We just bought a top loader here a few months ago and don't really like it. We feel it doesn't clean as well as the front loaders because the toploader moves the clothes up and down where the front loader spins the clothes around. It just makes us suspicious.
My mom is actually shorter than you and sometimes has to use tools to reach the bottom of our washer and has wished she got a front loader since.
I've heard people have issues with the doors but I've also heard plenty of people haven't. A lot of the washers will hold smells so leaving the door slightly ajar will help with smells and making sure the washer dries completely.
Good housekeeping did some tests and reviews on some. Here's their list.
http://www.goodhousekeeping.co...
Hope it helps some.
