We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we back. Why trust us?

Choosing the best washer and dryer can be overwhelming. All the models kind of look the same, the technical terms are for the insiders, and you’re not sure you’ll even like your new washer and dryer when you get home.

I'm the founder of Designer Appliances, a premier appliance store in New Jersey. Over the last 15+ years I've tested most of these products in my own home and in our showrooms, and heard real-life feedback from thousands of customers in real-time.

I’m going to help you cut through the marketing jargon and find the washer and dryer that suits your needs. My expert ratings system will compare apples to apples. My explanations of features are in plain English, and my guide will help you decide when to splash out–and when to stick to your budget.

Head to head: Our 2023 front load vs top load washer video comparison

The 9 Best Washers with Matching Dryers in 2023

These nine washers and their matching dryers that I recommend to customers, family, and friends today.

You will notice that the reviews below focus mainly on the washers. That's because as a whole, washing machines are much more feature-rich than clothes dryers. We'll still point out when dryers have notable features.


1. Best Overall GE GFW850SPNRS UltraFresh

GE GFW850SPNRS Washer on Pedestals
Watch our exclusive video review of GE washers.
Appliance Matchmaker

Is it a match for you?

GE GFW850SPNRS
Reasons To Buy

  • Fights mold better than any other front load washer. Vented gasket is unique and effective. Antimicrobial treatment on touchpoints.
  • Convenient. Store 30 plus loads worth of detergent in the bulk dispenser. GE will release the precise amount (side benefit: you will not deal with soap residue on your clothes.)
  • X Large capacity. King size bedding is not a problem. Cuts down on the number loads you need to run on a busy day.
  • Time saver on small loads. Innovative 1-Step Wash and Dry program will wash and dry a small load in the washer. No need to transfer clothes to the dryer.
  • Great colors. The Sapphire Blue is my favorite.
Reasons To Avoid

  • This GE washer and dryer set might be too high in a stackable format.
  • Does not have a compelling express wash option for large or heavily soiled loads.

W x H x D (in): 28 x 39 3/4 x 34 | Capacity: 5.0 cu. ft. | Cycles/Options: 12/10 | RPM: 1,300 | Color: White, Sapphire Blue | Steam Washer/Dryer: Yes/Yes | Stackable: Yes | Energy Star: Yes

Why I chose this GE GFW850SPNRS as our best overall washer?

After years of falling behind innovative manufacturers like LG and Samsung, GE washers and dryers finally caught up. How does it benefit you? GE has a proactive solution for front load washer mold.

No need to leave the washer door open: The washer door has a venting system to make sure the gasket stays dry. This is a unique and effective solution in comparison with other washing machines on the market today.

No need to wipe down with bleach: GE treated all critical parts such as the dispenser and the door with antimicrobial solution to prevent mold build up. Today, other manufacturers offer "Microban" treatment taking a clue from GE's success.

What's SmartDispense, you might be wondering. It lets you pour in a whole bottle of detergent in the dispenser, then it releases the right amount for each load for you (for over 30 loads). Saves you time and removes yet one more element of chore.

Are you familiar with a washer dryer combo? It is an all-in-one machine that washes and dryes clothes. Well, the GFW850SPNRS can wash and dry a small load so you can skip the hassle of unloading the washer and moving everything to the dryer.

In the earlier incarnations of this product our customers (including my co-founder John as well as my neighbor Rob) ran into a minor but annoying problem. The washer would trip the GFI (a.k.a. GFCI) outlets. Fortunately, GE came up with a solution to this problem and implemented a running fix.

  • Washing Best

    Excellent wash quality; Gentle on fabric; Steam Sanitize; 20-min short cycle ideal for lightly soiled smaller loads; 1,300 RPM spin speed; 1 Step Wash and Dry is innovative.

  • Drying Best

    Gentle on clothes; Lint filter indicator is a friendly reminder; Automatic moisture sensor; Steam and Sanitize.

