People are going berserk buying brand new, ultra expensive appliances, especially for the kitchen. Turns out, it’s a complete waste of money, according to the June issue of Consumer Reports. Inexpensive washers did just as good a job cleaning clothes as did the $1,600 models. And, better yet, they’re more reliable. Clark doesn’t get why it’s such a big deal to have a prestige brand. Consumer Reports’ “Best Buy” dryer is a Frigidaire at $310. The other two “Best Buys” are about $400; one is a Kenmore and one is a Whirlpool. Yet, people are spending a fortune. The most expensive brands tend to have trouble, according to the report. So it’s clearly not worth it.