Our Top Picks: Best Washer and Dryer Sets
- Overall Best Washer and Dryer Set: Electrolux Laundry Titanium Pair (ELLAUEFME627UTT)
- Best Top-Loading Washer and Dryer Set: GE® Laundry Pair-White (GELAUGTD42EASJWW)
- Best Front-Loading Washer and Dryer Set: GE® Laundry Pair-Sapphire Blue (GELAUGFD85ESPNRS)
- Best Budget Washer and Dryer Set: Amana® Laundry Pair-White (AMLAUNED4655EW)
- Best Compact Washer and Dryer Set: Miele Laundry Pair-Lotus White (MILAUTWF160)
Why You Should Shop a Laundry Pair
Some things are better in pairs, like a matching washer and dryer set. Sure, laundry pairs look great, but there are other reasons why you should consider buying a laundry duo. For one, purchasing both appliances together can increase savings versus buying a washer and dryer separately. Secondly, laundry appliances from an identical brand are designed to work in harmony, which makes for a better user experience. In fact, certain washer and dryer pairs, such as LG washer and dryer sets with Smart Pairing technology, can send information to the other to optimize cycle settings with virtually no guesswork.
Best of all, washer and dryer sets are available from several major appliance names across a broad range of price points. So, whatever your budget or needs, there’s an ideal laundry solution to meet your expectations.
Reviewed & Tested: Best Washer and Dryer Sets
As a Trusted Name in the Bay Since 1922™, we at Friedmans Appliance have seen the best and the worst of appliances — including washers and dryers. That’s how we’re able to understand what goes into a reliable washer and dryer set, as well as what it takes to meet a buyer’s expectations. That being said, we’re proud to present our favorite washer and dryer sets for every type of buyer. Take a look!
1. Overall Best Washer and Dryer Pair: Electrolux Laundry Titanium Pair ($2,158 – $2,398)
If you’re looking for one of the most advanced wash technologies on the market, consider this best Electrolux washer and dryer set. Clothes receive premium care with the exclusive LuxCare® Wash system featuring adaptable temperature control, improved wash action, and responsive load sensing. The enhanced washer performance is matched by the dryer with the LuxCare® Dry System that uses powerful sensors to determine moisture levels without the need for wet garments to touch the sensors.
Tackle big loads of laundry with 4.4 cubic feet of washer capacity, plus SmartBoost® technology that pre-mixes detergent and water to boost wash performance and the industry’s first Adaptive Dispenser™ that accepts any form of detergent. And with 8 cubic feet of drying capacity, this electric dryer easily keeps up with the demands of the matching large-capacity washer.
Just as impressive, this Energy Star certified laundry pair includes a Perfect Steam™ setting in the washer and dryer, Predictive Dry™ technology that accurately determines drying times, and a Sanitize Option for truly clean washes.
2. Best Top-Loading Washer and Dryer Pair: GE® Laundry Pair White ($1,285 – $1,428)
We were surprised that this washer and dryer set came with more washing capacity than our favorite pair, despite being a top-loader. Even better, the ample 4.5 cubic-foot washer features a Deep Fill option and PreciseFill technology that allows more use out of the entire tub. The dual-action agitator delivers enhanced wash results, especially when paired with the Deep Clean Cycle capable of providing 67 percent better cleaning power than a standard agitator.
Granted, the washer is the star of this duo, but when the performance is so good, there’s not much the dryer needs to do. With 7.2 cubic feet of capacity, the dryer can handle most wash sizes, meanwhile four heat settings and an Auto Dry cycle provide optimal heat settings for all your laundering needs.
3. Best Front-Loading Washer and Dryer Pair: GE® Laundry Pair ($2,158 – $2,398)
We’re not saying ease up on laundry, but with 5 cubic feet of washer capacity and 7.8 cubic feet of drying available on this best front-load washer and dryer set, you can wash larger loads less often. And capacity isn’t the only thing that’s big with this pair — its features are mighty, too. Exclusive Microban® antimicrobial technology that repels bacteria and the UltraFresh Vent System with OdorBlock™ moisture-eliminating technology prevent common front-load issues, such as mold and odors. Enjoy powerful steam in both the washer and dryer and freshen up garments quick. Or combine with the Sanitize Cycle for a thorough wash and dry free from household bacteria and viruses.
Best of all, this smart laundry pair comes with enhanced user features, like wireless linking to coordinate washer and dryer cycles automatically. For smaller loads, opt for the nifty 1 Step Wash + Dry for a complete laundry process all from the same appliance. Plus, with the ability to hold detergent for up to 32 loads, SmartDispense cuts down on laundry routine and makes more space in the laundry room.
4. Best Budget Washer and Dryer Set: Amana® Laundry Pair-White ($998)
This best-value washer and dryer set under $1,000 provides the ideal amount of laundry capacity ideal for the average household. Equipped with the laundry essentials, including a dual-action agitator and a Deep Water Wash option, plus Automatic Dryness Control and Wrinkle Shield technology, this laundry duo provides outstanding fabric care for its price point.
5. Best Compact Washer and Dryer Set: Miele Laundry Pair (call for best price)
For shoppers with limited laundry, this best Miele compact washer and dryer set is a practical laundry solution loaded with high-end features. The space-saving 24-inch design and ventless dryer make this pair apartment-friendly or a great addition to a master bathroom. Additionally, the heat-pump technology saves up to 60 percent on drying costs, while PerfectDry sensors detect moisture levels during drying and adjust automatically.
Users will also cash in by using Miele’s TwinDos detergent dispensing system. By working in two phases — once at the beginning of the wash and again after a rinse cycle — this compact Miele washer dispenses the right amount of detergent at optimized times. As a result, users save on detergent costs and since the rinsing process is easier, the appliance uses less energy to operate.
