I used to have a twin tub which was just fab and would have lasted forever, it's probably still being used by someone.
But, I have a front loader now. AEG lavamat. I have had it for 8 years, and just in the last few weeks it went wrong and my dad fitted a new part which cost about �50. It now washed as good as it did when it was new. I reckon itll be good for at least another 8 years if not more. It is just marvellous.
I read on the interweb the other day that washing machines are only supposed to last you 5 years....So, i've already done well with mine and it has a super energy rating (as most AEGs do) and is quiet and spins only fractionally slower than an old spin dryer. I did an experiment and spun my washing in the machine, then spun it in a spin dryer and only 1/2 a cup full of water came out the load...I think that's queit good..
I have 5 children and a dog and so do at least 2 washes every day