I've had the Whirlpool Cabrio for several months now and love it. This thing is HUGE. It is a top loader without an agitator, so it has the features/benefits of a front loader, without the need to stoop or use a pedastal. The manufacturer claims its capacity is large enough to wash 3 standard loads at once. You can definitely fit a ton in there. It is energy efficient, uses less water, and does require high efficiency detergent. It has its own self cleaning cycle that you run once a month. You throw a special tablet in there and run the cleaning cycle. Couldn't be easier. (Some high efficiency front or top loaders can have trouble with odors or mildew around the seals. With using less water, it sometimes results in soap residue hanging around, so the self clean is really nice.) Another fun feature of my model is the top is clear, so if you are so inclined, you can actually watch as it washes a load of laundry. We got ours at Lowes. Sears had the same model. Lowes offered a price match, free next day delivery and set up. We only replaced our washer, so don't have any dryer recommendations for you currently.