It's a New Year . . .

50 comments
Yep, a new year. And I'm going to make a few resolutions. But first I have to tackle some left over problems from 2009.Last week my iphone started giving me problems. I love my BFF - iphone. But my button at the bottom of the phone isn't working. Long story but I'm not sure what to do. I don't have an extended warranty. I've been able to stumble along with the problem for a week but this isn't getting better.

My washer/dryer have both been dying. Slowly and loudly. So loud that it sounds like an an airplane flying right into my laundry room. The repair guy told Mr. Hive that it would be cheaper to replace than fix so we have just been waiting until the loud death finally occurred. And that happened over the weekend. Now this is a beauty. But I've been doing some research. And I'm not sure I want a front loading duo. I'm looking for substance first. And I've read/heard things about the mold issue around the rim of the front loaders. Besides they don't come in the same size capacity that the traditional big top loaders come in.
So, I'm thinking this may be the way to go. What do you think? Beauty or Brawn? The same repair guy that told us to wait out the noise on our old model said Whirlpool top loader was his recommendation.

So my first job of the new year must be to make decisions on my old problems. What to do about my iphone and which washer/dryer to buy? Yikes the price of both, especially right after Christmas, is not what I wanted to tackle first thing this year. But if things happen in 3s then hopefully my broken phone, washer and dryer will be it for a while? Hope so. What would you do?

-nanette
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50 comments

~Michelle~ said...

I was also a bit worried about the mold issue with the front loader, but its a simple fix - you just leave the door open, and if there is a lot of water caught, then just grab a towel & mop it up. So it's not as bad as you think - and I successfully shoved a queen comforter (huge!) into the washer, so size seems OK. So the front loaders aren't that bad, so I think it's just a preference thing. However, I've heard some not-so-great things about Whirpool as of late (and apparently their customer service is abismal). I used consumer reports for a month (it was $6?? online) to review W/D specifically, and the GE I ended up getting was very highly rated.

Anita said...

I have a front loading washing machine. We have had it for about 9 years. We have not had a problem with mold. I leave the door to the washer and the detergent drawer open until they have dried. I love the washer even though it is kind of small. It has never ripped any items - the way an agitator can rip them. I've also heard that things washed in a front loader will last longer. Good-luck with your decision.

Di~ said...

Get a top loader. I got a front loader and have not been happy.

Sherri said...

Well I can't help with the iphone...but I do have a front loader washer...a very nice one, but I'm not a huge fan...I'd definitely go with the larger capacity top loader!Hope you are right and this is your three for the year!

Trisha said...

What a pain to have both big price items need replaced at the same time. Good luck on figuring out how to handle it. I don't have fabulous advice but I can give you moral support! :)

Joyce said...

I have the red LG front load washer in our vacation condo. I HATE it. It stinks always. We leave the door open and the drawer where the liquid detergent goes open at all times. I frequently run the load with the special tablets they now make to resolve the problem, they are expensive and what a waste of water. If it was in my house where I do most of my laundry, I would have replaced it by now. Good luck.

Momoo said...

What a way to start the new year! With your huge family, I imagine you can't go long without a washer and dryer.I've taken rag quilts to the laundromat...really made me appreciate my washer and dryer. Good luck.

Michaela said...

Ha, I don't think we are making your decisions about the W/D easier.. Here is my experience.
I used top loaders for quite some time, but never really liked it because it didn't fit as much laundry as I wanted. Also it destroyed the clothes more. I grew up with front loader machine that my mom had for over 20 years and got myself Bosh front loader about four years ago. I have no problems at all. I leave the door open, to avoid the mold, use lot less water, and can fit a huge queen comforter in without breaking a motor (that's how our old top loader died).
I also like the fact that I don't have to dive into the washer to get the laundry out, but easily access it from the side.
However, it is you who is going to be doing the work, so you need to decide what are your preferences for washer.

Jan said...

I so wish I could help, but I'm afraid I've got a washer and a dryer that are both on their last leg! Oh and I'm an "I-phone" wannabe :) Sure seems like their repair place could fix that little button tho. I must say that that red washer is a work of art! OMG, it sure is pretty; but "research" is of the utmost importance :) I wish you luck! And b/f I forget ... loved the picture of you and your honey snoozing on the sofa :) Priceless! Happy New Year ... enjoy those beautiful new calendars!

Vicki said...

I think I would get the top loader. I will tell you, don't go for the bargain W/D at Costco! They are our "starter" washer and dryer, and the washer is ok but the dryer has needed a couple repairs due to being made a little more cheaply than the regular ones. :)

Megan said...

