Buying guide for best stackable washer and dryer
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When you’re short on space, stackable washers and dryers are a convenient solution. They're available in a range of configurations, but most are front-loading machines.
True stackable washers and dryers come as two separate units that can be stacked on top of one another or used separately. This gives you the flexibility to change the layout of your laundry room if you desire. You can also find all-in-one stacked units that can't be separated.
Before choosing the best stackable washer and dryer for your home, it pays to do your research. Our favorite stackable washer and dryer is the LG WashTower Laundry Center. It's easy to use, washes and dries effectively and has a larger capacity than many stacked washers and dryers.
Expert tip
Always measure your space prior to purchasing a stackable washer and dryer. Different brands and models can be very different sizes.
BestReviews Cleaning Expert
Which stackable washer and dryer is best?
Best large-capacity stackable washer and dryer
Product specifications
Capacity: Washer is 4.5 cu ft; dryer is 7.4 cu ft | Dimensions: 27” W x 31” D x 75” H | Weight: 364 lb | Agitator/Impeller Type: Impeller | Dryer Fuel Type: Electric | Maximum Spin Speed: 1,300 rpm | Number of Wash Speeds: 5
This is one of the best stackable washers and dryers if you’re happy with a fixed stack. While it takes up more room than some, it makes up for its footprint of 27 inches by 31 inches with a large capacity. The washer has a capacity of 4.5 cubic feet, and the dryer has a capacity of 7.4 cubic feet.
Both the washer and dryer are front-load machines. The washer has an impeller, which is gentler on clothes than an agitator. The maximum spin speed of 1,300 rpm gets clothes fairly dry, which translates to less time in the dryer.
We love this machine for its generous capacity and range of settings. It has steam-wash and dry settings and a setting to reduce allergens in clothing. It has AI technology to detect fabric types and adjust the wash as necessary. It also has a drying sensor so the dryer doesn't under-dry or over-dry your laundry.
Best apartment-size washer and dryer
Product specifications
Capacity: Washer is 1.6 cu ft; dryer is 3.4 cu ft | Dimensions: 24” W x 27” D x 74” H | Weight: 205 lb | Agitator/Impeller Type: Impeller | Dryer Fuel Type: Electric | Maximum Spin Speed: 850 rpm | Number of Wash Speeds: 2
Are you looking for an apartment-size washer and dryer? This is one of the best washers and dryers for small rooms, taking up roughly 27 inches by 24 inches of floor space. It’s not the best for large households, as the washer has a capacity of just 1.6 cubic feet, and the dryer has a capacity of 3.4 cubic feet. For one or two people, however, it’s a great choice.
The washer has a top-load design, which can only be found in laundry centers — not on separate washers and dryers that stack. So, if you prefer a top-load washer, this is a suitable choice. The dryer has normal and delicate settings. You can do a timed dry or stick to "more dry" or "less dry" settings. There's also an air-only function.
This is among the best stackable washers and dryers for apartment living. We love the fact that it’s compact yet still does an excellent job washing and drying clothes.
Best laundry center with gas dryer
Product specifications
Capacity: Washer is 3.8 cu ft; dryer is 5.9 cu ft | Dimensions: 30” W x 34” D x 78” H | Weight: 279 lb | Agitator/Impeller Type: Single-action agitator | Dryer Fuel Type: Gas | Maximum Spin Speed: 800 rpm | Number of Wash Speeds: 1
If your laundry room is set up for a gas dryer, this model is among the best options. It has a generous capacity considering the amount of space it takes up. Its footprint is roughly 30 inches by 34 inches, yet it has an impressive washer capacity of 3.8 cubic feet and a dryer capacity of 5.9 cubic feet.
While it technically only has one spin speed to select, the spin speed matches the fabric type. In other words, you can expect the washer to select the best spin speed to effectively remove water from your laundry without damaging the fabric. It can also automatically sense the size of the load and adjust the water level, so you get a good clean without overusing water.
We appreciate the combination of a compact footprint and decent capacity. It's a great choice for people who want an all-in-one washer/dryer unit with a top-load washer.
Best separate stackable washer and dryer set
Product specifications
Capacity: Washer is 4.5 cu ft; dryer is 7.5 cu ft | Dimensions: 29” W x 34” D x 78” H (stacked) | Weight: 318 pounds (combined) | Agitator/Impeller Type: Impeller | Dryer Fuel Type: Electric and gas options | Maximum Spin Speed: 1,200 rpm | Number of Wash Speeds: 5
This set is a strong contender for anyone who wants a top-quality stackable washer and dryer set that comes as two separate units. We appreciate the versatility of this set: stack the washer and dryer pair if that makes sense, or position them individually if that works for your space. Best of all, you’re free to change the configuration later if you want to.
The front-load washer has a generous capacity of 4.5 cubic feet. There are plenty of wash settings, including settings for towels, bedding and delicates. The maximum spin speed is 1,200 rpm, so laundry comes out dry enough to reduce time spent in the dryer.
