There is an interesting article over at ConsumerReports.org regarding laundry detergents and the tendency of consumers to overdose. The article is based on the fact that many of the caps on liquid detergents are difficult to read. I would go even further to say that the recommended dosages are excessive.
The article has several good points, but I agree mostly with the following:
"Since some of the tested detergents cost as much as 65 cents per load, using too much cleaner could become expensive. Overdosing can also cause soap deposits and lint to form inside your washing machine, which, say some manufacturers, might contribute to mold and odors. It could also plug or restrict ports or filters, says Chris Zeisler, an appliance-repair expert at RepairClinic.com, who adds that those deposits could result in mechanical failure. And for some high-efficiency washers, overdosing can produce excessive suds and lead to extended wash cycles as the machine tries to remove the soap."
I do my laundry at a local laundromat. Frontload Wascomat washers and Tide 2x HE. The first time I used the Tide, I used a half cap on a huge load. The suds were tremendous. There were even suds left at the end of the cycle. I have since dialed back the dosage to just under the dosage recommended for a light/small load. The results are fine, and the suds are not out of control.
Check out the full article at ConsumerReports.org.
Charisse writes:
"Brad,
I found your blog tonight and I was hoping to get your opinion on choosing a new washer. Our 5 yr old Kenmore 80 is on it's last legs... not willing to pay the $400+ to get a new transmission. Repairman told me that we've been overloading our machine (perhaps he is right).
"Sears guys tried to sell me the Kenmore Oasis TL... feel like I dodged a bullet after reading your blog.
"Here are my requirements:
1. I average one load/day as we are a family of 5.
2. Laundry is one 2nd floor behind a little door, so must be TL, not FL.
3. Energy/water efficiency not high priorities.
4. Sorting laudry is not my strong suit as I have 3 boys. Everything gets thrown in together.
"Thanks in advance."
-CML
Charisse,
Thank you for writing!
You have asked a great question, and it is one that is not addressed too frequently on my blog. I tend to have a focus on the high-priced, high-tech, high-efficiency frontload washers. I don't really focus too much on what many people, such as yourself, are looking for: a basic top load washer.
I know that shopping for any washing machine can be daunting. There are so many different brands, different styles, different price points, different features, different retailers. But I think when you get down to the brass tacks, a decision can quickly be made via the process of elimination.
In the basic top load washer category, I have only two recommendations: Whirlpool (or rebranded Whirlpool design, such as your Kenmore or Maytag) or Speed Queen.
First, Whirlpool. Despite the fact that Whirlpool, like any other corporation, has moved some production to Mexico, they still maintain a tremendous manufacturing presence in the good ol' U.S. To my knowledge, all Whirlpool top load washers and companion dryers are made in Clyde and Marion, Ohio. They pay employees at these plants well, and are still able to produce a tremendous volume of laundry appliances. That speaks volumes to the efficiency of their operations. Kudos to Whirlpool for continuing to invest in the workforce of Ohio, the state I call home.
So what of Whirlpool washers? They make good washers of proven design that are relatively dependable, affordable, and easy to service. Pretty much everywhere you go in the country, there will be an authorized Whirlpool service provider nearby. The washers offer good capacity and a dual-action agitator that does a fine job of moving the clothes through the water, provided the washer is not overloaded.
And what of Speed Queen? This is one of the oldest names in laundry, and is simply the best-built top load washer on the market. They are made in Wisconsin, and the company has adopted a philosophy of keeping things simple in their machines. No computer boards, no fancy chimes, just a basic washing machine that does the job and is built like a tank.
Speed Queen washers are so well-built that the company offers the best warranty in the business: a full three year (parts and labor) on the entire machine. They also warranty the motor and the cabinet for an addition two years (parts only). And beyond the original three year warranty, the transmission is covered for an additional seven years (parts only). The stainless steel wash basket and outer tub are covered for life. No other company, Whirlpool included, stands behind their products like Speed Queen.
So there are my recommendations for top load washers. I firmly believe that if you select a washer from either of these brands, all of your needs will be met. Expect to spend around $400 for a well-equipped Whirlpool washer; $500 for Speed Queen.
