Inside Consumer Reports Test Labs: The LG WM2010C[W] front-loading washer is a real mover and shaker

Because front-loading washing machines spin so rapidly—up to 1,200 revolutions per minute—and their drums rotate on a horizontal axis, the vibration and noise these machines produce can be a nuisance for users, especially when a front-loader is used near main living areas or on a second floor in a home.

Our testers have seen plenty of front-loaders that produce a lot of vibration and noise, though no front-loader has ever actually moved from its spot during our vibration testing. Until now. In a recent vibration test on a wood floor, the $550 LG WM2010C[W] front-loader turned on an angle and moved forward about three inches when it had an 8-pound evenly distributed load. And when we repeated the test with a 1-pound unbalanced load, the LG again slid forward several inches.

LG offers a solution with the “SpinSense” function, which the manufacturer says “can be used to help reduce or eliminate vibrations, especially on wood floor installations.” When our testers turned on the SpinSense mode, the WM2010C[W] didn’t vibrate and stayed put. The trade-off is that the machine extracted about 20 percent less water from the load. In practical terms, that means more time and energy are required to dry a load.

On the performance front, this LG front-loader delivered only good cleaning, unusual for front-loading machines, which typically get a very good or excellent score in our tests. The WM2010C[W] does offers excellent capacity, with a claimed capacity of 3.5-cubic-foot in its stainless-steel wash basket. It was gentle on laundry and excelled in energy- and water efficiency, though, again, if you use the SpinSense function you’ll use more energy drying. Cycle time is 90 minutes, and the model is stackable and includes a child lock.

While this LG is inexpensive for a front-loader—many cost $1,000 and up—other models, including the Frigidaire Gallery GLTF2940F, $650, deliver better washing performance without the vibration concerns. See our continuously updated ratings (available to subscribers) for more details on this and dozens of other washers.—Kimberly Janeway | e-mail | Twitter | Forums | Facebook

Essential information: Check out our free buyer’s guides to washing machines and dryers, our latest report on laundry detergents, and our advice for placing laundry rooms near living spaces.

Comments

[John Bove]

We have an LG front loading washer in this series. It has developed a serious mold problem and LG has no solution. There is at least one class action lawsuit against LG for this problem. I just found out my sister also bought one at the same chain store (Home Depot), and she's having the same problem.

[William Tomb]

For the mold issue my friend put a gallon of bleach in the washer and ran "tub clean". Then for the boot we did it again using a spray bottle first using a soap scum remover then pure bleach. Worked great, also changed the order of his washing so that he washed whites last. (Hot and bleach)

If that does not work you can try 1/2 to 1 gal of white vinegar. Remember that vinegar is bad for rubber seals and you need to be real careful. Just run a short hot wash cycle. But like I said try the bleach first and clean the bottom of your machines boot.

BLEACH is your FRIEND

[Omar]

Have you guys evaluated stackable (once piece) washer-dryer units? If so, where can I find the review?

[Fred Matthes]

Had the same problem with Kenmore front loading washer. Terrible mold smell. Tried everything including bleach and special cleaners designed for the problem with no improvement. Sears told us "they were not aware of any smell problems" - even though the internet has literally hundreds of people claiming the same problem.

Finally someone recommended using a powdered HE detergent - note use only HE high efficiency products. We use Tide HE - after two or three loads - we noted major improvement and now virtually no smell at all. Apparently liquid detergents have a base that encourages the mold growth. This product is typically not available in supermarkets, but we get ours at Target stores.

Good luck!

[Bryan Brook]

I've been doing a lot of research on front load washers, and it sure seems like this particular offering from LG is the way to go. I've looked at all the reviews on a few major retailer websites, that I won't mention here, and they all are positive. This is the single highest rated front load washer I've been able to find, at least according to the people who own it.

[Ceiling Fantasia]

Does any one know what type of mold is in and on the washer?

[Short Term Insurance]

If I clean the washer with bleach to remove the mold should I dilute the bleach? I worry that the bleach could be hard on the seal that hold the water back when you close the washer.