I haven't bought a dryer lately but I have bought a washer. I bought a Samsung washer. It is a top loader and has no spindle in the middle. I didn't even know that Samsung made washers. I have had it for about 6 months and I love it. Bought it at Home Depot

I don't need either at the moment...hopefully.....but when I do need to replace. Definitely will be a top loader again, all this extra stuff with front loaders does not appeal to me.......I wish the dryer was a top loader....bending and checking for that last thing in it some days can be trying......jmho

We have a Samsung set. Top loading HE washer. Use Ecos liquid detergent from Costco, and white vinegar for natural fabric softener. When clothes are extra dirty, I use liquid Spic n Span in the little bleach compartment. Works great!

I like top load washers, I like to be able to open it, if I want to add something extra. I don't care for HE types, can't wash large item easly.

Good to know abut the front loader, we could NOT leave door open as we go throught small laundry to back door. We have Maytags and they are great.

I have the Kenmore top loader energy efficient washer and I love it. Have had it for 5 years now. One sensor did go out, which was not a great thing but was covered. I wanted the larger washer because I want to wash sheets and blankets at home. (Hate using the a laundromat.)

I've had a front loader and didn't know about the wiping out under the gaskets and running a tablet thru once a month or so to keep it fresh. My clothes stunk. Wouldn't get another. Also agree you can't soak anything In them.

I have Maytag front loaders. Love them! I use less detergent, less water, and less fabric softner. I have never been one to soak things, so I do not miss that feature. I use spot remover on my huband's things that need it. I always make sure to leave the washer door open so that I do not get the smell. I have had mine 2 years, but had Frigidaire front loaders at my previous house. They were 7 years old and never had a problem with them.

I recently purchased a new washer/dryer - front loading by Amana. I love the fact that the washer only uses 9 gallons of water as opposed to the old top loader's 50 gallons per wash. Clothes come out clean and well-rinsed; they are set upon storage drawers to match. I was lucky to find the whole thing in the 'scratch and dent' room at my local P.C. Richards appliance store and paid under $1,000 for everything. I can't find a single scratch or dent! SCORE!!

I don't have advice about brands, but I do know tht top loaders are far more versatile. If you forget something, you can always open a top loader and throw it in, but that's out with a front loader. Good luck in your search and research and try to find something that won't require a second mortgage to get the money to buy them. froggyintexas