With a capacity of 7.5 cubic feet, the dryer is also large. You can choose between an electric dryer or a gas dryer, depending on your existing hookup.
The versatility of this set makes it one of our favorites. We like that it has a quick-wash setting that takes just 28 minutes, which is helpful when you need clean clothes in a hurry. The steam settings are great for sanitizing clothes and removing stains.
Best stackable washer and dryer with steam settings
Product specifications
Capacity: Washer is 4.5 cu ft; dryer is 8 cu ft | Dimensions: 27” W x 32” D x 76” H (stacked) | Weight: 343 lb (combined) | Agitator/Impeller Type: Impeller | Dryer Fuel Type: Electric and gas options | Maximum Spin Speed: 1,300 rpm | Number of Wash Speeds: 5
Thanks to the steam settings on this stackable washer and dryer set, it performs even better than most washers and dryers. The washer is excellent at stain removal and can sanitize laundry, while the dryer can remove wrinkles so you don't have to do as much ironing.
Beyond its steam settings, it has a sizable capacity, so it's great for larger households. The washer boasts a capacity of 4.5 cubic feet, and the dryer has a capacity of 8 cubic feet. The titanium finish and digital control panels look sleek; a white finish is also available, if you prefer. And, of course, the freedom to configure them separately or stack them vertically is a great perk.
We love that they're energy-efficient, and the results from washing and drying are great. The 15-minute quick-wash setting can be a lifesaver when you're in a hurry. Overall, it's an efficient set that gives excellent results.
Expert Tip
Do enough research to determine whether or not a front-load washer is best for you. Those who may have back issues or who are shorter in height may want to go with a front loader. Also, know what kind of power is in your laundry area. Front-loading machines often require a 240V outlet, but most residential outlets are 120V.
BestReviews Cleaning Expert
What is a stackable washer and dryer set?
Stackable washers and dryers are separate appliances that stack on top of one another to save floor space in a laundry room. They're usually both front-load appliances, giving you easy access to their interiors. You can buy these washers and dryers separately, but they're sometimes sold in pairs.
We appreciate the versatility of stackable appliances like these. You can place them beside one another or in separate spots, or you can stack them and enjoy the space-saving benefit of vertical storage.
In addition to individual washers and dryers that you can stack, there are all-in-one appliances that fall in this product category. (They’re not technically stackable because they're already stacked, but they fall under the stackable washer and dryer umbrella.) In these appliances, a dryer is permanently affixed atop a washing machine. These two-in-one appliances are usually called wash towers or laundry centers, but they're sometimes called stacked washers and dryers.
Most all-in-one appliances feature a front-loading dryer and a top-loading washer, but some have a front-loading dryer and front-loading washer. They don't separate from one another, so you must use them in their stacked configuration — this can make them tricky to move and to install in upstairs apartments and laundry rooms.
Benefits of a stackable washer and dryer
Saves space
The main benefit to buying a stackable washer and dryer is that you can make the most of limited space. In fact, a washer and dryer set is often compact enough to fit inside a closet or hallway alcove.
Saves money
Because some stackable washers and dryers are all-in-one appliances, you can save money by purchasing one appliance rather than purchasing a separate washer and dryer.
Improves appearance
A stacked washer and dryer tower has a clean, streamlined look. These appliances usually have more modern flair than traditional washers and dryers, so you’re less likely to feel self-conscious about having one in your hallway, kitchen or other visible area of your home.
Expert tip
Washers are easy to clean. Simply run with any washing machine cleaner, such as the one from
Affresh, which happens to be my favorite.
BestReviews Cleaning Expert
Stackable washer and dryer features to consider
Size and capacity
Size and capacity are two features that require your attention when choosing a stackable washer and dryer. Notably, the components tend to be slightly smaller than traditional washers and dryers.
For most homeowners, the main selling point of a stackable washer and dryer is that it takes up less space. That’s why it’s important to measure the area where you plan to put it. In general, you can expect a stackable set to be anywhere from 74 to 76 inches high, 23 to 28 inches wide, and 27 to 32 inches deep.
These appliances tend to have smaller capacities than traditional washers and dryers, which means you may need to do your laundry in smaller loads. That said, there is some variety among models in terms of capacity. The washers range from 1.5 cubic feet to 5 cubic feet, while the dryers offer between 3.4 cubic feet and 7.5 cubic feet. If you have a large household, look for a larger model, such as the LG WashTower Laundry Center. This appliance has a washer capacity of 4.5 cubic feet and a dryer capacity of 7.4 cubic feet.
Energy type
Most stackable washers and dryers have an electric dryer, but some have a gas dryer. Electric dryers are typically less expensive, but their operating costs can be high.
Gas dryers tend to cost more upfront, but they can save you money in energy costs in the long run. However, you must have a gas connection in your home to install a gas dryer. If you don’t, you’ll need to hire a licensed plumber to add one, and the cost of installation may offset your long-term energy savings.
Energy efficiency
Stackable washers and dryers with front-loading components are usually more energy-efficient. Front-load washers use less energy because the washing motion is more efficient. They also require less water to get your clothes clean, which means less energy is needed to heat the water.
