The best washer and dryer combos are all-in-one machines that facilitate washing and drying in one single unit. If you are looking for a combo unit, here are some suggestions to help you choose the best models that fit your needs.

Washer and dryer combo

These compact multi-functional units are ideal for small apartments where there might not be enough space for separate washing and drying machines. Even stackable sets may be a problem to fit into the small spaces available.

Long drying time and higher power consumption may have been issues with older models, but over the decades, the all-in-one units have evolved. They wash and dry your clothes quickly and efficiently, and they consume less power than vented dryers. These machines also come with UL and ETL approval. So, you can be assured that they have been manufactured to meet the best safety standards.

Selecting the best washer and dryer combo

Features to look for when shopping for the best washer and dryer combo are as follows:

-Look at the drum size or capacity. This is measured in cubic feet. Try to choose units with stainless steel drums as these last longer than plastic or porcelain drums.

-If you can afford the higher cost, get the best washer and dryer combo that comes with a lot of pre-programmed settings. These programs make it easy to use the machine, you do not have to experiment with different temperatures, wash cycles, etc., for each type of garment. Also, these preset selections let you know the type of clothes the unit can safely handle, like silk garments, cotton, denim, hand towels etc.

-Look at the Energy Star rating and UL/ETL certification to know how energy efficient a model is, and its safety rating.

-If you are worried about setting up a window kit to release the hot air in the machine, buy a ventless unit. Most of the best washer and dryer combos are ventless systems. The hot air in the unit helps dry your clothes and then it is directed to a condensation chamber. This is another feature that makes it ideal for apartments and other small residences.

-Spin speed is another important measure, it measures how fast the drum or tub spins while washing or drying clothes. The higher the speed, the faster the wash. Many washer dryer combos let you adjust the spin speed. This option lets you adjust the speed according to how delicate the material you are washing is, as some types of clothes can get damaged at high speeds.

-Look for models that have a self-clean option. This program setting cleans the drum and other parts of the unit, getting rid of accumulated dirt. This keeps the unit clean and functioning well.

Some of the best washer and dryer combos for 2018

LG WM3997HWA

This is one of the best washer and dryer combo that has a larger capacity than most other combo units and also comes with many other features that set it apart. It has a lot of pre-programmed settings that allow you to wash different types of clothes. It also has a self-clean setting that will clean the machine itself. It comes with noise control technology through vibration reduction. The washer has 14 different settings.

LG WM3488HW

This is a compact unit that you can also fit into your RV if you are going on a road trip. This is a 14-cycle Front Load Model with a 7-cycle Dryer. It is a ventless model, so it can fit into small spaces and does not have to be paired with a venting kit. It comes with 12 pre-programmed settings.

Magic Chef MCSCWD20W3

This is an affordable washer and dryer combo, but it does not compromise on functionality. It has many different preset programs. This includes a de-wrinkle cycle and also a self-clean cycle to clean the unit itself. It can be hooked up to a water faucet, a good option for people who don’t have a separate laundry room.

Splendide WD2100XC

This is a compact washer and dryer combo that is ideal for small spaces like tiny houses and trailer homes. It has 10 washing cycles and three soil level settings. The soil level setting allows for a deeper cleaning of very dirty clothes. It comes with 7 different temperature settings. This unit has a load sensor that measures the cloth load which helps control water usage.