Product Preview: GE Profile WPDH8800J Washer With SmartDispense

All washing machines are set-it-and-forget-it when it comes to the water?but it?s still up to you to measure and add the detergent. We?ve seen liquid-detergent-and-fabric-softener dispensers for washers before, but GE?s new Profile WPDH8800J front-loader (left in the photo) is the first washer designed to dole out the right amount of detergent and softener based on the load size, soil level, fabric, cycle, or even water hardness. Called SmartDispense, the new feature is built into the pedestal below the Energy Star?qualified washer and has a claimed capacity of up to 350 ounces of detergent and 85 ounces of fabric softener?roughly six months? worth for a typical household. Costing $1,800 with the pedestal, the washer and its matching model DPVH880 dryer, $1,329, aren?t cheap. If you?re willing to dispense with the SmartDispense feature, you?ll find high-scoring front-loaders from our washer tests for as little as $650 and top-loaders starting at $400.?Kimberly Janeway Essential information: Read our latest report on washers and dryers.