How to Choose the Best Washer and Dryer

washing machines lined up in a row

With so many washer and dryer options today, it can be hard to decide which one best suites your needs. Do you have a family with a lot of laundry? Is its capacity important to you? Do you care if it’s energy efficient? Here are some more of the top things to consider before choosing the best washer and dryer for you.

Washers

First, determine what you and your family needs in a washer in terms of capacity, water and energy efficiency, volume, length of wash cycle, programs, and filtering systems.

Types of Washing Machines

Generally, there are two types of washing machines — top-loading and front-loading. Each type has its pros and cons. For instance, a top loader is not as energy efficient as a front loader. But, a front loader generally has a longer wash cycle.

Capacity

Capacity should be one of your first considerations when choosing a washer. Choose a machine that will meet the needs of your family. Most washers measure in kilograms. A machine that can handle 6-7 kilograms (approximately 12-15 pounds) is large enough for a family with a couple of children.

Efficiency

Water efficiency is measured by how efficiently the machine spends its energy. Because each area of the country has different water-usage figures, check with your local water utility to determine the best ways to save in your area. Keep in mind that a top-loader is not as energy efficient as a front loader.

Volume

Whether you care how loud your machine is depends on your living situation. Do you live on the second floor, and are you keeping your neighbor’s need in mind? Where will your machine be located? If you’ll be doing laundry in the basement or garage, its volume won’t matter as much as if it’s located next to the family room.

Cycle Length

If you’re often in a rush, or if you have a lot of laundry that needs to be done because you have a large family, you don't want a washer that takes too long to run a load. Top-loaders are usually best if you want shorter washing cycles.

Machine Programs and Settings

While many programs on a washing machine aren’t necessary, you may choose one machine over another for a specific program that appeals to your needs. Many are available, such as spin speed, gentle cycles, and hand-washing cycles. Some modern washers can even determine the size of the load, the proper cycle to use, and how dirty your laundry is. These machines will likely be more expensive than basic ones.

Filtering Systems

The filtering system strips lint away from your clothing as the machine washes them. Sometimes, top-loaders have issues with stripping away lint. If you have a lot of lint or animal hair on your clothes, you may want to invest in a front-loader.

Additional Top-Loader Pros and Cons

In addition to some of the above pros and cons, top-loaders are usually cheaper, more lightweight, and have a larger capacity. However, they are often less energy-efficient, use more laundry detergent, and harder on clothing.

Additional Front-Loader Pros and Cons

Front-loading washing machines are usually more energy-efficient, use less detergent, and have a faster spin cycle, which leads to a shorter drying time. However, they are initially more expensive than top-loaders, can crease clothes, and are heavier.

Dryers

While you should still do some research before choosing your dryer, most dryers are fairly equal. They all spin your clothing in a drum with a heat source. Below are two of the largest ways they differ.

Efficiency

If you’re budget-conscious, you may want to consider using a gas dryer because they’re more energy-efficient. In addition, although dryers use a lot of energy, newer models have specialized options for drying clothing that can spend less energy depending on the setting. You can opt for one that has a cool-down cycle, a moisture sensor that tells the dryers when to shut off, and a damp-dry cycle. For drying items like shoes, some dryers also have a tumble-free cycle.

In addition, consider installing a dryer-vent booster to increase efficiency and the life of your machine.

Capacity

Dryers are rated by their capacity size, so choosing one that complements your washer capacity is wise. For example, a 3.5 cubic-foot washer would require approximately a 7 cubic-foot dryer capacity. Dryers generally come in sizes ranging from 5-7 cubic feet in capacity.

Choosing a washer and dryer that's right for you can be tough, but it's doable if you keep these few things in mind. Once you've chosen the perfect set, you can install them wherever best suits your needs.