It depends, see. We just moved into a house with front-loaders, and it's true - they don't hold as much as the top-loaders. I've also seen houses where folks had front-loaders and set up the laundry room so they had a cabinet on TOP of their front loading washer-dryer set for folding, storage, etc.. I don't have enough room for something like that, but I'm awfully covetous when I see it in other people's houses.


Either way, hope you enjoy a fancy new washer!

Jana said...

I vote brawn! Why even have to worry about mold? Of course, I am also 6' tall so am not keen on bending over even further for the front load..

Kaaren said...

Bummer expenses to have right after Christmas.

I have the largest capacity top loader washer by Whirlpool and I'm extremely happy with it. It's 6 years old and works like a charm. I do between 6-10 loads of wash every week so it does get a workout.

Good luck in making your decision, Nanette. I think "brawn" is the key word here.

Abby and Stephanie said...

Everyone I know that bought the front loaders do not like them...they walk all over the floor. I have the Whirlpool Cabrio washer and dryer...holds lots of laundry and there is no agitator. I can easily wash a California King Size comforter in there too. I recommend the extended warranty. Love my machines.

Sharie - Moss Bluff said...

I live in the south where mold is a problem with everything. You learn to use heat, AC, and light bulbs to take care of it. I have an LG washer and dryer. This is the first front loader that I have had. I had problems at first with the moldy smell and after speaking with friends that have them, leaving the door open took care of the problem. I also advise, getting your clothes into the dryer within a reasonable period of time. Everything is personal choice, if you really like it, buy it. The mold issue can be handled without a lot of grief. And you know more now then I did when I bought mine. You will know what to expect. When I was into Lowe's recently they had a Maytag without an agitator that was a top loader, you might check into it. I don't know how it works, but it was neat to see that big tub without anything in the middle.

circle r motel said...

Looks like you have alot of advise and the top loader looks like the obvious winner. How nice to get some personal reviews!! Better than Consumer Reports. I too have an old washer and dryer that are just barely hanging in there. I dream of a new washer and dryer - someday. As for the iPhone; it's too fancy for me. My daughter has a Blackberry (she's 19) and I have an old fashioned cell phone. I see on the Internet that Google is coming out with a phone to compete with the iPhone so maybe switch brands... I'm so glad that you are back from vacation; I missed you!!

Jane's Fabrics and Quilts said...

Oh wow, well at least all three are done. I have a Maytag top load largest capacity, love it sooo much! I do not know a ton about the front loaders, but I always am adding an item I forgot during a wash, not sure you can do that with the front loader. I also like a lot of water as i feel it helps move the clothes along and rinses out the dirt. But all in all it may be just what you are use to using. Keep us posted!

Unknown said...

Somehow it always seems to work in threes.
I have had a Maytag washer and dryer forever. My dryer is now 35 years old. I think I had a new belt put in it once. The washer died about 3 years ago. Love them. They are the basic bare bones, they were even with the mounted coin boxes on the top. I am not suggesting which brand to get but I am a firm believer in the basics. I believe there are just that many less things to go wrong. You know it's just the computer thing, it is just so complicated and expensive to fix. Well, I guess you already knew that... silly me. Any way, that's my story and I'm sticking to it. Good luck, hope number three is a cheap one.

Needled Mom said...

I have no idea about the phone, but I highly recommend going with the beauty. I have that exact machine (in green) and love the set. I was skeptical about how it would clean and the mold issue, but both have proved to be a non issue. I don't latch the door when I close it so there is always air circulating inside which may be the reason. The clothes come out of the machine so dry that the drying time is drastically reduced. Good luck with your decisions.

Elaine/Muddling Through said...

We were right there with the washer and dryer, but not both at the exact same time, thank the Lord! I love the front loaders looks - just so modern and sleek and perfect. Did not love the price, nor the fact that the capacity is not the same. Think about it. Quilts. Take lots of room. Anyway, I read good things about GE, change in management after years of downhill, and bought a GE Profile top loader. I have been very happy with it. I also like the slower speed delicate/handwash cycles. It's almost a year old and so quiet I can't tell it's running most of the time. My old ones were Whirlpool and I had LOTS of good years out of them. It's a big decision, and as you say lots of money. Take your time and research, research, research!

Lori Holt said...

I think there has got to be beauty and the beast(brawn) out there somewhere! You shouldn't have to choose between them....I guess that means I don't know either!
I do know about the iphone though...run...don't walk to the nearest repair/replacement store...you know you can't live without your BFF iphone...I can't.
Good luck with your decisions Nanette...rock-paper-scissors...or eeny meeny?
x
Lori

Together We Save said...

I have a top loader but would love a front loader.... I do tons of laundry and I understant they are more energy effienct.

Cathi said...

What a tough decision! We have front loading machines here and I really dislike them. Nor do they hold as much. The rubber seal has a tendency to swallow small items so I always check under it when the wash is done -- and sure enough I find a few items.

