Will my top-loading machine destroy my CDs?

[Qbear'smama]

I was reading the thread about dipes lasting through 6 kids and the issue of damage from top-loading washers was raised a few times, can anyone share opinions on this? Am I looking at dipes and covers wearing out because of the agitator in top-loaders? Anyone experience both able to compare?

[princesstutu]

I've had both.

Personally, I like the agitator in a top-loader. I used a front loader for a while, but I didn't like the way my clothes got clean (or not, as the case may be). Maybe it varies from company to company, but I also like other things about top-loaders (like opening it in the middle of a cycle to put something else in).

I didn't notice top-loaders to do any more damage to dipes than a front-loader and I am a "wash twice every time" type. It's the machine drying that I think is hard on dipes.

[Katie T]

I do think my top loader is harder on my dipes (prefolds are the only ones I have noticed that are getting wear holes in and I didn't have a fl when I got them so I guess that I am not being fair) but I had such horrid issues with the fl that even if it did wear out my dipes faster it is really worth it.

I have pocket diapers that I had with the fl and the tl and they are showing no wear so I don't know what to think but either way I love my tl and will never go back to the fl.

my 2 cents.

[fruitfulmomma]

I responded on that thread that most of my diapers had been through multiple children. We have only ever used a top loader.

[FillingMyQuiver]

I've had both, and I *do* think my top loader put more wear on my dipes, BUT it was also more effective at getting out stains.

I have pfs that will be going on their 6th babe, and they're still going strong. I do think it depends on the diaper, too. My pfs are unbleached chinese pfs. My organic cotton fitteds gave otut much sooner, with wear holes and shot elastic. I think it's just the nature of the fabric and construction.

As far as covers go, I use mostly wool, but I would recommend hand washing your covers, unless they're really gross. That will make them last longer.

ETA~ I have a FL now w/ on board heater. We have such hard water that I pretty much sterilize my dipes every time I wash them to avoid buildup.

[SaoirseC]

I think it varies. When we lived with my father for a while, many of my diapers were torn up, as well as some of our clothing, by his 15 yo top loader. however, my 6 yo top loader doesn't eat up the diapers at all.