At a Glance:
Whirlpool WTW5057LW Top Load Washer Review
Just a decade ago, washing machines went through their biggest makeover with the introduction of front load washers. While many opted to go with this new laundry technology, many still prefer the advantages that come with a top load washer. The choice for those consumers then became whether to choose between an agitator or an impeller. But with the exciting redesign of Whirlpool 2 in 1 Removable Agitator washers, they no longer have to choose between the two.
To figure out if the new design is worth the hype or not, we’ve decided to do our own Whirlpool WTW5057LW review. In this evaluation, we look into three major categories—design, value, and features—to understand why this industry-first is making waves on the market.
About Whirlpool
For over a century, Whirlpool has been a leading American brand dedicated to manufacturing affordable appliances with value in mind. Every day, American shoppers choose Whirlpool for reliable kitchen and laundry products that offer great performance and the latest styles, whether it’s for cooking, cleaning, or keeping groceries fresh.
At Don’s Appliances, we know carrying Whirlpool products means providing our buyers with a trusted name in the industry at prices that meet every lifestyle.
Agitators vs. Impellers
In order to fully understand the innovation behind this new Whirlpool top loading washing machine, it’s important to understand the difference between an agitator washer and an impeller washer.
How a washer agitator works:
A spindle in the middle of the washer causes clothes to rub against each other, or agitate. The wash action is preferred if you wash a lot of loads that require heavy-duty agitation, such as:
- Jeans
- Towels
- Uniforms
- Bedding
How a washer impeller works:
Impeller washers don’t use a spindle to agitate clothes but instead, a disc at the bottom of the washer instead. This frees up more room for bulky loads. In the case of the Whirlpool WTW5057LW, removing the agitator gains extra space with an increase from 4.7 cu ft to 4.8 cu ft. Now, consumers are able to wash more than two baskets of clothes in a single load*. Removing the agitator also makes it easier to wash bedding and linens, and you can even wash shoes without having to worry about laces snagging around the spindle.
*One basket = 7 pounds
Explore Whirlpool Top Load Washers
Whirlpool Top Load WashersWhirlpool WTW5057LW Top Washer Review
We’ve evaluated the Whirlpool WTW5057LW top load washer according to three factors every buyer considers when purchasing a new washer. See how they weigh out.
Design
The Whirlpool WTW5057LW keeps with tradition by using rotary controls, although the brand does manufacture a 2 in 1 agitator washer with touch controls (model # WTW8127LW) for a more modern look. With that said, the knobs are easy to use with intuitive controls.
It also features an EasyView Slow-Close glass lid. While the add-on doesn’t provide much when it comes to performance, the glass material adds a level of quality we like, and its see-through design makes it easy to view the progress of washes.
The inside reveals a Smooth Spiral stainless steel basket. It’s a largely overlooked feature, but the design snags clothes less, and the dimples help to improve agitation, a nice touch to have when this washer is used without the agitator. Making the tub out of brushed stainless steel also ensures durability, adding even more value to the top load washer. The Whirlpool WTW5057LW is currently only available in white.
Value
Overall, this Whirlpool top load washer is worth its value. Essentially, users have two appliances in one, all for a price point under $900. Taking into consideration the 4.7–4.8 cubic feet of wash capacity this washing machine offers, plus its flexible loading, this is a great washer with enough for a full-size family.
Features
This washer features 12 wash cycles with five temperature controls to be able to handle all your family’s fabrics. It also comes with the following wash functions and features:
2 in 1 Removable Agitator
This is the main attraction that’s creating all the buzz in the industry. Overall, buyers agree the removable agitator is easy to use, although some users mention doing so does require bending into the tub. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it is a consideration if you have health issues or if reaching down to the bottom of a washer is a challenge for you.
How does the 2 in 1 removable agitator work?
Built-In Faucet Center
It just makes sense to be able to treat fabric stains right where the garment will eventually end up, and the built-in faucet on this Whirlpool top loading washer makes that chore efficient. Product testers especially love using the feature along with the Presoak option to tackle stubborn stains on the spot.
Presoak Option
Having a washer that works automatically is a real time-saver. The Presoak option lets you give clothes some extra TLC, and then after half an hour, the wash cycle you select starts on its own. It’s a simple feature, but it comes in handy during busy days.
Bulky Items Cycle
Fully saturate your biggest loads with this optional cycle. Once selected, the washer fills up with maximum water levels to give every item in a load a deep, optimum clean*.
*Bulky Items Cycle only available with deepest water level
Should You Buy the Whirlpool WTW5057LW Washer?
All in all, this is a solid machine with a clever redesign that will please both old-school top load washer users along with new generations of fans. With that said, we particularly recommend this model if you:
- Prefer top load washers because of their heavy-duty agitation
- Like traditional controls over complicated buttons
- Aren’t looking for the latest washer finishes
- Want ample washer capacity to keep up with family households
- Prioritize washer features over the latest tech features and smart controls
- Have a Whirlpool dryer
Whirlpool proves once again that it’s a pioneer with its latest version of the top load washer designed for the modern home. Once exclusive to big-box stores, you can now find Whirlpool 2 in 1 washing machines at Don’s Appliances. To learn more about these exciting washers, including our recommendation for Whirlpool washer and dryer sets, visit a location near you to speak with one of our appliance experts.
Shop Whirlpool's WTW5057LW Top Load Washer
FAQs
At Don’s Appliances, our buyers are also curious about the new Whirlpool 2 in 1 top load washer models. Here’s what our buyers are asking.
Is the Whirlpool WTW5057LW good?
The Whirlpool WTW5057LW top load washer has gained the recognition of prestigious product experts, including a Popular Science feature in its category of “Best of What’s New Awards.” Additionally, the washer has a 4-star rating with over 1,900 buyer recommendations from nearly 3,000 product reviews.
Is the Whirlpool WTW5057LW expensive?
The Whirlpool WTW5057LW was originally retailed for $1,200, but currently, buyers can snag a deal on this innovative washing machine for under $900.
Why Trust Don’s Appliances?
Founded in 1971, Don’s Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Pittsburgh, PA. Don’s has since expanded to 10 locations selling, delivering, installing, and servicing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.
When our customers are remodeling or building a new house, Don’s has all the expertise, product knowledge, inventory, brands, displays, and services to meet and exceed your needs. And in the event an appliance breaks, we are there, right on time and with the right product, delivery, installation, and service.
Shop Whirlpool Appliances at Don’s
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop laundry appliances today at Don’s Appliance. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you explore all the great Whirlpool top load washer options — whether you call us at 866-544-1711, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Don’s Appliances Pittsburgh, PA warehouse locations. Visit us today!
Learn More: How to Decide Between Agitators vs Impeller Washers