I’ve been researching washers & dryers for a new house. Definitely want a front loading washer as they are easier on clothing and use less water but I’m concerned that all brands seem to have issues with mold developing in the gasket. The exception is the Asko, which doesn’t have a gasket. However, it is smaller in capacity than others and it has to be connected through the Asko dryer for electricity because it has a built-in water heater. (We don’t want to do this for a number of reasons.) I could probably live with the smaller washer but I’d prefer a larger dryer so that a full load won’t come out of the dryer all wrinkled.
So my question is, what kind of front loading washer is best? This is a long term investment so I don’t mind spending whatever it takes. Also, what about a dryer? How important do you think it is to have the same brand?
Replies
We have a Bosch and we love it. No mold despite a humid climate (coastal Maine).
I've looked at the Bosch and wasn't as keen on it since it's deeper than other washers/dryers (our laundry room is going to be fairly compact) and has the controls on top so you can't run countertop over them.
On our Bosch, the controls are in front. We have the smaller model -- the larger has controls on top.
I've had the Whirlpool Duet for 6 months now & I love it. I keep the door open slightly when not in use and I wipe out the gasket when I'm done for the day. Also, the machine has a cleaning cycle that they recommend using once a month, but I've never had to use it, you add bleach and it kills everything!
Get the largest capacity units you can afford because you then can wash blankets, comforters, even down parkas without having to go to a laundromat or dry cleaners.
Good luck
I've had a Staber washer for years and am very happy with it. It loads from the top, but operates like a front loader. I wash several queen size blankets at a time (don't own a comforter) with no problems. Uses hardly any water or detergent and very light electricity useage. Their website does a good job of explaining it.
I've never had a matching dryer, don't see why it's necessary. Always had gas dryers, which last way longer than the washers anyway and didn't see a need to replace a perfectly operational dryer just because the washer didn't match.
Hi! I have had a front load WhiteWestinghouse washer for 15 years, and I bought it used. I do believe this tip will help all makes. When you are finished washing, leave the door open to let it dry.
I also use washing soda in every load. Using it cuts dramatically the amount of laundry soap needed. A front end load machine already uses only about 1/2 the amount of soap. I also uso borax. Between these two additives, the water is 'softened' and the soap more easily can attack the dirt. I then use viniger for the rinse cycle. The viniger helps to remove the soap from clothing. Generally, clothes need to be softened because people use too much soap and the rinse cycle does not remove all of it.
Do not forget that you should not have much sudsing in your front load machine, as you can do it harm. I hope this is help to you.
thanks. Will keep that in mind.
Front loader are all we have in the UK - no mould problem, maybe leave the door open for a while after use, let it dry out.