The problem isn't young kids, I'm on the younger side, the problem is the stuff just isn't built as well nor is it built to be cost effective to repair (and I'm one to garbage pick things and try and repair them).
I recently scrapped a GE front loader and Haier top loader. The GE had a bad bearing and ripped up the front door seal. To be honest the machine was heavily used. I bought it on clearance for $400 back in 2009. I just don't see the return on investment of throwing $200 at a machine used as heavily as it was if I fix it myself. It's half the original investment. When I throw stuff out I strip it, saving anything I could possibly use, and it was overly difficult to disassemble to make a complex repair practicle, and used tons of plastic.
I also recently scrapped a 5 year old Haier toploader. The pump went twice. I paid $200 for the washer (it was a higher end model but I got it through a surplus liquidation place). How many $35-40 pumps is it reasonable to toss at it. I stripped it that one too and the construction quality was poor.
The replacements I bought a few months ago were a Speed Queen and TOTL Samsung Addwash (not the first choice but it had a slight dent in the top and Sears clearance it out for $499). I always keep a top loader and front loader.
I know how the Speed Queen is built but the TOTL Samsung should be an interesting test. It washes well but I'm left wondering how durable it will prove long term. It seems flashy but I have serious doubts about the construction quality. I have a sneaking suspicion it will last a few years and be more cost effective to replace than repair.
The machines are delivered to achieve a price point for the feature set the deliver it seems. As long as they outlast the warranty that's all that matters.
I'm not sure if I would use it or place it somewhere in the living room as a showpiece!
