Black+Decker Washer and Dryer Combo
Dimensions: 33.5 x 23.4 x 23.1 inches | Capacity: 2.7 cubic feet | Included settings: Cold, eco and warm temperatures, delayed start, permanent press sports wear
The Black+Decker Washer and Dryer Combo offers up an impressive 16 washer and dryer cycles to help customize the laundry process to your needs. Among them is something called “My Cycle,” which lets you pre-program your go-to wash cycle so that it’s available at the touch of a button. What’s more, an “Add a Garment” feature makes it easy to pause the machine and toss in an additional piece of clothing without having to restart the cleaning process. The dryer here is ventless, so you can put it in any room, and it plugs into a regular 120-volt electrical socket. Just unbox it, plug it in and get to cleaning your clothes.
Pros:
- Pre-programmable cycles
- Plugs into a regular outlet
- Ventless
Cons:
- Cycles can take a long time
- Not ideal for large families
Best High-Capacity Washer-Dryer Combo
Enjoy A Generous 4.5 Cubic Feet Capacity
LG 4.5 Cubic Feet All-in-One Washer Dryer Combo
Dimensions: 27 x 39 x 30.25 inches | Capacity: 4.5 cubic feet | Included settings: Speed wash, allergens, sportswear, sanitize
This LG combo machine offers a roomy 4.5 cubic feet of capacity, which is on par with a standard washer. It’s loaded with features you’ll find in the brand’s more standard washer and dryer models, including their innovative “TurboWash” technology that claims to trim your washing time by up to 30 minutes. The machine also has a “SenseClean” system, which automatically sets the water level and wash time for each load based on the weight of what you put inside, saving water in the process. Finally, this device also comes with LG’s “ThinQ” technology, which lets you control your washer and dryer features from just about anywhere, as well as keep tabs on where you are in the laundry cycle.
Pros:
- Large capacity
- App-enabled
- Senses laundry level and adjusts wash time
Cons:
- Door gasket needs to be cleaned regularly
- Some users say there is a learning curve
Best Smart Washer-Dryer Combo
A Sleek Machine You Can Control With Your Voice
LG Signature Smart Wi-Fi Enabled 2.8 Cubic Feet All-in-One Washer Dryer Steam Cycle
Dimensions: 27 x 39 x 30.2 inches | Capacity: 2.8 cubic feet | Included settings: Auto wash, easy care, wool
At $3,199, this smart LG appliance is admittedly somewhat pricey. But it does everything short of fold your laundry for you—so that price tag might be worth it for some. The washer-dryer combo features LG’s ThinQ to let you start the washer or dryer with Google Assistant or Alexa voice commands, or through a compatible app—your choice. An auto-dosing function figures out how dirty your laundry is and adjusts the detergent level accordingly, so you don’t over-wash your clothes. The machine is ventless, allowing you to place it anywhere, and has a special Centum System to tamp down on vibrations and noise. While you probably don’t buy a washer-dryer combo for the looks, it doesn’t hurt that this machine has a sleek appearance, including a round LCD display that makes it easy to choose your settings.
Pros:
- App- and voice-enabled
- Automatically adjusts detergent levels
- Stylish look
Cons:
- Expensive
- Capacity may not be large enough for bigger households
Best Value Washer-Dryer Combo
A Value Option With 14 Programmable Functions
Equator 1.57 Cubic Feet Smart and Compact All-in-One Washer and Dryer Combo
Dimensions: 33.5 x 23.5 x 22 inches | Capacity: 1.57 cubic feet | Included Settings: Delay start, wrinkle guard, quiet, winterize
This Equator washer-dryer is the best one out there in its relatively low price point. With a 1.57 cubic feet capacity (or 13 pounds of clothes), it’s a little more compact than other machines, but it’s packed with options to help you get a customized laundry experience. The device has automatic water level sensor and sensor dry features, along with options like delay start time and wrinkle guard. Choose from 14 programmable wash and dry functions on the easy-to-view LED display. There’s even a quiet function for those times when you don’t want to be disturbed.
