A new generation of washing machines promises to do bigger loads — even quilts and comforters — and save on energy and water.
Many of the new machines have an interesting feature — less aggravation by using a different type of agitation.
In new washers like the GE Harmony and Whirlpool Calypso, two discs move the clothes around, whereas regular top-loading machines have one central agitator.
Consumer Reports tested these new washers claiming they can handle big loads, and they do a pretty good job of cleaning.
In fact, the Maytag Neptune is an exceptionally good cleaner, but there’s a downside: Each load takes an hour-and-a-half.
Along with cleaning ability, Consumer Reports’ Pat Slaven tested how gentle the machines are by washing special fabric swatches to see if they fray.
“The Maytag Neptune, you see quite a bit of fraying,” Slaven said, calling it a “very aggressive machine.”
The same was true of the GE Harmony.
“This would mean that your underwear may get ripped up, curtains may get ripped up and your clothes can wear out faster,” Slaven said.
The Calypso was gentler, but it has another problem: Clothes come out tangled and wrinkled.
And with the Calypso, if you make the mistake of washing dark clothes with a fuzzy white towel, your clothes could be covered with lint.
“You would have to brush it off, take tape to it, rewash it,” Slaven said.
On top of that, these new machines are expensive — $900 to $1,300.
Consumer Reports tests show you can get a good washer for far less.
All three companies have reported positive consumer feedback on their Web sites. Some owners say it’s important to factor in the price that you’re not just buying a washing machine, but a clothes-cleaning system that interfaces with your needs.
From wnbc.com