Top 5 Whirlpool Top Load Washers: Buyer’s Guide

Does the thought of laundry day bring a sigh of dread? We all want clean clothes without the hassle, and sometimes picking the perfect washing machine feels like another chore. Whirlpool makes some fantastic top-load washers, but deciding which one fits your home and budget can be tricky. You might worry about getting the best cleaning power, fitting large loads, or choosing features that actually save you time.

It is easy to feel overwhelmed by all the different models and their fancy names. You need a machine that works hard for you, not one that leaves you guessing about settings or repairs. Finding the right Whirlpool top-loader means balancing performance, capacity, and price.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down what makes a Whirlpool top-load washer a great choice for your family. Keep reading to discover the key features you need to look for, understand the different series, and confidently select the machine that will make laundry day much smoother. Let’s dive into finding your perfect wash partner!

Top Whirlpool Top Load Washing Machine Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
Kenmore 4.5 cu. ft. Top Load Washer with Triple Action Impeller for Tough Dirt & Stains - Reduce Laundry Time with Accela Wash & Express Wash - LED - White
  • Tough Action for Tough Stains: Our top load clothes washer features a Triple Action Impeller to tackle your toughest loads in three powerful ways: Spraying Action to attack dirt from every angle with a concentrated detergent mix, Wash Basket Action to move the wash basket back and forth, and Impeller Action to move clothes in a circular pattern
  • More Laundry, Less Time: Our high-efficiency top load washer features Express Wash to clean small loads in just 30 minutes (based on a 3-lb load, default cycle setting), and Accela Wash to clean full-size loads up to 51% faster (compared to a standard 8-lb load, normal cycle, warm wash temp, extra heavy soil setting) - so you spend less time doing laundry
  • Wash Your Way: Features 10 wash cycles to custom wash your loads including Heavy Duty, Whites, Towels, Delicates, and Express Cycles. Select from 4 temperature options and rinse with Extra Rinse to help protect sensitive skin. Soft Close lid has tempered glass and won’t slam shut
  • Easy to Operate: Use the intuitive light-touch controls to select the load and cycle options that match the fabric types in each load. Plus, the convenient LED lights provides time remaining and cycle status information
  • Reduce and Save: Energy savings includes Cold Clean which cleans gently & completely while using up to 90% less energy (when compared to the normal cycle, default settings, 8-lb load)
Bestseller No. 2
Amana NTW4516FW 3.5 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
  • This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box
Bestseller No. 3
Kenmore 4.4 cu. ft. Top Load Washer with Triple Action Agitator for Tough Dirt & Stains - Reduce Laundry Time with Accela Wash & Express Wash - LED - White
  • Tough Action for Tough Stains: Our top load clothes washer features a Triple Action Agitator to tackle your toughest loads in three powerful ways: Spraying Action to attack dirt from every angle with a concentrated detergent mix, Wash Basket Action to move the wash basket back and forth, and Agitator Action to move clothes in a circular pattern
  • More Laundry, Less Time: Our high-efficiency top load washer features Express Wash to clean small loads in just 28 minutes (based on a 3-lb load, default cycle setting), and Accela Wash to clean full-size loads up to 51% faster (compared to a standard 8-lb load, normal cycle, warm wash temp, extra heavy soil setting) - so you spend less time doing laundry
  • Wash Your Way: Features 10 wash cycles to custom wash your loads including Heavy Duty, Whites, Towels, Delicates, and Express Cycles. Select from 4 temperature options and rinse with Extra Rinse to help protect sensitive skin. Soft Close lid has tempered glass and won’t slam shut
  • Easy to Operate: Use the intuitive light-touch controls to select the load and cycle options that match the fabric types in each load. Plus, the convenient LED lights provides time remaining and cycle status information
  • Reduce and Save: Energy savings includes Cold Clean which cleans gently & completely while using up to 90% less energy (when compared to the normal cycle, default settings, 8-lb load)
SaleBestseller No. 4
Washing Machine Cleaner Descaler 24 Pack - Deep Cleaning Tablets For HE Front Loader & Top Load Washer, Septic Safe Eco-Friendly Deodorizer, Clean Inside Drum and Laundry Tub Seal - 12 Month Supply
  • Works With All Washers - Perfect For High Efficiency Or Standard Toploader, Front Loading Compatible With GE, LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, Maytag, Electrolux, Etc. (Not For Dryer)
  • Eco-Friendly Tabs - Natural Effervescent Foaming Tablets Are Septic Safe And Made With Less Packaging . Compare To Liquid Descaler And Wipes That Create Unnecessary Waste
  • Instant Cleaning Power - Active Self Wash Tablet Cleans So You Don't Have To Brush And Wipe Your Washing Machines. When Exposed To Water, They Break Down Into Deep Scrubbing Powder Cleaners That Breaks Down Grime And Hard Water Build Up
  • Bulk 24 Kit - Each Package Includes 1 Year Supply (24 Pods) Vs. Competitor 5 or 6 Tablet Packs Or Liquid Treatments Which Run Out Quickly
