ConsumerReports.org

Maytag MDB7609AW[W]

Approximate retail price:

$500

Summary: This Maytag conventional dishwasher has
• A soil sensor
• A self-cleaning filter
• A stainless-steel tub
• No controls hidden
• Ample flatware slots

13 people have reviewed this model.

See all 13 user reviews

Write a review

Type: Conventional dishwasher

Specs
Ample flatware slots Flatware baskets with lids provide individual slots for most of the utensils in our silverware load. Such lids prevent "nesting" and thus improve flatware cleaning. It is more time-consuming to load the cutlery into individual slots, though, so you can remove the lids if you prefer. Ample flatware slots	Yes
Adjustable upper rack Most models hold cups and glasses on the top rack, plates on the lower rack, and silverware in a basket. The ability to adjust the upper rack up or down an inch or so allows for more flexibility in loading items such as tall glasses. Adjustable upper rack	No
Adjustable tines Most models hold cups and glasses on top, plates on the bottom, and silverware in a basket. Features that enhance flexibility include adjustable tines, which flatten areas to accept bigger dishes, pots, and pans. A 'yes' here indicates adjustable tines on at least the top or the bottom rack. Adjustable tines	No
Requires custom door panel Some dishwashers lack a finished front door panel, so you must furnish your own at an additional cost. This enables you to match the dishwasher's panel with your kitchen cabinetry, or to choose a stainless-steel front. Many models with finished fronts also allow you to add custom panels to change the finish. Requires custom door panel	No

Features
Sensor A sensor adjusts water usage and cycle time to the amount of soil on the dishes. This should make a dishwasher use water more efficiently, but we found that wasn't always the case. Moreover, a sensor can increase a machine's running time. Sensor	Yes
Door Lock All dishwashers automatically shut off when the door is opened during operation, so water won't flood out. A few models have door locks that prevent children from opening the dishwasher and touching sharp objects or hot surfaces. Door Lock	No
Self-cleaning filter A filter that cleans itself is convenient, but it can contribute to noise. Note that it's often the costly foreign brands that lack self-cleaning filters and require periodic manual cleaning of the filter. Self-cleaning filter	Yes
Stainless-steel tub Unlike a plastic tub, a stainless-steel one won't discolor, but it does increase the cost of a dishwasher by about $100. Stainless-steel tub	Yes
Hidden controls Controls along the top edge of the door contribute to a sleeker look. Some models hide all controls; others hide only some controls. Hidden controls	No
Displays remaining time A digital display lets you know how much longer the dishwasher will take to complete the chosen cycle. Rotary dials generally give an indication of the stage the cycle is in, less precise but still helpful. Displays remaining time	No
Stainless/SS-look option Stainless-steel is stylish, but it shows fingerprints. Another option: a vinyl-covered metal finish that gives you a stainless-steel look but resists smudging. Stainless/SS-look option	No

Recommended Ratings

Nobody Tests Like We Do: Our testers put 100s of products through their paces at our National Testing and Research Center. Learn more about how we test for:; Performance; Safety; Reliability; Learn more

To find the model that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value. Here's one tip: Don't pay for more features than you'll use.

Dishwashers

Consumer Reports Network