Finding the best top loader washing machine comes down to three things: how much washing you actually do, how efficient the machine is, and whether it will still be running in five years. A top loader is usually cheaper to buy, easier to load if bending down is hard on your back, and forgiving if you forget a sock halfway through the cycle. At WA White Goods, we recondition and sell top loaders every week from our Welshpool store, so these picks come from what we see hold up in real homes, not a spec sheet.
What To Look For In A Top Loader
Before you compare models, it helps to know what actually matters.
- Capacity. A single person or couple usually gets by on 7 to 8kg. A family of four or more should look at 9.5kg and up.
- Spin speed. Higher spin speeds pull more water out before drying, which cuts your dryer time and your power bill.
- WELS water rating. More stars mean less water used per wash. Worth checking if your water bill already stings.
- Energy rating. Similar idea, but for power use. It matters more if you wash daily.
- Agitator vs impeller. Agitators clean well but are a bit rougher on delicate fabric. Impellers are gentler and usually quieter.
- Cycle options. Look for at least a quick wash, a delicates cycle, and a bedding or bulky cycle. A cold wash option also helps if you want to keep running costs down without sacrificing a clean.
Price matters too, but don’t let it be the only factor. A cheaper machine that dies in eighteen months costs more in the long run than a slightly pricier one that lasts a decade.
If you want a broader rundown of brands and types beyond top loaders, our recent guide on the best washing machines in Australia covers front loaders and combo units too.
Top Loader Vs Front Loader
Top loaders win on price and ease of loading. You don’t need to bend down, and repairs tend to cost less because the mechanics are simpler. Front loaders generally use less water and are gentler on clothes, but they cost more upfront and need the door left open between washes to avoid mould. For most Perth families on a budget, a top loader still makes sense. If you’re weighing both, browse our front loader range side by side with the top loaders below.
Our Top Picks
These are the models we see most often on our workshop floor, based on how they perform once reconditioned and how long they tend to last after that.
Pick 1: Fisher & Paykel 10kg Top Load Washing Machine
Fisher & Paykel makes a durable machine that’s simple to use. The 10kg drum suits a busy household, and parts are easy to source here in WA, which keeps repair costs down if anything goes wrong later. In the workshop, we mostly see bearing wear after heavy years of use, which is a straightforward fix. It’s a solid pick if you want size without paying for extra features you won’t use.
Pick 2: Haier 12kg Top Load Washing Machine (HWT12MW2)
If you’ve got a large family or you’re catching up on washing for a big household, the Haier 12kg gives you real headroom. It handles bedding and bulky loads without needing two runs. We find these machines run quietly for their size, and the control panel is simple enough that nobody needs a manual to figure it out.
Pick 3: LG 9.5kg Top Load Washing Machine (WTG9530S)
LG’s 9.5kg top loader strikes a good balance for a mid-sized family. It has a solid spin speed for its class, which helps clothes come out closer to dry. We currently have a refurbished LG 9.5kg WTG9530S in stock, tested and cleaned, with our 90-day warranty attached.
Here’s a quick side-by-side to help you decide:
| Model | Capacity | Best For | Notes |
| Fisher & Paykel Top Loader | 10kg | Everyday family use | Easy access to parts locally |
| Haier HWT12MW2 | 12kg | Large households, bulky loads | Runs quietly for its size |
| LG WTG9530S | 9.5kg | Mid-sized families | Strong spin, currently in stock |
Common Issues We See And How They’re Fixed
Since we recondition these machines ourselves, we get a good look at what actually wears out. Most top loader problems come down to one of three things. Drum bearings wear over years of heavy use and cause a grinding noise during spin. Inlet valves can clog with mineral deposits, especially in areas with harder water, which shows up as slow filling.
And control boards occasionally fail after a power surge, though this is less common than people expect. None of these are reasons to avoid a top loader. They’re reasons to buy from someone who checks for them before the machine reaches your laundry, rather than finding out the hard way at home.
How Refurbished Compares To Buying New
Most big retailers sell new top loaders in the same capacity range for well above what a tested refurbished unit costs. You’re paying for the box and the badge, not necessarily better performance. A five-year-old top loader that’s been properly reconditioned often still meets a decent WELS water rating and runs just as reliably, provided it’s been checked by someone who knows what to look for. The real difference between a good refurbished machine and a risky one is inspection and warranty, not age alone.
That said, buying new does have a place. If you want the very latest cycle features or you’re not comfortable with any wear history at all, new might suit you better. For most households replacing a broken machine on a budget, refurbished gets the job done for less, and the money saved can go toward a dryer or fridge that also needs replacing.
Buying Refurbished: What You’re Actually Saving
Every top loader we sell goes through the same process. We check the motor, the drum bearings, the pump, and the control board before it goes anywhere near the showroom floor. Then it gets cleaned and sanitised. Every unit comes with a 90-day warranty, so if something turns up in the first few months, you’re covered.
You can browse the full range in our top loader collection, all tested, all warrantied, and ready for Perth-wide delivery. We’re rated 5.0 on Google from over 500 reviews, so you’re not just taking our word for the quality. Drop by the Welshpool store if you’d rather see a machine running before you commit.
FAQ
What is the best top loader washing machine?
There isn’t one single best model. It depends on your household size, but the LG WTG9530S, Haier HWT12MW2, and Fisher & Paykel 10kg cover most needs well.
What size top loader do I need?
A single person or couple usually needs 7 to 8kg, while a family of four or more should look at 9.5kg or larger.
Are top loaders better than front loaders?
Not universally better, but they’re usually cheaper, easier to load, and simpler to repair, while front loaders tend to use less water.
Is a second-hand top loader worth it?
Yes, as long as it’s been properly tested and comes with a warranty. A reconditioned machine from a trusted seller can perform just as well as new for a fraction of the price.
Ready to find your next washing machine? Visit our washing machine range or drop by our Welshpool store to see these top loaders in person.