  • Odor Eliminator- No More Smelly Washer. Descaler Will Freshen Your Laundry Machine Basket, Rubber Gasket, And Internal Parts So Your Clothes Will Come Out Clean And Smelling Fresh.
Bestseller No. 5
BLACK+DECKER 4.1 Cu. Ft. Top Loading Washing Machine with Agitator, Full Size Washing Machine with Glass Lid and Stainless Steel Tub, Machine with LED Display, 10 Wash Cycles, 120V, BTLW41MW, White
  • Spacious Capacity: The 4.1 cu. ft. capacity of this washer machine provides ample space for large laundry loads, making it ideal for daily use in homes and for large families
  • Agitator Clothes Washer: Top load washing machine with agitator helps provide fast, effective cleaning for tough, heavy duty stains and heavily soiled laundry needs
  • Stainless Steel Wash Tub: Durable stainless steel wash tub in this washing machine resists rust and wear. Designed for longevity, providing reliable performance for all your top load washer needs
  • Multiple Wash Cycles: Wash your laundry at home with this Black and Decker washing machine. Our clothes washer has 10 cycle selections to choose from for a variety of clothes, washes and needs
  • Timed Delay Feature: With a 24-hour delay function, this full size washing machine offers flexibility in scheduling. Perfect for busy lifestyles, simply plan wash cycles at your convenience
Bestseller No. 6
Frigidaire 4.4 cubic foot top load washer with MaxFill
  • MaxFill Adjusts Water to Maximum Level: The MaxFill option uses more water for heavily soiled clothes, maximizing cleaning performance
  • Large Capacity Fits More in Every Load: Fit more in every load with large size capacity that fits up to 25 towels
  • Quick Wash Cycle: Wash your most needed and gently soiled items in just 30 minutes
  • 10 Wash Cycles: Features 10 wash cycles to meet every need such as Delicates, Activewear, and Towels & Bedding
  • Personalized Cycle Selection: Personalize your wash with options like Favorite Cycle and MaxFill
Bestseller No. 7
True Fresh Washing Machine Cleaner Tablets – 25-Pack Deep Cleaning for Front Loader, Top Load & HE Washers – Helps Remove Odor-Causing Residues, Pet Hair & Hard Water Buildup – Septic Safe
  • High-Quality: Our heavy-duty washing machine cleaner tablets are professionally made to be of high-quality to change your washing machine cleaning experience for the better.
  • Fast Cleaning: Our washer machine cleaner tablets breakdown easily into deep scrubbing powder when exposed to water. The tablets clean your washing machine Quickly
  • Perfect For All Washers: The washing machine deep cleaning tablets are designed to work for all types of machine washers. You don’t have to worry about the type or brand. Our clean washing machine cleaner front loader works perfectly for any machine regardless of size, type or brand. The washing machine tablets are suitable for Standard or High Efficiency Top loader, Front Loader washing machines compatible with LG, GE, Whirlpool, Samsung, Electrolux, Maytag and much more.
  • How To Use: Our washing machine cleaning tablets are very easy to use. Just drop one tablet into the washer tub and run a normal cycle. After the cycle is completed, use a towel to wipe away any leftover residue.
  • Use our Descaler and cleaner tablets once a month to keep your machine clean and fresh.
Bestseller No. 8
BlueStars Washing Machine Cover For Top-load - Premium Outdoor Protection For Most Washer Dryer Cover - W29”x D28”x H43” (Black)
  • ✅ ULTIMATE PROTECTION FOR YOUR WASHER/DRYER: Safeguard your top-load washing machine with the BlueStars Washer Dryer Cover. Made from high-quality, heavy-duty Polyester Fabric, this cover provides reliable protection against dust, water, and harmful sun rays. Say goodbye to discoloration, paint-off, and rust!
  • ✅ SMART DESIGN FOR EASY INSTALL: Our cover features a user-friendly design with a zipper and Velcro closures, allowing easy install to your laundry without the need to move the machine. The adjustable ropes at the back ensure a secure fit, while the three-sided coverage offers maximum protection while keeping the backside cool.
  • ✅ HASSLE-FREE CLEANING: We understand the importance of convenience. That's why our cover is designed to be stain-resistant and easy to clean. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth, and it will be good as new. Plus, it can be effortlessly folded for storage and transportation.
  • ✅ SUITABLE FOR MOST TOP LOAD MACHINES: Our cover is specifically designed to fit most top-load washing machines, including popular brands like Kenmore, Samsung, Maytag, GE, LG, Whirlpool, Insignia, and more. To ensure the correct cover size, please measure your washing/dryer machine before purchasing.
  • ✅ DURABLE AND LONG-LASTING: Our BlueStars Washer Dryer Cover is built to withstand the test of time. Crafted from high-quality materials, it offers exceptional durability and long-lasting performance. Rest assured that your washing machine will remain protected for years to come with our reliable and resilient cover.

Your Guide to Choosing the Best Whirlpool Top Load Washer

Whirlpool top load washing machines are popular choices for many homes. They are known for being reliable and easy to use. This guide will help you pick the perfect one for your laundry needs.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop for a new Whirlpool top loader, several features make a big difference in how well it cleans and how long it lasts.

