Review: Bosch Nexxt Front-Load Washers

Once again, Bosch has successfully produced a series of appliances that are holding true to the quality expected by this manufacturer. The Nexxt Series of Front-loading washers are rapidly becoming the most requested item in laundry.

Bosch is a European company, but these appliances are also manufactured in the United States, and parts are available as well. They are a "green" manufacturing company, and carry the Good Housekeeping Seal as well as J.D. Power ratings. All Bosch washers exceed Energy Star qualifications by 102%, and are Energy Star rated until 2011.

They have a definite European look, with clean lines. They are available in all white or white/color combos. Consumers will be surprised at the simplicity of their no-nonsense controls. The controls are displayed at a slight angle horizontally, instead of vertically. Unfortunately, because of this design, these units cannot be stacked, but still can be placed on pedestals, if desired.

The Nexxt washers have a decibel rating ranging from 52-56 dBAs, with spin speeds of 1000-1200 rpms. They are considered the quietest washers on the market today. The Nexxt washers have a capacity of 4.0-4.2 cubic feet, and each series will wash king size comforters. Bosch's unique hinge and gasket system helps seal in the heat, allowing the water to reach and maintain the correct temperature.

On certain higher-end models, Bosch has fitted the washer with an Aquastop containment system, which is used to help prevent damage from water leaks. The Aquastop hose is a dual hose system. The inner hose is a steel braided line and is surrounded with a plastic hose. If the inner hose develops a leak, the water is contained in the outer hose. The special device that connects the hose to the water supply line will flip a lever that will keep the water from continuing to fill the washer. There is a small window that shows a change in the color of this lever that will signal that the Aquastop device has detected a leak. There is also a well that is located beneath the pump. If a leak develops, the water flows into the well, and once a certain level is reached, the float that is inside this well will raise and the washer will turn off and pump out the water.

The Nexxt washers are designed with a network of sensors that will analyze the your wash, determine the load size, water level and temperature needs. The sensors will automatically adjust the levels if needed. The inclined drum is fitted with Archie paddles that cascades water onto the clothes from the top of the drum, which is very effective from removing dirt and suds. The internal water heater keeps the water at the precise temperature needed for thorough cleaning.

Consumers have a choice of the basic types of wash cycles found on all machines. Bosch offers Ecoaction on the 500 and 800 series, which reduces energy consumption by 20%, with a touch of a button. The option is used when choosing the hot or warm temperature options. The temperatures are reduced by ten degrees, but the wash cycle is extended slightly, to make up for the loss of temperature.

Bosch's NSF Sanitary cycle, which is used for killing germs and dust mites, initially heats the water to 170 degrees, then maintains this temperature for exactly three minutes. The water temperature is then reduced to 150 degrees, which will prevent the breakdown of the fabric. The clothes are sanitized, with no damage to the fibers.

With the Kidscare cycle, the water is gradually heated to 150 degrees, removing most stains without the use of additional chemicals. The Jeans cycle is specifically designed to reduce the loss of dye and wear and tear to the fabric, through the use of special wash and spin speeds. The Aquaguard cycle is designed to waterproof fabric, coats, ski pant, etc. by adding the waterproofing medium to the dispenser.

The 800 series offers a Comforter cycle. With a typical front-loader, the water level is based on the heaviness of the load, and the water level may not be enough for the size of comforter. The 800 series makes adjustments for that item, ensuring that enough water is used to truly clean large bulky comforters, as well as using a specific spin speed to reduce possible stretching of the fabric.

Also included on the 500 and 800 series is a Refresh cycle. This is used when you want to take clothes that are clean and refresh them. Examples of this would be swimwear that needs to have the chlorine rinsed from them, or soap residue from new fabrics. The QuickClean cycle is meant for medium and large load that are lightly soiled. The 800 series now includes the addition of steam, which ensures awesome stain removal and sanitizing.

The prices range from $800 for the 300 series to $1400 for the 800 series with all the bells and whistles. The great thing is that you can get the capacity of a king-size comforter front loader at the price of a full-size comforter in other brands.

Bosch again has taken what consumers desire the most and has put them in this excellent set of washers. The reliability of this manufacture pretty much ensures that the customer will get the most for their money with this washer.