Consumers who have noticed foul odors or a slimy mold coming from their front-loading washing machine may be eligible for a cash rebate.
The reimbursement is the result of several class action lawsuits against Whirlpool and Sears over complaints that their washing machines were allowing mold and mildew to build up and ruin laundry.
The settlement covers Whirlpool, Kenmore or Maytag front-loading washing machines manufactured between 2001 and 2010. Whether a machine was bought, gifted or otherwise acquired, owners are eligible for a $50 cash payment and either a rebate on the next machine or reimbursement for repairs.
Owners who have an LG machine sold between 2002 and 2006 could receive $35 and a cash rebate on the next front-loading washer.
For more information, see the details of the settlement or call (844) 824-5781.
The only way to qualify for a cash rebate, however, is to submit a claim form by October 11, 2016.
For those who don't qualify, Consumer Reports says there are a few simple steps that can prevent mold and mildew.
- Wipe down the glass and door gasket daily.
- Between washes leave the door open slightly.
- Remove detergent buildup from the dispenser.
- Every month, sanitize the machine by adding a cup of chlorine bleach and running a hot water wash without laundry.
Manufacturers claim they have resolved the problem by improving the door gasket and adding a tub clean cycle.
But if you want to avoid a front-loader altogether, Consumer Reports recommends a high-efficiency top-loader instead, such as the $500 Samsung #WA45H7000AW.
