Maytag Neptune - Front Load Washer Model #MAH9700 Review

I have purchased two front loader washing machines over the past 6 years. The first one I purchased, in 2001, began to smell like mildew after about 6 months. (this was the the Neptune machine.) I called Magtag numerous times, because the smell was so bad, it was making me ill. (I was pregnant at the time, so as you can imagine, everything was magnified.) They told me how to clean the machine...which I did...(I was told to use dish washing detergent.) But, no matter what I used, it still smelled, and it made my clothes smell as well. After repeated calls, and Magtag telling me that they haven't had any complaints about this particular machine, I was given a replacement. The replacement was better...and as I found out later, there WAS a problem with the seals on the machine which was causing the mildew smell...Maytag denied this when I had called....Later they did acquiesce.

The front loaders have some merit..for one, you can wash a comforter and blankets, and many towels, because of the size capacity. That is a plus for a larger family like mine. But..if you over-load the machine, the clothes will not clean as well, and you'll have a problem with smell..Of course, that can be said for any washing machine. Unfortunately, larger capacity doesn't mean more clothes can be washed. The smaller the better, if you intend to actually have your clothes cleaned. I learned that the hard way. Also, I've found, living in a warmer climate...you cannot leave the clothes, even for a half hour in the front loader after the cycle completes...since they'll begin to smell...I had a traditional washer when I first moved to this warm climate, before I bought the front loader, and didn't have a problem...After washing your clothes, you should leave your washer door opened to air out the machine, and cut down on potential mildew problems..I also use baking soda every so often to freshen the machine, and make sure to wipe off the seal, as well,...it's a lot of work..but I don't have a choice, since I cannot afford a different model washing machine.

I was told by an appliance repairman that the best washers and dryers are the ones without the bells and whistles...the ones that don't have a lot of digital features, since these are the ones that are reparied the least....So, if you want a reliable machine, the lesser expensive ones may be right for you.. but, you won't have the capacity for larger loads. I'm sure there are many front loaders on the market now that are excellent...just ask a lot of questions, look at consumer reports....in this volatile financial market, you don't want to make a mistake with your hard earned money.