Worthwhile bells and whistles

Wow! Time warp! I just traded my top-loader for a front-loader and what a huge difference.

My best advice is to take the time to fully review the manual because of all the bells and whistles. I am using most of the features, and love that this machine affords me the opportunity to clean clothes the way they are "supposed" to be cleaned in terms of proper temperature, spin and degree of dirt.

New to front-loading, I was shocked at how little water was in the machine and very concerned that the (minimal) amount of water wouldn't get the clothes clean, but amazingly they are truly fresh. I was also concerned about interrupting a cycle mid-stream; but there is a pause button, so you can take items out without leakage if necessary. (Black sock in white load)

Since I've been a germophobe lately, the Xxtrasanitary (internal heater) option is awesome and long. On the other hand, there's an option to run a "Quickwash25" in only 25 minutes.

As far as noise goes, there is really no noise during washing. There is some minor noise and vibration during spin for heavy duty cycles, but hardly any for permanent press or delicate spin. It paid to make sure it was dead-on level, I guess.

I did have a minor reality check. I still pre-treat coffee or grease stains. Also, like in the past, I keep "rough" clothes like heavy jeans away from pick-prone nylon or poly tops. I haven't had any fabric damage (in spite of the incredible spin speeds) due to the machine itself.

Speaking of spin speed--drying time was cut in half!

Overall, I am completely satisfied with this washer. Consumer Reports rated it well. If I remember correctly, only the high-end machines with advanced steam features ($500 more) out-scored this one dramatically and it certainly held it's own in the pack of direct competitors.

Having had Bosch products in the past, I had high expectations...and so far, so good!