Can a Maytag washer wash a king size comforter?
Yes, the Maytag MVWB855DW0 can wash many comforters, but king-size comforters are often too large when wet. For best results, load the comforter loosely and use the Bulky/Sheets cycle as recommended in the MVWB855DW0 owner's manual.
- Select Bulky/Sheets for oversized items (comforters, bedding, heavy coats).
- Place the comforter in loose heaps evenly around the washplate; do not tightly pack.
- Avoid washing a single heavy item by itself if it causes banging; add a few similar items (like towels) only if the load can still move freely.
- Do not add extra water; overfilling can increase imbalance.
- Use HE (high efficiency) detergent only.
| Comforter type | Typical MVWB855DW0 result | Best practice |
|---|---|---|
| Thin king (down/alternative) | Often OK | Bulky/Sheets, loose load |
| Thick king (very plush) | Often too heavy when wet | Use a laundromat large-capacity washer |
| Small comforter/throw | Usually OK | Bulky/Sheets or normal, loose load |
An out-of-balance load is the most common issue with bulky bedding.
- Pause the cycle and redistribute the comforter evenly.
- Run a smaller load next time.
- Make sure the washer is level and all feet are firmly on the floor.
- If the lid will not lock or the cycle will not start, check the washer lid lock assembly W10810403.
Bulky items can trap water and shift during spin. Loading loosely and choosing the right cycle helps the washer balance correctly, protects the drive system, and improves rinsing and cleaning.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the most common problem with a Maytag washer?
On the Maytag MVWB855DW0 washer, the most common customer-reported problems are not draining or not spinning (loads stay wet) and not filling or stopping mid-cycle. These issues are often tied to installation, oversudsing, an unbalanced load, or a failed component such as the lid lock or inlet valve.
- Washer won’t run or fill: water supply valves off, kinked hoses, clogged inlet screens, or a failing inlet valve.
- Washer not draining/spinning; loads still wet: drain hose installation issue, oversudsing from too much detergent, or items caught in the drain system.
- Lid lock light flashing: lid not fully closed or lid lock not latching.
- Clicking/metallic noises: washer not level, feet not firmly on the floor, or objects in the drain system.
- Poor cleaning: adding extra water (lifts clothes off the washplate) or using non-HE detergent.
- Confirm power and water: plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet; verify both hot and cold faucets are fully on.
- Use the right detergent: use HE detergent and measure carefully; too much suds can slow or stop draining and spinning.
- Load correctly: place items in loose heaps evenly around the washplate; avoid tightly packing.
- Check the drain hose setup: make sure the standpipe insertion is not too deep (a common cause of drain problems).
- Run a rinse and spin: if you suspect oversudsing, cancel the cycle and run Rinse & Spin without adding more detergent.
| Symptom | Common part to check | What it affects |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t fill or fills slowly | Washer water inlet valve W11165546 | Water entering the washer |
| Won’t start, stops, lid won’t unlock | Washer lid lock assembly W10810403 | Lid safety lock and cycle operation |
| Won’t drain well | Washer drain hose W11244231 | Water leaving the washer |
Drain/spin and fill problems can look like major failures, but they are often caused by oversudsing, load balance, or hose setup. Fixing those basics first prevents repeat issues and helps protect the drive system and tub suspension.
For model-specific operating and troubleshooting steps, follow the MVWB855DW0 owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026
What's the average lifespan of a Maytag washer?
Most Maytag washers, including the Maytag MVWB855DW0 top-load high-efficiency washer, typically last 10 to 13 years with normal household use. Consistent care (correct detergent, balanced loads, and fixing small problems early) is what most often determines whether you land on the low or high end of that range.
- Detergent choice and amount: Use only HE detergent and avoid over-dosing to prevent suds-related strain on draining and spinning.
- Load habits: Don’t tightly pack; load items in loose heaps evenly around the washplate to reduce out-of-balance wear.
- Drain and spin performance: Slow draining or repeated “still wet” loads can overwork the drive system.
- Installation and leveling: Feet firmly on the floor and a level cabinet reduce vibration and component fatigue.
- Fast response to symptoms: Clicking/metallic noises, poor spin, or repeated error conditions should be addressed promptly.
Use these habits to extend the life of the motor, clutch, and suspension:
- Measure HE detergent; use less if you see excess suds
- Choose the right cycle and spin speed for the load
- Add an Extra Rinse when washing heavy lint, pet hair, or sandy items
- Keep loads balanced; pause and redistribute if the washer thumps
- Verify the drain hose is installed correctly and not pushed too far into the standpipe
| Usage pattern | Typical lifespan | What usually shortens it |
|---|---|---|
| Light (1 to 3 loads/week) | 12 to 15 years | Long periods of non-use, corrosion, poor storage conditions |
| Average (4 to 7 loads/week) | 10 to 13 years | Overloading, chronic unbalance, too much detergent |
| Heavy (8+ loads/week) | 7 to 10 years | Frequent heavy loads, vibration, delayed repairs |
A washer that is kept level, loaded correctly, and run with the right HE detergent typically avoids the most common “wear accelerators” (excess vibration, suds-related draining issues, and drive stress). For model-specific operating guidance and care routines, follow the MVWB855DW0 owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026





