I have begun to notice the control panel on my Maytag set from 1991 is beginning to crack where the buttons have been pushed all these years. I use this set as my main washer & dryer. As time goes on the panel will continue to crack from age and you will not be able to read what you are selecting. Are replacements for these available? It would be pretty simple to install. I will try to get a few photos on later today.
An easy fix may be to take clear contact paper, remove the trim around the panel (or remove the panel from the trim), and cut a piece of the film a bit larger than the panel. Clean the panel of hand prints an use rubbing alcohol to prep the panel.
Remove the backing and carefully install the film starting in one corner, work your way across it to avoid air bubbles.
Two layers would make that extra thick and hopefully protect it for several more years.