My new Speed Queen LWN432 commercial washing machine arrived about a week and a half ago, and I've waited to post it until I've had some time to play around with washing (many!) loads of laundry in it and decide if this machine is everything. which I expected it to be.
That is. I love my new speed queen. This machine does exactly what I expected it to - washes clothes and washes them well.
It's not fancy and it doesn't have electronics. It has switches and a mechanical timer, all-metal gears and guess what else - it washes the clothes and leaves them clean! More specifically, it does laundry just like our old top loader used to. It does laundry just like your parents' old washing machine used to (or, in the case of my parents' machine, still does).
Things I already love about this machine:
- 35 minute wash loads! My old Kenmore's heavy duty cycle took 1 hour 50 minutes and still didn't get the clothes clean.
- No lid latch! I can open the lid and add things whenever I want, or just peek inside to see how clean the laundry is getting.
- Lots of water and washing action! This machine moves, circulates and rolls clothes in the machine while washing.
I'm so happy and I'm finally realizing what a lousy job our old Kenmore front loading washing machine really did. Since I've been hand washing clothes with a washboard for the last few weeks, I was quite shocked to see how much dirt came out of our laundry - even things that shouldn't have that much dirt on them, like bath towels and bath towels. If hand scrubbing made our laundry room cleaner, I could only imagine what an effective washing machine could do.
Everyone in the house, from my youngest son to my husband, commented on how clean and smelling our laundry is since we started washing everything in this Speed Queen. I haven't changed detergent, but it's particularly noticeable with our towels. They never, ever smelled clean no matter what we did. The towels in the old washing machine always smelled musty, although I used to pour buckets of water into our old front-loading machine, hoping it would do some good. (did not)
I would wholeheartedly recommend this LWN432 Commercial Speed Queen Washing Machine to anyone who wants a traditional washing machine with the basic skeleton. It has few frills and features, but it does exactly what it's supposed to do: do the laundry effectively, quickly, and thoroughly. Honestly I should have replaced my Kenmore front loaderYearsbefore!
Several readers have emailed me asking for updates on my new washing machine, so here's some more info. I decided a few years ago that my next machine would be a Speed Queen based on the high satisfaction level of owner reviews I've read and the robustness of the machines - the Speed Queen's own website says their machines are built to last 25 years old.
However, if you're reading this and thinking about getting a new Speed Queen, here are a few things I learned before buying mine:
- Speed Queen has drastically redesigned its home washing machines for 2018.The newer models have an agitator that mounts in the bowl and everything spins together so the "agitator" isn't really stirring. Reviews of the new models are disappointing because, without a rotary stirrer, there doesn't seem to be enough movement in the tub to turn the laundry over and get it clean:
- A máquina de lavar da Speed Queen decepciona a cada passo(CNET)
- Speed Queen TR7 review: Why this new top-loader isn't a laundry license(Relatórios do consumidor)
- Speed Queen: The Life (and Death) of Internet Commentators' Favorite Washing Machine(wire cutter)
- Check Before Buying a Speed Queen Washing Machine(Lorain-Appliance)
- Now compare those reviews with this brilliant article from 2017, just a year earlier:
This American-Made Washing Machine Is So Good It Has Cult Status(Tempo)
- The last and "good" pre-2018 model of Speed Queen home top loaders is the 2017 Speed Queen AWN432. If you can still find these models in specialty stores, you will get a top load agitator washer solid and classic. However, these AWN models were discontinued in late 2017.
- If you can't find a Speed Queen AWN432, the next best option is an LWN432. This is the commercial version of the same machine and is also the model I bought.
Now the bad news: the days seem to be numbered for this Speed Queen LWN432 commercial model as well. While writing this post, I went back to the Abt Appliances website where I bought my machine andlook what their website says now: The LWN432 will be discontinued! I still see these commercial LWN modelsother sidesthough... for now. At the time of writing this article in 2018, if you want one,you can still get one.