Thimbleanna said...

Well, you can't do without your BFF, (at least I wouldn't be able to LOL) so that must be replaced. As for the washer -- top loader all the way!!!

Browndirtcottage said...

This is an interesting topic...I remember how old my appliances are by how old my daughter is....In 31 yrs I have only had 2 pairs...both sets being Whirlpool large capacity top loaders....good heavy metal lids...no mold worries...if I leave something out I just open the lid and throw it in....so, I
guess there is my opinion!...And
uhhh...what kind of phone is that you say??? Us hick hillbilly living out here in the sticks farmer types don't get those kind of phones here.....HA!

karen @ badlandsquilts said...

I can't help with the phone issue but I have a Whirlpool Duet that is about 3.5 years old and love it... I keep mine shut because of small children and do not have an issue. In the manual there is a recommended monthly cleaning cycle (which I discovered after a few years) Once in a while I wipe the seal/door down if it gets scummy...if you don't it may leak. That is the only issue I've had and I have a feeling you are far more tidy than I so wouldn't have a problem. I have washed a lot of non-washable things and done well since front loads are supposed to be more gentle and get more water out. (plus use less water.) Good luck!

Elizabeth said...

Tired of reading opinions yet? I have a maytag front loader and LOVE IT. Have never had any sort of mold problems and it's so careful with everything I put into it and it holds tons. I also got the optional "stand" to go with it--since I'm tall--and so I don't have to bend over at all plus have extra storage!
But either way, not a fun purchase.

Dawn said...

I don't have an opinion because my washer and dryer are 19 years old and starting to make the same noises. eeek! I did read all the opinions because I will be in the same boat with you very soon! Good luck and post on what you decide and how you like it.

Pat said...

Luckily, my top-loader is working just fine but reading all of this, I have to ask myself if I'd be happy having to leave the door OPEN on my washer when not in use just to avoid a stinky smell and mold...and the answer to that is NO!!! If you need to leave the door ajar like that, they should be displaying them without the doors closed at the appliance store instead of letting you believe you can have yours in the house with the door on it CLOSED!!! I have heard people who have them complaining about the washers "walking" when they are running...and I don't need THAT, either. And...for all of that, you get to pay a higher price than you do for a top-loader?? For me, it would be an EASY choice!!! LOL

Unknown said...

Not too sure that you want yet another opinion, but here's my thoughts. Last year we purchased the front loader. Energy saver, larger capacity, yada, yada...everything actually is fine with it, I haven't had any mold or smelly issues, but I do have one big issue that has become even more of a problem now that I am pregnant. I hate bending over to load and unload. Call me lazy, if you will, but I'd much rather have my top loader back and give my sore backside a break!

Unknown said...

So the iPhone, mine was becoming a little slow and the guy at the Apple store asked how often I actually shut it off. I said, well I don't, I just put it to sleep. He said it really acts more like a computer than a phone and you must shut it off once in while to reboot. Worked for me. Although this may not be your issue.

As far as the washer, when ours broke, I totally went for the front loader. I had hear some of the same things as you did, but they said when you are done with a load you should leave the door ajar just a crack. That totally works!! It cleans really well and uses much less water and energy. So that is my two cents. I hope it helps, Nanette.

deb g said...

I have the front loader set. It is wonderful, I never had a mold problem, I have never had water stay in the drum. The clothes is so much cleaner, stains that were in some sheets, towel, for years, came out. And you can get way more in them then a top loader. clothes don't peel. but I think its like anything, if you get a cheap front loader, you might have some problems. when my hubby came home with a set, i was not happy, but i would never go back to a plain one.

Tina said...

I was not looking for a washer or dryer just talking to a sales person at Sears because I work there and was interested. He said the Bosh is by far the best, and we sell almost all brands there.

Pam said...

I have had the Maytag Neptune frontload washer and dryer for the last 7 1/2 years and I love them. No issues with mold, and trust me, if there were going to be issues with mold I would have them here in Houston, where we have to have the mold power washed off our house!

CJ said...

I thought I wanted a front loading machine but maybe now I don't. Great to get reviews from users!!
I would want a large capacity top loader with no agitator - in RED! :D

mo said...

With laundry I always vote for brawn over beauty! My girlfriend was just telling me that her front loader (and not that old either!) smells horrible everytime they run it because it has old yucky water stuck in it that never comes out. She really dislikes it and can't wait to get a top loader.

Patty said...

If I could I would trade my front loader for a top loader any day. They are too noisy. I was told by my reapirman that it is just the nature of the beast. I also dont like having to leave the door open all the time to keep it from getting moldy.

Janet said...