Factors to Consider When Shopping Laundry Sets
Some of the most popular washer and dryer features can be found on this list of our favorite laundry pairs, but every home has different needs. When conducting your own laundry appliance research, keep these key features in mind to ensure your purchase is a smart one.
Capacity is Crucial
It’s the proverbial question every laundry appliance shopper asks: “What size washer and dryer do I need?” In terms of dimensions, the standard size for both a washing machine and dryer is 27 inches in width, while depth and height vary between 28 and 35 inches and 38 to 44 inches, respectively.
But for a better understanding of how much laundry capacity you need, consider cubic feet. Here’s a quick rundown of how much clothes you can put into each level of washer capacity:
✓ 2 – 3.4 cubic feet: Compact washers can hold around four to eight pounds of laundry per load.
- A regular load is around six pounds or the equivalent of six t-shirts, two shorts, one men’s and women’s sweater, three pairs of pants, three pairs of underwear, and a pair of socks.
✓ 3.5 – 4.4 cubic feet: Standard-capacity washers can hold around 12 to 16 pounds of laundry per load.
- A large load is around 11 pounds or the equivalent of 12 t-shirts, three shorts, a men’s and women’s sweater, five pairs of pants, four pairs of underwear, and six pairs of socks.
✓ 4.5 – 5+ cubic feet: Large-capacity washers can hold around 20 pounds of laundry per load.
- An extra-large load is around 20 pounds or the equivalent of 12 t-shirts, six shorts, seven men’s and women’s sweaters, six pairs of paints, six pairs of underwear, and 12 pairs of socks.
Additionally, a washer with a 3.5 cubic-foot capacity is large enough to fit and wash a queen-size comforter, while large-capacity washers 5 cubic feet and over can wash a king-size comforter plus the sheets all in one go. Finally, a dryer should typically be around twice the capacity of a washer for clothes to properly tumble around the heated air.
How to Do Laundry Efficiently
The first step toward saving on laundry costs is to shop for Energy Star certified washers and dryers. This is a core indicator that an appliance meets the latest requirements for optimized operation costs — but there are also other factors to consider.
For instance, top-loads use more water than front-load washers, but they also use more of the tub space, especially if a washer comes with a deep fill option. Depending on the average size of a load of laundry, that can mean doing less loads, which is an alternative way to save on laundry costs. On the other hand, front-loaders are more energy- and water-efficient since they rely on gravity to tumble and agitate clothes instead of an agitator that’s driven by a motor.
Fuel type can also play a part in how efficient a washer and dryer are. All washers are electric, but dryers can be either electric-powered or fueled by gas. Drying with gas is considered the better option since it can heat air better, decrease drying times, and protect fabrics from extended periods to high heat.
However, there are a few exchanges. First, gas dryers typically cost more than electric dryers (though, they cost less to operate, which theoretically should pay for the difference over its lifetime). Secondly, there needs to be a gas supply in order for a gas dryer to work. Otherwise, an electric dryer is still a great choice that can be used in virtually any home.
Agitator vs. Impeller
The great debate used to be front-load versus top-load washers, but even that has become a bigger conversation with the introduction of impeller washers. There are major pros and cons when it comes to both traditional washers with agitators and newer impeller washer models featured here in this side-by-side comparison:
| Agitators | Impellers | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros |
✓
Provides heavy
-duty agitation
✓ Better wash results
✓ More affordable |
✓ Gentler on clothes
✓ More washer capacity
✓ Use less water |
| Cons |
✗ Less washer capacity
✗ Clothes can snag on fins
✗ Harder on fabrics |
✗ More expensive
✗ Not always the best wash
✗ Clothes can get twisted |
Stellar Features
As demonstrated by our list of favorite laundry duos, it’s amazing what the latest washers and dryers are capable of. But as more features arrive with every new generation of laundry appliances, knowing what’s in and what’s out can be the difference between saving on purchasing costs and investing in a feature that makes laundry day a breeze. Here are some washer and dryer features we’re particularly keen on:
Steam Cleaning
This feature is a twofer! On top adding another level of hygiene, washers (and some dryers) with steam provide clothes care that’s gentle on fabrics, yet effective on stains and wrinkles.
WiFi Connectivity
Smart washers and dryers streamline laundry days by allowing users to program, monitor, and even diagnose appliance issues all from a smart device. On more advanced connected laundry appliances, the washer can “communicate” with a dryer to tell it a suggested dry cycle based off the wash.
Moisture Sensors
Found exclusively found on dryers, this feature actively monitors moisture levels in a dryer, ending a cycle the moment clothes are dry. On top of saving energy costs, this feature also protects clothes from overexposure to heat.
Sanitization Option
Sanitary laundry practices begin in a washer that is germ-free, which is why a Sanitization Cycle is so important. Fortunately, this is becoming a standard feature — but nonetheless, make sure to keep an eye out for it!
Smart Detergent Dispensers
Between pods, powder, and liquid soaps, laundry detergent has become diverse…so shouldn’t washers be, too? Smart dispensers provide users with the flexibility to use any kind of detergent. The best models even pre-mix the detergent before it enters the tub for an enhanced wash.
Let Friedmans Find You the Perfect Pair
As always, replacing or upgrading individual laundry appliances is always a possibility, especially when you have our great selection or laundry appliances at competitive prices. But for a completely upgraded laundry routine, purchasing a new washer and dryer set is a smart investment that can make the chore easier and more affordable.
Ready to shop for yours? Then explore start your search at Friedmans Appliance Center, located at 2304 Monument Boulevard in Pleasant Hill. We’re also available online or by phone for all your home appliance needs. Shop today!