Betty Draper's Maytag - the 160
Why does everyone think Maytag is so great?
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danemodsandy
Well-known member
Maytag Cleaning Ability
I can't speak for everyone's experience, but I well remember when I ditched a DD Whirly pair (late 1980s) for a set of centre-dial 'Tags (A108 washer and DE608 dryer). The difference in how clean clothes got was phenomenal - things that had been looking "beat" were suddenly looking new again.
I'm getting an 806 pair soon, and I'm looking forward to 'em, big-time. They're not the 906's of my most fevered lottery-win dreams, but they're as close as I'm probably ever going to get.
I can't speak for everyone's experience, but I well remember when I ditched a DD Whirly pair (late 1980s) for a set of centre-dial 'Tags (A108 washer and DE608 dryer). The difference in how clean clothes got was phenomenal - things that had been looking "beat" were suddenly looking new again.
I'm getting an 806 pair soon, and I'm looking forward to 'em, big-time. They're not the 906's of my most fevered lottery-win dreams, but they're as close as I'm probably ever going to get.
danemodsandy
Well-known member
P.S.:
For me, other machines are like the gorgeous number you meet in the bar - fun for a while, but a letdown sooner or later. 'Tags are reliable, loving partners who are always there for you if you just take care of 'em.
For me, other machines are like the gorgeous number you meet in the bar - fun for a while, but a letdown sooner or later. 'Tags are reliable, loving partners who are always there for you if you just take care of 'em.
Betty Draper's Maytag - the 160
Well, push button or not, I'm just glad it was a Maytag ;-)
Ben
Well, push button or not, I'm just glad it was a Maytag ;-)
Ben
strongenough78
Well-known member
In my honest opinion......
I've always thought the Maytag's were quite attractive. Simple yet elegant without being overly flashy. Especially the A806's and of course the 906's like fnelson's and Betty Drapers 160. The panel lights with those push buttons at the right angle are so pretty. And when it comes to functions, the A806's do have quite a few, hence all the buttons along with the center dial.
As far as how they clean, I've never seen much of a difference from the other machine's I've used over the years. I've used quite a few commercial Maytag's and have always been happy with the results. The only home set I've used was at my Uncle's house years ago. I'm trying to think of what model it would have been. It was a 2 speed for sure and had the gentle action and normal action buttons, but for the wash only, not the spin speed. It was avocado green, I remember that lol. But no matter what speed setting you pushed, it was stuck on gentle. And even then the clothes came out respectfully clean.
I quite enjoy watching a Maytag when I get the chance, which isn't too often. Since I joined this site, my interest in Maytag's have gone up alot. Probably the only issue I have with them is the 10 minute wash time on the much older models or 12 minutes on the newer vintage models. Even though the dial can be reset, I got used to 14+ minutes with Whirlpool or Kenmore. But that is one flaw I can definately overlook. The Maytag set of my dreams would be an A806, with the back panel and tub lights, the largest capacity tub size available of course. I've seen posts of certain model years having larger tubs than previous years. And of course the 50 hz pulley set up. I've seen a few of those and WOW! MUCH fun to watch. When I do get my own set though, I'm having it custom painted. I even decided on a color, but will surprise you with it lol.
So all in all, I can see why Maytag's are so popular. Dependability, quietness and all out fun. Plus the number of different models they offer. Well, offered! Pretty much one to suit everyone's taste!
I've always thought the Maytag's were quite attractive. Simple yet elegant without being overly flashy. Especially the A806's and of course the 906's like fnelson's and Betty Drapers 160. The panel lights with those push buttons at the right angle are so pretty. And when it comes to functions, the A806's do have quite a few, hence all the buttons along with the center dial.
As far as how they clean, I've never seen much of a difference from the other machine's I've used over the years. I've used quite a few commercial Maytag's and have always been happy with the results. The only home set I've used was at my Uncle's house years ago. I'm trying to think of what model it would have been. It was a 2 speed for sure and had the gentle action and normal action buttons, but for the wash only, not the spin speed. It was avocado green, I remember that lol. But no matter what speed setting you pushed, it was stuck on gentle. And even then the clothes came out respectfully clean.
