Remember those clunky washing machines from your childhood? The ones that vibrated and spun with a satisfying rumble? Chances are, many of them had a secret weapon: the agitator. While modern washing machines often sport sleek, door-front designs, the trusty top-loader with an agitator is still a popular choice for many households. But navigating the world of agitator washers can feel like sorting through a pile of mismatched socks – confusing and a little overwhelming!
If you’re wondering if an agitator washer is the right fit for your laundry needs, you’re not alone. Many people grapple with questions about their effectiveness, how they handle different fabrics, and whether they’re truly a better option than their high-efficiency counterparts. Choosing the wrong washer can lead to dingy clothes, stretched-out delicates, or even a machine that just doesn’t get the job done. That’s why understanding the ins and outs of agitator washers is so important.
In this post, we’re going to dive deep into the world of washing machines with agitators. We’ll uncover what makes them tick, explore their unique benefits, and help you figure out if this classic design is the laundry hero you’ve been searching for. Get ready to learn how to make your next laundry day a whole lot easier.
Our Top 5 Washer With Agitator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Washer With Agitator Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 4.5 cu. ft. Top Load Washer with Triple Action Impeller for Tough Dirt & Stains-Reduce Laundry Time with Accela and Express Wash-LED
Rating: 9.4/10
Tired of stubborn stains and endless laundry days? The Kenmore 4.5 cu. ft. Top Load Washer is here to make your chores easier. This white washer boasts a powerful Triple Action Impeller that blasts away tough dirt and grime. Plus, with features like Accela Wash and Express Wash, you’ll be spending less time waiting and more time enjoying your clean clothes.
What We Like:
- The Triple Action Impeller really works hard to get out tough stains.
- Express Wash cleans small loads super fast, in just 30 minutes.
- Accela Wash cuts down full-size load times significantly, saving you precious time.
- You have lots of choices with 10 different wash cycles to pick from.
- The soft-close lid is a nice touch and won’t slam shut.
- Energy saving with the Cold Clean option uses way less electricity.
- Easy-to-use LED lights show you how much time is left.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “Accela Wash” time savings are only compared to a specific, heavy-duty setting, so real-world savings might vary.
- While it has many cycles, some might find the sheer number a bit overwhelming at first.
This Kenmore washer offers a smart and efficient way to tackle laundry day. It’s a great option for busy households that want cleaner clothes faster.
2. Kenmore 4.4 cu. ft. Top Load Washer with Triple Action Agitator for Tough Dirt & Stains-Reduce Laundry Time with Accela and Express Wash-LED
Rating: 8.6/10
Say goodbye to stubborn stains and endless laundry days with the Kenmore 4.4 cu. ft. Top Load Washer. This powerful machine is designed to make laundry easier and faster, tackling even your toughest loads with innovative features and smart technology. Its sleek white design will look great in any laundry room.
What We Like:
- The Triple Action Agitator works hard to get out tough dirt and stains. It sprays, moves the basket, and spins clothes for a deep clean.
- Laundry day gets shorter with Express Wash for small loads in just 28 minutes and Accela Wash that cleans full loads up to 51% faster.
- You have lots of choices with 10 wash cycles, including options for heavy-duty items and delicate fabrics.
- The intuitive controls and bright LED lights make it simple to pick the right settings and see how much time is left.
- Save energy and money with the Cold Clean option, which uses up to 90% less energy.
- The soft-close lid with tempered glass is a nice safety feature that prevents slamming.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it offers many cycles, some users might prefer more advanced smart features found in higher-end models.
- The 4.4 cu. ft. capacity is good for most families, but very large households might need a bigger machine.
This Kenmore washer is a fantastic choice for anyone wanting cleaner clothes faster and with less effort. It’s a practical and efficient addition to your home.
3. Amana NTW4516FW 3.5 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
Rating: 8.6/10
The Amana NTW4516FW 3.5 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer is a fantastic option for anyone needing a reliable and budget-friendly washing machine. This particular unit has been expertly refurbished, meaning it’s been thoroughly checked and is ready to perform just like a brand-new one. You can trust that it has undergone a rigorous testing process to ensure all its functions work perfectly. Plus, it comes with all the necessary accessories you’ll need to get started right away. It’s a smart way to get a quality appliance without the full price tag.
