I have a top loader that i really like. While i agree that all washing machines should probably be left open to air out, we live in the country and the occassional mouse visits the basement and no way do I want one of those critters surprising me! I use Affresh tablets once a month to clean and freshen my washer per my owners' manual and reccomendation by my local Maytag dealer.
Since the question had to do with the pedestal, that is a personal decision. My DH built a platform for our washer and dryer. It had to do with keeping them off if the basement floor just in case the basement had water seep in, etc. We paid $$$$ last year to have a French drain installed so we have not had any water issues since! Woot! Better safe than sorry. I am 5'2" and i dont have any problems reaching into my washer. And it is pretty deep. I need the excercise ! Stretching.
Sandy