2010-Comparison of the Effects of a Top-loading and a Front-loading Washing Machine on Cotton Fabrics

Comparison of the Effects of a Top-loading and a Front-loading Washing Machine on Cotton Fabrics

Marie T. Schlag, University of Rhode Island

Over the last century, top-loading washing machines promising reliability, large capacity, easy loading, and quick wash cycles have been refined and sold to millions of households. These machines are generally affordable, and are a good value for a no-frills clean wash.
Less desirable features of the top-loading machine are the need for enough water to cover the soiled clothing in the washing basket; the high amount of energy to heat the large volume of water for washing and rinsing; the negative effects that the vertical agitator could have on clothing during the washing, rinsing, and spinning cycles; and the low amount of water extracted during the spin cycle.