Maytag vs Whirlpool Washer: Which Reigns Supreme?

If it’s time to replace your washing machine, odds are you’ve been going back and forth between Maytag vs Whirlpool. These two reputable washer brands have been around for decades and make some of the best washing machines on the market. Both offer a variety of models at a wide range of price points, so there’s a machine for every household.

In an effort to help settle the Maytag vs. Whirlpool debate—and help you make an informed decision on which brand is the best for you—we talked to  an industry expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience and tested a popular model from each brand. We then took all of the input and testing results into this handy comparison guide. Once you decide where you stand on the Maytag vs. Whirlpool discussion, you can get busy shopping. Get ready to have the cleanest laundry around!

What’s the Difference Between Maytag and Whirlpool Washers?

Maytag and Whirlpool are two leading brands in the appliance industry. Both companies strive to provide innovative and dependable appliances.

Maytag built its first washing machine in 1907. This rudimentary washer consisted of a wooden tub with a hand
crank. As the crank was turned, the clothes were pulled through the water. Their models have certainly come a long way in their nearly 120 years of business. Today, Maytag is known for producing durable yet affordable machines.

Whirlpool, on the other hand, was founded in 1911 and focused on electric washers. Their electric wringer-washer evolved over time and the brand now offers a wide range of appliances including refrigerators, cooktops, dishwashers and more. Whirlpool washers are generally easy to use and come with a plethora of additional features and options for different types of loads.

The Whirlpool Corporation purchased Maytag in 2006. However, the two brands continue to operate as independent appliance manufacturers and there are several differences between them.

All About Maytag Washers

CAROLINE LUBINSKY/FAMILY HANDYMAN

According to Dennis G., Lead Appliance Expert at Comfort Appliance Repair in Tennessee, Maytag washers are built tough. “They are known for their durability and can handle heavy-duty loads, which is great if you’re running large loads on a regular basis,” he says.

Senior shopping editor Caroline Lubinsky tested the Maytag Front Load Washer with Extra Power and 12-Hr Fresh Spin option. This washer, which has a capacity of 4.5 cubic feet, is actually smaller than Lubinsky’s old washing machine. Admittedly, she was skeptical of a smaller machine at first. However, she was delighted to find that it was still able to meet her needs. “I’m able to wash my king-sized comforter easily, which is all that I was concerned about fitting,” she explains. 

In addition to handling large loads of clothes and bedding, Lubinsky appreciates how well this machine actually cleans her laundry. “I have three dogs and pet hair was a real issue with the old set,” she says. “This washing machine seems to get most of the embedded dog hairs on clothing and bedding.”

According to Lubinsky, the average load takes around an hour to complete, but can change depending on which of the 10 wash cycles you select. It also has an auto-hold feature, which Lubinsky finds especially helpful. This feature allows your clothes to stay fresh even if you forget to put them immediately in the dryer. “I constantly forget to throw things in the dryer after washing them and frequently have to rewash them. Now, I don’t have to do that,” she says. 

All About Whirlpool Washers

SHERI KAZ/FAMILY HANDYMAN

According to Dennis, Whirlpool washers are more versatile than Maytag washers thanks to their advanced features. “Whirlpool focuses on making your laundry process smoother with smart features and more energy-efficient cycles,” he explains.

Associate product tester Sheri Kaz replaced her old Kenmore washer with the Whirlpool Top Load Washer with 2 in 1 Removable Agitator. After a year of use, Kaz has found plenty to love about her Whirlpool washer but the removable agitator is number one. “The thing that I appreciate the most is how gentle it is on my clothes when I take the agitator out,” she says. 

Kaz also loves this washer’s large capacity. At 5.3 cubic feet, it holds twice as much as her old washer. That said, Kaz often finds that retrieving her items from this top loader’s deep drum isn’t the most convenient thing. “I curse the machine every time I have to stand on my tippy toes or grab a stool to fish my socks out of the super deep drum,” she says. 

On laundry days, Kaz prefers the machine’s deep fill water option to the standard setting. “I feel that it needs more water in the tub to really clean and rinse the clothes properly,” she explains. “Also, rather than using the auto detergent dispense function, I tend to like using powder detergent in a cardboard box rather than liquid in a plastic bottle. As a result, I dissolve the detergent in hot water, then pour it into the machine.”

If you prefer liquid detergent, you’re in luck. According to Kaz, using the liquid detergent with the auto dispense function cleans very well. However, this function isn’t perfect. “The downside is that when using this function, the rinse water doesn’t run clear – it’s always very soapy,” says Kaz. “Therefore, I prefer using two rinses when using the auto dispense mode. Either way I’m using more water.” 

FAQ

Do Maytag washers last long?

According to Dennis, a Maytag washer will last you around 10 to 12 years with proper care and maintenance. “Simple maintenance like cleaning the filters and avoiding overloading can help extend its life,” he explains.

Is a Maytag washer better than a Whirlpool?

When it comes to Maytag vs Whirlpool, Dennis says that one isn’t necessarily better than the other. Rather, it depends on your needs. If you often have heavy-duty loads then Dennis recommends a Maytag washer. But if you want more control over settings and efficiency, Whirlpool might be the better fit.

What is the difference between Whirlpool and Maytag?

As Dennis pointed out above, Maytag washers are built tough. “These washers are perfect for heavy loads and long-term use. If you’re looking for something that can take a beating, Maytag is great,” he explains.

Whirlpool, on the other hand, are more versatile with their advanced features. “Whirlpool focuses on making your laundry process smoother with smart features and more energy-efficient cycles,” says Dennis.

Should your machine ever go on the fritz, you can rest assured knowing that whichever brand you buy can likely be repaired. According to Dennis, Maytag and Whirlpool machines share some parts so it’s not hard to find technicians who can work on both brands. “Whirlpool parts might be a little easier to find just because it’s a more common brand, but both Whirlpool and Maytag are pretty well-supported in the U.S. for parts and repairs,” he explains.

The Maytag vs Whirlpool Bottom Line

You can’t go wrong with either a Maytag or Whirlpool washer. Both brands offer durable, dependable machines that will keep your clothes clean and fresh. Of the models we tested, we found the Maytag front load washer and Whirlpool top load washer to be the most similar in terms of price point, size and features. Each model also has a coordinating dryer in case you’re looking for a complete washer and dryer set. If you’re frequently washing heavily soiled clothing, bedding or doing laundry for a large family, stick with a Maytag. But if you prefer the convenience of smart features and want a more energy-efficient washer, then go for a Whirlpool.

Where to Buy Maytag Washers

Maytag washers can be purchased directly from the manufacturer or at a variety of retailers. In addition to your local appliance store, The Home Depot, Lowe’s and Best Buy all carry Maytag washing machines.

Where to Buy Whirlpool Washers

You can purchase a Whirlpool washer directly from Whirlpool or at a number of retailers. You are likely to find Whirlpool washers at your local appliance store as well as big box retailers like The Home Depot, Lowe’s and Best Buy.

Sources:

• Dennis G. is the lead appliance expert at Comfort Appliance Repair
• Brittanica: Frederick L. Maytag
• Whirlpool Corporation: History
• Whirlpool Corporation Completes Acquisition of Maytag Corporation (Press Release)