Whirlpool Actually Owns A Staggering Number Of Appliance Brands

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If you had to name five household appliance brands right now, which ones come to mind? Odds are, Whirlpool popped into your head — but even if not, there's a good chance that another Whirlpool-owned company did. Since 1911, this Michigan-based business has been manufacturing and selling appliances in the U.S. — and during that time, it has expanded around the world and acquired an impressive number of companies, including Maytag, KitchenAid, JennAir, and Amana. But despite its global footprint, the vast majority of Whirlpool's sales — around 90% — come from the Americas. For all of those reasons, it's no surprise that the company is one of the most popular appliance brands in the U.S.

Over the years, the company has looked beyond major household appliances, acquiring InSinkErator, which manufactures garbage disposals and hot water dispensers, in 2022. It's also launched several other businesses. These include Everydrop, a water filter brand, and Swash, a maker of laundry detergent. Whirlpool owns several international appliance brands as well, including Acros, Brastemp, and Consul, all of which operate in Latin America.

In Whirlpool's diverse portfolio of brands there are differences in product variety, features, cost, and other factors. For example, when you compare Whirlpool vs. KitchenAid, you'll find that Whirlpool offers a wider array of appliances, while KitchenAid's products often include more premium features.

Established in 1919, KitchenAid is probably best known for its first product, its stand mixer. But it sells a variety of other kitchen appliances as well, including refrigerators, wall ovens, and dishwashers. Whirlpool bought KitchenAid in 1986. Overall, it has a strong reputation for creating durable products, but there are a few things to know before buying a KitchenAid appliance — such as that the brand's offerings are of high quality, but often pricier than competitors' products.

Maytag began in Iowa in 1893, making it older than Whirlpool, which acquired it in 2006. Although Maytag started as a farm equipment manufacturer, it eventually began producing washing machines and other laundry and kitchen appliances. Today, it's known for its washers and dryers, as well as its ranges, refrigerators, and microwaves.

JennAir is another Whirlpool-owned appliance brand, but it's a little different than the other two. Back in 1965, the company launched ranges with downdraft ventilation, so overhead hoods were no longer necessary. Maytag bought JennAir in 1982, and both companies joined the Whirlpool portfolio in 2006. For decades, it was known as a high-end appliance brand, but over time, JennAir appliances fell out of fashion. However, you'll still find JennAir's premium appliances — including ranges, built-in refrigerators, and wall ovens — in luxury kitchens around the country.