People who load laundry frequently
If you want to avoid bending down every time you load and unload the machine, a top-loader is worth considering. UFC-Que Choisir specifically notes this as one reason for choosing a top-loading washing machine.
Who is this choice for?
Households short on width
A top-loader can combine top access with a slim width: AEG lists the LTR6G6120A at 397 mm wide, while Electrolux lists the EW6T5137AG at 400 mm. You’ll still need enough clearance above the machine to open the lid.
Households with large loads of laundry
If capacity is your priority, compare it with your usual loads before choosing a top- or front-loader. UFC-Que Choisir says the top-loaders in its review hold no more than 8 kg. With a front-loader installed on the floor, also check that the door is easy for you to reach.
What should you check before buying?
| Criteria | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Access to your laundry | Try reaching the bottom of the drum and check how the lid or door opens. On some top-loaders, look for a drum that stops in the raised position. | If I load and unload laundry frequently, I want to reduce repeated bending without making the bottom of the drum difficult to reach; around 50% of consumers prioritise reducing the need to bend. |
| Space and opening clearance | Measure the available width and the clearance needed to open a top-loader’s lid or a front-loader’s door. | In a tight space, I need to be able to open the machine fully without losing access to the laundry. Having enough room to open the machine is a priority for around 30% of consumers. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated capacity with your usual loads. For a front-loader, separately check the model’s instructions for any raising solution you’re considering. | If I regularly wash large loads, I don’t want to choose a capacity that means I have to run extra cycles; around 20% of consumers prioritise laundry capacity. |
Installation mistakes to avoid
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Assuming a washer-dryer stack raises the washing machine
In the stacking arrangement described by Bosch, the tumble dryer goes on top, so the washing machine’s drum stays at its original height.
Choose a stack to organise both appliances, not to raise the washing machine for loading. If you’re thinking of raising it, check that the solution is expressly approved for your model number.
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Putting a top-loader under a worktop that blocks the lid
A narrow width alone doesn’t make a space suitable if the lid can’t open properly.
Measure the available height with the lid open and check the model’s installation diagram before ordering.
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Stacking two appliances without checking they’re compatible
A stacking kit is designed for specific appliances and installation conditions. Bosch, for example, asks you to check that the models in question are compatible.
Check the instructions for both appliances and the models approved for the kit before installing.
Brands to consider
Electrolux
The French range includes 6 kg and 7 kg top-loading washing machines to consider if easy access from above is a priority.
- Electrolux says the EW6T5137AG has a 7 kg capacity, is 400 mm wide, features a drum that stops in the raised position and has a soft-opening lid.
- These features apply to this specific model, so check in person that its height and lid opening work for you.
AEG
The LTR6G6120A is a freestanding top-loader worth considering if a 6 kg capacity suits you and space is limited.
- AEG lists this model as having a 6 kg capacity and a width of 397 mm.
- Width alone doesn’t tell you how easy the machine is to use. Check the lid opening and loading height too.
Whirlpool
The French range of top-loading washing machines includes several capacities, including 6, 6.5 and 7 kg.
- Whirlpool lists the TDLR6242SFR/N top-loader as having a 6 kg capacity.
- To judge how easy it is to load, check access to the drum on the model you’re considering rather than relying on capacity alone.
Top-loading washing machines on Joybuy
These two top-loading models are worth considering if you want to reduce the need to bend when loading and unloading. Compare their capacities, then check access to the drum and the clearance needed for the lid in your chosen space.
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Haier T Series 7 THASN276TM6-S, 7 kg top-loading washing machine
Top-loading makes it easier to load and unload the machine without bending down as much.
Stated capacity: 7 kg; stated spin speed: 1,200 rpm. Check the instructions for the clearance needed to open the lid, and make sure you can reach the laundry in the drum.
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Candy TCA464TM4-S ProWash 500, 6 kg top-loading washing machine
This top-loading model is worth considering if a 6 kg capacity suits your usual loads and you want to reduce the need to bend when loading and unloading.
Stated spin speed: 1,400 rpm. Before buying, check the clearance needed to open the lid and how easy it is to reach the drum.
Frequently asked questions
Does a top-loading washing machine mean you don’t have to bend to load your laundry?
Loading from the top means you don’t have to bend down in front of a low door to load or unload the machine. UFC-Que Choisir notes this as one reason people choose a top-loader. However, try reaching the bottom of the drum and make sure the lid can open fully in your home.
Does a washer-dryer stack raise the washing machine drum?
No, not in a standard stack: the tumble dryer sits on top and the washing machine stays on the floor. This arrangement can free up floor space, but it doesn’t change the height at which you load the washing machine.
Can you stack any tumble dryer on top of any washing machine?
No. Check with the manufacturer that both appliance models are compatible with the stacking kit. For example, Bosch says its WTZ27410 kit is designed for washing machines with a depth of more than 55 cm. This measurement alone doesn’t mean you can skip checking the kit’s other requirements.
What should you check in the space before choosing a washing machine?
Check that the machine can open freely and that the floor provides a stable, level surface. Electrolux recommends a flat, hard floor. Also check the instructions for your chosen model for its installation requirements.