Lots of activities abound now as we kick off this Summer season in the United States! We have camping, swimming, boating, hiking, fishing, theme park hopping, barbecuing and all sorts of the fun things in between.
All of these fun activities come not without some consequence though. And that major consequence is dirty, stinky and sweaty clothes!
New Washing Machines
From folks just fetching water from a nearby water well and manually boiling water and mixing the clothes by hand in a big barrel to F.L. Maytag forming the Maytag Corporation the end of the 19th century to now, washing machine engineering and design have certainly been on a journey of trial and error and some technological achievements.
This brings me to take a look at the Top 10 Washing Machines for 2018...
Top 10 Washing Machines for 2018
Pros: This type of washing machine is the best way to clean your clothes because you have gravity working in your favor with compression cleaning.
The Steam for Stains option is the smartest way to get stubborn stains removed because steam can really penetrate cloth and give it a deep clean.
The Maytag MHW5500FW washer also has a way to combat the ongoing battle of HE (high efficient) laundry detergent. The HE liquid detergent is heavier than water and has a tendency to stick to the outer drum on any front-load/stackable washer.
Also, this model has a Fan Fresh cycle option that can run up to 12 hours after a wash cycle is complete to help remove the excessive moisture left behind!
Cons: It would be nice to see the Whirlpool Corporation offer this front load model with the ability to reverse the washer door. Currently, only Electrolux offers this feature on some of their select stackable/front-load washers.
More times than not, there are many customers who have their laundry room set up (both older and newer homes) where the dryer is placed on the left side and the washer on the right. This tends to limit the choices for customers who prefer stackable/front-load type washers over the conventional top-load models.
Pros: This top-load machine handles your load with care because of the impeller at the bottom of the tub, not an agitator. This enables a large capacity to accommodate king-sized comforters and efficient smaller loads because of the Automatic Load Size Sensing Technology.
The Direct Drive motor runs very quietly while it moves the impeller in the opposite direction of the water current created inside. That forces the clothes to move against the current of water to get that compression cleaning action taken care of while protecting the clothes from getting torn or worn out.
Cons: You must be cognizant of how you pre-load your laundry in this machine. Please be sure to load everything in as if there was an agitator inside creating an artificial "donut hole".
This will permit the water that sprays down in the early stages to reach all of the clothing, etc.
Earlier generation models from this brand used to have a "cheat sheet" graphic sticker inside the top panel that reminded you to do this before starting your load.Pros: This machine features a Load and Go function. It is a reservoir that holds enough detergent to wash up to 12 loads of laundry. Simply operate the washer without worrying that you might have placed too much highly-concentrated HE laundry detergent in the load.
The stainless steel wash basket is designed with smooth grooves that permits your clothing to move freely without getting snagged, etc.
This brand also has a built-in Fan Fresh cycle option that you can activate after the wash cycle is over to help combat that stubborn HE laundry detergent mildew build-up on the outer drum.
Cons: It would be nice to see Whirlpool Corporation offer this front load model with the ability to reverse the washer door. Currently, only Electrolux offers this feature on some of their select stackable/front-load washers.
More times than not, there are many customers who have their laundry room set up (both older and newer homes) where the dryer is placed on the left side and the washer on the right.
This tends to limit the choices for customers who prefer stackable/front-load type washers over the conventional top-load models.
Pros: If cosmetic appearance is important to you, this washing machine looks really nice. It's easy to operate and the intuitive control dial makes it a breeze to select your desired cycles.
This machine utilizes a function called SmartBoost that premixes water and detergent before the cycle begins the cleaning action in the clothes.
For added convenience, the Electrolux EFLS627UTT washer has an adaptive dispenser that is designed to accept PODS.
And this machine fits more rooms since it has a reversible washer door!
Cons: For whatever reason, Electrolux still uses drive belt and gearbox technology and not the direct drive systems like other brands.
The direct drive motors have proven to have fewer things to go wrong with them long-term because there are fewer moving components.
Pros: The Speed Queen front-load washers are engineered and built to last up to 25 years. This is possible due to the well-constructed metal components and extensive testing that takes place prior to the products getting launched to the public.
