Pumpkinpatch: “I need a washing machine…”

At Money Saving Expert (MSE) Pumpkinpatch has started a thread titled ‘I need a washing machine…’ asking which brand they should invest in. They’re finding the choice available a little overwhelming,

“In desperate need of a washing machine, I don’t know where to start . Where is the best place for reviews or comparisons, I didn’t realise there was so much choice out there.”

The ever attentive members of MSE have come to the rescue though and offered their help. A number of contributors have put forward Miele as the option they’d go for. Chickaroonee refers to the brand as the Rolls Royce of washing machines, where as Lady_A goes a bit further,

“I am a proud owner of a Miele. […] I love it, 10 year guarantee, quiet, large drum…just brill.”

For the full ‘I need a washing machine’ thread hit the link.

MSE contributors pick their Top Ten

At Money Saving Expert (MSE) Yorkie1980 has asked his fellow contributors what brands they feel make up the top 10 when it comes to appliances.

“I was hoping some kitchen experts could provide a list of the best (in your opinion of course) kitchen appliances in terms of quality, lifespan and guarantee.”

Both Converse and Clockworks return verdicts with Miele near the top, stating that the brand has a good reputation. Ormus also goes down the same line adding to the thread,

“At the top end the German names are very good.”

Majjie goes all out placing Miele at the top of the list, a list which hasn’t been kept to 10, something which is justified by the similarities between some brands. If you’d like to read the thoughts of the other contributions to the top 10 brands making appliances click through to MSE.

How long should my washing machine last?

Stig MK2 has started a thread on DVD Forums that has been full of discussion on how long your washing machine should last. Unfortunately for Stig MK2 his machine, which came new with his new-build home, has packed up after only 18 months. Without any previous ownership experience when it comes to laundry products he wanted to know whether this was a reasonable life expectancy,

“My washing machine decided to pack it in last night after 18 months. As this is my first experience of a washing machine playing up, I have no idea, but it doesn’t this seem a bit soon.”

His fellow contributors come back exclaiming that this is indeed far too soon and offer all sorts of advice from their own experiences, and what they know of guarantees. Among them is Anorakus, a Miele owner,

“We bought a Miele washer-dryer 8 years ago. […] In that time it’s had two repairs - a new heating element and new condenser unit. Otherwise going as strong as ever. I’d have been very miffed if it broke down after 18 months!”

To read up on the DVD Forum’s handy knowledge around washing machine warranties click through.

Sarahjk21 is reminded of Miele

Unfortunately Sarahjk21’s current vacuum is faltering and heading toward the end of its time sucking up the debris created by her two cats and three children. The problem is that she is unsure what to replace it with, and therefore has deferred the decision to the Money Saving Expert community.

The first response is from Alisont,

“I’m sure you will get lots of replies here, I’ve got the Miele cat and dog vacuum but think it’s about 7 or 8kg? […] I got it from John Lewis; got an extended guarantee and Miele send me 5 bags a year and filters which is good. When we had a dog it got up all the fur and is good at getting up the rabbit fur when he’s inside!”

Sarahjk21 responds stating that she’d actually had a Miele previously and forgotten how good they are. So will she go back to the brand? There is no news yet on the thread, but to read the other recommendations and keep an eye on the outcome click through.

Miele dishwashers recommended – for value, guarantee and quietness

Siaron of paidtoshop.co.uk has a problem with her dishwasher, and is asking for recommendations. Boffin suggests “going for something with a long guarantee” – citing Miele and Siemens as offering the longest around. Lemmovolvoman is impressed with his Miele, as he “doesn’t even notice it it’s that quiet.”

Gold member SUSIEQ gets involved suggesting “Another vote for Miele here. Not cheap, but a great investment in my opinion”, while an engineer told 3littlepigs that “Bosch and Miele are the best”. Join in conversation over here, or leave a comment below if you feel so inclined. We’d love to hear from you.