I know that2018 traz novos regulamentosto further reduce the amount of water and electricity that washing machines use. This oneDemands for reducing water and energy began in the late 1990s and began to take effect in 2001, and previous standards in 2010 and 2015, which require less electricity and water consumption at each standard level. The new 2018 standards call for an additional 18% reduction in energy use and an additional 23% reduction in water use for top loaders! Manufacturers are in a tough spot as they have to make machines that use almost a quarter less water than previous models and still get clothes clean.
🇧🇷 I did extensive research before purchasing this washing machine and the other model I considered was this oneComercial MaytagMVWP575GW🇧🇷 This is another traditional style commercial top loading washing machine with an agitator that uses a lot of water.
Disclaimer: I have no experience with Maytag. However, from what I've seen and read, it's a machine with lots of water and lots of power that moves well. In fact, in a new announcement, Maytag compared its traditional washing performance to the new 2018 Speed Queen home washing machines, and it's clear which machine is more effective at moving clothes around in the wash.
Several people also emailed asking if we would replace the dryer as well. We didn't - our existing Kenmore dryer still works, so there was no reason to replace it unless the washer and dryer matched. Both machines are in the basement, so we don't care if they go together or not.
Hope this helps anyone who is curious about the new Speed Queen and what other options are currently available to traditional top loading agitator washing machines. Unfortunately, there aren't that many of those anymore. I can honestly say that I will never buy a "high efficiency" machine again. My new machine is not Energy Star rated. Uses water, uses electricity... and does laundry like a boss.
UPDATE May 7, 2019: Great news for Classic Speed Queen fans!Speed Queen has obviously seen the light of day and has just released a 2019 version of their classic agitator top loading washing machine! The model number is TC5000WN and the full part number is AWN632SP116TW01. Unlike the machine I bought, this one also has a water level selector and electronic controls, but the mechanics are identical to the old (good!) classic Speed Queens. Authorized Speed Queen dealers can order this model for you.Here is a video showing one of the new machines in action., from unpacking to the first load of laundry.
Older posts in this series:
- Finally… time for a new washing machine!
- I hate my front loading washing machine. Here's how I "hacked it".
FAQs
What kind of detergent do you use for Speed Queen? ›
We recommend using low-sudsing High Efficiency liquid detergent for your wash loads.
What is the life expectancy of a Speed Queen washer? ›Speed Queen washers are the longest-lasting on the market with a tested lifespan of 25 years. The brand credits its unbeatable durability thanks to ergonomic motors, suspension systems, and only the best materials designed to handle wear, tear, and abuse.
Can you use Tide Pods in a Speed Queen washer? ›Speed Queen's washers take all kinds of detergents – liquid, powder, and pods.
Why doesn't my front load washer get my clothes clean? ›When your washing machine isn't cleaning clothes, the most common reason is that it isn't draining properly, leaving dirt from the first wash in the drum so it's still there after the last rinse. This means you need to clear your washing machine's filter.
Can I use vinegar in my Speed Queen washer? ›For a front load machine, use 2 cups vinegar and ½ cup baking soda or the recommended washing machine cleaner tablets, such as Affresh tablets. For a top load, set the machine at its hottest and largest setting. When it is filled up with water, add the vinegar and baking soda, and then let it run the whole cycle.
How many towels Can you wash in a Speed Queen? ›2 twin sheets and 2 pillowcases or. 8 bath towels and 6 washcloths.
Why do old washers last longer? ›Older machines are heavier and were built to last. Because they were constructed with greater quality materials, they typically have a much longer lifespan than the new washers built today.
Is Speed Queen dryer worth the money? ›Speed Queen laundry appliances are best for those looking for a great clean and dry. They are not budget buys, but you'll get what you pay for, which means top-notch performance, excellent cleaning, and extremely long-lasting durability.
Can a washer last 30 years? ›Washers used to commonly last a minimum of 10 years. They often lasted up to 20 years. I've seen many as old as 30 years. However, they also used to cost a lot more.
Are pods or liquid detergent better? ›The Pros of Laundry Pods
Jennifer Ahoni, principal scientist at Tide, takes that one step further and says pods not only perform better because they are measured correctly, but also because they have more concentrated cleaning ingredients.
