(To read Dirty Laundry part 1, check out the bottom of this page or find the link to the right. )
So, to pick up where I left off in my quest for a new washing machine….it was time to shop. I knew I was going to go with a top loading washing machine. And to be honest, if I wasn’t going to select the front load set that was red and oh-so cute, I really just wanted the same washer I bought 18 years ago…just the newer version. Little did I know (but was about to find out) that washer doesn’t exist.
Many changes have been made in the last 18 years in the world of washing machines. I did the best I could and bought one I thought was pretty similar. So far, it has been okay. It washes just fine, agitates like crazy and seems to work well. However, if you haven’t purchased a new appliance in a while, you too will notices changes.
It is very difficult to find washing machine where you can select the water level. They all want to adjust that automatically. What? Am I 12? I know how much water I need per load. Yes, I know it’s a feature to help save water, but not being a water waster, I don’t prefer it.
Washers now want to have a lid lock. Why? Was there a rash of people opening the lid and falling in or something? I don’t want to have to press pause to throw in the sock I dropped. (But remember this is not even an option with a front loader as you can imagine the mess if you opened that door mid cycle, but why on a top loader?)
All these new high –efficiency washers don’t have the middle post that moves the clothes, the actual tub moves. However, my friends tell me you still have to situate the clothes as if it still had that agitator. And for all the models I saw, if you wanted a delicate cycle, you have to go with a HE washer. That is at least my situation. I have one speed…..no delicate clothes washing for me anytime soon….unless I do the clothes by hand in the sink.
So, what did I learn? My old washing machine does not exist at any price…ah, the wonderful world of technology. If you are looking for a new washer, there is more to the decision than color or front load or top load. Make a list of the features you want in a washer, the things you MUST have and the things you can compromise on. There is much to decide on. Now, here is where some might say, well it’s just a washer….it only has to clean clothes. And that would only be said by the non-laundry person in your home!! I spend quite a bit of time in the laundry room, washing, drying, sorting and folding. When I am not there, I am loading and unloading the dishwasher….. but that is another topic for another day. :)
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