Edit: well after all that we ended up going with this Miele W1 haha. I actually had Miele in the running before making this post, but I mistakenly thought you had to get the twindos, which I didn’t want. In the end, as highly recommended as SQ is, I just wanted something that had a bit more features than the TC5, and the TR7 isn’t readily available near me. Thanks u/javaavril for the Miele info and everyone for all your insight and advice, it was very much appreciated!

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Driving myself a little crazy trying to pick a new washing machine and could use some advice please! Also open to other recs, SQ or not.

TLDR: Looking at the TC5 and FF7, possibly the TR7. Want something that can really clean and deodorize athleticwear well, but not shred regular clothing.

We’re just a two-person household, but we do laundry frequently because my husband exercises a lot and we also do a lot of bulky laundry (blankets, towels, sheets). My current washer has bit the dust, but it was having a real tough time washing out some body odor and deodorant stains. The only thing that helped was soaking it in a bucket of water and vinegar, so a machine that is good enough to clean/deodorize without having to soak is ideal. Otherwise, a top loader is necessary I guess so I can soak.

The TC5 seems to be universally loved, but there seem to be reports of it wearing out clothing more quickly? I could use mesh bags, but would rather not if I can help it. Also don’t love how you don’t have different water level options for smaller wash loads.

The FF7 has way more settings for different fabrics and water levels, but not sure how much I’d use some of the features. It’s a front loader so I don’t think I can soak and is way more expensive, but we don’t really have a price limit as long as the machine is BIFL.

The TR7 I was keeping in mind just because it’s a top loader and allegedly gentler than the TC5, but I know the TR line has been criticized for being a little too gentle.

Any advice would be appreciated! TIA!

I bought a pair of Speed Queen W&D TC5003WN & DC5003WE, $3000 out the door two years ago. The reason I bought them was because I read online how SQ brand is a commercial brand that is supposed to last longer than other brands. I could've paid other brands for about $2000.

Fast forward to today, they have fixed the dryer twice, and the replaced the water valve. When the dryer wasn't working I opened it up, and found that the outlet duct was not connected properly and there was lint everywhere inside, including the motor and heating coils.

The good thing is I found the direct contact to their repair service, so I can get in touch with them fairly quickly. But even that, one time they didn't have part and I was without dryer for almost 3 weeks. It turned out I didn't need the part anyways (the ground wire came loose and the dryer wasn't heating up). Now the dryer is making squeaking noise, which is probably just something loose, but it is still annoying.

So I paid extra $1000 for "potentially" longer life on these machines. My previous machines, Whirlpool and GE, lasted me 10 year each. So basically I won't see the ROI on the extra $1k until 8 years from now.

Not saying they are totally junk, but IMHO they are not worth the 50% premium over other brands. Think twice and decide for your self.

Since many people asked, here is the info for west coast/california: https://distribution.alliancelaundry.com/west/
number: 800 451-1161. There are other numbers at the bottom of the website too (look under 'Region' drop down menu).