundry done quickly and meticulously. The power motion of this device offers excellent cleaning, and the fast motion of the pulsator ensures the complete removal of stains and dirt. The appliance is known for intelligent care with AI DD that optimises the motion of the machine according to the weight and texture of the clothes in the tub. The machine has a large lint filter that traps all the dust particles and dirt to keep the drum clean and offer the perfect wash cycles. It is equipped with an inverter direct drive motor that has minimal moving parts and creates minimum noise while running. The noise created during wash cycles is also reduced with the help of its horizontal and vertical dampers. Priced at $999, the washing machine has a 5-star rating on Product Review. It has six programs, including eco cotton, delicates, quick wash, etc. Large families with a keenness for the latest technology can opt for this affordably priced machine that uses AI to set the motion of the pulsator and TurboDrum.

10. Haier HWT75AA1 7.5Kg

This top loading machine is a simplistic variant that offers gentle cleaning to soiled clothes. The cost-effective product is worth $659 and has a pulsating wash motion that helps in the effective removal of dirt and stains. The device has a pillow drum design that comes with an automatic water-level sensing and load-size feature. The adaptable appliance has eight wash cycles, including eco, delicate and heavy. It uses less water and provides better fabric care because of reduced tangling and abrasion. It helps to increase the longevity of your clothes, and the auto-balancing feature gives it the ability to stabilise wash loads and provide a faster laundry service. The machine has a solid body with a toughened glass lid that has a soft closing functionality to keep your fingers safe from accidental dropping of the lid. The stainless steel drum can be cleaned easily and is easy to maintain. A customer rating of 5 stars on Product Review showcases its popularity among medium-sized families. If you are looking for a medium-capacity, high-quality product at budget-friendly prices, this is your best bet.

How to Choose the Best Top Load Washing Machine?

When looking for the best top load washing machine in Australia, you must check the features listed below to make the right decision.

1. The Size of the Washing Machine

Buyers must identify the space available in the laundry area for the machine. Usually, the size of these home appliances matches the height of benchtops, but it can vary for different models and brands. The top load machines are positioned next to the benchtop to allow the lid to be opened without obstruction. Ensure your laundry has the required space before placing the order.

2. Capacity of the Internal Drum

The internal capacity of the drum must be considered carefully because it will determine the load of clothes that can fit into the tub. The average capacity of the drums ranges between 6kg and 9kg. The smallest drum is perfect for a family of two, while a 7kg to 8kg drum can fit the clothes of three to four people effectively. The 9kg drums offer the largest capacity and can be used by families with five or more members. Weighing the load of the laundry basket can help you determine the ideal drum size for your household.

3. Energy Star Ratings for Washing Machines

Every washing machine available in the market has its energy star ratings which inform about the energy efficiency of the home appliance. It helps the buyer to understand the energy consumption of the machine and the running cost of using it. A higher number of stars indicates less power consumption and reduced electricity bills, while fewer stars indicate high power consumption and increased bills. Thus, buyers must compare products to choose the one with the best energy efficiency to reduce their impact on the environment.

4. Water Rating For Washing Machines

It is vital to check the water rating of washing machines to ensure minimum consumption and maximum conservation. All washing machines have the water rating label. More stars indicate higher water efficiency and vice versa. It will help save water bills if you buy a product with more stars and read the labelling. Buyers must understand that the water rating must be compared to washing machines of the same capacity and size. If you want to calculate the running cost of the appliance, you can multiply the electricity rate by the kWh of the washer.

5. Wash Programs In Washing Machines

One of the most significant factors to consider while purchasing the best top load washing machine in Australia is to look for the wash programs. Some of the options that can be helpful for laundering include a quick wash that offers a faster cycle when you are in a hurry. Another option is a delicate wash that can be used for your expensive and premium-quality clothes that need gentle washing. The woollen wash program is also necessary to keep your woollies lint-free and shining. Also, look for an auto wash program that helps to set the timer for the wash cycle according to your needs.

6. Smart Controls In Washing Machines

The latest top load washing machines come with a touchscreen that helps automate the wash cycle like the best dishwashers. They can be connected to Wi-Fi in the house and send notifications about the progress of the cleaning process through a mobile app. It also helps the user start and stop the cycles remotely. Some machines also have an auto-sensing feature that ensures the right amount of water is filled into the tub to prevent wastage.

Tips for Using Top Load Washing Machines for Best Results

A big pile of clothes in laundry basket is the right time to get started with the chore and have sufficient fresh clothes in your wardrobe. Most families have a big load because of different types of soiled clothes, such as gym wear, office wear, school uniforms, towels, bed linen, etc. Here are some tips for effective laundering with your top load washing machines.

1. Find the Right Laundry Detergent

The most important ingredient required for laundry is the detergent. You must pick a top load liquid detergent that works well in lower temperatures and cleans the fabric thoroughly. Brands like Omo, Aldi and Coles are the best choices for top load washing. Most users do not recommend powder detergents because they do not dissolve evenly and can leave behind residue that can lead to skin allergies. You must buy specific liquid detergents for different fabrics, such as woollens and silks. Also, make sure that you do not use a front loading liquid detergent in a top loading machine because they have different properties.

2. Load the Washing Machine Properly

Laundering chores must be done properly to get the desired results. The correct approach involves gathering all the soiled clothes and segregating the white and coloured fabrics. After you are ready to load the washing machine, switch on the device and let it get filled with water while adding the liquid detergent. While the water is filling in the tub, you must start adding the clothes to ensure the detergent and water are evenly dispersed. Also, balance the clothes in the tub to allow the agitator to move without interruption. Do not overload the machine. The tub must have enough space for the clothes to be moved around properly.

3. Use Vinegar to Avoid Fading of Laundry

Clothes that are washed regularly start fading and look worn out after a few washes. To improve their appearance and longevity, you can add one-fourth cup of distilled vinegar to the drawer compartment of the washing machine. It is the perfect replacement for fabric softeners and does not leave behind a pungent smell because the wash cycle takes care of it. Thus, you can keep your coloured clothes shining bright even after several washes.

4. Sanitise Clothes and Linen After Sickness

Cough, cold and viral infections are common in households with children. However, to avoid the spread of diseases through hand towels, duvets, pillow covers and towels sanitise the clothes. Also, use the best humidifier to maintain a healthy atmosphere in the house. It requires using the temperature control setting in the washing machine and using hot water cleaning. You can also add half a cup of baking soda to disinfect clothes while running a wash cycle. It also works as a bleach and removes bad odours.

5. Check Laundry to Avoid Mishaps

Preparing dirty clothes for the wash cycles is necessary. It involves checking the pockets, zipping the zippers, tying the drawstrings, turning clothes inside out, and unbuttoning all the clothes. It ensures that agitation caused during the wash cycle does not lead to tangling and tearing of clothes. In addition, the laundry symbols on clothing tags must be checked before loading them into the washing machines.

6. Clean the Washing Machine and Lint Filter

Most of us use the washing machine for laundry and then forget about it. The device also needs cleaning as it is helping to remove a lot of dirt and dust. You must clean the lint filter with a brush to get rid of the accumulated lint. It will ensure the air flows properly through the machine and the filter is not clogged. Running the self-cleaning cycle is vital to rid the tub and drum of detergent residue, dirt and lint.

Wrapping Up

Top load washing machines offer the convenience of loading and unloading clothes and are efficient cleaning devices. They are budget-friendly and come in a variety of sizes to suit the needs of every household. It is best to look at the features and specifications while choosing the appliance for your home.