If you’re concerned about the energy costs of the appliance, look for an Energy Star-certified model. Washers with Energy Star certification use approximately 25% less energy and 40% less water than standard washers, and dryers with Energy Star certification use 20% less energy than standard dryers.
Settings/cycles
Stacked washers and dryers don’t typically have as many special settings and cycles as traditional washers and dryers, so it’s important to determine whether the features would meet your laundry needs.
At the very least, the washer should offer basic cycles such as normal, delicate, heavy-duty and permanent press. These basic settings are necessary to avoid damaging certain fabrics. For instance, a delicate cycle is required for woolen clothes and some lingerie.
You should also be able to change the temperature settings so you can clean towels and bedding effectively on a hot wash and delicate clothing on a cold cycle. Some laundry centers also have settings for bulky items like bedding and towels.
The dryer should have essential settings like low, medium and high heat as well as a no-heat option. This is necessary because some items can shrink or get worn if dried in a high-heat setting. Other items, such as cotton towels, can withstand a higher drying temperature and dry faster when that’s available.
Then you have stackable washers and dryers that come as two separate units, such as the Samsung Smart Front-Load Washer and Dryer Set. These have all the settings and cycles you might expect from standard washers and dryers. For instance, these Samsung models have cycles for activewear, bedding and towels.
Controls
Most stackable washers and dryers have dial controls for choosing the settings and cycles. Some higher-end models feature digital and touchpad controls that are even easier to use, such as the LG WashTower Laundry Center.
Stackable washer and dryer prices
Prices of stackable washers and dryers vary based on size and energy type. In most cases, it’s common to pay between $1,025 and $2,525.
Inexpensive
The smallest electric stackable washer and dryer sets usually cost between $1,025 and $1,175. A small gas stackable washer and dryer set typically costs from $1,098 to $1,259.
Mid-range
A midsize electric stackable washer and dryer set usually runs from $1,175 to $1,325. A midsize gas stackable washer and dryer set typically costs from $1,259 to $1,500.
Expensive
The largest electric stackable washers and dryers usually cost from $1,325 to $1,525 for the set. Large gas stackable washers and dryers typically cost between $1,500 and $2,525 per set.
Tips
- Separate your laundry correctly. To make the most of your washer/dryer combo’s dedicated cycles, separate laundry into colors, whites, towels, linens and delicates.
- Check for installation accessories. Make sure your washer/dryer combo comes with installation accessories. If not, order them at the same time so you can hook up your unit as soon as it arrives.
- Clean compartments often. Washer/dryer combos have compartments for detergent. Some even have coin catchers. Empty and clean them often to make sure residue and dirt don’t accumulate in your machine.
- Avoid opening in the middle of a cycle. While it’s safe to open your machine in the middle of a wash or dry cycle, be aware that your items could fall out and tumble onto the ground.
- Pause to add dryer sheets. Pause your washer/dryer combo between wash and dry cycles if you want to add dryer sheets or dryer balls.
How we analyzed
To help us find the best stackable washers and dryers, we consulted BestReviews cleaning expert Ketia Daniel. In addition to her recommendations, we researched some of the most popular appliances to find the best. For this article, we considered nearly 20 stacked washers and dryers and stackable pairs sold as sets. We compared them on a range of factors, including capacity and settings, before whittling them down to our top five models.
FAQ
Q. Do stackable washer and dryer cycles last the same amount of time as traditional washer and dryer cycles?
A. A stackable washer and dryer set usually requires a little more time to wash and dry a load. Avoid models that require more than an hour to complete a load, or you could end up spending all day doing laundry.
Q. Do stackable washers and dryers require venting?
A. Some require venting just like traditional dryers. If you fail to vent your model, you could end up with a mold or mildew problem due to moisture accumulation in your laundry space. However, some stackable washers and dryers are ventless. This is the best option if the spot where you want to put the appliance doesn’t lend itself to venting. Keep in mind that ventless models usually take longer to dry laundry.
Q. Should I purchase an extended warranty for a stackable washer and dryer?
A. Like most standalone washers and dryers, a stackable model usually comes with at least a one-year warranty. While it’s usually not recommended to opt for an extended warranty for freestanding washers and dryers, it can be worth it for a stackable model. That’s because all-in-one or combined appliances are more likely to experience issues. Thus, a three- or four-year extended warranty can help protect your investment.
Some people decide to purchase a home warranty that covers most or all of their appliances. If you’re considering this option, we recommend you read our research on the best home warranty prior to any purchase.
Q. Are there any downsides to a stackable washer and dryer?
A. Some laundry centers and stacked washer/dryer combos have smaller capacities than their standard counterparts. They're also tricky to maneuver when you need to move them. You can get around this by choosing two separate units that stack. However, it’s important to know that you need special stacking hardware to safely stack them. Furthermore, with these stacked appliances, you can't have a top-load washer because it would be impossible to access the drum when stacked.
