Agitator vs. No Agitator Washer: Which Is Best?

Finding water pooling around your clothes or dealing with a washing machine that’s not cleaning properly can be frustrating.

If you’re in the market for a new washer, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is whether to choose a model with an agitator or one without. This choice can significantly impact your laundry routine, from cleaning effectiveness to fabric care.

In this article, we’ll explain the key differences between agitator and non-agitator washers, explore the pros and cons of each, and help you determine which type is best suited to your specific laundry needs.

What’s the Difference Between Agitator and No Agitator Washers?

Before diving into which type is better, let’s understand what sets these washing machines apart.

What Is an Agitator Washer?

An agitator is a central spindle or column that extends from the bottom of the washing machine’s drum to near the top. Traditional agitators have spiral fins or vanes that rotate back and forth during the wash cycle. This motion creates turbulence in the water, forcefully moving the clothes through the detergent solution.

Modern agitators are typically shorter and less aggressive than older models, but they still operate on the same principle of mechanical action to clean clothes.

What Is a No Agitator Washer?

No agitator washers, often called impeller washers, use a low-profile disc or cone at the bottom of the washing drum. Rather than having a tall column in the center, these washers feature a relatively flat surface with ridges or fins that rotate to create currents in the water.

High-efficiency (HE) top-loaders and front-loading machines both operate without traditional agitators, relying instead on tumbling action and water currents to clean clothes.

Agitator Washers: Pros and Cons

Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of choosing a washer with an agitator.

Pros of Agitator Washers

More Thorough Cleaning for Heavily Soiled Items

Agitators excel at cleaning heavily soiled clothes like work uniforms, children’s play clothes, and sports gear. The mechanical action of the agitator creates a robust scrubbing effect that can dislodge stubborn dirt and stains more effectively.

Shorter Wash Cycles

Traditional agitator washers typically complete wash cycles faster than their impeller counterparts. If you’re pressed for time, an agitator washer can have your laundry washed and ready for drying in as little as 35-45 minutes.

Generally Less Expensive

Agitator washers are usually more affordable upfront than impeller models. If you’re shopping on a tight budget, you’ll find more options with agitators in the lower price ranges.

Simple Operation

These washers often have straightforward controls and fewer cycle options, making them intuitive for users who prefer simplicity over numerous features.

Cons of Agitator Washers

Rougher on Clothes

The vigorous motion of an agitator can be harsh on fabrics, potentially causing wear and tear over time. Delicate items like lingerie, knits, and items with embellishments are particularly vulnerable to damage.

Less Energy Efficient

Traditional agitator washers typically use more water and energy than their impeller counterparts, resulting in higher utility bills over time.

Smaller Capacity

Since the agitator occupies space in the center of the drum, these washers generally have less room for clothes, making them less suitable for large households or bulky items like comforters.

More Tangling of Clothes

The twisting motion of an agitator can cause clothes to wrap around it and each other, leading to tangling and potential stretching of garments.

No Agitator Washers: Pros and Cons

Now let’s look at what non-agitator washers bring to the table.

Pros of No Agitator Washers

Gentler on Clothes

Without a central agitator, these machines clean using a tumbling action that’s generally gentler on fabrics. This can extend the life of your clothing, especially for delicate items.

Larger Capacity

The absence of a center post provides more usable space in the washing drum. This allows you to wash larger loads and bulky items like comforters, pillows, and rugs more easily.

More Energy and Water Efficient

Most non-agitator washers are high-efficiency models that use significantly less water and energy than traditional agitator machines. This translates to lower utility bills and a more environmentally friendly laundry routine.

Better Spin Cycles

Impeller washers typically feature higher spin speeds, which extract more water from clothes. This means shorter drying times and additional energy savings.

Less Tangling and Wrinkling

Without an agitator for clothes to wrap around, there’s typically less tangling and consequently less wrinkling, which can reduce your ironing time.

Cons of No Agitator Washers

May Struggle with Heavy Soiling

While modern no-agitator washers have improved considerably, they may still not match the cleaning power of agitator models when it comes to heavily soiled items.

Longer Wash Cycles

To compensate for less mechanical action, no-agitator washers often have longer wash cycles, sometimes taking up to 60-90 minutes to complete a normal load.

Higher Initial Cost

Non-agitator washers, especially HE models with advanced features, typically come with a higher price tag than basic agitator models.

May Require Special Detergent

Many HE non-agitator washers require special low-sudsing detergent to function properly, which can be more expensive than regular detergent.

Potential for Odor Issues

Front-loading and HE top-loading washers without agitators can be prone to developing mildew and odors if not properly maintained, requiring regular cleaning.

Safety Considerations

IMPORTANT: Always unplug your washing machine before attempting any internal inspection or repair. Water and electricity create serious shock hazards that can be fatal.

If you’re examining an existing washer or installing a new one:

• Ensure proper water connections to prevent leaks and water damage
• Use the correct power outlet with proper grounding
• Keep the area around the washer clear to prevent tripping hazards
• If you have children, consider models with child safety features

Final Thoughts

Both agitator and non-agitator washers have their place in today’s laundry rooms. Traditional agitator models offer powerful cleaning and simplicity, while non-agitator washers provide gentler care for clothes and better efficiency.

Consider your household’s specific laundry needs, budget, and priorities when making your decision. For some households, the extra cleaning power of an agitator is worth the trade-offs, while others will benefit more from the efficiency and capacity of a non-agitator model.

Remember that today’s washers of both types have improved significantly over older models, offering better performance while addressing many of the traditional drawbacks of each design.