Here’s How to Find the Right Washer & Dryer for Your Home
Make laundry day a breeze with a reliable washer/dryer duo. The right washer and dryer will pamper your clothing and linens so they last longer and look their best. Energy savings, sanitary settings and Wi-Fi capability add even more utility. Ready to upgrade your laundry room? Here’s what you need to know.
![banner_washer dryer BG](http://images.ctfassets.net/8sto6ehqcihm/7tOvSJDJXjv3WYfNZLvd5u/de940330cb26ebe590895e1e587ae436/header_1600x500.jpg?fm=webp&w=1600&q=75)
Types of Washers
Washing machines come in two main types: top loaders and front loaders. Determining which type fits your needs and budget is the first step in your shopping. Here’s how they compare.
![Top load washer](http://images.ctfassets.net/8sto6ehqcihm/3hrklomoIlWgc2A454P68U/7e84303c8fbf5087ee72b80fa0acf4c6/Top_Load_Washer_1600x1608.jpg?w=1600&q=75&fm=webp)
![A front load washer](http://images.ctfassets.net/8sto6ehqcihm/6XPf7vPXomUFHFi2wmq7Iw/7f6de49f587aebd3a16acb4cd1ae8fb5/front_loader_1600x1608.jpg?w=1600&q=75&fm=webp)
Types of Dryers
When choosing a dryer, start with the energy source: electricity or natural gas. The performance variation between dryers is generally due to product features, rather than the energy source, but here are some factors to consider.
![An electric dryer](http://images.ctfassets.net/8sto6ehqcihm/by9Alr9bQv7DD5tI9CP2F/e395613684850385eb66d0f3aab300fe/Electric_Dryers_1600x1608.jpg?w=1600&q=75&fm=webp)
![A gas dryer](http://images.ctfassets.net/8sto6ehqcihm/7bDpDM9aRcrmfpfPbKjE3b/a8ad8125caed89222ff9ea6014889ccb/gas_dryer_1600x1608.jpg?w=1600&q=75&fm=webp)
Washer & Dryer Product Features
Not all washers and dryers are the same, so compare features within each category to ensure you find the right match for your household’s laundry needs.
Energy Efficiency
STAR-qualified washers and dryers use 25% and 20% less energy, respectively, versus standard models.
2-in-1 Design
The ultimate space-saver, two-in-one washer/dryers (also known as laundry centres) wash and then dry laundry in the same machine. These machines tend to have a smaller capacity.
Compact Size
Typically the size of a standard dishwasher, compact washers and dryers average 24-inches wide by 34-inches tall and 24-inches deep, so they fit neatly into standard kitchen counters.
Stacking
Stackable washer/dryer duos use vertical rather than horizontal space, making them a great pick for closets, washrooms and other tight locations.
AI Technology
AI-equipped machines learn your preferences and pair that info with sensors to measure laundry weight, wash-water turbidity and dryer temperature, adjusting a cycle accordingly.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Add your laundry duo to your home hub by using a compatible app to receive notifications, download additional cycles, and control your Wi-Fi-enabled washer and dryer remotely.
Mildew Control
Front load washers can develop odour and mildew because moisture gets trapped in the rubber gaskets. Self-cleaning cycles and antimicrobial gasket materials can reduce this issue (as can regular cleaning).
Sanitize Settings
Some front loaders have a sanitize setting that uses extra-hot water to kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria. Some dryers use a steam-sanitary cycle to achieve similar results.
Reversible Doors
The way the washer or dryer’s door swings can enhance or hinder convenience in a small laundry room. While most dryers have reversible doors, it’s a less common feature in front-load washers.