Buying a new washer can be overwhelming with so many types of washing machine to choose from. The best one for you depends on your needs, home space, and budget. Not all washing machines are created equal, and choosing the right option for your home can take a bit of investigation.

Different Types of Washing Machines: Pros & Cons  

Buying a new washer can be overwhelming with so many types of washing machine to choose from. The best one for you depends on your needs, home space, and budget. Not all washing machines are created equal, and choosing the right option for your home can take a bit of investigation.

We’re here to make things easier and help you compare washing machines. Let’s go over the pros and cons of the various options available, and get you set up with the washing machine of your dreams!

5 Types of Washing Machine

1. Front-Load Washing Machines

Front-load washers are one of the most common types of washing machine. Like the name suggests, they open from the front where you load your laundry. You can also find the detergent drawer near the door. 

A front-load washing machine works by rotating or tumbling loads to gently clean clothes. It uses less water per load and offers fast spin speeds for quicker drying times. However, it has accessibility limits, is prone to mould, and you can’t add more clothes after starting a wash cycle.

2. Top-Load Agitator Washers

An agitator washer is one of two types of top-loading washing machine. This appliance has a door on top of the unit, and you add or remove loads from there. In the centre of the drum is a cylindrical pole called the agitator, which has blades or fins and moves back and forth during a wash cycle to clean your clothes.

This type of washer has a proven, reliable design that cleans clothes quicker and more efficiently than front-loading washers. Older models may be less water-efficient, but newer models allow you to adjust water levels. Just be aware that top-load washers like these can’t be stacked with a dryer, so they aren’t a great option for those with limited space.

3. High-Efficiency (HE) Top Loaders

A list of the different types of washing machines wouldn’t be complete without high-efficiency top-loading washers. Instead of an agitator in the middle of the drum, this top load washer uses a wash plate or impeller at the bottom to move clothes around the drum. 

This design is gentler on fabric, and the lack of an agitator allows for bigger loads of laundry with the same cleaning power. It’s a great option for families or people who wash a lot of clothes. High-efficiency washing machines are also known for their energy efficiency, with advanced options to customize your cycle. This makes them more expensive.

4. Stacked and Stackable Washers

If you’re looking for the best type of washing machine for a small space, you might want a stacked washer unit or a stackable washer! Stacked washers come as a single unit with a matching dryer component already attached. They can be top loading or front loading. A stackable washer, on the other hand, is a regular front load washer that can be stacked with an electric dryer using stacking brackets. 

Since these compact washers are intended to save space, the units tend to be smaller compared to different types of washing machines. Their lower prices also reflect their more limited features.

5. All-in-One Washer Dryer

Homeowners looking for a washing machine that does it all should check out all-in-one washer-dryer combination options. This type of washing machine cleans and dries laundry in a single unit, saving you the effort of switching loads from one machine to another when doing laundry. 

Just load the laundry, add detergent, and let this all-in-one machine work its magic. It's a great space-saving choice for your washing needs, but note that drying times can be longer despite excellent wash cycles.

Compare Washing Machines to Find the Best Option for You

An effective way to compare washing machines is to look at each type with your needs in mind.

• Washer Capacity - Determine how many loads of laundry you do in a week. If you live alone, a small washing machine is perfect. But if you’re doing laundry for a lot of people, choose a bigger washer for efficiency.

• Features - Think about your washing needs and use them to look at washer options objectively. Look at the features you need, and choose from there.

• Efficiency - Newer washing machines are more energy and water-efficient. They’re a good choice for the environment and can save you money on utility bills.

Don’t Settle for Less

To choose the right washing machine, consider your laundry needs, space, and budget. Whether it’s a top load washer for large loads of laundry, something stackable to save space, or an all-in-one unit with connected features, find the right fit for your laundry routine at 

Surplus Furniture, Canada’s go-to furniture and mattress store. Order washers at factory-direct prices on our online site for same-day delivery or visit a store near you for easy pick up. We offer flexible financing options to help you get what you need!