Appliances Review - Washer - Dryer Combo

TopTenReview

It turns out that tiny, closeted space is often all the room you have for a washer and dryer, two appliances that don't always fit side-by-side. Appliance manufacturers have anticipated this, however, and created washer dryer combo devices that can wash and dry your clothing without requiring additional floor space.

Stacked appliances and combo washer-dryers appeal to consumers with very limited space. Whether you have a laundry area the size of a coat closet or a tiny nook in the kitchen, these washer-dryer combinations won’t impose on space. They typically average 24 to 27 inches in width and 33 to 35 inches tall for the all-in-one device, or upward of 75 inches tall for stackable devices.

Washer/Dryer Combos: What to Look For

The best washer dryer combos come in one of two options. The first is the stackable appliance, which places a full-size dryer on top of a full-size washer to minimize its footprint. The second option is a combination appliance that can both wash and dry clothes, so you don't need to transfer laundry between machines. When identifying the best options, consider the key attributes we've outlined below.

Features
Many all-in-one washer dryer sets are designed for front loading, which means they use less water and electricity while in use. However, this design risks mold buildups if the machine is not properly cared for. An ideal combo appliance will also offer multiple wash and dry cycles to match the sensitivity of the fabrics being cleaned.

Drying Time
When shopping for a combination washer dryer, pay special attention to the efficiency of the appliance’s dry cycle. The small design of the device can lead to longer drying times, since the combo is unable to adequately remove moisture. Some laundry combination appliances are equipped with a dryer vent and thus boast normal drying times, whereas others lack the vent and can take multiple hours to dry your clothes.

Compactness
One of the main selling points of the combo washer dryer is its compact nature, easily fitting into a closet-sized space. The height, width and depth of these devices drastically impact whether you’ll be able to fit it into your home. If the appliance is even a fraction of an inch too wide, you’ll have to return it and shop for something new.

Capacity
The typical washer dryer combo is much more compact than a standard side-by-side unit, offering around 7 cubic feet for the dryer and between 1.3 and 2 cubic feet for the washer. Smaller washer and dryer combos exist that require you to run more loads of laundry, though their capacity is ultimately dependent on their size and, consequently, the compactness of the room.

When space is in short supply, your best course of action is often to combine appliances when and where possible. The design and availability of washer dryer combinations make them an ideal choice for apartments, motor homes and other compact dwellings.