  • Ease of Use Best

    Bulk automatic dispenser holds detergent approximately for 32 loads; The control panel menu is intuitive but a little busy; One of largest washers on the market; Wi-Fi connectivity; Self-clean program keep the machine fresh; LED interior lights.

  • Build Best

    Reversible door for dryer only; Stainless-steel drum is gentle on clothes; The chrome vents on the washer look a bit bulky and do not match the look of the dryer.

  • Vibration/Noise Best

    Advanced vibration-reduction tech and leveling legs; Ideal for 2nd Floor (might be too big to carry up the stairs).

  • Brand Reliability Best

    One-year parts and labor warranty. Extended motor warranty. The company has an extensive service network that is considered best in class.


2. Best Budget Samsung WF45B6300AW

Samsung WF45B6300 in a laundry room
Watch our video review of Samsung washer and dryer
Appliance Matchmaker

Is it a match for you?

Samsung WF45B6300AW
Reasons To Buy

  • Price vs value. A nearly unbeatable price for a washer and dryer pair with this feature set.
  • Steam. Its got steam to sanitize and fight allergens in both the washer and dryer.
  • Fast Cyle Time. Wash a normal load under 28 minutes.
  • Ready for the 2nd Floor. Best-in-class vibration and noise reduction tech.
  • WiFi and App Support. Be part of the Samsung eco system.
Reasons To Avoid

  • Customer service. Some customers believe that Samsung’s customer service may not have kept up with its exponential growth in the last decade or two.
  • Complex programming. Advanced programming is both a strength and a weakness for Samsung. Gone are the days of using the normal wash for all loads. Be mindful about using the correct program for the load you are targeting. As an example, stains need different treatment than athleticware.
  • No automatic dosing. It is crucial to use the correct amount of HE detergent in advanced washing machines. Too little vs too much soap will have an effect on the cleaning.

W x H x D (in): 27 x 38 3/4 x 31 3/8 | Capacity: 4.5 cu. ft. | RPM: 1,200 | Color: White; Platinum; Champagne | Steam Washer/Dryer: Yes/Yes | Energy Star: Advanced, CEE Tier 3

So you want to save a few bucks but not miss out on all the great modern features out there? Great. This is the Samsung for you.

Not every washer-dryer set boasts steam functionality in both washer and dryer. This one does, and at a pretty much unbeatable price. (Steam matters because it can help get rid of stains and eliminate wrinkles.)

This model has solid express cycles, excellent noise-reduction technology (called VRT Plus,) and it doesn’t bounce across the floor during its spin cycle. (That will matter to you if you work from home and are on conference calls.) If you’re a Samsung Person, it’s compatible with all your other Samsung gadgets. And the Samsung app is pretty good!

I also like its look: Champagne and platinum are neat choices to have in washer-dryer colors, and you can actually match them to the hardware in your laundry nook. That’s rare among washer dryers.

Little extra touches include a lint filter change indicator, a great Quick Dry function, and an intuitive control panel menu.

  • Washing Better

    Excellent wash quality; Steam Sanitize; Effective Short cycle for normally soiled clothes; 1,200 RPM spin speed.

  • Drying Best

    Gentle on clothes; Lint filter indicator is a friendly reminder; Automatic moisture sensor; Steam Sanitize; Steam is great in removing wrinkles; Quick dry is great for small loads.

  • Ease of Use Best

    Classic dispenser set-up with detergent, bleach, and softener compartments; The control panel menu is intuitive; Plenty of space (at 4.5 cubic feet); WiFi connectivity; SelfCleanPlus program keep the machine fresh; No socks left behind thanks to interior lights.

  • Build Better

    Reversible door for dryer only; SwirlPlus stainless-steel drum is gentle on clothes; Dryer interior is powder coated.

  • Vibration/Noise Best

    Advanced vibration-reduction tech and leveling legs; Ideal for 2nd Floor.

  • Brand Reliability Better

    One-year parts and labor warranty. Extended motor warranty. The company has an extensive service network.


