Front or top loader: which washer is best for you? We take a comparative look at top and front loading washing machines, including wash quality, functions and water efficiency.

Europeans were definitely on to something when they came up with front loading washing machines. Designed to deal with small spaces, (many Europeans don’t have a laundry), they are gaining ground over their top loading counterparts in Australia.One of the main reasons for the popularity of front loader washing machines is water conservation. According to laundry retailer Doug Tyson, some front loaders can use up to two-thirds less water than some top loaders. "We sell 99 front loaders to every top loader – the water-saving aspect is hard to ignore," he says.

Another big benefit of front loader washers is they’re a lot gentler on clothes. "Top loaders work on an agitating action that shakes dirt out through the water," Doug says. "Front loaders, on the other hand, mimic the action of hand-washing, so clothes last longer, retain their brightness and won’t get caught and stretched."

The space-saving component is another advantage. Front loading washing machines can be stacked with a dryer – great for small laundries or areas with bi-fold doors.

Recently, front loaders have gone more electronic. They won’t make you an espresso, but they will let you personalise your wash. For example, a skin-sensitive wash can rinse clothes up to seven times. More expensive models offer bigger motors with higher spin speeds and more cycle options. The benefit of a higher spin speed is less drying time.

However, there are still advantages to top loading washing machines – especially for the time-poor. They offer a quicker cycle and the flexibility to throw things in when necessary. A front loader won’t let you add that pesky forgotten sock until the water has drained, and while recent models offer quick wash cycles, they’re only effective with lightly-soiled fabrics.

Another top-loading benefit is there’s no bending required – of particular importance to some seniors and those who suffer from back problems. However, Doug says it is possible to raise a front loader from the floor to a more suitable height, as long as it’s on a solid base.

With water conservation more important than ever, it’s hard to beat the front loader. Just remember; unless you want to create a bubble-filled wonderland, front loaders require specific low-suds detergents.