Combination washer/dryers offer you the convenience of in-home laundry even when space is at a premium. Consider a single unit washer/dryer, or create space in your home with stackable or under counter front-loading washers and dryers.
Washer and Dryer Types
Both top-loading and front-loading models will do a good job of cleaning your clothes. The most significant differences between these types of washers are capacity, energy efficiency, water use, feature options, and style.
- Combination machines: These single units feature a washer on the bottom paired with an electric or gas dryer on top. Despite appearances, many of these space-saving units can handle extra-large laundry loads and feature many of the same options you'll find on standard washers, like multiple wash and dry cycles, quality porcelain wash-basket construction, and end-of-cycle signals.
- Stackable and undercounter front-loading machines: Front-loading washers deliver excellent performance and energy efficiency. Because they clean by tumbling and not agitation, front-loaders are usually gentler on fabrics and cause less wear and tear on washables. Another important benefit: the front-loading design lends itself to placement under laundry room counters or stacking to maximize overhead space.
Stackable front-loading machines, like combination washer/dryers, come in a variety of sizes - from compact to extra-large capacity - and offer a wide range of features, including stainless steel basket construction and multiple wash and dry cycles. Stacked installation often requires the additional purchase of a stacking kit or brackets, available from the manufacturer or your builder.
Performance Features
If convenience and optimal performance are equally important to you, consider some of the options that could help lighten the load of doing laundry.
- Cycle selections and speed options: When choosing among cycle selections, think about the types of fabrics and clothing you wash and dry frequently.
- Temperature sensors and water level settings: Doing laundry is a bit like a science project. Temperature and water settings will help make sure you are using the right volume of water, at the right temperature, with the proper amount of detergent based on the dirt level of the laundry being cleaned. This will help reduce damage, prevent detergent residue, and provide the best wash across fabric types.
- Moisture monitors and sensors: Temperature is important for drying, too. Monitors will indicate how damp your clothes are at any given time in the cycle, so you can take out, for example, a 100% cotton item before it shrinks, or a piece of clothing you'd like to iron while damp. Moisture sensors help reduce over-drying and, in the process, spare fabric and save energy.
- Noise insulation: If your washer is in a location in your home where quiet is important, look for a model with extra noise insulation. Typically, front-loading models are quieter during operation than top-loading models.
- Dispenser systems: Many machines feature dispensers that automatically distribute detergent. Some are triple dispensing systems that distribute detergent, bleach and fabric softener at the appropriate time during the wash cycle, lessening your time and effort in the laundry room.
Whirlpool® is the best-selling laundry brand in the world, offering smart washers and dryers that take the guesswork out of laundry day, including Duet®, the #1-rated front-load washer in America.
Learn more about Whirlpool combination washer/dryers, Whirlpool front-loading washers, and Whirlpool front-loading dryers.
The attention to detail and superb craftsmanship found in every KitchenAid® washer and dryer ensures years of exceptional performance, load after load.
Learn more about KitchenAid front-loading washers and KitchenAid front-loading dryers.