3. Best Top Load Washer Speed Queen TC5003WN with Traditional Agitator

Speed queen in a laundry room with a woman and her dog
Watch our exclusive Speed Queen washer video review
Speed Queen TC5003WN
Appliance Matchmaker

Is it a match for you?

Reasons To Buy

  • No Mold. Unlike the front load washers, you will not have to do any extra work to keep your washer mold-free.
  • Most reliable. Built to last commercial grade parts and judicious use of electronics. Great initial quality. Straightforward to repair. Expect the Speed Queen to serve you for decades.
  • Handles heavy duty loads with ease. Work clothes, towels, blankets, or out of balance loads- No problem for the Speed Queen motor and sturdy drum housing.
  • Fast results. Wash a normal load under 28 minutes.
  • Fill the tub if you want. Forget about the new HE washers. Use as much water as you need, suds and agitation to get the job done.
  • Long Warranty. Speed Queen trusts the quality of its work. Therefore, it is the only manufacturer that offers a 5-year long warranty (as opposed to the industry standard 1-year coverage.)
Reasons To Avoid

  • Traditional looks. Comes in white only. Modern washers have color options along with attractive styling including glass doors.
  • Smaller drum size. 3.2 cu. ft. capacity is smaller than other options on the market (HE machines come at 4.0-4.5 cu. ft.; Xlarge washers even go up to 5.5 cu.ft.) However, don't forget that you can load this Speed Queen to the brim. Still not ideal for king size comforter.
  • Not gentle on clothes. Traditional agitator washers depend on the middle agitator to move through the clothes. Therefore, there will be extra wear and tear on fabrics.
  • Noisy. Traditional washers are much louder than front loading machines. (Ideal for basements and garages rather than inside the house or near a bedroom.)
  • No WiFi. The brand keep things simple and not connected.

Width: 25 5/8 inches | Height: 42 3/4 inches (53-in when lid is open) | Depth: 28 inches | Capacity: 3.2 cu. ft. | Cycles/Options: 6 | RPM: 710 | Color: White | Steam Washer/Dryer: No | Stackable: No | Energy Star: No

What Speed Queen lacks in smart techy bells and whistles is more than made up for by it's simple, dependable performance.

If you want a no-frills machine that cleans your laundry fast, consider the Speed Queen TC5, aka the TC5003WN.

Many families stay loyal to Speed Queen washers due to the brand's reputation for dependability. It's also the only American manufacturer that still manufactures it's appliances in the United States.

The Maytag MAT20MNAWW and GE GTW525ACPWB also get good reviews in this category, but we don't have in-depth reliability data on those products.

  • Washing Better

    Traditional wash i.e. fill the tub with water, soak, agitate and spin. Wraps up the cycle in about 30 minutes. 710 spin speed is not high but sufficient. Not gentle on garments (especially "technical" fabrics will get worn out over time.)

  • Drying Best

    No frills. Choose betweeen timed dry or sensor dry. You can even opt for extended tumble without heat to remove wrinkles.

  • Ease of Use Best

    Absolutely no frills. Knob controls are traditional and easy to understand.

  • Build Best

    Reversible door for dryer; Engineered for 25 year operation.

  • Vibration/Noise Good

    Ideal for basements. Operation is louder than we like.

  • Brand Reliability Best

    Longest product warranty in the industry (5-years). Judicious use of electronics is a big plus.


4. Best HE Top Load Washer LG WT7900HBA High Efficiency Washer

Our exclusive video review of LG top load washers.
LG WT7900HBA
Appliance Matchmaker

Is it a match for you?

