Being on a budget doesn’t mean that you have to put up with inferior performance and poor quality. Sure, you’ll miss out on a few bells and whistles, but you can still enjoy sparkling clean dishes after every wash.
The Maytag MDB4949SKZ dishwasher is proof of that. With its dual power filtration, leak detection, and affordable price, it’s no surprise this dishwasher is a favorite of budget-conscious households—along with the MDB7959SKZ model.
For a slight bump in price, the MDB7959SKZ dishwasher can offer a different style and a few adjustments to its features that streamline kitchen cleanups for your household.
Similar-priced dishwashers from Bosch have better cleaning power, but you might prefer this for its stainless steel tub, which is sturdier and longer lasting.
Below, we’re going to delve into the Maytag MDB4949SKZ dishwasher to help you understand how it differs from other similar-priced models.
How We Reviewed the Maytag MDB4949SKZ
Maytag’s MDB4949SKZ dishwasher is nearly identical to the MDB7959SKZ model in terms of looks as both have sleek stainless steel builds with fingerprint-resistant coatings. But are they any different in terms of their capabilities?
Upon closer inspection of these budget-friendly dishwashers, we’ve found that there are slight differences in their features and functionalities.
To help you decide if the Maytag MDB4949SKZ is the right choice for your household, we assessed the dishwasher based on the following factors: cleaning and drying power, range of operations, loading flexibility, and reliability.
We do not own such a dishwasher. We also didn’t perform any actual tests in our evaluation.
We did extensive research on the Maytag MDB4949SKZ by reading thousands of reviews from Maytag, Best Buy, and other appliance retailers.
To do a thorough evaluation, we also gathered reliable data from independent reviews conducted by various experts in the industry, including USA Today, Bellingham Electric, and Dishwasher XP.
Such data helped us compare the dishwasher to other similar-priced models on the market.
Maytag MDB4949SKZ Specs
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Maytag |
| Model | MDB4949SKZ |
| Dimensions | 33.5” x 23.88” x 24.5” |
| Net Weight | 85 lbs. |
| Noise Level | 50 dBA |
| Wash Cycles | Auto, Normal, PowerBlast, Quick, and Rinse |
| Cycle Options | 4-Hour Delay, Control Lock, High Temp, Long Heated Dry, Short Heated Dry, Sani Rise |
| Tub Material | Stainless steel |
| Number of Racks | 2 |
| Number of Place Settings | 14 |
| Installation Type | Built-In |
| Location of Controls | Front Controls |
The Maytag MDB4949SKZ has reliable cleaning and drying capabilities. It uses a dual filtration system composed of a microfilter and a 4-blade stainless steel chopper, which grinds food residue that comes off the dishes and prevents it from getting redistributed.
Another standout feature is the PowerBlast cycle. It uses high-powered jets and high heat to remove the most stubborn stains.
Combining dual power filtration with the PowerBlast cycle reduces the need for soaking and scrubbing dried-on stains, making dishwashing less tedious.
In terms of features and functionality, it’s almost identical to the MDB7959SKZ model, which we’ve previously reviewed at ApplianceGeeked.
The dishwashers mostly vary in style and aesthetic. While the MDB7959SKZ has top, hidden controls, which can be accessed only by opening the dishwasher door, the MDB4949SKZ has front controls.
Unlike other brands that have huge variations between models, Maytag dishwashers are quite similar in look and performance.
Our Overall Rating: 7.8/10
The Maytag MDB4949SKZ has a sleek stainless steel build and intuitive design that makes it easy to use and maintain.
Here’s a summary of how we reviewed the Maytag MDB4949SKZ dishwasher.
Cleaning performance
To gauge the dishwasher’s cleaning performance, we evaluated how its different wash cycles were able to get rid of light to heavily-stained dishes.
We assessed its ability to remove a wide range of stains, ranging from sugar, greasy sauces, leafy greens, and more. We also checked the consistency of its cleaning performance across its racks.
Drying performance
We assessed the dishwasher’s drying performance by looking at factors in its design that influence it, such as its drying system, rack layout, and tub material.
We also rated it based on its ability to dry metal, glass, ceramic, and plastic items. We took note of all the items that came out bone-dry and those that did not.
Features
In our evaluation of the dishwasher’s range of operations, first, we identified all its features and functionalities. We compared that list to other Maytag dishwashers.
Then, we compared it to other similar-price dishwashers on the market. We relied on data from past reviews on ApplianceGeeked, as well as other independent reviews from experts.
