Anonymous wrote:I love my HE top loader. It swallows up vast amounts of laundry and is a lot less smelly (mildewy) than my old front loader.

Which top loader do you have? And which front loader were you unhappy with?

I recommend Sears Outlet, there is one on the backside of Wheaton Plaza

Do the front loader washers have a feeder for straggler items?

I don't have the pedestals. Not necessary if the opening is at an ergonomic height (as it is with the LG).

Don't have mildew issues, either.

I like that they don't wear the clothes out but still get them really clean with almost no detergent (actually, most loads don't need detergent at all, but I use it anyway). Mine has great capacity, too. I also like knowing that they can be stacked or side-by-side under a counter, since I'm always reconfiguring things.

I love my HE top loader. It swallows up vast amounts of laundry and is a lot less smelly (mildewy) than my old front loader.

OP here. So I'm slightly more informed now. I'm looking at the whirlpool duet front loader without steam for the washer but steam dryer. Also looking at LG top loader.

I'm not sure I'm sold on front loaders. I think those pedastels are a scam and I don't want to deal with the mildew and smell issues. I also don't want to have to leave the door open (young kids). What are the compelling reasons for front loaders? As compared to other high efficiency higher end top loaders like the LG WT5070CW?

Anonymous wrote:The problem with LG, Bosch and Samsung is that once they are our of warranty, you have to use proprietary repairman to get them fixed (meaning, the average appliance repair guy wont be authorized, have the training or have access to parts for repair). One of the few repair persons for these brands in Montgomery County is often backed up for weeks.....

I bought mine from Sears and paid for the 5 year extended warranty.

Check out sales at Home Depot. They also ship for free (not sure if Best Buy does).

Front loading LG with steam. It's awesome.