Reasons To Buy

  • No Mold. Top load washer design helps fight mold without extra work. In addition, LG uses antimicrobial coating in the dispenser.
  • Gentle on clothes. High efficiency (HE), impeller washers don't have a long agitators that causes extra wear and tear on your clothes. The shallow impeller along with drum moves ensure that you get an amazing clean.
  • Large capacity. 5.5 cu. ft. is a very large drum. It can handle any load you can throw at it.
Reasons To Avoid

  • Noisy. Considerably louder than front load washers.
  • Drying performance. The washer does not spin as as fast as the front load machines. Therefore, you will need to allocate extra drying time in your clothes dryer.
  • No bulk detergent dispenser. It would have been nice to include a bulk dispenser for convenience.

If You Prefer a HE Top Loader

LG dominates the HE top load market in the U.S. with its advanced technology and the sheer number of products it makes. Out of the whole lineup, we think these models shine deliver the most value:

The LG WT7300CW, and its graphite sibling, the WT7300CV, have large interiors at 5.0 cu. ft. Their spin speed, which equates to energy and dry time savings, is the fastest for a top load washer at 950 RPM.

Although the WT7300 model gets a lot of attention, we tend to hear a lot about the LG WT7800CW during seasonal promotionals. You can get the WT7800 with a small upcharge from WT7300. This model, however, is loaded with features like steam, an effective internal heater, and a larger 5.5 cu. ft. capacity.

Samsung, the other big U.S. appliance market leader, also makes a decent solution: the Samsung WA54M8750AW. Handsome in white or black stainless steel, it comes with a built-in sink for your convenience. As usual with the Samsung pedigree, you can manage your laundry using a nifty smartphone app.


5. Best Fabric Care Electrolux ELFW7637BW

Electrolux ELFW7637BW father and daughter enjoying doing laundry
Check out Elyse's video review of Electrolux washer and dryer set
Electrolux ELFW7637BW Washer
Appliance Matchmaker

Is it a match for you?

Reasons To Buy

  • Best-in-class stain removal.
  • Bright-white results without bleach.
  • Great in keeping mold away (Electrolux helped pioneer antimicrobial gaskets.)
  • 15-minute express cycle. (Fast, yet surprisingly effective for both washer and dryer.)
  • Easy-to-read control panel that’s not too futuristic.
Reasons To Avoid

  • Doesn't have bulk detergent reservoir for auto-dispensing.
  • Dryer controls are high in stackable washer and dryer setup.
  • Missing Wi-Fi connectivity.

Width: 27 inches | Height: 38 inches | Depth: 32 inches | Capacity: 4.5 cu. ft. | Cycles/Options: 9 | RPM: 1,300 | Color: Titanium or White | Steam Washer/Dryer: Yes | Stackable: Yes | Energy Star: Yes

Why We Chose It: We love this machine's flexibility as a stackable washer, as well as it's ability to finish lightly soiled loads in as quickly as a quarter-hour's time.

When it comes to stain fighting, Electrolux gets the job done better than any other brand. The ELFW7637BW is Electrolux's flagship product. It's stackable and has a large drum.

We especially love the impressive 15-minute express wash option. It's designed to handle lightly soiled clothes fast, which really comes in handy when you're in a rush.

During seasonal promotions, you can find the Electrolux washer and dryer sets at a discount in major retailers.

As the models in Electrolux's lineup get more expensive, you'll find that they incorporate features like steam cycling, faster spin speeds, more express wash options, and more stain treatments.


6. Fast Cycle LG WM4200HWA

LG laundry on pedestals
Watch our exclusive video review of LG front load washers.
LG WM4200HWA
Appliance Matchmaker

Is it a match for you?

Reasons To Buy

  • Having an all-around modern washer that washes pretty well at a reasonable price.
  • Not worrying about wrinkles when you forget your clothes in the dryer. It tumbles periodically until you can attend to it.
Reasons To Avoid

  • No interior light in the dryer.

Width: 27 inches | Height: 39 inches | Depth: 33 1/4 inches | Capacity: 5.0 cu. ft. | Cycles/Options: 14/13 | RPM: 1,300 | Color: White | Steam Washer/Dryer: Yes | Stackable: Yes | Energy Star: Yes

Why We Chose It: Don't be decieved by this Energy Star-backed machine's humble demeanor; it packs five powerful TurboWash 360 jets, 1,300 RPMs of cycling power, and enough force to wash a ten-pound load in 30 minutes.

