Can a Maytag washer wash a king size comforter?
Yes, a Maytag MTW5820TW0 top-load washer can wash many king-size comforters, as long as the comforter fits loosely in the basket and can circulate during wash and rinse. For best results, use a bulky/large-item setting and avoid overloading (tight packing reduces cleaning and can cause imbalance).
How to load a king comforter (so it actually gets clean)
- Place the comforter in the tub evenly; do not twist it into a tight ball.
- Leave space at the top so water and detergent can move through the fabric.
- Add 1 to 2 small towels only if the load stays balanced; stop if it becomes lopsided.
- Use HE detergent in a measured amount; too much can trap suds in thick fill.
- If the comforter floats, pause and press it down to fully wet it, then resume.
Cycle and settings we recommend
Most comforters do best with longer agitation and extra rinse.
| Item type | Best cycle choice | Helpful options |
|---|---|---|
| Down or down-alternative comforter | Bulky/large items | Extra rinse, high spin if allowed on care tag |
| Cotton-filled comforter | Bulky/large items | Warm wash, extra rinse |
| Oversized, very thick comforter | Bulky/large items (or laundromat) | Extra rinse; reduce spin if it thumps |
For model-specific operating steps and cycle guidance, follow the MTW5820TW0 owner’s manual.
When a king comforter is too much for the washer
A comforter is too large for the MTW5820TW0 if you notice any of these:
- The tub cannot turn the load freely during agitation.
- The washer repeatedly bangs or walks during spin.
- The comforter comes out with dry spots or detergent residue.
- The lid area shows heavy vibration or the cycle stops mid-spin.
Why it matters
Bulky bedding that is packed too tightly can prevent proper turnover, leading to poor cleaning and rinsing. It also increases out-of-balance spinning, which is a common cause of noise, vibration, and premature wear on suspension and drive components.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the most common problem with a Maytag washer?
The most common Maytag washer problem we see on the Maytag MTW5820TW0 is a no-spin or no-drain condition, often tied to a lid not fully closing, a drain restriction, or excessive suds. These issues stop the washer from agitating or spinning as designed.
Quick checks that fix many “won’t spin/drain” complaints
- Confirm the lid is fully closed; this washer will not agitate or spin with the lid open.
- Reduce detergent if you see lots of suds; oversudsing can prevent proper draining and spinning.
- Check the drain hose for kinks or clogs.
- Verify the drain hose height; the hose end should not be higher than 96 inches above the floor.
- If the washer seems “stuck,” wait about 2 minutes; some cycles pause normally.
Parts that commonly relate to these symptoms
If the basics above look good, these model-matched parts are common next suspects:
| Symptom | Common cause | Example part for MTW5820TW0 |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t spin (lid closed) | Lid safety circuit not made | Washer lid switch assembly WP8318084 |
| Won’t drain (water left in tub) | Pump jammed or failed | Washer drain pump WP3363394 |
| Agitates poorly or intermittently | Worn agitator drive dogs | Agitator dog 80040 |
Why it matters
A washer that cannot drain or spin leaves clothes soaking wet and can trigger repeated cycle stops. Catching simple causes (lid closure, suds, drain hose setup) first prevents unnecessary part replacement and gets the Maytag MTW5820TW0 back to normal operation faster.
Where to confirm the exact steps for your washer
For model-specific operating notes and troubleshooting (including normal pauses, lid requirements, and drain hose guidance), use the MTW5820TW0 owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026
How do I reset the lid lock on a Maytag washer?
On the Maytag MTW5820TW0 washer, a “lid lock reset” is usually a simple power reset plus confirming the lid is fully closed; the washer will not agitate or spin with the lid open. If the washer still will not run, the lid switch circuit is the next thing to check.
Quick reset steps (safe, no tools)
- Push the timer knob in to stop the washer.
- Unplug the washer (or turn off the breaker) for 1 minute.
- Plug back in.
- Close the lid firmly (press down on the right side where the switch typically engages).
- Select a cycle and pull the timer knob out to start.
What to check if it still will not spin or agitate
These checks solve most “lid lock” complaints on this style of top-load washer:
- Lid not fully closed: Make sure no clothing is caught between the lid and top.
- Pause in the cycle: Some cycles pause for about 2 minutes; wait and see if it resumes.
- Power supply issue: Plug into a grounded 3-prong outlet (no extension cord).
- Timer not aligned: Turn the timer slightly to the right and pull to start.
- Switch not being triggered: If you do not hear a click when closing the lid, inspect the lid strike area and switch mounting.
When a part is likely needed
If the washer consistently will not run with the lid closed, the lid switch assembly is a common fix for this symptom.
| Symptom | Most common cause | What we recommend |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t spin, won’t agitate | Lid switch not closing | Test/replace washer lid switch assembly WP8318084 |
| Starts then stops | Lid not closing consistently | Check lid alignment and hinge play |
| Intermittent operation | Loose connection at switch | Inspect wiring harness at switch |
Why it matters
The lid switch is a safety device; on the MTW5820TW0 it prevents agitation and spinning when the lid is open. Resetting power can clear a temporary control “hang,” but a worn switch will keep coming back.
For model-specific operating and stop/restart steps, use the MTW5820TW0 owner's manual.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the capacity of the mtw5820tw0?
The Maytag MTW5820TW0 top-load washer has a 3.2 cu. ft. capacity. This is the tub volume used to describe how much laundry the washer is designed to handle per load; it helps you choose proper load sizes and cycles.
What 3.2 cu. ft. means for everyday loads
Use these practical loading guidelines to get the best cleaning and spinning performance:
- Load items loosely; do not pack or press down
- Keep the load balanced around the agitator
- For bulky items, wash 1 large item at a time (add a few towels only if the load stays balanced)
- If the washer thumps or walks during spin, pause and redistribute
- Choose the water level and cycle that match the fabric type and load size
Quick capacity reference
| Capacity (cu. ft.) | Typical description | Common use |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5 to 3.1 | Standard | Smaller mixed loads |
| 3.2 to 3.5 | Mid-size | Towels, jeans, everyday family loads |
| 3.6+ | Large | Frequent bulky loads |
Where to confirm model-specific specs
We recommend keeping the documentation for MTW5820TW0 handy for operating tips, cycle selection, and installation requirements:
- Check the MTW5820TW0 manual for usage and setup details
- Verify your exact model number from the model and serial tag (commonly under the lid)
- Match load size guidance to the cycle chart and water level instructions
Why it matters
Loading to the right capacity improves cleaning, reduces out-of-balance spinning, and helps protect drive components such as the clutch and lid switch.
Last updated: January 2026


