Washing machines - call for opinions

[celticdragonfly]

Looks like selenite and I may be about to buy a new washing machine.

Short form - our 9+ year old washer has problems, repair dude said it'd cost $280-odd to fix it. That's probably more than half the cost of a new one, we're thinking.

So we're going to be looking into replacement. Maybe shopping some tonight, maybe later. Not sure where yet, either.

Anyway. The old one is a large capacity. I'd *like* to get a MEGA capacity, but doubt I can afford that, but I gotta have the large capacity.

Other than that - suggestions? Advice? Avoid brand X? Make sure we get one with those nifty new Left-handed Dingleboppers that they didn't have 9 years ago? Talk to me, people.

EDIT: On the various advice about frontloaders - it occurs to me that might really help with the "training Maggie to help with the laundry more" plan. Hm. How do you put the soap into those things?

Comments

[whouseknecht.livejournal.com]

I strongly recommend you get a front-loading washer. It will not have the mega-capacity you want, but 1) it is gentler on your clothes, so they last longer, and 2) it is more economical of water, so your water bill will go down. It will cost you more up front (probably around $800+), but the payoff in clothes and utility bills is worth it in the long run.

We got ours from Sears (a Kenmore (what else?)), and so far have had no problems with it after five years.

Check out Consumer Reports annual buying guide for further recommendations.

Easier on the clothes

[dawn-pillsbury.livejournal.com]

That is another great advantage. The T-shirts I got at last year's Tribal Fest are hardly showing any wear in the screening, despite nearly weekly washing.

My sympathies about the no-clothesline policy (http://www.californiasolarcenter.org/solardryer.html). Not to mention the electric dryer. *tumble tumble tumble oh god will they ever be dry?*

[fabricdragon.livejournal.com]

no arguments with hubby (above) on the washing clothes part of the question
BUT
for dying, washing fleece, and so on? front loaders suck.
you cannot fill one full of hot water and use it to dye cloth, wash fleece, or etc. they are LOUSY at the "soak" feature, and most dont do it at all.

for clothes? da bomb! but you should know about the crafts issue before you buy.