I quite enjoy watching a Maytag when I get the chance, which isn't too often. Since I joined this site, my interest in Maytag's have gone up alot. Probably the only issue I have with them is the 10 minute wash time on the much older models or 12 minutes on the newer vintage models. Even though the dial can be reset, I got used to 14+ minutes with Whirlpool or Kenmore. But that is one flaw I can definately overlook. The Maytag set of my dreams would be an A806, with the back panel and tub lights, the largest capacity tub size available of course. I've seen posts of certain model years having larger tubs than previous years. And of course the 50 hz pulley set up. I've seen a few of those and WOW! MUCH fun to watch. When I do get my own set though, I'm having it custom painted. I even decided on a color, but will surprise you with it lol.
So all in all, I can see why Maytag's are so popular. Dependability, quietness and all out fun. Plus the number of different models they offer. Well, offered! Pretty much one to suit everyone's taste!
A shot of it this season looked like all buttons on the washer. The washer and dryer have changed places as well.
I can see it...
I can think of several machines that are flashy, dowdy, glitzy or whiz-bang, but you look at Greg's set above and "sexy" sure fits. The lines, the curves, the crosshatch to the glass backed with that cursive script in gold and just a touch of chrome around those controls is graceful, almost unassuming. The pastels on the timer knob are fun but at the same time practically belie the robustness of the machine; almost flirty.
The whole package is like that little black dress complete with pearl necklace. Or something like that.... : )
I can think of several machines that are flashy, dowdy, glitzy or whiz-bang, but you look at Greg's set above and "sexy" sure fits. The lines, the curves, the crosshatch to the glass backed with that cursive script in gold and just a touch of chrome around those controls is graceful, almost unassuming. The pastels on the timer knob are fun but at the same time practically belie the robustness of the machine; almost flirty.
The whole package is like that little black dress complete with pearl necklace. Or something like that.... : )
fnelson487
Well-known member
Sexy
Definition from Dictionary.com:
sexy
/seksi/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [sek-see]
–adjective, sexier, sexiest. 1. concerned predominantly or excessively with sex; risqué: a sexy novel.
2. sexually interesting or exciting; radiating sexuality: the sexiest professor on campus.
3. excitingly appealing; glamorous: a sexy new car.
I was using the usage in #3.
Definition from Dictionary.com:
sexy
/seksi/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [sek-see]
–adjective, sexier, sexiest. 1. concerned predominantly or excessively with sex; risqué: a sexy novel.
2. sexually interesting or exciting; radiating sexuality: the sexiest professor on campus.
3. excitingly appealing; glamorous: a sexy new car.
I was using the usage in #3.
jakeseacrest
Well-known member
How about the Maytag dishwashers?
Like a 1930s Packard automobile, the Maytag has class without being gaudy. Understated elegance. Real class, like people with "old money" would buy.
Ken D.
Ken D.
laundromat
Well-known member
Appliance sexuality
Never in my life have I ever associated the beauty and charm of any major or small kitchen appliance with sex.Others thow who see my passion, as I watch my A408 do a full load,always ask me if I want to,or already have fucked it???How stupid can people be?? have never gotten a stiffy watching the clothes roll over or tumble.I usualy go into a deep trance watching the movement's pattern. Sort of like a Kolidascope.?
My 408 has great turn over. One major difference I always see with only the Maytags is no air pockets in items like sheets,pillow cases,jeans and T-shirts. The belt drive Whirlpools,top loading Westinghouses,GE,and WCI's always had airpockets that woldn't allow the pieces to invert.The spinning with the tub full of water is also another god feature. Instead of the clothes getting all bunched up at the bottom of the tub allowing the residue lint and scum to get all over the clothes,the Maytags always spin with the water in the tub.That allow the scum and lint to go down the drain and the clothes stay at a higher level more evenly distributed to get more water spun out of the clothes.I have a Whirlpool DD and it does not spin out as much water from a medium to full load as the Maytags or Speed Queens.It also doesn't handle off ballance loads as well.I've had some serious tares in dress shirts,dress slacks,towels and wash cloths caused by the "Cruel-Action Agrivator".I wil probably never own another.
Never in my life have I ever associated the beauty and charm of any major or small kitchen appliance with sex.Others thow who see my passion, as I watch my A408 do a full load,always ask me if I want to,or already have fucked it???How stupid can people be?? have never gotten a stiffy watching the clothes roll over or tumble.I usualy go into a deep trance watching the movement's pattern. Sort of like a Kolidascope.?
