(KFOR) WASHINGTON – After front-loading washing machines hit the market, some consumers began complaining about an unusual smell to their clothes.
Recently, customers have been suing the manufacturers of the machines, claiming a design flaw caused a musty odor or mold to grow in the machines.
The companies claimed only a small number of machines had problems.
The makers filed an appeal to the Supreme Court, saying the claims are not similar enough to justify a class-action lawsuit.
However, the justices have decided to not get involved in the legal battle.
That means attorneys for consumers can now continue to pursue their cases against Whirlpool Corp., Sears Holdings Corp and others in the lower courts.