Washing Machines

[tesla]

I am in need of a new washing machine (and gas dryer). I've found some information about the different types and models available online and now I'd like to solicit your experiences - have you bought/used a washing machine lately that you loved? Hated? What worked well or badly about a particular model?

Thanks in advance to all who comment!

Comments

[davidschroth.livejournal.com]

In my previous life (before mizzlaurajean, i bought a front loader. I personally think they're the way to go, even if they are pricier than top loaders (and even though they require special soap).

We have access to Consumer Reports online reviews/ratings, if that would be helpful.

[minnehaha.livejournal.com]

Front loaders all the way; I'd buy one if I were buying.

Generally, go to Sears, look at the most expensive machine you can afford, and look at the cheapest one they offer. If the cheapest one does everything you need it to, buy it. If the expensive one has features you don't need, move down the price ladder until you find one that only does what you want. Buy that. The end.

K. [definitely not one to agonize over choices like this. Buying our washing machine took me 10 minutes]

[von-krag.livejournal.com]

Seconded! W/a front loader you'll save in soap, water the clothes get cleaner and get less wear too. The hi-speed spin gets out more h2o thus less drying time. BTW I like the biggest load models, washing comforters, pillows and blankets puts a real strain on smaller washers.

[omaha.livejournal.com]

the last ones i used, at someone else's place, seemed quite nice; a maytag neptune stack.

[neugotik.livejournal.com]

There are some awesome energy saving ones - European designs.
There are also some of these that are small & stack.

I also was drooling over & wanted to buy one of these energy savers that "did it all" - ie dirty clothes go in , get washed, get dried, it saved energy & water over the standard models. I don't recall the names, but it would be outdated now anyway - since it was a few years ago I was considering it then I didn't buy one - I would look for those.

And gas dryers can catch fire if the lint isn't cleaned enough, so I lean toward electric, but I actually own a gas dryer, 'cause thats what was in the house. (shrug) _ I love <3 European appliances!

[mplsfish.livejournal.com]

We have a combo washer dryer in one unit. Dirty clothes go in. Clean clothes come out. It was a little hard to find. I believe it had to be ordered. But it cost about the same as a good front loader combo and takes up half the room. It is super quiet. It is in Osces closet and I frequently run it at bedtime. Very energy efficient. It takes any kind of soap. I like that there is no switching the load over.If you are interested, I'll ask Nik where he got it and send you a link.

[madtruk.livejournal.com]

Stainless steel tub. That's all I have to offer. Make sure your washer has a stainless steel tub or you'll be fighting enamel-covered rust in a few years. Otherwise, if I had known they existed, I might have gone with what MPLSFISH has 'cause that sounds way easier on the washerperson.
I think we have an Amana washer and we used to have an awesome Kenmore gas dryer (awesome because I got it nearly new for $100 and currently my in-laws have it as we have no gas service-oh and it works perfectly).

Washing is man's work. Stop giggling. I mean it. I'll wash those white delicates with my red t-shirts if I want to!

Yeesh.

[davidschroth.livejournal.com]

Washing is man's work.

Ain't that the truth...

[ts-charmer.livejournal.com]

We just bought a new set: Whirlpool Duet HT. Now it could be that I am a bit biased since the old set was 14 years old, but the set is amazing.

Front load and HUGE capacity make it much easier to use. It is also extremely efficient from a soap and water stand point.

I would buy the same model again hands down.