Pros:
- Relatively inexpensive
- Automatic water sensor
- Quiet cycle option
Cons:
- Small capacity
- Not idea for heavy-duty items
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
How We Chose The Best Washer-Dryer Combos
To determine the best washer-dryer combos, we consulted with three experts: Mallory Micetich, home expert at Angi, JustAnswer home and appliance expert Aaron Wilson and Ramon Miguel, owner of Maintenance & Repairs in Salt Lake City and a Thumbtack Pro. Building on their expertise, we conducted thorough market research and analyzed data from the most popular machines, focusing on factors such as capacity, size and settings. Additionally, we considered reviews from real owners to gain a comprehensive understanding of how these appliances perform in various settings.
What To Look For In a Washer-Dryer Combo
The capacity of your washer-dryer combo refers to how much laundry it can accommodate in a single load. Typically, these machines have a smaller capacity compared to separate units, although the LG 4.5 Cubic Feet All-in-One Washer Dryer Combo offers a capacity comparable to that of traditional appliances. According to Micetich, «The capacity of your washer-dryer is crucial as it determines the size of the load your machines can comfortably handle.» She explains, «Washer capacity typically ranges from 2.5 to 6.2 cubic feet, while dryer capacity ranges from 3.4 to 9.2 cubic feet. Smaller capacities are ideal for individuals or couples, whereas larger capacities are better suited for larger families to prevent overloading and straining the machine over time.»
Sizes of washer-dryer combos may vary slightly, but their design is aimed at occupying less space compared to separate washer and dryer units. Miguel explains, «These units closely resemble front-loading washing machines, with some being so similar that you might mistake them for one until examining their functions.» He advises, «Before embarking on your shopping journey, it’s prudent to measure your space first and then find equipment that easily fits within those dimensions.»
Similar to traditional washers and dryers, washer-dryer combos offer a variety of settings. While all the machines on our list feature multiple options for washing and drying cycles, there are additional features, or what Micetich refers to as «fun bells and whistles,» to consider. «These features often boil down to personal preference,» she explains. «You might want to consider options such as pre-treatment features, extra rinse cycles, temperature controls and load-balancing options.» Some models even come equipped with smart technology that enables you to control the appliance from your smartphone.
Are 2-In-1 Washer-Dryers Worth It?
The decision between a washer-dryer combo and separate washer and dryer units ultimately hinges on your specific requirements. If you have ample space available, opting for separate appliances may be preferable (we’ll delve into the reasons shortly). However, as Micetich points out, «These appliances can be a great option for people who live in extremely small spaces and don’t have room for two separate appliances.» While most machines come with a price tag of over $1,000, investing in a washer-dryer combo is worthwhile if it means avoiding the hassle of sending your laundry out or spending hours at the local laundromat.
What Are The Cons Of A Washer-Dryer Combo?
While washer-dryer combos offer convenience for those with limited space, they come with drawbacks. «Washer-dryer combos are great in theory, but they are significantly less powerful than traditional two-appliance systems,» explains Micetich. «You can only do one small load of laundry at a time, and it takes several hours to complete a cycle.» Additionally, you’ll need to wait for a full load to finish washing and drying before starting a new one. Moreover, the capacity of these combos is generally smaller compared to standalone washers and dryers, requiring more loads to achieve the same laundry volume. However, for those with space constraints, opting for a 2-in-1 machine is a practical choice.
Is It Better To Get A Combo Washer-Dryer Or Purchase Separate Appliances?
In general, experts lean towards recommending separate appliances, but they acknowledge that the choice ultimately depends on your available space. For many individuals residing in apartments or small homes, the potential drawbacks of a washer-dryer combo are outweighed by the convenience of having an in-home laundry appliance. Ultimately, Wilson sums it up with this advice: «Choose what’s best for your situation.»