My 408 has great turn over. One major difference I always see with only the Maytags is no air pockets in items like sheets,pillow cases,jeans and T-shirts. The belt drive Whirlpools,top loading Westinghouses,GE,and WCI's always had airpockets that woldn't allow the pieces to invert.The spinning with the tub full of water is also another god feature. Instead of the clothes getting all bunched up at the bottom of the tub allowing the residue lint and scum to get all over the clothes,the Maytags always spin with the water in the tub.That allow the scum and lint to go down the drain and the clothes stay at a higher level more evenly distributed to get more water spun out of the clothes.I have a Whirlpool DD and it does not spin out as much water from a medium to full load as the Maytags or Speed Queens.It also doesn't handle off ballance loads as well.I've had some serious tares in dress shirts,dress slacks,towels and wash cloths caused by the "Cruel-Action Agrivator".I wil probably never own another.
Never in my life have I ever associated the beauty and charm
Yes I agree completely. I enjoy washing machines, what they do and yes they can be beautifully styled or artfully designed. But they have never done anything for me sexually.... that's what the human body is for, thank you very much!
Yes I agree completely. I enjoy washing machines, what they do and yes they can be beautifully styled or artfully designed. But they have never done anything for me sexually.... that's what the human body is for, thank you very much!
I've never had experience with a Maytag, but it's on my "hope" list, based on what I've heard others say about the machines. If what I hear is even only partly true, the Maytag could end up my #1 daily washer choice.
From a look, I find that the Center Dial Maytags are classy. There is something about the look that, while "old", remains, to me, fresh. Not to say that others are "stale", but they look more tied to an era, more retro. (Although, that's what can make those other machines fun!) I usually don't like white appliances (I don't really like white anything), but Maytag washers and dryers are the exception--I think white works better for the Maytag design than, say, Avocado.
I like that Maytag (at least compared to other brands) understated. As if Maytag was confident in selling the washers based on the quality of the machine, and not acres of shiny chrome, bright lights, and billions of buttons.
From a look, I find that the Center Dial Maytags are classy. There is something about the look that, while "old", remains, to me, fresh. Not to say that others are "stale", but they look more tied to an era, more retro. (Although, that's what can make those other machines fun!) I usually don't like white appliances (I don't really like white anything), but Maytag washers and dryers are the exception--I think white works better for the Maytag design than, say, Avocado.
I like that Maytag (at least compared to other brands) understated. As if Maytag was confident in selling the washers based on the quality of the machine, and not acres of shiny chrome, bright lights, and billions of buttons.
mrcleanjeans
New member
Also,CU claimed in about 1972 that a 1 speed Maytag was the only washer that ruined sheer curtains. They were trying to see if 2 speeds were essential or not.
"CU Claimed" - that says it all!
My parents always had Maytags when I was growing up. The AMP models were neither reliable, nor very effective at cleaning. Of course, their "works in the lid" wouldn't let you see in, even during the wash cycle, but I suspect clothes were just being sloshed back and forth.
In 1963, we got our first TOL helical drive pair. Although they were much better machines, and were awesome to look at, we were able to see that any more than a few pounds of dry clothes, would not circulate, top to bottom. The old slosh was back. We actually witnessed more than once, a normally-sized load have items that never got pulled completely under the water. Three pair of jeans or a set of twin sheets come to mind. Don't even get me started on the Halo-of-Heat dinky drum, dryer.
Both washer and dryer gave 10 years of enourmously mediocre performance without a single repair.
In 1963, we got our first TOL helical drive pair. Although they were much better machines, and were awesome to look at, we were able to see that any more than a few pounds of dry clothes, would not circulate, top to bottom. The old slosh was back. We actually witnessed more than once, a normally-sized load have items that never got pulled completely under the water. Three pair of jeans or a set of twin sheets come to mind. Don't even get me started on the Halo-of-Heat dinky drum, dryer.
Both washer and dryer gave 10 years of enourmously mediocre performance without a single repair.
"Also, CU claimed in about 1972 that a 1 speed Maytag was the only washer that ruined sheer curtains."
