Washer-Dryer Combo Review

Types of washer-dryer combos

If you don't have space for a full-sized washer and dryer, alternatives include laundry centers (a stacked washer and dryer in one unit), stackable separate washers and dryers or a washer-dryer combo (which uses the same drum for both washing and drying). Consumer Reports has the best coverage of washers and dryers in general, although they do not include laundry centers or washer-dryer units in testing. The U.K.'s Which? magazine is similar to Consumer Reports and features extensive testing of compact washer-dryers (but none that are available in the U.S.). We also found insightful commentary from owners posting to ThatHomeSite.com's Laundry Forum. Some of the best reviews come from owners posting comments to Buzzillions.com, Sears.com and Epinions.com.

Stackable washer-and-dryer units come in two forms. Some are all-in-one units called laundry centers, which have controls at eye level for the dryer (which is mounted on top), and either a top-load or front-load washer on the bottom. Laundry centers take up minimal floor space, can fit nicely in a kitchen or upstairs closet and offer many of the same features as full-sized washers. The downside to laundry centers is that they have fewer features, capacity tends to be a bit smaller and they are more difficult to install and repair.

The other configuration is to mount a separately purchased dryer on top of a front-load washer. Not all washers can be stacked this way. Obviously, the washer must be front-loading, with controls on the front. The dryer also needs to have front-mounted controls rather than a console at the rear. Stacking units in this way can cause a height problem in that the controls for the dryer may be out of reach.

The last option is a washer-dryer combo, which washes and dries clothing in the same unit. Washer-dryer combinations don't need to be vented to the outside since they are condensing dryers. They usually also use a regular 110-volt outlet. The downside is that these expensive models can only dry about half as much as they wash, and cycles can take an entire morning. Most reviews say these washer-dryer combinations just aren't worth it unless you have no other option. We found about as many complaints for the LG WM3431HW (*Est. $1,350) and Malber WD1000 (*Est. $850) as we did compliments.