When you're buying a new washing machine, the first decision you need to make is whether to buy a conventional top-loader, a high-efficiency (HE) top-loader, or a front-loader. Conventional top-loading washers are relatively inexpensive and tend to be slightly more reliable, but they use far more water and electricity than high-efficiency models. Front-loaders require extra maintenance to prevent mold growth and can be more difficult to load and unload if you have back problems, but they do a better job cleaning clothes and can often be stacked with a dryer to save space. In theory, HE top-loaders offer the best of both worlds -- they use about as much energy and water as a front-loader but are easy to load and unload. However, HE top-loaders are not yet available in budget models and reliability tends to be a problem.

The following is what experts say about choosing a washer:

  • Buy the largest washer that your space and budget allow. Single people and couples will find large models adequate; an average-size household will want to go for an extra-large washer and larger families should look for a super-capacity design (usually about two inches deeper than smaller washers).
  • Electronic touch-pad controls look sleek, but reviews say they're more delicate than knobs and dials and more expensive to repair. However, nearly all high-end machines have electronic controls, since there are computer chips in their control panels. If you are looking at a low-end machine, it's probably better to go with a knob.
  • A stainless-steel tub is preferable to porcelain, because it won't rust or chip. All high-end machines and most front-loaders have stainless-steel baskets. Experts say stainless-steel washtubs are also able to withstand higher spin speeds. Many high-efficiency models have stainless-steel washtubs.
  • Look for automatic temperature controls, which select the right water temperature for each selected cycle. Also more common are automatic water-level controls, so you don't have to guess how much water is needed for your load.
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