What We Like:
- Looks and works like new thanks to thorough refurbishment.
- All necessary accessories are included, so you can start washing immediately.
- A great value for a fully functional washer.
- The 3.5 cu. ft. capacity is suitable for most household laundry needs.
- Top-load design makes it easy to load and unload clothes.
What Could Be Improved:
- May arrive in a generic box, which is a minor cosmetic detail.
- As a refurbished item, its long-term durability might be a slight concern for some buyers compared to a brand-new unit.
This refurbished Amana washer offers excellent performance and value. It’s a practical choice for keeping your clothes clean.
4. BLACK+DECKER 4.1 Cu. Ft. Top Loading Washing Machine with Agitator
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of laundry piling up? The BLACK+DECKER 4.1 Cu. Ft. Top Loading Washing Machine is here to help! This full-size washer boasts a generous capacity, a powerful agitator for deep cleaning, and a durable stainless steel tub. Its user-friendly LED display and multiple wash cycles make laundry day a breeze. Plus, a handy 24-hour delay feature lets you start washes when it’s most convenient for you.
What We Like:
- The 4.1 cu. ft. capacity handles big loads easily, perfect for families.
- The agitator cleans tough stains effectively.
- The stainless steel tub is built to last and resists rust.
- You get 10 different wash cycles for all your clothing needs.
- The 24-hour delay timer gives you great flexibility.
- The glass lid lets you see what’s happening inside.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might prefer a quieter operation.
- The machine is a standard size, so it might not fit in very small spaces.
This BLACK+DECKER washer offers a solid cleaning experience for everyday laundry needs. It’s a reliable choice for busy households looking for efficiency and durability.
5. Kenmore 4.5 cu. ft. Front Load Washer with Stain Removing Steam Treatment – Reduce Laundry Time with Accela Wash – LED – ENERGY STAR Certified – Metallic Silver
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of laundry day taking up your whole weekend? The Kenmore 4.5 cu. ft. Front Load Washer in sleek metallic silver is here to change that. This washer is designed to tackle your toughest stains and get your clothes clean faster, so you can get back to doing what you love. With its smart features and energy-saving technology, it’s a great addition to any home.
What We Like:
- More Laundry, Less Time: This washer has two amazing features to speed up your laundry. Express Wash cleans small loads in just 25 minutes. Accela Wash cleans full-sized loads up to 26% faster than regular cycles. You’ll spend way less time in front of the washing machine.
- Tackle Tough Stains: The Steam Treat option uses the power of steam to get rid of everyday stains. No more scrubbing or pre-treating for common messes.
- Wash Your Way: With 12 different wash cycles, you can pick the perfect setting for any type of clothing. There are special cycles for kids’ clothes, whites, and delicate items. You can also choose from 5 temperature settings and use Extra Rinse for sensitive skin.
- Easy to Operate: The touch controls are simple to use. You can easily select the right cycle and options for your laundry. The LED lights clearly show you how much time is left and what cycle is running.
- Reduce and Save: This washer is ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it’s good for the environment and your wallet. The Cold Clean option uses up to 90% less energy than normal cycles, saving you money on your utility bills.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the Accela Wash is faster, it’s based on specific settings. You might need to adjust for your own laundry needs.
- The specific time savings for Accela Wash are compared to a very specific, heavy-duty normal cycle, so your actual time savings might vary.
This Kenmore washer offers a fantastic blend of speed, cleaning power, and energy efficiency. It’s a smart choice for busy households looking to simplify laundry day.
The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Washer with an Agitator
Are you looking for a washing machine that gets your clothes really clean? A washer with an agitator might be the perfect choice for you! These machines have a central post that twists and turns to move your clothes around in the water. This helps to scrub away dirt and stains effectively. Let’s dive into what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
1. Agitator Style
There are two main types of agitators. Some are tall and skinny, while others are shorter and wider. Taller agitators can sometimes be rougher on clothes, but they often provide a deeper clean. Shorter agitators are generally gentler but might not tackle the toughest stains as well. Think about how delicate your laundry is.
