Thinking of a HE top loader...wdyt?

[Crazydayz]

We have a 13 year old whirlpool washer and I am ready for something new. Interested in the HE top loaders. What do I look for to make sure not only my clothes are good but my diapers too? What are the main features I should look for? I know extra rinse since now I have to go back in and start again in my old one for that.

Any brands recommended or to stay away from? We are just starting our research. Oh also it may be on the 2nd floor. We have a short sale contract on a house right now. (have heard something about the vibration) Thanks!

[risata]

I have a GE HE top loader. We've had it for about 1.5 years. I really like it -- it has its quirks, and I find that liquid laundry detergent (I actually make my own soap) works best. Any powder like Oxiclean I only use in a warm or hot wash or else it doesn't dissolve very well.

I've only been cloth diapering a short time but so far my washer seems to get my pockets and inserts clean.

Based on my experience so far I would for sure buy a top loading HE washer before I bought a front loading one.

[-tara-]

I just bought a new washer & dryer and several sales people told me that the HE TL don't clean as well and are rougher on clothes.

[lynn97]

I have a HE TL and I'm very happy with mine. I have an LG Waveforce washer and the matching dryer. You can add extra rinses, add extra water and save your program. The only downside I've found with it is that it adds cold water for the hot washes (many HE units do this now). But I just turn the cold water off while it fills, so that issue is fixed. It does great re: getting things clean, just as well as my old TL but it has a lot more capacity since it doesn't have an agitator. I think most of what you'll find is that a few brands are really good and a few are really bad. Personally, I would steer clear of a FL. Not just b/c of diaper issues but b/c of mold issues, the fact that they're expensive to repair and you have to buy or make stands, which is another additional cost.