Sarah Mirando  |  May 8, 2012

Category: Legal News

Top Class Actions’s website and social media posts use affiliate links. If you make a purchase using such links, we may receive a commission, but it will not result in any additional charges to you. Please review our Affiliate Link Disclosure for more information.

WhirlpoolOhio consumers who allege Whirlpool front-loading washing machines are prone to mold growth and produce foul odors have won their right to proceed as a class in a class action lawsuit against Whirlpool Corporation.

The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals last week upheld a 2010 order by U.S. District Court Judge James S. Gwin granting certification to the consumers, saying:

“[W]e have no difficulty affirming the district court’s decision that common questions predominate over individual ones and that the class action mechanism is the superior method to resolve these claims fairly and efficiently. This is especially true since Class Members are not likely to file individual actions because the cost of litigation would dwarf any potential recovery.”

The Plaintiffs allege in the class action lawsuit that Whirlpool’s Duet, Duet HT, DuetSport and DuetSportHT front-load washing machines contain a design defect that results in the growth of mold or mildew in the machines, foul odors and ruined laundry. Plaintiffs further allege that although they and other consumers have spent time and money trying to remedy these problems, none of those supposed remedies — many of which were recommended by Whirlpool — have done so.

In July 2010, Judge Gwin certified a class of current Ohio residents who purchased a Whirlpool Duet front-load washing machine in Ohio for personal, family or household use and not for resale. Consumers outside of Ohio have also brought claims against Whirlpool that are now pending before Judge Gwin, and for which class certification will be sought.

“The Court of Appeals today reaffirmed that when a company knowingly sells a defective product to thousands of consumers, those consumers are entitled to band together as a class to hold the company accountable,” said the court-appointed lead attorney for the Ohio class. “We are gratified that our clients and the thousands of consumers like them will have their day in court.”

Similar class action lawsuits are currently pending against other front-load washing machine manufacturers for the same defect, including Sears and LG.

The Whirlpool Duet Front-Loading Washing Machine Class Action Lawsuit case is In re: Whirlpool Corporation Front-Loading Washer Products Liability Litigation, Case No. 10-4188.

UPDATE: On Oct. 30, 2014, a jury decided in favor of Whirlpool, finding that the company did not negligently design the front-loading washing machines and did not breach its warranty to consumers. Attorneys for the plaintiffs say they plan to appeal the verdict.

We tell you about cash you can claim EVERY WEEK! Sign up for our free newsletter.

55 thoughts onWhirlpool Front-Loading Washing Machine Class Action Proceeds

  1. Anonymous says:

    Besides the bad odor, We also have an issue with a rusted upper frame next that the soap dispenser is mounted to, This should not have a problem for that there shouldn’t have contact with water, I tried to get a replacement for it is bolted on, I was told there isn’t parts available, Every part that is bolted on this unit is but that part, WHY? I should replace this unit due to a design flaw.

  2. Anonymous says:

    For more imformation call 1 888 538 5793

  3. Anonymous says:

    Am having the same problems with the stinky smell from washer noted that there is a lot of sludge in drain pipe and that water doesn’t drain all the way have cleaned Whirlpool duet religously like states too. I want to join in the class action too.

  4. Anonymous says:

    Same mold problem with the Whirlpool Duet front loading washer. Looks like I’m not alone. Let me know how to proceed with class action lawsuit

  5. Anonymous says:

    Trying to discover if it is still possible to join in this lawsuit–is it still current at this time? An insane design ( regarding the seal) on this washing machine!

    1. Kay Anderson says:

      How can I be a part of the Whirpool front loader washing machine class action lawsuit. I too have had the mold problem for some years. I have tryed, unsuccessfully, several attempts to solve or clean this problem. Please help!

  6. Anonymous says:

    I too would like to know more about this lawsuit. I am tired of spending hard earned money on products that make other wealthy & and consumers get screwed!!! I would like in on this lawsuit. Someone let me know how to proceed. I’m on board. Sherry Pavone

  7. Anonymous says:

    I would like to join this class action lawsuit as well. Please let me know how to proceed.

  8. Anonymous says:

    How do I join the lawsuit, Whirlpool has done nothing for me and I have complained since the first year I owned this machine.. Whirlpool should be ashamed of themselves.

    1. Donna says:

      How do I join this class action law-suit. No one above seems to have gotten a reply. I have the mold, mildew and odor that will not come out of my clothes. Tried to contact Whirl pool a couple times but no answer. Have tried the Washer cleaner which did nothing. I have to leave the door open all the time.

  9. Anonymous says:

    my washer has the same problem. I couldn’t find more info on your website. Please let me know how I can join this lawsuit.

  10. Anonymous says:

    How do I get on this lawsuit? I have this machine and having the same problem

    1. Barbara Wright says:

      I have a Whirlpool front loading washer and it smells so moldy and I have to leave the door open. Can I join this class action suit?

1 2 3 6

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. By submitting your comment and contact information, you agree to receive marketing emails from Top Class Actions regarding this and/or similar lawsuits or settlements, and/or to be contacted by an attorney or law firm to discuss the details of your potential case at no charge to you if you qualify. Required fields are marked *

Please note: Top Class Actions is not a settlement administrator or law firm. Top Class Actions is a legal news source that reports on class action lawsuits, class action settlements, drug injury lawsuits and product liability lawsuits. Top Class Actions does not process claims and we cannot advise you on the status of any class action settlement claim. You must contact the settlement administrator or your attorney for any updates regarding your claim status, claim form or questions about when payments are expected to be mailed out.