Small spaces can be extremely functional and convenient to live in, but fitting a regular laundry machine and dryer might not be feasible. Getting your hands on a stackable washer and dryer set is an excellent way to leave room for moving about. You might even be able to use the extra space for storage.
The best part? Most stackable washer and dryer pairs cost less than the washing machine and dryer would when purchased individually. And check out this post if you’re looking for the best regular washer and dryer or this one if you want to know which washing machine brands to avoid.
That said, there are a few factors for you to consider if you want to get the best stackable washer-dryer for your money. Below, we’ve discussed the key factors to consider and shortlisted the market’s best stackable washer and dryer combos.
Factors to Consider When Buying Stackable Washer Dryer
#1 Size
Before you begin exploring the several stackable washer and dryer sets in the market, grab a tape measure and measure out the space available in your laundry room, closet, or other location where you want to place your new appliances.
Subtract an inch from the measurements in case the washing machine wants to dance about, and you’ll have the measurements of the maximum size of your washer and dryer set.
Remember to factor in the space required for the washer and dryer doors to open. Though most stackable washers and dryers come with a reversible door, this feature isn’t standard across all models.
Also, if you’re buying a vented dryer, you must leave six inches of space between the machine and the wall. You will need the space for venting and hookups.
How Tall is a Stackable Washer and Dryer?
It’s natural to wonder about the average stackable washer and dryer dimensions — you need just the right amount of space for the machines, after all. Stackable washers and dryers are between 74 1/2 and 79 inches tall.
How Wide is a Stackable Washer and Dryer?
Stackable washer-dryer combos have a standard width of 27 inches. However, a new stackable washer dryer set can be slimmer at 24 inches or slightly wider at 28 inches.
Volume of Stackable Washers and Dryers
Laundry machines have a volume of between 1.5 and six cubic feet. Washing machines with a capacity between 1.5 and 3.4 cubic feet are considered compact washing machines. These can handle four to eight pounds of laundry in one go.
Standard-size laundry machines have a volume ranging between 3.5 and 4.4 cubic feet, making them capable of handling 12 to 16 pounds of laundry. You will be able to wash and dry a king-size comforter in a large unit.
Laundry units with volumes between 4.5 and 5 cubic feet come under the “large” category. These can work with up to 20 pounds of laundry. The units with drums over five cubic feet are “extra-large” and allow you to wash up to 25 pounds of laundry.
Most washers and dryers on our shortlist of best stackable washers and dryers are standard-sized.
#2 Laundry Center vs. Standalone Models
Standalone washers and dryers have their advantages — typically featuring spacious drums and providing the flexibility to use the units separately. But most manufacturers require you to purchase a stacking kit separately, even if you buy a washer and dryer set. Plus, not every washer and dryer has an easy-to-access control panel.
A laundry center or laundry tower is a combination of a washer and a dryer in a single unit. The typical design of these laundry machines includes a front-loading washer on the bottom and a front-loading dryer on the top. A control panel is positioned in the center of these two parts of the machine.
Since you’re getting one unit instead of two with a laundry center, it’ll save you space, making it an excellent choice for small laundry rooms. That said, a laundry center typically doesn’t have a large capacity. Additionally, if a laundry center malfunctions, there’s a good chance both the washer and dryer on it will be out of commission.
Choosing a compact stackable washer and dryer over a laundry center is the right way to go unless you’re very short on space and only need to wash small loads. You’ll find a review of the GE Unitized Spacemaker on our list, which is a high-quality compact laundry center that is also affordable.
But if you have enough space and a large budget yet deliberately want to get a laundry center despite it offering no functional advantages in a large space, consider getting the LG WashTower.
Front-Loading Vs. Top-Loading
There is a clear preference for top-loading laundry machines in the American market, with 76% of Americans purchasing units of this type. We’ve contrasted the two design styles objectively to help you make the right decision.
Front-loading units will require you to squat to fill the load into the machine and empty it. If you’re on the shorter side or don’t want to strain your back or legs, it’s best to avoid getting a front-loading unit.
You might also want to avoid this style of laundry appliance if you’re forgetful since you will need to drain the water from the drum to add clothes mid-cycle. Plus, front-loaders require more frequent maintenance than top-loaders since they are prone to mold and mildew growth.
But if you have no reservations about buying front-loading machines, there are a lot of benefits to buying these. They use less power and water compared to modern-day top-loaders.
#3 Power Source
Whether you purchase a laundry center or a stackable set, the dryer will either be powered by gas or electricity. Gas-powered dryers are costlier since they demand professional installation. However, in the long run, these are cheaper to operate. Besides, gas dryers dry clothes faster and more gently than their alternatives — electric dryers.
You can install an electric dryer yourself — all you have to do is plug it into a 240V outlet. These are also comparatively cheaper upfront, but be prepared to pay a higher monthly electricity bill.
#4 Self-Cleaning Features and Steam Functionality
Some modern laundry machines feature a self-cleaning cycle, which cleans the seals and gaskets, washes the drum, and dries it.
Steam functionality is offered on both washers and dryers, helping you achieve the “perfect clean” by removing stains and odors and reducing wrinkles. This function also allows you to quickly refresh clothes without putting them through an entire cycle.
This function is only available on stackable sets — you won’t find it in laundry centers. That said, the lack of the steam function is not a dealbreaker for most people.
#5 Efficiency and Cycles
The best washing machines and dryers have Energy Star and CEE Tier ratings, which indicate that the machines are energy-efficient. Machines with such certifications and ratings tend to have longer cycle times and may only work with high-efficiency detergent, but this only makes them more budget- and eco-friendly.