Loading flexibility
We rated the dishwasher’s loading flexibility by scrutinizing the rack design and layout. We looked at the number of racks and their adjustable features.
Then, we identified the amount and the variety of cookware and tableware that can fit in a single load.
Reliability
To assess the reliability of the dishwasher, we mulled over thousands of user testimonials and ratings. Such data helped us understand customer satisfaction and frustrations.
Other factors that we considered in our evaluation include the dishwasher’s warranty, the availability of parts, and the quality of customer support from Maytag.
What do experts say?
It’s a strong cleaner but a slow one.
Like the MDB7959SKZ model, the Maytag MDB4949SKZ dishwasher uses a dual power filtration system to clean the dishes. Thus, its cleaning power is up to par with the more expensive model.
Its PowerBlast cycle uses high-powered jets and high heat to eliminate the most stubborn stains, including dried-on oatmeal and egg yolks. Although it’s very effective, it’s quite slow, taking up to 4 hours to finish.
On the other hand, its Quick cycle can clean the dishes in under an hour. However, it’s more suitable for small loads with light to moderately soiled dishes as it isn’t as effective at removing stubborn stains.
It has a sleek and sturdy construction.
The stainless steel construction of the Maytag MDB4949SKZ is built to last. It’s sturdy and easy to maintain because it’s resistant to smudges, stains, and odors.
Its tub is also made of stainless steel, which is its biggest advantage. That’s because most entry-level dishwashers only have plastic tubs, including Bosch models.
Compared to stainless steel, plastic is less sturdy and less quiet. High temperatures can cause the plastic base to warp and bend, which makes the machine not only unsightly but also inefficient.
Stainless steel has better heat retention than plastic. Thus, it can clean and dry your dishes more effectively than dishwashers with plastic tubs.
Another impressive feature is the front control panel. Instead of plastic buttons, which are more common among low-cost dishwashers, it has tap-touch controls that blend seamlessly with the stainless steel body.
Although the dishwasher’s aesthetic isn’t the most important factor in your decision, we do think its clean and simple design makes it more user-friendly. You won’t have to scratch your head to figure out its controls.
It has a good track record for reliability.
Maytag dishwashers are now manufactured by the Whirlpool Corporation. They have an excellent track record for reliability and customer service.
If you’re looking for an affordable dishwasher that can last, Maytag is worth considering, especially since their models come with good warranties.
The Maytag MDB4949SKZ has a 1-year limited warranty for parts and labor, as well as a 10-year warranty for specific parts, such as its stainless steel tub, chopper blade, and racks.
As one of the more popular brands out there, Maytag dishwasher replacement parts should also be widely accessible and available. Thus, if repairs are no longer covered by the warranty, you shouldn’t have to spend too much to get replacement parts.
What do customers say?
- It has a fingerprint-resistant and smudge-proof coating that makes clean-ups easier and faster.
- Its control panel, which is located in front of the dishwasher, is responsive, intuitive, and well-placed.
- Its digital display and end-of-cycle indicator can give users easy access to the wash progress and time.
- It isn’t the quietest dishwasher, but it won’t cause any disturbance in the home.
- It only has two sturdy racks. They have limited adjustability and space, but they can fit large items like pots and pans.
- It doesn’t have a utensil bucket or any stemware holders.
Summary of Reviews
A reliable dishwasher doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg—and Maytag’s MDB4949SKZ is proof of that.
An overwhelming majority of its reviews are positive, praising the strong combination of dual power filtration and PowerBlast. It can deliver consistent cleaning performances that eliminate the toughest stains, but it just takes a while to do so.
Most of the users’ frustrations had to do with the rack layout and design. The lack of flexibility and limited space makes loading a little tricky and also prevents the dishwasher from accommodating a variety of dishes in a single load.
Other than the loading flexibility, it has high ratings for cleaning performance, drying quality, and cycle options.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has a dual-power filtration system
- Has a full stainless steel tub
- Has 1-year total warranty and 10-year warranty on parts
Cons
- No third rack
- No silverware basket
- Slow cleaning time
Comparison
Sources:
- https://blog.bellinghamelectric.com/blog/maytag-dishwasher-reviews-should-you-consider-a-maytag
- https://www.bestbuy.com/site/reviews/maytag-24-front-control-built-in-dishwasher-with-stainless-steel-tub-dual-power-filtration-50-dba-stainless-steel/6420940
- https://reviewed.usatoday.com/dishwashers/content/maytag-mdb4949sdm-dishwasher-review
