Tag: laundry

How to Choose the Right Washer & Dryer — First‑Time Buyer’s Guide

Taneesha WoodsLeave a comment

Buying a washer and dryer for the first time can feel a little overwhelming — there are many choices: front-load vs. top-load, full-size vs. compact, matched sets vs. combos, gas vs. electric, stackable vs. side-by-side… and each decision can impact your budget, space, utility bills, and laundry convenience. Here’s a simple guide to help you make a confident decision.

✅ Key Considerations Before You Buy

1. Space & Layout:

  • Measure your laundry area carefully — including doorways, hallways, and stairwells — to ensure the machines will fit before delivery. Full‑size washers/dryers are often about 27–28 inches wide and 30–35 inches deep. (GE Appliances)
  • If you have limited floor space (small laundry closet, apartment, tight space), consider a stacked unit or a compact washer/dryer combo rather than full‑size side-by-side machines. (Consumer Reports)

2. Washer Type — Front‑Load vs. Top‑Load:

  • Front‑load washers tumble clothes gently, need less water, and spin faster — which means clothes come out drier (shorter dry time), potentially saving energy and time. (ENERGY STAR)
  • Top‑load washers are often easier to load/unload (no bending needed), might be slightly cheaper, and some people prefer them if they do frequent smaller or heavy‑duty loads (like muddy clothes). (GE Appliances)
  • For first‑time homeowners, front‑loaders are often worth the extra upfront cost because of their long‑term efficiency (energy + water savings) and better cleaning performance for most loads. (ENERGY STAR)

3. Capacity & Usage Needs:

  • Think about how much laundry you typically do. If you have a family or wash bulky items (comforters, bedding), a larger drum (4.5 cu. ft. or more) is helpful. (Tom’s Guide)
  • For singles, couples, or small households, a medium‑capacity washer (around 3.5–4.4 cu. ft.) may be plenty. (Tom’s Guide)

4. Efficiency — Water & Energy Use:

  • Look for models certified by ENERGY STAR. Certified washers use roughly 20% less energy and 30% less water compared to standard models — which adds up over time. (ENERGY STAR)
  • For dryers, match the capacity of your washer so loads tumble properly and dry evenly; oversized dryers with small washers waste energy. (ENERGY STAR)

5. Buying a Set vs. Combo vs. Separate Units:

  • Buying a traditional washer and dryer set at the same time is often best: they’ll match capacity, machine age, and lifespan. (Angi)
  • A washer‑dryer combo or all-in-one unit can be good for small spaces or apartments — but if one part breaks, you may have to replace the entire unit. (Angi)

6. Features & Extras That Matter:

  • Look for high spin speeds (for washers) to reduce drying time. (Tom’s Guide)
  • Consider noise levels if your laundry area is near living spaces. (Tom’s Guide)
  • Smart/automatic detergent dispensers, different wash cycles (delicate, bulky items, sanitize), and drying options can add convenience — especially when you’re settling into a new home routine.

🧺 Good Washer & Dryer Picks for First‑Time Homeowners

Here are several washer/dryer units and combos that tend to be well‑rated for first‑time home buyers — offering a range of options depending on your space, budget, and laundry needs.

Electrolux ELTE7300AW Laundry Tower

Space‑saving tower

$1,499.99

GE Profile UltraFast Washer Dryer Combo

All‑in‑one combo

$1,999.00

Samsung Bespoke 5.3 Cu. Ft. AI Vented Laundry Combo

High‑capacity combo

$1,849.00

LG 4.3 Cu. Ft. Top Load Washer

Budget top‑load

$649.00

Frigidaire FLCE7522AW Compact Stacked Washer & Dryer

Compact stacked

$1,298.00

Magic Chef 2.7 Cu. Ft. Washer Dryer Combo MCSCWD27W5

Compact combo

$880.00

Whirlpool 4.5 Cu. Ft. Ventless All-In-One Washer Dryer

All‑in‑one ventless

$1,394.10

GE 24″ High-Efficiency Front Load Washer Dryer Combo

Compact front‑load combo

$1,061.99

Quick Highlights

My Advice (Based on What Most First-Time Homeowners Need)

  • If your home has limited laundry space (laundry closet, small room, apartment), go for a combo washer/dryer or a stacked laundry tower — they save space and reduce installation complexity.
  • If you want to prioritize long‑term savings on water and energy bills, and you expect to do frequent laundry or have a growing family, a front‑load washer with a matching dryer (or stackable set) is probably the best investment.
  • If your priority is budget and ease of use, a top‑load washer (with separate dryer later) can be a practical starting point — you can upgrade or expand later when budget or space allows.
  • Always measure your laundry space (door openings, hookups, venting, floor space) before buying — that’s the No. 1 real‑life mistake many first‑time buyers make.