Our front loader is crap at cleaning DHs clothes. The machine does use less water and is gentler on the clothes, but TBH being gentler has made it crappier for actually washing the clothes. I usually have to put DHs through twice with extra rinse cycles, when I didn't have to with the top loader. Also another down side is if you find something else once you've started it you can't add it. I wish I had of gotten another top loader and when this one dies I will be.