Product review (2 stars): Letters Rub Off, Similar washing experience to competitors
First off, I have rental properties where I have installed less expensive washers and dryers where I did not experience the washing guide letters rubbing off.  I have owned the washer and dryer for two years and followed cleaning instructions to the tee. So the response I received (below) from my concern about the washer letters rubbing off told me plenty about how whirlpool wants you to buy their products but could care less after the purchase is made -  pathetic:

Dear Mr. Hunt:

Thank you for visiting the Whirlpool web site.  We appreciate hearing from you concerning your Whirlpool washer.  We apologize for the letters rubbing off; however, we recommend using only mild soap and warm water in cleaning the appliances.  Unfortunately, we do not have a stencil to provide to you; therefore, we recommend obtaining a use and care manual for assistance.

To locate literature on the Whirlpool website, go to [...]. Under Owner Center, click manuals, enter model number and click go. Omit the ending letter(s) of the Model Number if the full model number does not yield any results.