Clothes Washer Buying Guide

It will all come out in the wash...
What's the scoop on choosing a washing machine

Has your old reliable washer of 20 years finally given up and it's time to enter the new millennium of home management and purchase a new clothes washer? Are you moving out of your apartment into a new home and saying goodbye to hours spent at the Laundromat reading 6-month-old magazines?

Before you venture out wandering aisles of machines, take some time to look at your personal needs to make the best match with what is on the market.

Things to consider when shopping for a washing machine:

• Where will it be located...Noise and size
• Cost — short and long term
  • Water and electricity usage
  • Rebate
• Options
  • Controls — touch pads, etc. detergent dispensers
  • Lint trap easy to reach and clean
  • Materials — porcelain coated on the outside, stainless steel on the inside
  • Capacity — how much wash do you do a week...laundry is measured in pounds...check out a normal wash per week or day and see if the machine will suffice or be adequate
• Warranty