It’s laundry day … again. You may find yourself glaring at your old washer and dryer units, wondering when someone will invent a machine that can do both. Enter the all-in-one washer and dryer combo, promising to make laundry day more efficient than ever. But is it worth the hype?
Pro: Save Some Space
The most obvious benefit of an all-in-one washer and dryer is that it saves space. If you’re living in a small apartment, a tiny home, or an RV, these compact units combine both washing and drying functions into one machine, freeing up valuable floorspace. No need for separate appliances — just one machine gets the job done.
Con: Longer Cycle Times
One of the biggest downsides of a washer/dryer combo is how long it takes to complete a cycle. While traditional machines might take an hour or two to wash and dry clothes, all-in-one units can take several hours to do the same. The extended cycle time can be inconvenient, especially if you have large loads or need to do multiple loads in a day.
Pro: Convenience at its Finest
Imagine tossing your laundry in before bed and waking up to clean, dry clothes. With an all-in-one washer dryer, there’s no need to transfer clothes from a washer to a dryer. The combo unit handles both tasks, saving you time and effort.
Con: Smaller Load Capacity
Because these units are more compact, they usually have a smaller drum capacity compared to separate machines. This means you might need to do laundry more often, particularly if you have a large family or bulky laundry items.
Pro: Energy Efficiency
Many models, like those from LG, Samsung, and GE, are designed to be more energy-efficient, using less water and electricity than traditional washer and dryer pairs. That’s a big win for your utility bills and the environment!
Con: Drying Performance
The drying function on these machines isn’t always as powerful as a standalone dryer. Some users find that clothes come out a bit damp, requiring a longer drying time or an additional cycle. This can be frustrating if you’re used to the quick-dry power of a traditional dryer.
The Verdict
All-in-one washer and dryer combos are a great option for shoppers looking to conserve space and save time loading/unloading. While they come with some trade-offs like longer cycle times and smaller capacity, they’re hard to beat when it comes to energy efficiency and ease of use.
For more help choosing the right washer and dryer for your home, check out our washer and dryer shopping guide.
