Are you ready to kick your laundry routine up a notch? If you’re on the hunt for a new washer and dryer—or eyeing an upgrade that promises to elevate your laundry routine—washer/dryer combos are worth your attention. Compact, efficient, and incredibly convenient, these single units are designed to fit seamlessly into your life and space, accomplishing both washing and drying in one machine. Explore some of the benefits of all-in-one laundry, and learn why these appliances might be the smartest addition to your household.
Understanding washer/dryer combos
Washer/dryer combos are innovative appliances that fuse both a washing machine and a dryer into a single unit. This two-in-one approach to laundry streamlines the process of doing laundry by eliminating the need to transfer wet clothes from a washer to a separate dryer.
These units are beneficial for those who have limited space since they only occupy the footprint of one appliance instead of two. But they can also open up space you do have for other things, even in larger laundry rooms and areas.
How do they work?
Washer/dryer combos use a front-loading design that contributes to their compact form. The same drum that washes your clothes continues on to perform the drying function as well. Unlike traditional dryers, washer/dryer combos typically use a ventless drying system. This means they do not require an external vent and can be installed in a variety of settings where venting to the outside is impossible or impractical.
The washing process is similar to a standard washing machine. But once done, and after the machine flushes out the excess water and detergent, it can commence a drying cycle, if selected. Keep in mind that whether it uses condensation drying whereby steam circulates back and hot air recirculates to dry the clothing or linens, or vented where steam escapes through the vent and fresh air is sucked into the room, these machines will typically take longer to dry your clothes than a traditional dryer. Depending on the method used, you might find that the clothing doesn’t feel as dry as you’re used to until you shake the items out. But the set and forget nature might be worth the extra time, depending on your lifestyle.
Benefits of washer/dryer combos
There are many reasons why a washer/dryer combo unit can be a welcome addition to any home.
All-in-one convenience
A highlight of washer/dryer combo units is the convenience they offer. They allow you to start the laundry cycle with dirty clothes and end with dry clothes from the same machine, without manual intervention between the washing and drying phases.
Th convenience of having it all done at once, however, is particularly useful for those who don’t have time to oversee each stage of the laundry process. You can continue about your day and even if you get sidetracked with dinner or you’re running late from a quick trip to the grocery store, you can rest assured that your laundry can continue.
Have you ever forgotten a load of laundry in the washing machine only to have to re-wash it because it was sitting too long? If so, washer/dryer combo machines might be worth the investment since they can automatically switch to drying once the load is done.
Space-saving solution
Particularly suited for small apartments, condos, or homes with limited space laundry areas, these units take up half the space of separate machines. This can be a game-changer for urban living where every square metre counts. If you’re looking to redecorate your laundry area, even if it is large, the space you gain from using one machine opens up the possibilities to add so much more as well.
Reduced energy and water use
Washer/dryer combos often come with high energy efficiency ratings, and use less water and energy. This energy efficiency is not only good for the planet but also good for your wallet, as it can lead to lower utility bills. Note, however, that with heat pump dryers, the exhaustion of cool air can cool a room, so it’s something to keep in mind during the colder winter months.
They save time
These appliances are designed with busy lifestyles in mind. With numerous wash and dry cycles that can be programmed with the touch of a button, these machines make it easier to manage your laundry. The ability to go from dirty to dry in a single step without moving clothes from one machine to another saves valuable time and effort.
If you’re a household that does multiple loads in a day, this will take longer to complete since you need to wait for both a wash and dry cycle to finish before you can move on to the next load. But through a weekend, you can easily get all the laundry done and be able to enjoy more activities between loads.
Gentle on clothes
The design of washer/dryer combo units typically means a gentler wash and dry cycle for your clothes. Since many use a front-load washing action and lower heat for drying, your clothes are less likely to be subjected to the wear and tear that can happen in traditional top-load washers and high-heat dryers.
Cutting-edge technology and innovation
Combination units often come equipped with the latest in laundry technology. Features like steam cleaning, advanced moisture sensing, and customizable cycles make them highly efficient and gentle on garments. Furthermore, many models are Wi-Fi-enabled, allowing for remote control and monitoring via smartphones.
Wash and dry independently
Washer/dryer combos offer the convenience of separate wash and dry functions if preferred as well. You can choose to only wash clothes, ideal for items that require air-drying, or only dry to freshen up garments without a full cycle. You might want to do this if you have particularly delicate items you would prefer to fluff and hang to dry instead.
Should you get a washer/dryer combo?
Washer/dryer combos offer a practical and efficient solution for managing laundry. For those who are tight on space or time, a washer/dryer combo can be a significant upgrade to your lifestyle. They are designed to fit seamlessly into your home environment, alleviating the hassle of laundry day. With advancements in technology, these machines come equipped with features geared towards making laundry an easier, more efficient task.
Whether you’re drawn to their advanced features, their efficient design, or their space-saving dimensions, a washer/dryer combo can be a wise upgrade of your household appliances.
You can shop washer/dryer combos at Best Buy.
This article was drafted using AI technology and then reviewed, fact-checked, and revised by a member of our editorial team.