Don't be fooled, there's a whole lotta action going on below the surface of that tub. I most certainly enjoy my 2 speed motor/712 console upgrade I performed from the original 1 speed 490, thanks to RCD. Delicate items like bathroom throw rugs and outer vacuum cleaner bags are pristinely cleaned without loosening and exposing a single thread.
Since we have pretty much exhausted Maytag washers, lets discuss their dryers!
The HOH! Maybe has a smaller drum compared to other brands, but wow, what a reliably built tank! Not to mention quick and effective drying with dead on accuracy of the electronic moisture control models. By large outperforms the 81 Kenmore (which has a much bigger drum) on large items like blankets and comforters.
Since the seals in the 81 Kenmore are pretty much shot, and I'm tired of the dust bowl it has been creating in the washroom, (hey, it's almost 30 years old!) I have temperarley swapped it for the DE808 big load dryer (another big thanks goes out to RCD for this one too!). Wow, this this design has really started to grow on me!
Don't be fooled, there's a whole lotta action going on below the surface of that tub. I most certainly enjoy my 2 speed motor/712 console upgrade I performed from the original 1 speed 490, thanks to RCD. Delicate items like bathroom throw rugs and outer vacuum cleaner bags are pristinely cleaned without loosening and exposing a single thread.
Since we have pretty much exhausted Maytag washers, lets discuss their dryers!
The HOH! Maybe has a smaller drum compared to other brands, but wow, what a reliably built tank! Not to mention quick and effective drying with dead on accuracy of the electronic moisture control models. By large outperforms the 81 Kenmore (which has a much bigger drum) on large items like blankets and comforters.
Since the seals in the 81 Kenmore are pretty much shot, and I'm tired of the dust bowl it has been creating in the washroom, (hey, it's almost 30 years old!) I have temperarley swapped it for the DE808 big load dryer (another big thanks goes out to RCD for this one too!). Wow, this this design has really started to grow on me!
mrcleanjeans
New member
Queen for way more than a day
I like old solid tub Speed Queens MUCH better. They are rarer, agitate loads much better, float lint down the drain with no need for a gooey washable lint screen though SQ did try briefly to have one-and rinse better with an overflow rinse-plus they have a more industrial look to them. I realize Maytags last longer however. Also I love the non-chipping stainless steel SQ tub.
I like old solid tub Speed Queens MUCH better. They are rarer, agitate loads much better, float lint down the drain with no need for a gooey washable lint screen though SQ did try briefly to have one-and rinse better with an overflow rinse-plus they have a more industrial look to them. I realize Maytags last longer however. Also I love the non-chipping stainless steel SQ tub.
Actually, they showed pictures of casement fabric that had been pulled out of shape, distorted, warped; I don't know the exact term; damaged is as good as any. I read that report while my mom was shopping for groceries at the Treasure Island store near us. Premium gas was still 33 cents a gallon at their automotive center. The other boot hit the floor a year or two later when CU had a picture of laundry baskets filled with dry laundry that demonstrated, graphically, that the Whirlpool machine could wash in two loads what the standard tub Maytag required three loads to wash. CU never tested the standard tub Maytag again.
I hate to burst air bubbles, but they were not unknown in my Maytags, usually in the rinse, until I started running them with the 50 cycle pulley kit.
Why does that pair of pink Maytags have a white light behind the control panel? What happened to the tinted plastic tubes in pink for those machines into which you inserted the tube to make the control panel glass coordinate with the cabinet color when the light was on? Sorta gross? Yes, but very 50s. The pink was probably better than the yellow or turquoise.
I hate to burst air bubbles, but they were not unknown in my Maytags, usually in the rinse, until I started running them with the 50 cycle pulley kit.
Why does that pair of pink Maytags have a white light behind the control panel? What happened to the tinted plastic tubes in pink for those machines into which you inserted the tube to make the control panel glass coordinate with the cabinet color when the light was on? Sorta gross? Yes, but very 50s. The pink was probably better than the yellow or turquoise.
