One’s gentler on clothes, the other’s tougher on stains
Impeller washers have a low-profile rotating disc that moves water and clothes.
Agitator washers have a long spindle with attached fins that rubs against clothes directly.
Impeller washers rub clothes against each other, while agitator washers create their own direct mechanical friction.
Impeller washers offer larger capacity and energy efficiency, but may be less effective.
Agitator washers are tough on dirt and stains—and also possibly your clothes.
One thing’s for sure: Any washing machine is better than hauling your stuff to the laundromat or scrubbing your clothes by hand. But there are different types to choose from, and understanding the differences between impeller versus agitator washing machines can help ensure you purchase the right one for you and your wardrobe. Let’s take a look.
Impeller washing machines feature a low-profile rotating disc, which creates a current in the water and rubs clothes against each other to loosen dirt. Agitator washers, on the other hand, feature a tall spindle or post with vanes or fins attached to it, which moves back and forth and creates its own mechanical friction against clothes. If you need help narrowing down your choices, a washing machine pro near you can help.
Impeller washers use the basic force of moving water to get your clothes clean. As the impeller disc rotates, a strong water current rubs your clothes against each other and disperses detergent evenly through the laundry load.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Increased capacity | Can be thrown off balance |
| Gentler on clothes over time | May be less thorough than agitator washers |
| Usually uses less water | Often more expensive than agitator washers |
Best for:
People with larger loads of less-soiled laundry
Those with delicate fabrics in their wardrobe
Those with more money to invest upfront
Impeller washing machines are favored by those with an eye toward keeping it green, because they use less water and energy than agitator washers do. And because they rely on nothing but the current of the water and your clothes rubbing against each other to lift out stains and dirt, they’re gentler on fabrics, too.
Furthermore, impeller washers don’t feature that big spindle in the middle of the basket—which means the entire internal space of the washer is available for your clothes. This can mean increased capacity and larger loads, which futhers their water and energy efficiency.
Although they’re more energy efficient and cheaper to operate over time, impeller washing machines do tend to have a higher upfront cost than agitator washers do. Also, it’s relatively easy for clothes or fabrics to become tangled in the middle of the basket, potentially throwing your washing machine off balance and stopping the cycle. However, this is a common washer and dryer issue that’s usually easy to resolve.
Although plenty of owners say their impeller washing machines get their clothes perfectly clean, it’s true that agitator washers apply more mechanical force and thus may be able to tackle heavier-duty stains and dirt than impeller washing machines can.
Agitator washers are the type that feature a long spindle or post in the center of the washer basket. You’ll see fins or vanes raised up off this post, which serve to rub against clothes and loosen soil.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Often have shorter wash times | Generally less energy efficient |
| May be more affordable | May wear out clothes faster |
| Tough on dirt and stains | May have decreased capacity |
Best for:
People with serious dirt and stains to deal with (i.e., parents)
People with less time to do laundry (i.e., parents)
People on a tighter appliance budget
Agitator washers are all about getting the job done fast. Because the agitator puts mechanical force directly on the fabric, wash times tend to be shorter and clothes may come out cleaner, especially if they’re very soiled. (Parents who use reusable diapers, for example, may prefer an agitator washer.)
Agitator washers also tend to be more affordable upfront for people who are looking to buy or replace an appliance on a more modest budget.
That big spindle in the middle of the basket takes up room—which, of course, means less room for your clothes. Additionally, agitator washers are less energy efficient than impeller washers are, so along with using more water and electricity, they’ll also cost you more in utility bills to operate over time, too.
Finally, bear in mind that agitator washers are tough on stains—which means they’re not gentle on fabrics. If your wardrobe includes a lot of delicate items or you’re hoping to maximize the lifespan of your clothing, an agitator washer might not work in your favor.
So, which washing machine is right for you? Here’s a look at how these two options stack up against each other.
While they may be more expensive to operate as far as electricity and water requirements, agitator washing machines do tend to be less expensive up-front to install—and a high-quality one can last 14 years or more when well maintained.
Agitator washing machines also take the cake when it comes to getting fabric as clean as possible as quickly as possible. This can make them attractive to busy families who often do multiple loads of laundry not just every week, but every day.
While agitator washing machines may get the job done quicker, when it comes to being gentle on your clothes, impellers have the edge. That’s because they rely only on the friction your clothes generate on one another, rather than direct mechanical force between the machine and the fabric.
Impeller washing machines also win the game when it comes to eco-friendliness and sustainability. They use less water and energy than agitator washing machines, and since they’re gentler on your clothes, you’ll ultimately purchase (and throw away) less fabric, too.
While agitator washers put direct mechanical force onto clothing, releasing dirt and stains, many people say their impeller washers are equally effective—and less harsh on fabrics. Ultimately, the type of washing machine you choose isn’t the most important factor when it comes to performance. What’s more important is buying the highest-quality model you can from a reputable brand.
According to Energy Star, front-load impeller washers are the most efficient, using less energy and water while also being gentler on clothes. However, top-load impeller washers may still save you water and electricity and offer a gentler clean. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a more affordable and quicker washing machine, an agitator may make more sense for your situation.
