Picking the Right Washer and Dryer Made Easy

Buying a new washer and dryer might not sound as exciting as getting a new phone or TV, but trust us, choosing the right laundry appliances can make your life a whole lot easier. Whether you’re outfitting a new place, replacing an outdated set, or just sick of battling a washer that walks across the floor during every spin cycle, you’ve come to the right place.

Measure Your Space

Before you fall in love with a fancy new washer-dryer duo, make sure they’ll actually fit in your laundry area. Measure three things:

• Width: Most standard washers and dryers are about 27 inches wide. Compact models are around 24 inches. Add a few inches on either side for hoses, vents, and airflow.
• Depth: Full-size units are around 30–34 inches deep. Make sure there’s enough clearance to open the doors.
• Height: For top-loaders, make sure you can open the lid all the way. For front-loaders, measure the stacking height if you’re going vertical.

Don’t forget to check doorways and hallways that the appliances will need to pass through during delivery!

Choose the Right Washer Type

Now that you know what size you can accommodate, let’s talk washer styles.

• Top-Load Washers: Classic and easy to use, top-loaders have a vertically oriented drum. They’re often more budget-friendly and have shorter wash times.
• Agitator models: Use a central post to stir clothes. Great at cleaning tough stains, but harder on fabrics.
• High-efficiency (HE) models: No agitator, use less water, and are gentler on clothes.

• Front-Load Washers: Sleek, stackable, and efficient, front-loaders are a popular pick for modern laundry rooms.

So, which one’s better?

It really depends on your needs. If you’re looking for budget-friendly, easy access, and don’t mind using a bit more water, go top-load. If you want efficiency, space-saving options, and gentler washing, front-load is your friend.

Pick the Dryer That Matches Your Washer

Your washer gets all the love, but don’t overlook the dryer, it plays an equally important role. Luckily, matching dryers are usually sold alongside washers.

Dryer fuel type:

• Electric Dryers: Easy to install and common in most homes. Require a 240V outlet.
• Gas Dryers: Run on natural gas or propane. Cost more upfront but are cheaper to operate over time (if you already have a gas line).

Features to consider:

• Moisture sensors: Automatically stop the cycle when clothes are dry, saves energy and prevents over-drying.
• Steam setting: Helps de-wrinkle clothes and reduce static.
• Reversible door: Allows flexibility depending on your laundry room layout.
• Vented vs. ventless: Vented dryers need an exhaust duct. Ventless (like heat pump dryers) are great for tight spaces or apartments.

Just make sure your dryer has enough capacity to keep up with your washer. For example, if your washer handles 5.0 cu. ft., aim for a dryer with at least 7.0 cu. ft.

Consider Features That Matter

Modern washers and dryers come with lots of bells and whistles, but not all of them are worth the extra cost. Here’s what’s worth looking for:

Worthwhile features:

• Sanitize cycle: Uses extra-hot water to kill bacteria, great for baby items or allergy sufferers.
• Quick wash: Handy when you’re in a rush.
• Delay start: Set it to wash or dry when energy rates are lower.
• Wi-Fi/app control: Useful if you like tracking loads remotely.
• Drum light: Super handy, especially for front-loaders.

Skip it if you don’t need:

• Dozens of wash cycles (you’ll use 3 or 4 tops)
• Overly complicated touchscreens
• Fancy LED lighting (looks cool, doesn’t clean better)

Stick to features you’ll actually use, and don’t pay extra for gimmicks.

Energy Efficiency = Long-Term Savings

Always look for the ENERGY STAR® label. It means the appliance meets government standards for energy and water efficiency.

An efficient washer can save gallons of water per load, and energy-efficient dryers save on utility bills over time. They may cost a little more upfront but pay off in the long run, especially if you do laundry frequently.

Also, check your local utility provider, many offer rebates for buying ENERGY STAR-rated appliances.

Stackable, Side-by-Side, or All-in-One?

How your washer and dryer fit in your space is just as important as how they function.

• Stackable units: Perfect for tight spaces like closets or small laundry rooms. Typically front-load, and require a stacking kit. You’ll need a bit of strength and a friend to install them safely.
• Side-by-side: The traditional layout. Great for households with space and allows a work surface on top. Works well with top-load or front-load machines.
• Washer-dryer combos (all-in-one): One machine that washes and dries. These are convenient for apartments or tight spaces but usually have smaller capacity and longer drying times.

Choose based on your layout and how you like to work in your laundry space.

Think Long-Term

It’s easy to just pick the cheapest washer and dryer and call it a day, but your laundry appliances are a long-term investment. You’ll use them weekly (or daily), so it’s worth putting some thought into:

• Energy and water savings over time
• Reliability and ease of repairs
• Whether parts are easy to find if something breaks
• How much time you’ll save with faster wash and dry cycles

A great washer and dryer combo can easily last 10+ years if maintained well, so choose one that fits your needs today and your household for the future.

Where To Find Us 

Choosing the best washer and dryer doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re a family of five, a solo renter, or a busy couple doing laundry once a week, there’s a perfect washer-dryer combo out there for you. With a little planning and the right info, you’ll be washing, drying, and high-fiving yourself for a smart choice in no time.

If you need any replacement parts for your appliances, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to locate and order them quickly. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have tons of great information in our repair help section and YouTube videos to help you troubleshoot.

Stay connected with the latest DIY tips, tutorial videos, and repair guides by following us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We love hearing about your repair stories and successes. If you need more help or want personalized guidance, feel free to reach out. We’re ready to help you take on your next project with confidence!

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

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