Washing Machines With Agitators: Good or Bad?

What is a washing machine agitator?

Generally speaking, an agitator is designed to minimise tangling and help distribute garments evenly throughout the washer. They’re typically built into the washer as a central post in the drum that twists back and forth, rubbing against clothes to help remove stains. They usually have fins attached and are only found in top loader washing machines.

Agitator vs. no agitator

Is there actually a difference between top loaders with and without an agitator? The short answer is − not anymore. Despite copping criticism for its rough treatment of clothes, the agitator has traditionally been a popular feature in washing machines, rubbing against clothes to help break apart stains. However, many new top loaders now come with ‘smart’ features designed to offer better cleaning results and protect your clothes from damage, removing the need for an agitator.

Washing machine with agitator pros and cons

As with any feature, there can be pros and cons. Below are some of the pros and cons associated with washing machines with agitators:

Pros:

• Cheaper than top loaders without agitators
• Thoroughly clean dirt and stains with friction
• Typically have higher water-efficiency ratings

Cons:

• Limited space available in the drum
• Garments can get caught on the agitator and become damaged
• Can be more expensive to run due to poor energy-efficiency

Washing machine without agitator pros and cons

If you’re not sure if an agitator is essential, below are some pros and cons to washing machines that come without an agitator:

Pros:

• Typically gentler on clothes and garments
• Increased drum capacity
• Larger variety of models available

Cons:

• May not clean or remove stains as efficiently
• Can tangle garments, potentially causing damage

How much do washing machines with agitators cost?

You can expect to spend from $450 to upwards of $2000 for a top load washing machine with an agitator depending on the brand and size. Top loaders are generally a cheaper option of washing machine compared to front loaders so if you’re conscious of price, this might be worth factoring into your decision.

Who sells agitator washing machines?

There are a number of brands that sell washing machines with agitators including LG, Haier, Samsung and Fisher & Paykel. Each brand has a selection of models and sizes available in top loader washing machines which you can buy directly from them or through retailers like Noel Leeming or 100% Appliances.

LG

LG offers a number of top loader washing machine models, ranging in size from 7.5kg to 14kg and retailing from $1590 to $2000. A few models have low profile agitators that reduce the chance of damage to certain garments. You can expect features like smart inverter control for better performance, vibration reduction technology and nine or more wash programs to suit different loads.

Samsung

Samsung is well-known for its smart technology and appliances. And its washing machines are no different. Samsung’s top loader washing machines range in price from $450 to $1700 and come in sizes from 5.5kg to 14kg. You can expect features like hygiene steam clean smart diagnosis via Samsung’s Smart Check error-monitoring system.

Haier

Haier has a generous range of top loader washing machines that feature low-profile agitators. Retailing from $550 to $1330, they’re a cheaper option for washing machines, ranging in size from 6kg to 12kg to suit any sized home. Haier’s washing machines boast features including delicate and wool wash programs that help to reduce damage to delicate fabrics, pulsating wash action and a soft close tempered glass lid.

Fisher and Paykel

Fisher and Paykel  offer a few top loader washing machines that include low-profile agitators. You can expect to spend between $830 and $1800 on models that come in varying sizes from 5.5kg to 10kg. Features include smart drive technology that adapts to each load, eco active wash to recirculate water for a more effective wash and 12 wash programs.

Should I buy a washing machine with an agitator?

There are a number of factors that contribute to whether or not buying an agitator washing machine is a good idea, however it does come down to personal preference. It will depend on how you want your clothes washed, your budget and the which features best align with your laundry needs. Agitator washing machines have benefits and downfalls like any other appliance, but if you’re stuck on which brand of washing machine suits you then you can compare brands below.

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About the reviewer of this page

This page was reviewed by Canstar Content Producer, Caitlin Bingham. Caitlin is an experienced writer whose passion for creativity led her to study communication and journalism. She began her career freelancing as a content writer, before joining the Canstar team.