Avoid Vicious Cycles: 7 Things to Look for When Buying a Washer and Dryer

By: Jan Hajek | Date Posted: September 3, 2021

Has upgrading your home’s appliances left your mind spinning on the tumble-dry setting? With each new decision added to the load you’re bearing, your mental washer may be approaching cognitive overfill. The seemingly endless range of options can be intimidating to comb through. Even after you purchase your favorite model, there’s a chance it might break down on you a week later.

When it comes to washers and dryers, there’s nothing worse than walking into the laundry room only to find the floors soaked in soapy water. To avoid hair-pulling laundry catastrophes, look for these finer details when shopping for a washer and dryer.

Are you ready to break the cycle of regretful purchases? Here are seven things to consider before swiping your credit card.

Front-load versus top load

With high-quality manufacturers moving away from top-loading washer and dryer models, front-load varieties have stood front and center on two-page magazine spreads and laundry-room inspiration Pinterest boards alike. But why have front-load washers and dryers won the hearts of modern homeowners?

Front-loading versions are much more efficient in cleaning and are designed to use less water. The agitator inside top load machines tends to be harsh on clothes, while front-loading washers are gentle on delicate items. You can also stack front-loading washers and dryers on top of one another, making them perfect for homes with limited square footage. After breaking the tie between front-load and top-load, visit a trusted retailer like Goedeker’s to wash away the stains of past laundry-day inconveniences.

The right configuration

Finding the right washer and dryer design to fit your laundry room is crucial. Whether you’re working with a small space or a room with odd dimensions, you can always mix and match washers and dryers to fit your needs.

Side-by-side is the most common configuration and is perfect for sizable laundry rooms. To raise machines to chest level, and make accessing them easier, install laundry pedestals underneath both appliances. If you need to save on square footage, a stacked style is more suitable. Only front-loading machines can be stacked, and some brands offer combos called laundry towers. You can also purchase all-in-one versions that combine the washer and dryer to reduce space and energy usage.

Steam and sanitize capabilities

If you’re a chronically messy eater with poor aim, purchasing a washer with a steam function is your next best purchase. This function will salvage stain-riddled staples without tedious scrubbing. Most mid-range and high-end versions have steam options that wash the clothing more thoroughly than the typical cycle. Steam increases the temperature inside the washer to allow clothing to absorb water more efficiently. Steam washers are proven to be better at lifting odors, dirt, and stains without roughing up material. Moreover, detergent dissolves quicker in high temperatures, meaning a lower concentration of bacteria clinging to your clothing.

Advanced wash cycles

The typical washer usually offers limited wash options, like Normal, Heavy Duty, and Permanent Press. While a regular cycle is delicate for a load of hand towels, it can damage delicate materials or clothing in need of extra sanitization. Consider high-tech washers that offer a wide range of cycles specific to your cleaning needs. Each setting adjusts the water temperature and spin speed to achieve optimum cleaning and handling of clothing. Some models even offer baby care, active-ware, and allergy cycles.

Advanced dryer settings

Treating your clothes to a specialized wash means little if you’re just going to throw them into a rough tumble dryer. Quality dryers offer more options to avoid damage or shrinkage and dry even a giant load all the way through. Reverse tumbling, for example, alternates the direction of rotation to prevent clothing from getting tangled. Extended tumbling is another standout setting that keeps clothes from getting wrinkles if left in the dryer too long.

Vent options

Most dryers use vents to expel the hot air inside the drum and replace it with new air. Vented dryers require careful placement as they must be installed near a window to release the air. Dryers with vents are more affordable than ventless versions, although they are less energy efficient. Alternatively, ventless dryers recycle air within the drum using a heat pump. They can be installed anywhere in your home, which is perfect for makeshift laundry spaces. Ventless dryers use less electricity than vented models, but they are also notorious for taking a long time to dry clothing.

Smart technology

Modern technology has changed the way we do everyday tasks, including cleaning clothing. High-end laundry room appliances can now connect to your phone or tablet to alert you when a cycle is finished. Smart features also allow you to start a load remotely and save your preferred settings. You can also schedule your washer and dryer so that you can wake up in the morning to fresh, clean clothes every time.

Final thoughts

When shopping for a new washer and dryer, make sure to consider your specific laundry needs. If you have a small laundry room without windows, a stacked duo with a ventless dryer will fit right in. For homeowners with ample space, consider a side-by-side version modified with access-friendly pedestals. Of course, investing in quality appliances that offer advanced wash and dry settings is a must. With the right machine, laundry day will be something you actually look forward to.

 

Thank you for reading!

Jan Hajek
 

I am an experienced writer. I write about home improvement topics such as construction, electrical work, plumbing, security and safety, interior design, exterior design, tools and woodworking, gardening, and garage organization. I love helping people improve their homes and make them more enjoyable places to live.

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