Midea dishwashers are known for affordable price tags, quiet running, and compact size. But while they attract buyers on tight budgets or small kitchens, real users often complain about inconsistent cleaning, poor drying, rusting, and spotty support. Here’s an honest, deep-dive review based on testing, expert ratings, and user feedback.
🔧 What Makes Midea Stand Out?
Midea offers value-packed features at budget-friendly prices. The slimline model MDF18A1AST costs around $400–$500, fits eight place settings, and comes with cycles like Heavy, Eco, Quick, and Sanitize at hi-temp. Noise levels hover around 44–46 dB—very quiet for its class. It also boasts a dual spray arm system and stainless steel tub options on some models. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
✅ Pros & Strengths
- Very quiet operation: Models average 44–46 dB during wash and dry—below normal conversation levels. Many users say it’s barely audible in the next room. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
- Effective cleaning for the price: Lab tests show up to 99% stuck-on food removal. With rinse aid, most dishes come out clean. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
- Energy-efficient and feature-rich: Many models are Energy Star certified and include sanitize, high-temp wash, delay start, half-load modes, and heated dry or auto-door open for drying. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Compact fit for small kitchens: Slimline versions like MDF18A1AST are just 18–24 inches wide and ideal for tight spaces. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
- Low price point: Retail models begin around $350–$450—well below mid-range brands like Bosch or KitchenAid. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
❌ Common Complaints & Problems
1. Inconsistent Cleaning
Some users report dishes or glasses coming out dirty or with soap residue—even after full cycles. Top rack items especially may remain unclean. One Reddit thread described booming steam but no spray action. Others say switching detergent type (e.g. powder/tab) helped, but results remain hit-or-miss. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
2. Poor Drying Performance
Drying often relies on residual heat or auto-open doors rather than built-in heating elements. Many reports note dishes regain moisture quickly or remain damp unless manually unloaded. Some premium models include heated dry or air-refresh features—but results remain mediocre. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
3. Rust & Odor Issues
Multiple users have observed rust developing on stainless steel tub, racks, or even utensils after just months of use. Several Reddit threads report rust spots and lingering smell each time the door is opened. Customer support reportedly declined warranty claims for rust. :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
4. Drainage and Reliability Questions
A few customers encountered dishwasher not draining, requiring motherboard replacement or extended service visits. Others report wash cycles stalling or rack mechanims sticking. Many feel repairs are undervalued or delayed by poor support. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
5. Poor Customer Service
Reddit users repeatedly share stories of unhelpful, unresponsive customer support. Many report being asked to diagnose thermal sensors without instruction, and having to wait weeks for service. Warranty assistance often feels out of reach. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
👥 Real User Voices
“The dishwasher stinks each time you open it… my stainless steel utensils have rusted… Customer Service stinks too. No help.” :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
“It begins the cycle… water rushing… very hot… but no cleaning being done.” :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
“Had to replace the first one under warranty… since then it’s going strong… ultra quiet!” :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
🛠 Feature Highlights (Popular Models)
Midea MDF18A1AST (18″ Built-In)
- Six cycles including sanitize and quick wash
- Stainless steel tub or plastic alternative
- Heated dry, hi-temp, sensors, delay start
- Dual spray arms and self-cleaning filter
- Quiet operation and compact footprint :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
Midea MDC22P2ASS (Countertop Model)
- Six cycles including heavy and baby-care
- 360° spray arm and removable filter
- Auto door open drying & air refresh function (Odor control)
- Energy Star rated, low water consumption (~2.8 gallons)
- Quiet at ~52 dB for a countertop model :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
🔍 Summary Table: Pros & Cons
| 👍 Pros | 👎 Cons |
|---|---|
| Very affordable—usually under $500 | Cleaning can be inconsistent; top rack loading issues common |
| Quiet operation (44–52 dB) | Drying performance often poor without rinse aid or manual unloading |
| Energy-efficient models with sanitize and delay features | Rust issues on tub or dishes reported quickly after use |
| Compact fit, stainless tub options, user-friendly layout | Poor customer support and difficulty sourcing parts or service |
✅ Who Should Consider a Midea?
Good fit if you:
- Need a quiet, compact dishwasher on a tight budget
- Use rinse aid consistently and don’t mind manually unloading dishes
- Use it lightly or as secondary appliance (e.g. in a small kitchen, rental unit)
Better to avoid if you:
- Rely on dishwasher performance daily and expect spotless results
- Avoid hand intervention for cycles or drying
- Depend on strong warranty protection and customer support
- Want long-term reliability and rust-free operation
💡 Tips Before Buying a Midea
- Check local service coverage—parts and technicians may be limited
- Register warranty promptly and document any issues with photos
- Plan to use rinse aid and possibly crack the door post-cycle to aid drying
- Avoid contact with hard metals or stainless utensils prone to corrosion
- Test a cycle before accepting installation—pay attention to smell, cleaning, and rack motion
🔚 Final Takeaway
Midea dishwashers deliver impressive features and quiet operation at a fraction of the cost of premium brands. They’re a smart short‑term choice for small households or rental units. But real-world users warn of cleaning, drying, rust, and support headaches that may turn that bargain into a burden over time.
If excellent performance, easy service access, and peace of mind matter—investing a bit more in brands like Bosch, Whirlpool, or KitchenAid may deliver greater long‑term satisfaction. But if you’re willing to accept tradeoffs and keep expectations modest, a Midea can be a budget-friendly workhorse—just treat it like one.