The LG WM4200HWA is one of the most energy-efficient washers on the market. Don't believe us? Take Energy Star's word for it. It won the federal program's coveted Most Efficient badge.

Front load washers typically take their time when it comes to cleaning your clothes. It's not uncommon for a normal cycle to run for an hour. Thanks to LG's proprietary TurboWash 360 technology, which incorporates five powerful water jets, this model can finish a 10-pound load in under 30 minutes.

The WM4200HWA comes in white as well as a black stainless color. You can stack it a matching gas or electric steam dryer or place them side-by-side. When paired with its matching dryer, this washer will automatically select a compatible dryer setting based on your load's characteristics.

Pro Tip: LG really streamlined its laundry lineup. If you're looking for an affordable, good-quality solution, the WM4000HWA now comes packed with quick wash functionality, efficient steam cleaning cycles, and Wi-Fi connectivity. It has 4.5 cu. ft. capacity, but the shallow 30-inch depth can fit into some smaller laundry rooms.


7. Large Capacity LG Signature WM9500HKA

Appliance Matchmaker

Is it a match for you?

LG WM9500HKA Washer

Width: 29 5/8 inches | Height: 41 3/16 inches | Depth: 33 1/16 inches | Capacity: 5.8 cu. ft. | Cycles/Options: 14 | RPM: 1,300 | Color: Black Stainless Steel | Steam Washer/Dryer: Yes | Stackable: No | Energy Star: Yes. Tier 3

Who It's For: Buyers seeking an efficient machine that stacks up with the impressive performance of the first, but with an even more impressive storage capacity.

Why We Chose It: With enough performance power to wash king-size loads with ease, this washer will you have you feeling like the king or queen of your laundry room in no time.

The LG Signature WM9500HKA is a stellar cleaner, and it's energy and water efficient. It also utilizes LG’s vibration and noise suppression technology for super-quiet operation. The WM9500HKA even incorporates all the latest optimal Wi-Fi and smart device features that you'd want out of an LG smart appliance.

This LG washer is a gentle giant, with a 29-inch width and 5.2 cubic foot capacity. That means you can easily wash king-size sheets and comforters at home instead of the local laundromat.

The trendy graphite steel color helps to make your laundry area more eye-catching.

The LG WM9500HKA pairs with either a large capacity electric or gas dryer with a steam feature. The one downside? You can't stack it.


8. Best Overall Compact Miele WXR860WCS

Miele washers demonstrating twindos
Watch our video review of the latest Miele washers.
Miele WXR860WCS
Appliance Matchmaker

Is it a match for you?

Width: 23 1/2-inch | Height: 33 1/2-inch | Depth: 25 5/16-inch | Capacity: 2.2 cu. ft. | Cycles/Options: 12 | RPM: 1,600 | Color: White | Steam Washer/Dryer: Yes | Stackable: Yes | Energy Star: Yes

Who It's For: Apartment renters and tiny-house owners who need to prioritize making efficient use of storage space above all else.

Why We Chose It: This brave little machine packs a powerful 1,600 RPM punch, and as a stackable appliance, is able to be fit just about anywhere in your laundry room.

When it comes to space-saving, apartment-sized appliances, you've got more options than ever. However, Bosch and Miele still make the best compact washer-dryer sets in the business.

Miele recently edged up in this category by embracing efficient and expedient heat pump dryer technology.

The WWH860WCS is Miele's flagship washing machine. It pairs well with the only 110/120V ventless heat-pump dryer on the market, the T1 dryer. Both the W1 and T1 are stackable.

Still feeling skeptical about a European-style ventless laundry setup? Check out our in-depth Miele washer and dryer review.

