Hmmm, I have found a top loader and a front loader I like so will go on Wednesday and see how I go. I really need something that washes really well because DH works with animals, we have animals here and the girls spend most days outside in the dirt and mud. The top loader I have was origanally my dads and he gave to to me about 6 years ago and he had it for about 6 years. Never had a problem until today.

Your answers have helped and confused me even more

Have noticed though that some went to FL after having TL and wish they had stuck with TL but no one has gone from FL to TL and wished they had stuck with FL.