I'm on it! I can't
believe you guys started a washing machine thread without me!
WanderAlot, you should really check out the Staber machine. It is like nothing else. It has the vertical axis you want (like a front loader, so your clothes tumble through the water--they are very good on water). Moreover, the axis of the drum is supported on both ends (front and back). Think about it--in a typical front loader the drum s supported only at the back and cantilevers off of that axis--plenty of bending stress on that bearing. And, there's no door that is submerged in the water to leak, no gasket to catch water and get gross. (This also enable you to open the washer and insert items at any time without spilling water n the floor). Finally, all the parts on the thing are built to last for many years, and to be easily replaced when they break. And, it costs less than the "oh so pretty but full of breakable plastic doo-hickey's" front loaders.
The machine loads from the top, but you load the clothes through a trap door into the vertical axis drum. Very slick.
Okay, that's the short version.
Here's a link to the company's web site.
Energy Efficient Washing Machines, Dryers, and Laundry Detergent by Staber Industries
Here's a link to a very well-written (by me), insightful Epinions review of the Staber washer.
Staber Top Load Horizontal Axis HXW2304 Washing Machine Review at Epinions.com
Buy one and own something really well designed and built.
About dryers: I think they are all about the same.