Watch our exclusive video review of Miele washers

9. Most Reliable Compact Bosch 800 Series WAW285H2UC Washer and Dryer

Bosch washer dryer under a counter
Watch our exlusive video review of Bosch washers.
Bosch WAW285H2UC

Width: 24 inches | Height: 33 1/4 inches | Depth: 25 inches | Capacity: 2.2 cu. ft. | Cycles/Options: 15 | RPM: 1,400 | Color: White | Steam Washer/Dryer: Yes | Stackable: Yes | Energy Star: Most Efficient CEE Tier 3

The Bosch WAW285H2UC heats water up to 170 degrees F for an optimal, sanitized clean. It's been on the market for more than five years and regularly receives glowing reviews from our customers. This washer can be stacked with its matching ventless 220V dryer.

The especially shallow depth make this set great for apartment dwellers.

Bosch does, however, make more affordable compact laundry appliances that can run for under $999 during seasonal promotions, such as the WAT28400UC.

Want to learn more about Bosch's laundry lineup? See our Bosch washer and dryer review, where we explain the differences between the 300, 500, and 800 series models.

Watch our exclusive video review of Bosch washers

Our Washer and Dryer Rating Criteria

Washing
  • Basic cleaning; 1,100 to 1,200 RPM spin speed washer; no steam.
  • Drum "choreography" for better cleaning; 1,300-1,400 RPM spin speed; Good stain removal; allergen cycles; At least one specialty (wool; silk) or sanitization cycle; Short wash cycles; Automatic load detection.
  • Best-in-class washing jets; Advanced drum moves; Excellent stain removal tech; 1,300-1,600 RPM spin; Extra gentle on clothes; Specialty and sanitization cycles; Short-wash cycles (without sacrificing on clean); Optimum mix of detergent, pods, and other solutions for perfect clean.
Drying
  • Timed dry; Plenty of interior capacity.
  • Sensor dry; Steam cycle; Some specialty cycles and options; Ventless condensation compact dryer.
  • Advanced sensor dry; Steam, refresh, allergen cycles; Quick dry option under 20 minutes; Heat-pump compact dryer; Both 120V and 220V compatible.
Ease of Use
  • Detergent, bleach, and softener compartments. (Check for bleach compartment on compact washers some do not have it).
  • Easy-to-clean dispenser housing; Stacking kit with pull-out shelf.
  • Automatic bulk detergent dispenser; WiFi controls; Eye-level controls. Interior lights.
Build
  • Alloy drum; Less than 4.5 cu. ft. (2.2 cu. ft. for compact) washer space.
  • Stainless-steel drum; May have patterns to prevent snags; Anti microbial surfaces to fight mold; Reversible door; Leak detection; Over 4.5 cu. ft. (2.2 cu. ft. for compact) washer space.
  • Stainless-steel drum is gentle on fabrics and has patterns to prevent snags; Anti microbial surfaces along with proper ventilation to prevent mold; Reversible door for both washer and dryer; Advanced leak detection.
Vibration/Noise
  • Leveling legs.
  • Vibration reduction technology.
  • Advanced vibration reduction for uneven surfaces and unbalanced loads.
Brand Reliability
  • Expected to last between five and seven years; Good service network.
  • Designed to last around 10 years.
  • Engineered to last 10 to 20 years.

Know Your Washing Machine Type

Did you know that there are different types of washing machines on the market? Retailers sell them as front load, top load, or apartment size. If you want to get even more technical, there are actually two types of top load washers: old-fashioned agitator washers and impeller/high-efficiency (HE) washers.

So what's the difference between agitator and impeller/high-efficiency models? In agitator models, a center post called the agitator rubs against your laundry to get everything clean. It helps loosen dirt and stains and push water and detergent into the fabric.

In impeller or HE models, the washing machine's drum moves in a way that rubs the clothes against each other—no rough-and-tumble center post required. It's a much gentler option than an agitator machine.

Although the type you choose depends on your overall preference, both get the job done. It’s also important to note that all washing machines are electric, while dryers can be either gas or electric.

