Need Input on Washing Machines -- Miele WXD160 vs. ASKO W2084W vs. Speed Queen TR7 in the USA
Fun fact I've had to learn while trying to find a washing machine in the USA -- I am allergic to the EPDM rubber and/or its additives. So all American market front loaders are out. I'm currently temporarily washing in a Maytag impeller washing machine and I absolutely HATE it. It leaves a film on every piece of clothing no matter what I do. So...
I'm currently debating between:
- Miele WXD160 -- gasket can be replaced with silicone aftermarket gasket
- ASKO W2084W -- steel seal gasket with no EPDM rubber
- Speed Queen TR7 -- top loader, no gasket
I am debating between these models because the primary laundry I wash is: rayon/spandex, technical fabrics, cargo pants, dog blankets, towels, sheets, cotton t-shirts. I live in a suburban area and the dirtiest the laundry gets is from the dog or hiking dirt. No kids, just adults and a dog in the household.
I'm very concerned the Speed Queen TC5 will shred my rayon wardrobe and technical fabrics. Literally everything I wear is rayon or modal. This is why I did not include it. (If you have other opinions and have washed these fabrics regularly in a TC5, please give me your opinions!)
Downsides:
- Miele WXD160 -- recently learned the lower models no longer have stainless steel outer tubs and are not built like they used to be; also parts are really expensive
- ASKO W2084W -- was told that their reliability has fallen and reports of repairs under 2 year warranty has increased; and that parts are really hard to get from Europe to the USA
- Speed Queen TR7 -- uses so much water and has complaints of incomplete cleaning
So please I want thoughts and opinions from individuals within the United States who own these machines (and elsewhere for the European style models), those who sell these machines, or just overall have an opinion.
I know Speed Queen is the number one brand recommended in this subreddit, but I would really love a front loader because of its lower water usage and cleaning power. But I'm stuck because these European models are so expensive and they seem to be degrading in quality and repairability.
I'm really interested to hear from people that have the Speed Queen TR7 because I've seen so many polarizing viewpoints as to how it cleans.
Posted Jul 10, 2026, 5:55 PM UTC