If you can’t afford to wait long for your laundry to get done, look for machines that offer a quick wash cycle. It’s also a good idea to only choose from machines that offer allergen cycles.
#6 Cost
It’s natural to wonder how much is a stackable washer and dryer when you’ve only begun exploring your options. A stackable washer and dryer will cost anywhere between $1000 and $2000. However, there are more expensive options that can deal with large loads and offer amazing features available in the $ 3,000 range.
Best Stackable Washer and Dryer Sets
#1 LG TurboWash 360 Steam Stackable White Washer & Dryer Set
LG is one of the best-known household appliance brands, and over its decades in the industry, it has garnered a reputation for selling reliable laundry machines. This LG stackable washer and dryer pair boasts large enough capacities to fit a king-sized comforter in them comfortably.
The TurboWash 360 cycle featured in the washer enables the washer to clean clothes faster and better than many of the washers offered by other brands. The dryer has a massive 7.4 cubic foot capacity, and surprisingly, it runs with minimal sound and zero vibration. Further, its sensors detect the moisture levels inside the drum and adjust the temperature accordingly, ensuring that your clothes dry well.
Pros
- Several useful cycles available
- Steam functionality
- Washer motor has a ten-year warranty
Cons
- Cluttered control panel
- Non-reversible door
#2 GE Unitized Spacemaker
Getting a dependable appliance on a budget is always challenging, especially when it comes to laundry machines. We compared several budget options, including some GE stackable washer and dryer sets, but found that the GE Unitized Spacemaker is an option we could recommend without any reservations.
It offers 11 wash cycles and automatically fills water depending on the load size. However, you can fill the drum with water to the precise level you want to fill it to if you prefer. Both the washer and dryer feature cycle status lights, allowing you to determine progress quickly.
The best part? Though the unit is sleek, it has a 3.8 cubic foot washer and a 5.9 cubic foot dryer.
Pros
- Wallet-friendly
- Washer fills water automatically depending on load size
Cons
- No smart technology
- Not Energy Star-certified
#3 Whirlpool WTW200HW 1.5 cu. ft. Portable Top-Load Washer + LDR3822PQ 3.4 cu. ft. Portable Electric Dryer
The WTW200HW washer and the LDR3822PQ dryer make one of the best compact stackable washer and dryer sets money can buy. Both the compact stackable washer and dryer come with caster wheels, making them easy to move in and out of a closet. Further, this Whirlpool stackable washer and dryer set plugs into any 120V plug, leaving you with no worries about finding a three- or four-slot plug.
Pop open the washer’s lid, and you’ll find a stainless steel wash basket, which won’t wear out for years. The impeller plate on the bottom makes the most of the compact washer’s small capacity. The dryer is impressive in its own right, featuring an air-dry cycle that fluffs up clothes and refreshing items like sweaters. Equipped with a decent set of features, this duo is the perfect option for basic cleaning in small spaces.
Pros
- The dryer has an air-dry cycle
- Impeller-based washer
- Works on 120V outlets
Cons
- You can only wash four pounds of laundry at a time
#4 Samsung High-Efficiency Stackable Front-Load Washer and Electric Dryer Set
This Samsung stackable washer and dryer set will swiftly remove stains and grime. The washer’s 4.5 cubic foot stainless steel drum will stand the test of time.
Further, the matching dryer has a 7 cubic foot capacity and boasts a soil sensor, using which stops drying the clothes as necessary and saves you electricity. The dryer offers a total of nine drying cycles and four temperature settings.
Both the washer and dryer are offered in two finishes and at a reasonable cost.
Pros
- Impressive cleaning performance, considering the price
- Attractive design; two finishes
Cons
- Takes an hour and a half to dry a medium-sized load
#5 Kenmore 41302 Washer and 81382 Dryer
Like any Kenmore washer, the 81382 model also features the “Accela Wash” and “Add Garment” options, giving you more flexibility of operation. What’s impressive about this 4.5 cubic foot washer is that it can speed up to 1300 RPM in the Accela Wash mode, which does two things.
Firstly, it causes the wash cycle to end in 29 minutes flat. Secondly, it removes a lot of the water from the clothes. Couple such power with Kenmore’s 81382 7.4 cubic foot dryer’s Dual Sensor Dry feature, and you can rest assured that your clothes are cleaned as fast as possible.
To use this Kenmore stackable washer and dryer set, you will need to purchase both machines separately and buy a stacking kit on top of it.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Steam treat option removes the need to pre-treat
- Triple action impeller ensures thorough cleaning
Cons
- Smart features unavailable
#6 Maytag High-Efficiency Stackable Front Load Washer and Dryer
Maytag has garnered a reputation for selling high-quality, quiet-functioning appliances, had this Maytag stackable washer and dryer set is no exception. The 4.8 cubic foot washer will deal with the most stubborn stains with its “Extra Power” setting, rubbing them off in the pre-wash cycle.
The nice thing about the washer is that it can hold your laundry for up to 16 hours using its internal fan, ensuring it stays fresh. The 7.3 cubic foot dryer has similarly impressive features, including a Quick Dry cycle, a steam function, and moisture sensors.
Pros
- Quietest machines on the list
- Several features
- Energy Star certified
Cons
- Difficult-to-reach control panel on the dryer
Conclusion
Now that you understand what to look for in stackable washers and dryers and have compared and contrasted our top picks, it’s time for you to make a decision. Needless to say, with our guide handy, you can walk into any local appliance store and walk out with the right stackable washer and dryer for your home and needs.
Just don’t forget that a stacking kit is one of the accessories you must purchase since most manufacturers don’t provide it with washer-dryer sets.
