Washing Machine Recommendations

[DinerDave]

Many people, many valid opinions and experiences.

So, here's mine.
Front loader, mine just happens to be Frigidaire, 8 or so years old, no issues, oops, wait, a $10 plastic clip on the door broke on the dryer, so the machine thought the door was open. Ten dollar part, $85 for repairman to diagnose and install.

That said, love the front load. Door always left open when not in use, run the Washing Machine cleaner pack with hot water about since every few months.
I do know there is a lot of discussion about the amount of detergent to use. I was told, the front loader uses two thirds less water, so use two thirds less detergent, so no cake-y residue or buildup.
For the last two years I have used the wash ball, no detergent. $45, manufacturer said it would last 9 months with my expected wash load quantity, actually got 15 months before we noticed the whites were not as bright, bought another wash ball, still love it.

I would recommend a front loader and a wash ball to anyone. (Guess I just did)

Dave