2. Load Size and Capacity
Washers come in different sizes. A larger capacity means you can wash more clothes at once, saving you time. Consider how much laundry you do and the size of your household. Small households might be fine with a smaller washer, while big families will need a bigger one.
3. Wash Cycles and Settings
Look for machines with a variety of wash cycles. Common cycles include normal, delicate, heavy-duty, and quick wash. Some machines also offer special settings for things like sanitizing or washing bulky items. More options mean you can customize your wash for different types of fabrics and soil levels.
4. Water Level Control
Some agitator washers let you choose the water level. This is helpful because you can make sure your clothes are fully submerged for a better clean. Others have automatic water level sensors. Manual control gives you more say in how much water is used.
Important Materials
1. Drum Material
Most agitator washers have stainless steel drums. Stainless steel is strong and doesn’t rust. It also helps clothes spin faster, which removes more water and speeds up drying time. Some older or cheaper models might have plastic drums. Plastic can scratch and might not be as durable.
2. Agitator Material
The agitator itself is usually made of durable plastic. It needs to be tough enough to withstand constant movement. High-quality plastic will last longer and resist cracking.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
1. Build Quality and Durability
A well-built washer will last for many years. Look for sturdy construction and reliable brand names. Read reviews to see what other people say about how long their machines have lasted. Machines made with thicker metal and fewer plastic parts tend to be more durable.
2. Motor Strength and Efficiency
A strong motor means the agitator can work effectively, even with heavy loads. Energy efficiency is also important. Look for ENERGY STAR certified models. These use less electricity and water, saving you money on utility bills.
3. Noise Level
Some agitator washers can be quite noisy. If you live in an apartment or have a light sleeper in the house, look for models that advertise quiet operation. This often comes from better insulation and motor design.
User Experience and Use Cases
1. Ease of Use
Agitator washers are generally straightforward to operate. You load your clothes, add detergent, select your cycle, and start the machine. The controls are usually simple buttons or dials. This makes them a good choice for people who prefer a no-fuss appliance.
2. Best for Tough Stains and Heavily Soiled Clothes
The main advantage of an agitator is its cleaning power. If you often deal with muddy sports uniforms, greasy work clothes, or heavily soiled items, an agitator washer will likely give you better results than a high-efficiency (HE) impeller washer. The scrubbing action is very effective.
3. Considerations for Delicate Fabrics
While great for tough jobs, agitators can be harder on delicate fabrics. If you wash a lot of fine lingerie, silks, or very soft sweaters, you’ll want to use the delicate cycle and perhaps a mesh laundry bag to protect them. Some newer agitator models have gentler agitator designs to help with this.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are agitator washers better than impeller washers?
A: Agitator washers are often better at deep cleaning and tackling tough stains because of the central post. Impeller washers are generally gentler on clothes and use less water.
Q: Do agitator washers use a lot of water?
A: Older agitator models tend to use more water than newer ones. Some modern agitator washers have improved water efficiency, but they generally use more water than HE impeller washers.
Q: Can I wash a king-size comforter in an agitator washer?
A: It depends on the size of the washer. Larger capacity agitator washers can handle bulky items like comforters, but smaller ones might struggle.
Q: How do I prevent my clothes from getting tangled around the agitator?
A: Don’t overload the washer. Make sure clothes are distributed evenly. Using a mesh laundry bag for smaller items can also help.
Q: Are agitator washers more expensive?
A: Generally, agitator washers can be less expensive to purchase than comparable HE impeller models. However, they might cost more to run due to higher water and energy usage.
Q: What kind of detergent should I use with an agitator washer?
A: You can use regular laundry detergent. Avoid using too much, as it can lead to excess suds that are hard to rinse out.
Q: How often should I clean my agitator washer?
A: It’s a good idea to clean your washer every few months. Run an empty hot water cycle with vinegar or a washing machine cleaner to remove any residue.
Q: Can I use fabric softener with an agitator washer?
A: Yes, you can. Most agitator washers have a dispenser for fabric softener, which is released during the rinse cycle.
Q: Are agitator washers still being made?
A: Yes, many manufacturers still produce agitator washers. They remain popular for their cleaning power and simplicity.
Q: What is the lifespan of a typical agitator washer?
A: With proper care and maintenance, an agitator washer can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, sometimes even longer.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!