I'm not sure you could fit anything but a twin size comforter in a HOH dryer. I've rebuilt alot of machines, and have used them as well. I agree the HOH electronic control was very accurate, but it's small capacity and short cooldown was 2 of it's shortcomings. It was very quiet. The gas version had a standing pilot...Maytag was the last to convert to pilotless ignition. Not to mention it wasn't an easy dryer to service. Maytag boasted about front serviceability of the washers, but was non-existent on the HOH dryers. The big load dryers debuting in the mid 70's (I think) were a VAST improvement. Of course they were....they copied the backless drum design and drum rollers from WHIRLPOOL....which had and still has the same design.
redcarpetdrew
Well-known member
Fred, I never get tired of you showing that 906 set off! I have half of a set with the CDE906. Chances of finding the matching washer? Who knows...
redcarpetdrew
Well-known member
I agree with what was said earlier. Every design has its strengths and quirks. HOH dryers were always kind of a pain to service but they sure lasted! This is my 1972 set which shows Maytags styling flair that will most likely never resurface again. Appliances as sexy? Hmmm... I'm not sure I can agree with that although the Jetcone almost seems phallic... LOL!
redcarpetdrew
Well-known member
Appliance art...
I never get tired of the night shots posted here. Here's the 72's showing off...
RCD
I never get tired of the night shots posted here. Here's the 72's showing off...
RCD
I'm not sure you could fit anything but a twin size comf
I stuff a queen size comforter in my 750/806 about every 3 months. Much better than using the Kenmore and having to stop the machine and flip it around/turn it inside out every 20 minutes. Plus, the Kenmore takes about 2 hours of drying/flipping. The HOH? About an hour and 15 minutes and that's without once stopping the machine or flipping the comforter.
I stuff a queen size comforter in my 750/806 about every 3 months. Much better than using the Kenmore and having to stop the machine and flip it around/turn it inside out every 20 minutes. Plus, the Kenmore takes about 2 hours of drying/flipping. The HOH? About an hour and 15 minutes and that's without once stopping the machine or flipping the comforter.
norgeway
Well-known member
Oh Myyyyyyyyyyyy.
I am about to shout,most of the Norge wringers around here are well thrashed,and everyone knows Norge is my FAVORITE brand,if you dont believe me check out my stove on the super thread, I personally think Maytags are beautiful, well built reliable machines, It is just that I like a rougher washing action,I am not knocking Maytag, it's just like a G M car,I just dont want one,I have always liked the odd or unusual more than the common.
I am about to shout,most of the Norge wringers around here are well thrashed,and everyone knows Norge is my FAVORITE brand,if you dont believe me check out my stove on the super thread, I personally think Maytags are beautiful, well built reliable machines, It is just that I like a rougher washing action,I am not knocking Maytag, it's just like a G M car,I just dont want one,I have always liked the odd or unusual more than the common.
mickeyd
Well-known member
night shot show-off
The Easy at dusk *wink*
The Easy at dusk *wink*
Dan,
I do agree that a bulky item like a comforter does stay damp in the middle, unless you "unwind" it. But, for everyday laundry that's not as issue (not for me anyway).
I do agree that a bulky item like a comforter does stay damp in the middle, unless you "unwind" it. But, for everyday laundry that's not as issue (not for me anyway).
Maytag's got yer "turnover" riiiiiiiiiiiiiight
Just did a huge load of "dawg towels" (six big beach-towel sized towels) and a 3' x 5' rag rug in ol' Maudie (our $20 Craigslist 70s-vintage A407). Temp set on "hot", action set to "regular", load size set on "large". Don't understand anyone who might say that Maytags don't do "turnover"...as I always do, I stood and watched the agitation for awhile. Within about ten seconds, the turnover started and kept goin' until the end. No "swishing around"...just total turnover.
We were amazed when we first got the Maytag at how much cleaner things came out vs the "new" Whirlpool piece o'garbage we'd gotten (that died waaaaaay too soon).
No contest!
Just did a huge load of "dawg towels" (six big beach-towel sized towels) and a 3' x 5' rag rug in ol' Maudie (our $20 Craigslist 70s-vintage A407). Temp set on "hot", action set to "regular", load size set on "large". Don't understand anyone who might say that Maytags don't do "turnover"...as I always do, I stood and watched the agitation for awhile. Within about ten seconds, the turnover started and kept goin' until the end. No "swishing around"...just total turnover.
We were amazed when we first got the Maytag at how much cleaner things came out vs the "new" Whirlpool piece o'garbage we'd gotten (that died waaaaaay too soon).
No contest!
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