Want to see these washers in action? Check out our exclusive video review of the best front load washers

Front Load Washers (High Efficiency, HE)

Front load washers are better at cleaning tough stains than their top loading counterparts. Although the wash times are longer on front load machines, they are far more gentle on clothes.

Front loaders also use less water and spin at higher speeds. High RPM (revolutions per minute) spin speeds extract more water from your laundry and cut down on drying time, which saves even more energy.

You'll find that many HE models, whether front or top load, have a certification from Energy Star, the federal program that puts its stamp on the most efficient home appliances.

Most front load washers and dryers are stackable. You can also place them on storage pedestals to use them side by side.

Top Load Washers with an Agitator:

These washers are descendants of the very first washing machines, and they're still very popular in the U.S. Among the pros, they wash faster than front loaders, and they cost less than their HE cousins.

Many people still opt for these traditional washing machines because of their simple controls. They might also feel strongly that more water equals a deeper clean, although that isn't necessarily true.

The downsides? They use a lot of water, they're loud, and they use a lot of water.

Want to learn more? We ranked the best agitator top load washers in our in-depth review.

Top Load Washers Without an Agitator (aka HE Top Loaders):

Since front load washers do clean better than top load washers do, manufacturers married the two technologies. The result: HE top loaders.

HE top load washers generally have a bigger capacity than their agitator competitors. They also use less water and spin faster for better drying performance.

If you're still not sure which kind of washer you want, read our top load vs front load washer comparison, where we cover the pros and cons of each in even more detail

Compact Washer and Dryers:

These laundry appliances are only 24 inches wide, making them perfect for installation in a closet or under a countertop. Although they're typically meant for apartment living, this type of laundry set is also great if you live in a single-family home and would like a second set of laundry.

These washers generally pair with ventless dryers. Ventless heat pump dryers are the pinnacle of technology. They not only save energy but dry clothes faster compared with ventless condensing dryers. We ranked and reviewed the best compact washer dryer models in our comprehensive guide.

Portable Washers

Many dorm rooms and small apartments don't just let you put in your own plumbing for laundry. If you want to save yourself all the trips to the Laundromat, consider a portable washing machine. These units are versatile and easy to hook up to regular kitchen or bathroom faucet.

Dryers come as electric or gas. Which one is right for you? Here is our video review.

Select the Correct Matching Dryer

When shopping, you have two main options: gas or electric dryer. Depending on the washer, you might also have the choice of a matching electric vented or ventless dryer.

Gas Dryers:

Gas dryers use a fan and natural propane to maintain your laundry and smooth out wrinkles. Although this process is more costly than electricity, it requires less drying time. Ultimately, gas dryers are more efficient in terms of energy and money. They also tend to have a longer lifespan than electric dryers.

Because you need a gas hookup in order to run this type of dryer, they're typically more difficult to install. If you don’t already have a gas line in your laundry space, you'll need to have a certified plumber run one from the kitchen or add one to your home before installing your dryer.

Electric Dryers:

Electric dryers work by activating a fan that continuously pushes hot air into the machine. Electricity is also used to keep the clothes in motion as they dry.

Electric dryers are easier to install than gas models, because all you need to do is find an outlet to plug the dryer into. However, electric dryers do not typically have as long of a lifespan as gas dryers.

Watch our exclusive video review of ventless dryers.

Vented vs. Ventless Dryer:

With the exception of Whirlpool’s 27-inch models, most full-sized models are vented. However, small or compact dryers are predominantly ventless. Ventless dryers are easier to install, but often take longer to get the wrinkles out of your clothes.

How To Configure Your Washer and Dryer: Stacked, On Pedestals, or Side-by-Side

Another important factor to consider is the setup of your washer and dryer set. Before you begin shopping, it’s super important to measure your available space so that you can narrow down your options. You generally have two options when it comes to configuration: stacked or side-by-side.

