all i know is the simpler the better. more electronics means easier to
break. cost of repair is high.
front load or top loan, they should be all water efficient--gov't mandate.
rest is manufacturer's marketing/sales pitch. ignore the noise
steam is probably for dryer... dry faster but don't expect to achieve same
result as dryer cleaning.
i still have a pair of Whilpore from 15 yrs ago. runs perfect. don't plan
on dumping them 'til they break. i suppose more reliable than new models.