Unlike in the US, the vast majority of washing machines in the UK are front loading. However, you can still find top loading washing machines if you know where to look.
Front loading machines are more popular in the UK as we tend to put our washing machines in the kitchen or laundry room underneath a countertop.
When choosing a top loading machine, bear in mind that the dimensions will be quite different to those of a front loading machine. Top loaders tend to be taller and narrower, so they are a good choice for narrow spaces.
Since there aren’t many top loading washing machines on the market in the UK, there isn’t so much choice when it comes to load capacity.
Most top loaders in the UK only have a load capacity of 6 or 7 kg, whereas with a front loader you can easily find load capacities of 8 kg and above.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at the best top loading washing machines in the UK.
Our Top Picks
1. Cater-Wash CW8580 (Best conventional top-loader)
Why we picked it:
The Cater-Wash CW8580 is one of the few conventional top-loading washing machines available on the market in the UK. With a capacity of 8 kg, it can wash about the same amount of laundry as the typical front-loading washing machine. Measuring 87.5 cm high x 40 cm x 63 cm deep, it could be a good choice for narrow spaces.
What we like:
- A good alternative to a front-loading washer for narrower spaces
- Good choice of washing programmes and settings
- Reasonably priced
Potential drawbacks:
- Can be noisy on the spin cycle
Check price and reviews:
2. HAVA Portable Washer (Best portable top-loader)
Why we picked it:
This compact portable washer could be a convenient and cost-saving alternative to going to the launderette or using a communal washing machine if you’re unable to get a conventional washer in your home. It measures 75 cm high x 42 cm wide x 45.5 cm deep, so it has a smaller footprint than a normal washing machine. With a small 3 kg capacity, it could be a good choice for single people or for static caravans.
What we like:
- Doesn’t require complicated plumbing
- Space-saving design
Potential drawbacks:
- 3 kg capacity is smaller than normal washing machines, which usually have a capacity of 7 kg+
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3. COSTWAY Twin Tub Washing Machine (Best Twin Tub)
Why we picked it:
This machine is a twin tub, which means that the wash and spin-drying functions are separated into two different compartments. Once your clothes have been washed, you transfer them to the spin-drying compartment. The washer compartment on this machine has a 5 kg capacity, while the spin dryer has a capacity of 3 kg. It could be a good choice if you’re living somewhere where you can’t install a traditional washer. It measures 73 cm high x 63 cm wide x 35 cm deep.
What we like:
- Fairly quiet
- Good alternative to paying for communal washers or going to launderettes
Potential drawbacks:
- Can be awkward to drain the water out
Check price and reviews:
Pros and Cons of Top Loading Washing Machines
Top loading washing machines have both advantages and disadvantages when compared to front loading machines.
Advantages of top loading machines
- Faster cycle times
- You don’t need to bend down so much—good if you have back problems
- You can often add washing mid-cycle
Downsides of top loading machines
- Tend to be less energy efficient
- Spin speed tends to be slower, so washing requires more drying
- Less gentle than front loaders, so they’re not as good for delicates
FAQs on Top Loading Washing Machine
Can you get top loading washing machines in UK?
Yes, there are a few top-loading washing machines in the UK. However, we could only find a handful for sale, which is why we have only listed three of the best options here.
At the time of writing, we could only find one top loading washing machine on AO.com, one on AppliancesDirect.co.uk and none on Currys.co.uk.
You can find some second-hand top loading washing machines on eBay.co.uk, some of which are American models that have been imported.
Do top loading washing machines use more water?
On average, top loading washing machines use more water than front loaders. According to the New York Times, front loaders use 5 gallons (22.73 litres) less water per cycle compared to top loaders.
However, sometimes top loaders use less water than equivalent front loading machines.
For example, the Hotpoint WMTF722UUKN is a 7 kg top loading machine which is estimated to use 8,900 litres of water per year.
The Hotpoint BIWMHG71483UKN is a 7 kg front loading machine which is estimated to use 10,840 litres of water per year.
Are top loading washing machines less energy efficient?
Yes, top-loading washing machines tend to be less energy efficient than front-loading washing machines.
Why are front-loading washing machines more popular in UK?
Manufacturers in the UK only seem to manufacture machines with a front-facing door which seems pretty logical considering so many people have their washing machines under a bench.
This stems from the fact that a lot of us struggle for space in the kitchen and not everyone has a room they can dedicate to laundry.
Many new builds now include a smaller room with the purpose to house a washer and dryer, so top-loading washing machines are becoming a little more sought after.
In The Wash is your guide to the best laundry and cleaning products, tips and tricks. Our mission is to solve the UK’s cleaning and laundry dilemmas!
