How to Properly Load Your Laundry: Top-Loading vs. Front-Loading Machines

Laundry day might seem simple enough: toss your clothes in, add detergent, press start. But if you want cleaner clothes, a longer-lasting machine, and fewer laundry mishaps, how you load your washer matters—a lot. It’s a thing.

And it turns out, top-loading and front-loading machines have some important differences when it comes to loading properly. Here’s a simple guide to help you master both.

Loading a Top-Loading Washing Machine

Top-loaders are the classic design most people grew up with. They’re convenient because you can open the lid mid-cycle to toss in that stray sock. But to get the best clean, here’s what you should do:

Sort your laundry first Separate by color (lights, darks, whites), fabric weight (jeans, towels, delicates), and soil level. Overloading with different types of fabrics can cause uneven washing.

Load evenly around the agitator If your machine has a center agitator (the tall post in the middle), arrange your clothes around it, not just dumped in one big lump. Think of it like building a donut shape. This balances the drum and allows the agitator to move clothes properly.

Don’t overload Fill the drum loosely about three-quarters full. If you press down and the clothes feel tightly packed, take some out. Overloading leads to poor washing and can strain the machine.

Add detergent correctly Check your washer’s instructions. Some top-loaders want detergent added before the clothes; others recommend a detergent dispenser. Using the wrong amount (too much or too little) can cause buildup or poor cleaning.

Loading a Front-Loading Washing Machine

Front-loaders are praised for their efficiency, gentler wash cycles, and lower water usage. But they need a different approach to loading.

Sort, sort, sort Same rule as with top-loaders. Sorting helps prevent pilling, color transfer, and tangled laundry disasters.

Load clothes loosely With a front-loader, pile your clothes loosely into the drum until it’s about 75-80% full. You should be able to fit your hand between the clothes and the top of the drum.

Pro tip: Front-loaders clean by tumbling clothes through a small pool of water, not by submerging them. Packing clothes too tightly prevents proper tumbling.

Mind small items Tiny items like baby socks can get trapped in the door seal. Either put them in a mesh laundry bag or wash them with larger items to prevent loss or machine damage.

Use the right detergent Only use HE (High-Efficiency) detergent for front-loaders. It’s designed to produce fewer suds. Regular detergent can cause too many bubbles, leading to residue buildup or even leaks.

*Final Tips*

• Always check pockets before loading. Coins, pens, and tissues are a washing machine’s worst enemies.
• Shake out clothes as you load them. This prevents tangling and allows for even washing.
• Leave the door open after washing (especially with front-loaders) to let the drum dry and prevent mold and mildew.
• Clean your machine regularly. A dirty washer means dirty clothes, no matter how careful you are.