The Speed Queen controls on this machine are also designed and manufactured to last up to 25 years and are heavily tested to make sure that the circuitry stands up to extreme moisture, temperature, vibration, or power surges.
Speed Queen takes its washing machines seriously. The FF7000WN front-load washer come s with an industry-leading 5-year warranty for all parts and labor on electronic control models.
Cons: Buy this model while supplies last!
I am happy that Speed Queen "temporarily" halted production due to a new United States government contract to help Uncle Sam, but the consumer public will now lose the opportunity to purchase this fantastic machine for at least one year, possibly three years depending on whether there will be a contract renewal or not.
There just isn't enough room in the Speed Queen facilities to handle the demand!!
Pros: This Speed Queen top load washer is designed, tested and built in Ripon, Wisconsin. It is built with American spirit and pride.
If you're looking for the simplicity of use, this washer is perfect for you. The control panel reads easily with the bold white lettering on the basic matte black backdrop and has easy to use turn knobs.
The TR3000WN top-load washer also comes with an incredible 3-year warranty covering all parts and labor. It also features a lifetime warranty for the outer drain tub and stainless steel wash basket.
Cons: The capacity is not very big compared to all of the other brands. But, I am really reaching here though.
In all fairness, you can go through two loads of Speed Queen laundry in the same amount of time it takes to do one load in the other brands larger non-agitator models.
Pros: This model has an integrated water faucet helps users speedily tackle stains with targeted cleaners and a steady supply of liquid. This decreases the chances of permanent stain damage.
The Whirlpool WTW7500GW runs quietly thanks to the direct drive motor. This washer can handle exceptionally big loads with thanks to an 850 RPM max spin speed!
Cons: You must be cognizant of how you pre-load your laundry in this machine. Please be sure to load everything in as if there was an agitator inside creating a "donut hole". This permits the water to spray down to reach all of the clothing, etc.
Earlier generation models from this brand used to have a "cheat sheet" graphic sticker inside the top panel that reminded you to do this before starting your load.Pros: With a 27" front load door, this is the largest capacity Samsung washing machine that features Addwash technology. Open the AddWash door to conveniently add in any forgotten laundry after the wash cycle has begun.
This model is the largest capacity in its class, at 5 cu. ft. it is able to wash a load of clothes in 30 minutes time with its 1300 RPM spin speed.
If you are tech savvy, there's a Smart Home App that you can download onto your smartphone, that allows you to remotely monitor and control your washer!
Requires Smart Home Adapter that is sold separately because come on.....does everyone want to monitor their washer from their phone...really?Cons: There are concerns over the quality of customer service you can receive from Samsung.
With laundry appliances, I think that its helpful if the products are manufactured right here in the United States rather than overseas in terms of having parts easily accessible, etc. in case repairs are needed.
Pros: If you have space limitations for laundry, then this brand is for you. This Bosch washer plugs into the matching electric dryer for space savings and flexible installation.
The sensitive wash action and flexible drive system deliver optimum cleaning and fabric care to all your laundry loads.
Its rigid anti-vibration side walls reduce noise. And it offers a 30 minutes quick wash option!
Cons: The 2.2 cu. f.t capacity is a challenge to deal with if you have several people in the home.
Also, I think it would be better if the washer could have a matching dryer that actually vented to the outside instead of offering only a condescending/ventless dry system that does not perform very well.
Pros: For the home with a huge family, this model is the choice for you with its 5.2 cu. ft. capacity!
Highly pressurized nozzles can save up to 30 minutes of time per load. The electronic control panel is integrated into the door for a unique design while providing intuitive and practical functionality.
The LG WM9000HVA washer also runs exceptionally quiet thanks to the TrueBalance Anti-Vibration System!
Cons: This washer is not stackable due to its cheaply-made plastic retractable top panel door that hides the soap dispenser.
Also, the fully integrated control panel on the door could be another factor as to the "non-stacking" capability.
Washing Machine Deals
The laundry industry has certainly changed in the past 100+ years. And there is a range of brands and models for everyone's budget.
In the end, you adjust to the technological advancements in washing machines or if not, then the ole' water pump is just a mere mile and half that-away! Happy washing!