In today’s fast-paced world, every household needs a reliable and efficient washer and dryer to keep up with the demands of daily life. But what if you don’t have a lot of space in your home to accommodate two separate appliances? Enter the stackable washer dryer.
This innovative laundry solution offers the convenience of a washer and dryer in a space-saving design. There are many options on the market, so choosing the best one to suit your family’s needs can take time and effort. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the features you need to consider when selecting the best stackable washer dryer, and we’ll provide some tips to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re looking for a top-of-the-line model or a budget-friendly option, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few of our favorite options for you to review:
There are three types of stackable washer and dryer units available. A traditional stackable washer dryer works by combining two front-loading machines, although options that combine a top-loading washer with a front-loading dryer are becoming more popular.
The most common stackable washer dryer combo features two standard-sized units that require a stacking kit. These units typically offer more washing features than laundry centers, but may not be the best option for shorter people since, once stacked, they can tend to be a bit high to reach and may require a stool.
Most laundry centers feature a single unit with a dryer on the top as a front loader and a washer on the bottom as a top loader. These units are the most convenient option since you can consolidate your appliances, and the controls are easy to access in the center. Plus, it’s easier for people to switch their loads compared to the standard stacked front load combo.
Much like the standard front load, these units are purchased separately and require a separate stacking kit. These units are smaller in size, the dryer is a condensation dryer, and fewer options are available.
Stackable washer dryers are an excellent choice for small homes or apartments with limited space. The first step when deciding which stackable washer dryer is right for your home is to measure your laundry room. It would be a significant headache to fall in love with a unit only to find out it doesn’t fit into your space when you go to install it.
This category covers a few major areas of consideration. First off is your family size. Those living alone or in households with just a couple probably won’t need a super large capacity washer or dryer. On the other hand, if you have a larger family of four or more, opt for a unit with a larger capacity, so you won’t have to do as many loads.
Larger capacity washers typically run between 4.0 and 5.5 cubic feet, and their dryer counterparts run between 7.0 and 8.0 cubic feet. You can get away with washing a queen-size comforter in a washer that doesn’t use an agitator and has at least 3.5 cubic feet or more. If you go with a washer that is 5.2 cubic feet, you can wash a king-size comforter and the sheets together.
All stackable washer dryer units require electricity for the washer, but you can choose between electric or gas for the dryer. For families or individuals with a gas line, you can opt for a stackable dryer that runs on gas, but you will still need a 240-V power supply.
While gas models may be more expensive, they can save you money in the long run since they cost less to run, and they also tend to be more gentle on your clothes. It’s worth noting that if you have a gas stove or water heater, that doesn’t necessarily mean you can have a gas washer dryer. Be sure to check your connections before choosing a gas-powered unit.
Electric options usually have more models to choose from and are less expensive to buy up front. They also require a 240-V power supply. The dryers are less efficient than gas dryers since they take longer to heat up. Still, they are easier to maintain than gas models.
The Wi-Fi connectivity and smart features of some stackable washers and dryers offer a more flexible option when tackling your mound of laundry. High-end models make your life easier by sending notifications when a cycle is complete, and some also allow you to start a load with your phone remotely.
With these smart features, you can delegate laundry schedules to everyone in the household and even start a cycle with a voice command.
Most standard stackable washer dryer options feature the typical cycles such as heavy, normal, delicates, and rinse and spin. Other models feature more bells and whistles that can sanitize, steam, deep fill, soak, permanent press, and self-clean. For those with a busy lifestyle, the self-cleaning option comes in handy to keep the maintenance of your machine in order.
If you have pets or children, consider models with the sanitizing or soak feature to get out stubborn stains. Going for washers with the steam option is another way to release odors and stains, and dryers that feature steam can spruce up your outfit before going out.
ENERGY STAR-certified washers and dryers use at least 20% less energy and at least 30% less water than your standard machines. Over the lifetime of your stackable washer dryer, these units can save up to $360 in energy savings.
Limiting your household’s carbon footprint is better for the environment and your wallet. ENERGY STAR-certified units use less energy, making them more efficient than standard washers and dryers.
Best gas: GE® Unitized Spacemaker® 3.9 Cu. Ft. Washer, 5.9 Cu. Ft. Dryer White Stack Laundry
With reviews that clock in at a solid 4.4 stars, this Wi-Fi-capable laundry center model is an excellent choice for those who want to take the guesswork out of choosing the right water level with GE’s PreciseFill tech. After switching to this system, many praise the space-saving nature and how much cleaner and fresher their clothes seem. Super ideal for smaller families and small spaces.
Some cons include no soak option and no self-cleaning option. With 11 wash cycles and a deep rinse option, you still have the flexibility to battle stubborn stains. As an ENERGY STAR-qualified machine, it offers year-round energy and money savings, which is always a plus.
Capacity: Washer 3.9 Cu. Ft./Dryer 5.9 Cu. Ft.
Type: Top-load Washer/Front-load Dryer
Dimensions: 27inW, 30.88D, 75.88H
ENERGY STAR certified: Yes
Price: $1,749.00
Best electric: LG 4.5 Cu. Ft. Washer, 7.4 Cu. Ft. Dryer White Stack Laundry
This LG WashTower(™) washer uses TurboWash(™) 360, which delivers complete cycles in 30 minutes or less. The electric dryer has a large cavity that sanitizes your clothes as it dries, and it’s certified asthma and allergy friendly. It is a single unit with controls in the center, but this one features both front-loading machines. The smart functionality is great once you connect to the ThinQ app, where you’ll receive proactive alerts to maintain your machines and notifications about usage.
Their sensor dry tech detects moisture levels and automatically adjusts drying time to save on energy consumption and provide less wear and tear. Since both the washer and dryer offer a large capacity, you can save time on every load.
Capacity: Washer 4.5 Cu. Ft./Dryer 7.4 Cu. Ft.
Type: Front-load Washer/Front-load Dryer
Dimensions: 27inW, 30.38D, 74.34H
ENERGY STAR certified: Yes (washer only)
Price: $2,299.00
Best budget: GE® Unitized Spacemaker® 2.3 Cu. Ft. Washer, 4.4 Cu. Ft. Dryer White On White Stack Laundry
Circling back to the GE family, their electric version offers a great budget-friendly option. While this unit is smaller than its gas counterpart, the 12 wash cycles and six rinse temperatures provide a lot of versatility for the washer. The dryer allows fast, easy cycle choices and doesn’t tangle your clothes.
This stackable washer and dryer might also get the medal for the best compact unit. It fits comfortably in small areas, and reviews mention that there’s no need to rewash or restart the dryer to get your clothes fully clean and dry. A big pro is the QR code on the front that can easily connect you to order replacement parts or service requests if necessary. The big cons for this unit are the dryer’s lint trap and the fact that it’s not ENERGY STAR certified. When you open the door to the dryer, lint can get stuck to the door and fall onto the floor, which is an inconvenience.
Capacity: Washer 4.5 Cu. Ft./Dryer 7.4 Cu. Ft.
Type: Top-load Washer/Front-load Dryer
Dimensions: 23.75inW, 27.38D, 74.88H
ENERGY STAR certified: No
Price: $1.499.00
If you live in an apartment or condo, or your laundry room is on the smaller side, it’s worth researching stackable washer and dryer options. Remember to measure your space, so you know exactly how much room and area you have to accommodate your unit.
Our Atherton Appliance & Kitchens team knows our way around the laundry room and we would be happy to answer any questions regarding your washer and dryer concerns. We have a wide range of stackable washer dryer brands and models available and can help make your life easier with our Constant Care Delivery & Installation service.