Capacity is King

Think about how much laundry you do each week. Whirlpool washers come in many sizes, usually measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.).

  • Smaller Loads (1.5–3.5 cu. ft.): Good for singles or couples.
  • Medium Loads (3.5–4.5 cu. ft.): Great for small families.
  • Large Loads (4.5 cu. ft. and up): Perfect for big families or washing bulky items like comforters.

Bigger is often better if you have the space. It lets you wash more clothes in one go.

Wash Cycles and Temperature Control

A good washer offers many cycles. Look for essentials like Normal, Heavy Duty, Delicate, and Bulky Items. Advanced models include options for Sanitize or Deep Water Wash.

Agitator vs. Impeller

Top loaders usually have one of two cleaning mechanisms:

  • Traditional Agitator: This central post twists and turns clothes. It cleans very well but can sometimes be rougher on fabrics.
  • High-Efficiency (HE) Impeller: This is a low-profile plate at the bottom. It moves clothes through the water gently. Impeller models often use less water and spin clothes drier.

Water Efficiency and Energy Use

Modern Whirlpool washers are designed to save water and energy. Look for the ENERGY STAR® certification. These models use smart sensors to measure the load size, automatically using only the right amount of water needed.

Important Materials and Build Quality

The materials Whirlpool uses affect the machine’s durability and cleaning performance.

Tub Material

The drum, or tub, holds the water and clothes. Always choose stainless steel over plastic if your budget allows. Stainless steel tubs resist rust, staining, and chipping. They last much longer.

Lid Strength

Check the lid. A sturdy, thick plastic or tempered glass lid lasts longer than a thin, flimsy one. Tempered glass lets you watch the wash cycle without opening the lid.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some features boost your laundry experience, while others might cause headaches later.

Quality Boosters:

  • Automatic Dispensers: These systems hold detergent, fabric softener, and bleach, releasing them at the perfect time in the cycle. This ensures better cleaning.
  • Quiet Operation: Look for models that mention vibration control or sound dampening. Nobody wants a noisy laundry room.
  • Smart Features: Wi-Fi connectivity lets you start or monitor cycles from your phone.

Quality Reducers (Things to be Cautious About):

Very basic, low-cost models often skip essential features like automatic load sensing. This means you might accidentally use too much water every time. Also, be careful with very complex electronic controls; sometimes, simpler mechanical dials are more reliable over many years.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use your washer daily matters a lot.

Ease of Use

Whirlpool controls are usually straightforward. If you prefer simple controls, stick to models with clear dials and basic buttons. If you like technology, explore the touchscreen options.

Cleaning Performance and Fabric Care

For daily dirt and grime, most Whirlpool machines perform well. If you frequently wash heavily soiled work clothes, choose a model with a dedicated “Deep Clean” or “Power Wash” setting. If you wash delicate sweaters often, ensure the “Delicate” cycle is gentle enough.

Use Case Example: A busy parent washing large loads of towels and bedding needs a 5.0 cu. ft. HE impeller model for efficiency. A college student washing small loads might be fine with a 3.5 cu. ft. traditional agitator model.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Whirlpool Top Load Washers

Q: Are Whirlpool top loaders better than front loaders?

A: It depends on what you like. Top loaders are generally easier to load (you don’t have to bend down), and you can add forgotten clothes mid-cycle. Front loaders often use less water and spin clothes drier.

Q: Do I need special detergent for a Whirlpool top loader?

A: If your model is labeled “HE” (High Efficiency), yes, you must use HE detergent. Standard detergent creates too many suds, which can damage HE machines.

Q: How often should I clean my Whirlpool washer tub?

A: Whirlpool recommends running a cleaning cycle (using a washer cleaner tablet or bleach) once a month to prevent mold and odor buildup, especially if you use cold water often.

Q: What does the “Deep Water Wash” option do?

A: This setting tells the washer to fill the tub completely with water, even if it thinks the load is small. This is great for heavily soiled items or for people who prefer maximum soaking.

Q: How loud are these machines typically?

A: Modern HE impeller models are generally quieter than older agitator models, especially during the spin cycle. Check reviews specifically for noise ratings if your laundry room is near living areas.

Q: Can I pause the cycle to add a sock?

A: Most modern Whirlpool top loaders let you pause the cycle after the initial fill. Look for a pause button or check the manual; some high-tech lids lock during the main wash.

Q: What is the lifespan of a Whirlpool washer?

A: With regular maintenance, a quality Whirlpool top load washer usually lasts between 10 and 14 years.

Q: Why is my top loader taking so long to fill?

A: HE models use less water, so they often fill more slowly than older machines. Also, check that your hot and cold water hoses are fully turned on at the wall.

Q: Is the agitator always better for heavy stains?

A: Not necessarily. While agitators provide strong mechanical scrubbing, modern impeller washers use powerful water jets and specialized stain cycles that clean very effectively without stressing the clothes as much.

Q: Should I buy the model with Wi-Fi or stick to a simpler one?

A: If you travel or forget if you started a load, Wi-Fi is a fun convenience. If you prefer simplicity and want to save money, a model without smart features will wash just as well.