Laundry can often feel like a never-ending task, from sorting clothes to managing water levels and detergent, and finally tossing everything into the dryer. But what if you could streamline this process and eliminate that final step?
That’s where a washer-dryer combo comes in. This innovative appliance washes and dries your clothes in one seamless cycle, making it a perfect solution for busy households or those with limited space.
Whether you're looking to maximize efficiency or optimize your laundry setup, a washer-dryer combo can save time, reduce clutter, and simplify your routine.
Curious? We’ve got all the details on the benefits of washer-dryer combos, along with the best models on the market. Explore the pros, cons, and top picks in our latest blog!
What is a Washer-Dryer Combo?
To get a little more granular with our definition of a washer-dryer combo, this product combines a front-loading washing machine and a condenser clothes dryer into a singular appliance. It is also roughly the same size as a standalone washer.
In terms of price point and brand affiliation, washer-dryer combos typically offer many features that come standard with other mid- to high-end washers and dryers, including smart sensors, sanitize cycles, steam settings, and WiFi connectivity.
In short, washer-dryer combos promise to do everything washer and dryer sets can but with half the footprint, which makes this laundry appliance especially advantageous for smaller living spaces.
Now, let’s discuss the pros and cons of washer-dryer combos.
✅Pros of Washer-Dryer Combo
We’ll start with the benefits of washer-dryer combos:
Space-Saving Efficiency
Washer-dryer combos are perfect for small homes, apartments, or anyone looking to save space. They take up about half the space of a traditional washer and dryer set, making them ideal for compact laundry areas. By combining two appliances into one, you free up room that can be used for storage or other purposes. For those living in urban spaces or tiny homes, this space-saving feature is a huge benefit.
Convenience and Time-Saving
With a washer-dryer combo, you don’t need to switch laundry between machines. Once you load your clothes and start the cycle, the appliance handles both the washing and drying, allowing you to “set it and forget it.” This is especially convenient for people with busy schedules who want to streamline their laundry tasks. Simply start the machine in the morning, and your clothes will be clean and dry when you return.
Comparable Washing Performance
Washer-dryer combos perform just as well as traditional washers when it comes to cleaning clothes. Whether you use pods, liquid, or powder detergent, these machines deliver solid results. They use horizontal-axis drums, similar to front-load washers, which are gentler on clothes, reducing wear and tear over time.
Versatile Functionality
These machines aren’t just for washing and drying combined. You can also use them for washing or drying independently. For instance, you can run a wash-only cycle if you prefer to air-dry certain delicate items. This flexibility adds versatility to your laundry routine, giving you more control over how you care for different fabrics.
❎Cons of Washer-Dryer Combo
It’s only fair that we discuss the drawbacks associated with washer-dryer combos, too. Here are the most frequently reported issues with this appliance:
Limited Drying Capacity
One of the main drawbacks is that washer-dryer combos often have a smaller drying capacity compared to traditional dryers. While the washing function is equivalent to that of a full-size washer, the drying function can handle only about half the load. This means you may need to remove some items or run a separate drying cycle, which can be less efficient for large families or heavy laundry loads.
Longer Cycle Times
Washer-dryer combos typically take longer to complete a full wash and dry cycle. While standalone washers and dryers can finish each cycle in about an hour, a combo machine may take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours to complete both processes. This can be a drawback if you need your clothes quickly or if you have multiple loads to get through.
Higher Water Usage for Drying
Many washer-dryer combos use water not just for washing but also for drying, especially in models with condenser drying technology. Some machines can use up to 55 gallons of water just for the drying cycle, which can drive up water usage and utility bills. If water conservation is a priority for you, it’s worth considering a heat-pump model, although they tend to come with a higher upfront cost.
Energy Efficiency May Vary
Although washer-dryer combos are space-efficient, they aren’t always energy-efficient. The extended drying time and additional water usage can lead to higher utility costs, making these units less appealing for eco-conscious consumers. Again, opting for a more energy-efficient model with heat-pump technology may mitigate this issue, but this comes at a higher price point.