We went through the dreaded threes just before Christmas. Long story. My next washer is going to be a top loader without an agitator so it works like a front loader. Best of both worlds. We don't get red here, I'm jealous.

em's scrapbag said...

So sorry you are having to make such big purchases right after Christmas. Ouch! I know my mom loves her front loader but it's just her and dad so size is not an issue.

Unknown said...

have you tried saving all your data on the phone and rseting it back to factory defaults? My 4's and 5's were giving me greif so I asked my hubby what to do and that is what he suggested. works like new again. good luck. by the by i love your blog and work. :)

Lynn said...

I've been wanting one of those red front loading machines on the pedestal for a long time. In fact this summer, the beach house we rented had the pair and it was like a laundry vacation ( a little pathetic - but I do lots of laundry). I loved it. But when my old one needed a minor repair I was asking the repair man and he said the cost for repairs is high on them. Because of the electronics and also he said if you have objects go through the laundry (boys with junk in their pockets) the machines can't handle them as well as the regular kind. But they are red and I loved the one I used on vacation. No one should desire a washing machine this much - I think I have a problem.

Rae Ann said...

I just hate it when these things happen and yes it is usually always in threes. I just hope in your case that this is all that you will have go wrong.
I have had the front loader machine and yes...they don't only mildew, but everything that comes out of the wash smells sour. Never again~

Peggy said...

I had a front loader for a few years but gave it to a charitable organization and bought a new top loader. The front loader just did not get my clothes clean (you know it's bad when the men in your house are commenting that their socks look grungy) and you can't let your clothes soak in there. I'm so happy to be back in the land of top loading washers.

Candace said...

We bought Kenmore Elite front loader washer and dryer for the Squash House, Nanette. That was nearly 3 years ago - between 18 months of renter, then 18 months of no use at all, it has been outstanding - no mold whatsoever! We previously had a Maytag Neptune stacked washer/dryer that was front loading and did have mold issues. But those were purchased 10 years ago. The repairman told us those issues have been resolved now. Plus with the HE machines you use very little detergent - so the savings are tremendous! I absolutely LOVE my front loader and wouldn't trade it for anything! Good luck in your decision!
Cheers!

happy zombie said...

I feel like I'm following Candace around! I'll have to move faster, maybe I can catch up with her! Anyhoo...

We had to get a new W/D too. I waited, and waited... it was on it's last leg. I didn't want a front loader. I'm a soaker and fiddler with my laundry. I like that my washer is one big sink. We got a GE profile top loader and I LOVE IT!!!

I broke my iPhone, right when the 3G's came out (seriously, it was a coincidence). I cringed that I had to buy a new one plus pay more for data... but as soon as I fired up my new phone - I was in love. So much faster and smoother - my 3G practically kisses me good morning!

Sandi Linn Andersen said...

When we built our house three years ago, I really wanted the "Beauty" but we got the "Brawn", a Whirlpool Toploader. It works great. I would still like to see that "Beauty" in my laundry room but all I need is to have the laundry done and since "Brawn" does it well, I guess "Beauty" will not be residing here anytime soon. LOL! Seriously, go for what will work and put the saved dollars into fabric or something else more fun. :-)

strawberrycream39 said...

One more opinion? I would go for the brawn over beauty. I have a Kenmore top-loader washer and dryer, not fancy but good. Too many bells and whistles means too many things can break. I would like to stack them though, to have more room in the laundry room, so front loaders would be necessary for that. Anyway I don't like what I've read here about mold. Ick! And I wouldn't want to leave the door open. P.S. Love the quilts-in-progress, especially the strawberry one!

Annette said...

Here's another vote for the front loader...even though it looks like we are losing. We have a front loader and I love it. I can wash quilts just fine. It uses less water and detergent. I leave the door slightly ajar so it can dry...and I probably should have been doing that with my top loader, come to think of it. Who knows what was lurking deep inside there. I have a stand with storage so I don't have to bend to load. I'm pretty sure I would replace it with one just like it....knock on wood that it's not for many years to come. Good luck and let us know your final decision...I'm thinking you'll go with a topper :-)

Michelle said...

Can't tell for sure if the top loader in the picture is a Whirlpool Cabrio -- we've had the repair guy out SIX times in two years for ours to replace the water pumps, the board that controls the water pumps, the locking mechanism, the lid because replacing the locking mechanism didn't fix that problem... and it's acting up again.

I can't tell you how disgusted I am with that washer!

Karen said...

Well, it looks like you have plenty of comments about the front loaders, but I'll add a shout out to my Kenmore front loader, large capacity, holds about 18 bath towels! 5 years old and never a mold problem, I leave the door open like everyone else and periodically wipe out under the rubber ring.

Bummer about your iPone, I often wonder how many people have trouble with that button. I started using the button on the top right edge to wake up my phone for less wear on the button on the front.