How many Tide PODS should I put in washing machine? ›
To guarantee superior performance, add two Tide PODS® pacs into the washing machine drum before you add clothes. Use one laundry pac for smaller loads or three for larger loads. Place clothes into the washer on top of the laundry pac.
Should you use liquid or powder laundry detergent? ›liquid detergent depends on what you're looking for. For instance, powder is cheap, lasts a long time, produces less waste, and is great for heavily soiled clothes. Liquid detergents, on the other hand, work better in cold water, are easier to measure, and can be used as spot treatments or when hand-washing clothes.
Why do my clothes still smell after washing? ›You left your clothes in the washer too long.
A dark, wet environment like a washing machine is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and mildew to thrive. These can build up in your clothing as time goes on, eventually leaving them with a permanent odor.
If your washing machine smells like sewage even after you clean it, the issue might be a clog in your drain standpipe. If you've completed all the steps above and your washer stinks still, it may indicate that the drain standpipe is clogged. Sewage smells often point to a clogged drain standpipe.
Why are my clothes coming out of the washing machine smelly? ›If your clothes aren't smelling fresh when they come out of your washing machine, it's probably down to a buildup of detergent, dirt or limescale inside your machine. The biggest symptom of this is your laundry smelling damp or musty, even when dry, as well as an unpleasant smell coming from inside your machine.
What happens if you use vinegar and laundry detergent together? ›Before going further, we have to warn you: adding vinegar or baking soda to the wash along with your laundry detergent increases the risk of poorer cleaning performance, as detergents are optimized for a specific pH level, which is altered by the presence of these two household additives in the wash.
Is bleach or vinegar better to clean washing machine? ›If you're a fan of bleach in the laundry sphere, you're in luck because it might just be the hardest-working product for sanitizing. If you want to avoid bleach and its harsh chemicals, though, white vinegar is a good alternative with powerful deodorizing and bacteria-killing properties.
What happens when you put white vinegar in your washing machine? ›Vinegar works by loosening zinc salts or aluminum chloride, which means that dirt won't stick to your clothing. In addition to this, vinegar has antibacterial properties. Washing your clothing with vinegar will leave your clothes odorless — and no, they won't smell like vinegar.
What goes first baking soda or vinegar for laundry? ›Since vinegar has a low pH and baking soda high pH, they will neutralize each other when used together. What you want to do instead is to use baking soda first mixed with water to do your laundry. You can pour vinegar into the mix once the baking soda has gotten around your clothes and made its effect.
Why are my towels stiff after washing? ›Towels are hard after washing because they build up soapy residue and are over-dried. Here's the good news: With a few simple tricks, you can restore your towels to their original softness and help ensure that they never go scratchy again. Use warm water.
What brand of washer has the least problems? ›
What brand of washing machine is most reliable? Whirlpool, LG, and Samsung are the most reliable brands of washers. Yale Appliance found that less than 7% of the sales of these units required servicing. J.D. Power also ranks Samsung and LG as the highest-ranking manufacturers in customer satisfaction.
Can a washer last 20 years? ›That being said, it's still possible to find good washing machines that have been built to manage thousands of loads – which, depending on usage levels, can last as long as 20 or 30 years. But today's cheaper models can often only manage hundreds of loads before buckling under the pressure.
What is considered old for a washing machine? ›It's more than six years old (12 for a front loader)
The average life expectancy of a mid-range washing machine is about eight years. Once your machine is more than six years old, a major failure usually means you'll need to buy a new one because any repairs will be expensive.
- Consumer Reports points to LG as one of the most reliable dryer brands. Some other reliable machines come from brands like Maytag, Estate, Whirlpool, Amana, Kenmore, Electrolux, and GE.
- Gas dryers tend to be cheaper to operate than electric dryers, but they also tend to be more expensive upfront. ...
- Ideally, no.