If you're leaning toward a front load set and want them to sit side by side, you can get a storage pedestal to lift them about 15 inches off the ground. This pedestal configuration makes doing laundry easier because you won't have to bend down as far to load and unload. In addition, pedestals act as storage drawers for detergent and other supplies.

Pedestals aren't the only way to give your machines a lift, however. There are lots of ways to build in a raised washer and dryer, including DIY platforms and cabinets.

Please keep in mind that top load washing machines can't be stacked (how would you open the lids?), and that you should only stack matching front load washers and dryers using the manufacturer's stacking kit. Stacking non-matching units or skipping the kit can be dangerous.

Washer and Dryer Set Configuration
Configuration Options for Washer and Dryer Sets

So why would you choose to stack your washer and dryer?

  • You have a laundry closet or small laundry room
  • You want more functional floor space
  • You need more room for storage
  • You like the clutter-free look of stacked laundry

And why would you choose a side-by-side configuration?

  • You have a top load washer that can't be stacked
  • You want to install a counter over your front-load washer and dryer to fold your clothes
  • You prefer to have storage space over your appliances

Noise and Vibration

Front load washing machines are typically quieter than top loaders. When shopping for a new washer dryer set, look for product specifications where the manufacturer assesses noise and vibration levels.

Samsung usually addresses this topic under the acronym VRT, which stands for vibration reduction technology. It's a feature Samsung prides itself on improving with every new laundry appliance product it releases. LG's version of VRT is called TrueBalance. Seasonally, Electrolux offers a "second floor guarantee": The company promises to fully reimburse buyers if their machines move by more than one inch when running on leveled legs.

But what if you're not getting a quiet vibe from your current washer-dryer setup? Let’s break down some of the most common reasons why your washer may be too noisy:

  • Your washer is sitting on an uneven surface
  • Your load inside isn't balanced or evenly distributed
  • The legs of your washer aren't level (this can happen over time)

Fortunately, you and your installer can work on evening out those dryer legs. But if you're past due for a new washer-dryer set, there's still plenty of cool, cutting-edge, reduced-noise options you can find on the market.

Wi-Fi and Apps

Although it’s not an essential feature, Wi-Fi and smartphone connectivity can be a convenience. To some people, it might sound like a dream to monitor their washer-dryer set from their phone. By and large, we find that this technology hasn't caught up to its promise, but apps can reliably notify you when a cycle's finished and smooth your interactions with tech support.

Avoid Pitfalls When Selecting a New Washer and Dryer

  • The number-one mistake people make when they buy a new washer and dryer is miscalculating the size and space. Before you narrow down your choice, it's imperative to measure all the doors and hallways leading to your laundry room as well as the area where you plan to put the washer and dryer. The fact that you have an existing washer and dryer doesn't mean you're covered. New machines tend to be wider, deeper, and taller than older ones.
  • As a general rule of thumb, 27 inches wide is considered standard size, while and 29 inches wide is extra large and 24 inches wide is apartment size. However, the depth of these machines varies wildly from manufacturer to manufacturer.
  • All dryers need electricity to function, but they also need a fuel source to heat up. Make sure that you scope this out before making you choose a gas or electric dryer. You need to know if you'll hook it up to an electric 208/240V outlet (or in the case of Miele, a 120 volt outlet) or a natural gas connection. You might need an adapter.
  • Know when it's time to replace your parts. When changing a washer, it's a good idea to upgrade your old hoses with stainless steel braided hose. In terms of the dryer, you'll need a new electric cord for an electric dryer and a new vent kit for a vented dryer. By code, gas dryers require a new flex hose.

Review our washer dryer installation checklist to protect your investment.


Conclusion

It's no understatement: There are hundreds of washers and dryers on the market. We're here to help simplify the buying process with tips and insights on the latest washer and dryer sets. We hope this information empowers you to make a confident decision.

If you live in New Jersey and still have questions, feel free to stop by one of our showrooms. A member of our sales team will be happy to guide you. You can also see several of these models in person.