Maytag washers generally offer a larger capacity, while Speed Queen offers more control over water levels while washing. Compared to Speed Queen, Maytag washers and dryers have sleeker, more contemporary design options, while Speed Queen washers have a traditional commercial look with a consistent white finish.
Will vinegar damage clothes? ›Vinegar is safe to use to clean your clothes and will not ruin them. However, it's a good idea to measure the right amount of vinegar to use and spot test your clothes before washing them. Vinegar is a great cleaner used to remove stains and odors out of clothes and shoes.
Should you replace washer and dryer at same time? ›Should I replace both appliances at the same time? “It does make sense aesthetically, and perhaps for performance matching,” says Andrea. But, she adds, it generally isn't necessary, unless you have stacked appliances and can't find a new washer or stacking kit that will fit. Dryers often outlast washers.
Do dryers last longer than washers? ›Dryers tend to last longer than washing machines, typically seven to 12 years. Make It Last: Although it's tempting to skip cleaning the lint trap between loads, a clogged trap is the top reason for stress on your dryer. Clean it every time. Skip the dryer sheets, too, according to our expert.
What's the best smelling laundry detergent? ›- Classic. The Laundress Classic Signature Detergent. ...
- Honeysuckle. Mrs. ...
- Fresh Lavender. Seventh Generation Ultra Concentrated EasyDose Laundry Detergent. ...
- Original. Tide Tide Laundry Detergent Liquid Soap. ...
- Lavender. Rosey by Thrive Market Laundry Detergent. ...
- Yuzu.
Are laundry pods bad for your washer? No, these are totally safe to toss in your washing machine.
What happens if you put 2 Tide pods in the washer? ›
Using more than that is just overkill. Moreover, it could damage your clothes and the chemical leftover is much larger, since the washer has a harder time washing the concentrated detergent away.
Is it OK to put two Tide pods in the washer? ›The number of pacs necessary depends on the load size. To guarantee superior performance, add two Tide PODS® pacs into the washing machine drum before you add clothes. Use one laundry pac for smaller loads or three for larger loads.
Should I put Tide Pods at bottom of clothes or too? ›The most important rule to remember when it comes to laundry detergent pods is to always add the pods to the drum before adding the clothes and water. A pod placed on top of clothes might not dissolve all the way. This leaves you with streaks and spotting from detergent being left on wet clothes.
What is best for washing clothes powder or liquid or pods? ›In tests, washing powder has outperformed liquids and pods on stain removal. It's often the cheapest option, with Persil starting at just 11p a wash. It usually contains bleaching agents, which help your machine to self-clean during normal use.
Is Tide or Persil better? ›Persil ProClean: Best overall
In testing, Persil removed an average of 2 percent more stains than Tide detergents. While that's a small amount, it makes a difference over repeated washings — and that's how Persil beat the longstanding U.S. favorite.
Powder detergent is more effective on mud stains; liquid detergent is better on grease stains. Alkylbenzene sulfonate, the main surfactant (cleaning agent) in powder detergents such as Tide Original HE Turbo Powder ($12.95 per 95 oz.
How do you get the musty smell out of clothes without washing them? ›Vinegar: Combine half water and half vinegar into a spray bottle. Shake it up and spritz your musty-smelling clothing with the solution. If you add a few drops of essential oils to the mix that will help eliminate the smell of vinegar. You'll want to let your clothing air out for a bit otherwise.
Why do I smell after a shower? ›ODOR AFTER A SHOWER IS DUE TO LINGERING BACTERIA
In addition to bacteria, oftentimes there is deodorant residue and other impurities that are trapped in the underarm pores and within the hair if you have armpit hair.
Adding a 1/2 cup of white vinegar with the detergent when you wash your clothes gets rid of any odors that tend to stick to the clothes. This trick also helps rid laundry of cigarette smell. Wash your clothes as you usually do, but add 1 cup of white vinegar to the final rinse.
How do I clean my deeply smelly washing machine? ›- Mix ¼ cup of baking soda with ¼ cup of water and add it to your machine's detergent container.
- Use four cups of plain white (not apple cider) vinegar to a top-load machine or two cups to a front-load model.
- Pour the vinegar into the drum.
- Run a high-temperature cycle.
How long can laundry sit in the washer before it stinks? ›
A good rule of thumb is to avoid leaving clothes in the washer for more than 8 to 12 hours. However, Murphy says there's more to think about than just timing to prevent your clothes from smelling and mildewing, especially if you're prone to letting your laundry sit for hours at a time.
How do I get rid of the moldy smell in my washing machine? ›“All you need to do is run an empty cycle under the Clean setting with hot water, add 2 cups of white vinegar, and half-cup of baking soda to remove the smell, and let your washer run through the cycle.”
Should you add vinegar to laundry? ›Using vinegar in laundry will whiten, brighten, reduce odors, and soften clothes without harsh chemicals. Vinegar is inexpensive, and it's safe to use in both standard and high-efficiency washers. When buying vinegar for laundry, choose distilled white vinegar.
What kind of vinegar do you use for laundry? ›Ultimately, white distilled vinegar has many laundry-related benefits. Some opt to use it as a detergent to remove stains and brighten whites while others turn to the ingredient to remove odors.
What gets rid of mildew smell? ›Vinegar, baking soda, and hot water should be sufficient to get the job done, but you can also choose to make a bleach solution. To do it, mix one cup of powdered bleach with one cup of warm water in a bucket and use that as your scrubbing solution.
Where do you put the laundry detergent in a Speed Queen washing machine? ›If your laundry is very dirty and needs a pre-wash, put your detergent in the first tray. Add detergent to tray 2 for the main cycle. For a normal wash, put your detergent in tray 2. You may want to use a wash ball.
What kind of laundry detergent should I use? ›For everyday loads, powder is a great choice. Powder detergent is ideal for general wash day loads and is effective in lifting out every day stains as well as ground-in dirt. If a majority of your family's wash load consists of stains of the outdoor and every day variety, a powder detergent is an excellent choice.
Do you have to use special soap for high efficiency washers? ›Can you use regular detergent in an HE washer? No. Regular detergent shouldn't be used in HE washers because it produces too many suds in low water levels. This can potentially lengthen the wash cycle, affect the cleaning performance or overflow the machine.
Can you put liquid detergent directly in washer? ›Knowing where to put liquid detergent in a washing machine will depend on the detergent you're using. Most of the time, you will put the detergent directly in the drum. If you use a product like Persil, make sure you use the handy dosing ball to measure the right dose.
Does a Speed Queen washer have a filter to clean? ›The Speed Queen washer filter location is behind a panel on the bottom front corner of the machine. Once the panel cover is removed, place a towel below the filter cap and slowly unscrew it. Allow all water to drain before removing the filter and rinsing it to remove debris.
How do you use oxiclean in a Speed Queen washer? ›
To ensure the cycle is used properly the user should add the appropriate portion of Oxi into the bottom of the tub before clothes are loaded. Clothing should then be loaded into the washer with the recommended portion of detergent.
Do Speed Queen washers fill with water? ›Speed Queen Perfect Wash™ senses the type of load, fabric and size of the materials and adjusts the water accordingly throughout the cycle. Auto fill will monitor the load and add water to ensure an effective clean. Bottom line is that you will always have enough water.
What is the most healthy laundry detergent? ›- Molly's Suds Unscented Detergent Powder.
- Charlie's Soap Laundry Powder.
- Dropps Detergent Pods.
- Grove Co. Laundry Detergent Sheets.
- Tide Hygienic Clean Heavy Duty 10X Free Power Pods.
- Puracy Natural Stain Remover.
- Botanical Origin Laundry Detergent.
All ARM & HAMMER detergents are high efficiency detergents, so whether you prefer liquid, paks or powder your clothes will get a deep clean and you will save water*. Using regular detergents in HE washers can create too many suds.
Can you use dawn in a high efficiency washer? ›As a general rule, you should NEVER put Dawn or any other type of liquid dish soap in your washing machine. Not only does it create a bubble mess of epic proportions, but it can ruin your washing machine.