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6 Best Washer and Dryer Sets of 2024: Expert Picked | U.S. News
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Whether you regularly do a lot of laundry for multiple people or just do it for yourself every few weeks, it's worth the time and money to research and invest in a good washer and dryer set. While these appliances may not see as much use as your cooking range, washing and drying machines are no less important to your life – nor are they small purchases. There are benefits to buying them together, as most manufacturers make matching washer and dryer sets (meaning there will be no compatibility issues), and purchasing them as a bundle can often save you some cash.
Your washer and dryer must be able to tackle tough messes like grease and oils. However, they should also be gentle on fabrics and energy efficient, saving you money in the long run. There are many to choose from, but we've researched a hand-picked selection of the best washer and dryer sets money can buy, including our choice for the best overall set of the Speed Queen TC5003 washer and DC5003 dryer, which tops our list because of high user ratings and effective cleaning.
If you research the most reliable washers and dryers, you'll see the name "Speed Queen" frequently. The brand's TC5003WN washer and DC5003WE dryer set look plain, but that's part of their appeal. You won't find any smart features or other unnecessary bells and whistles here; even the controls are simple dials, which are less prone to breaking (and cheaper to fix if they do) than digital displays.
The Speed Queen TC5003 washer and DC5003 dryer set perform their duties very well, as you'd expect from a brand that manufactures commercial-grade laundry equipment. The TC5 washer delivers the highly effective cleaning action that Speed Queen is known for, which is why this classic model is still beloved over the newer (and less effective) TR7 models. Although the washer's 3.2-cubic-foot drum capacity is on the small side, the top-loading basin is deep and can handle bulky items such as comforters.
Speed Queen manufactures its machines in the U.S. and backs them up with a generous five-year warranty. The old-school design of these machines means that they aren't as energy efficient as most others, though. Speed Queen had to briefly discontinue the TC5 washer and tweak its design to meet the requirements of the Department of Energy. That's something to consider if energy efficiency is a major concern. On the other hand, their long (potentially decades-long) lifespan should make up for that.
Considering how much of a pain it can be to repair or replace a machine that is faulty, it's worth spending a little extra to get a good, reliable washer and dryer set if you do a lot of laundry. However, if your laundry needs are modest or you're on a tight budget, the Insignia NS-TWM35W1 washer and matching NS-TDRE67W1 dryer are a solid entry-level set that won’t break the bank.
The Insignia washer and dryer set are basic in design and don't offer advanced features such as smart connectivity (although that will appeal to many). Nonetheless, they tick the boxes of what you need a washer and dryer to do, with some nice extras included. For example, the NS-TWM35W1 washer has load-sensing technology, so it can automatically adjust the fill level to reduce water waste.
The washer and dryer each have 12 different operating cycles, too, which is impressive for appliances that cost roughly a third of our top picks from Speed Queen. The dryer also has a moisture sensor cycle, but users report that it's not as effective as a normal or timed cycle. That's not a dealbreaker for us. If you want the old-school simplicity of Speed Queen without the price tag and you're willing to accept some compromises, the Insignia washer and dryer set delivers.
If you live in a large household, you may do laundry almost daily (especially with kids or athletes in the family). A standard-capacity washer and dryer set likely won't keep up with that steady stream of dirty loads. The LG Signature WM9500HKA washer and DLEX9500K dryer absolutely can, with drums that are large enough to reduce the time you have to spend in the laundry room.
The LG Signature WM9500HKA washer has a 5.8-cubic-foot basin capacity, while the matching DLEX9500K dryer has a large 9-cubic-foot drum. That's considerably larger than the standard 3.5- to 4.5-cubic-foot washer and 6- to 7-cubic-foot dryer drums inside most machines. They're bulky, to be sure, but that comes with the territory of any high-capacity washer and dryer set.
As part of the LG Signature line, this washer and dryer set offers an impressive range of cleaning and drying functions (with 14 cycles on either machine) and smart connectivity. You can control the machines with vocal commands or from your phone with the ThinQ companion app. There's even a steam-cleaning option for items you can't wash normally. It's bulky and expensive, but the LG Signature washer and dryer is the best high-capacity set for homes with serious laundry needs.
Washers and dryers are not small appliances, and if you're looking to install a set in a smaller space, such as a studio apartment, you should look for European-style laundry machines. These are generally less than 24 inches wide and can be stacked. The dryers are also usually ventless, allowing for more flexible installation. However, there will always be trade-offs with compact appliances such as these.
The WXD160 WCS washer and TXD160WP dryer set from Miele makes the fewest compromises, combining high-end features with excellent build quality. (Miele, like Speed Queen, is renowned for the reliability and longevity of its appliances.) Both offer a wide range of washing and drying cycles, including a steam-clean function, smart connectivity, and remote controls with the Miele@home app. There's a handy automatic detergent dispenser, but the auto-dispensing feature only works with Miele-brand detergent.
The ventless dryer uses a heat pump, which is less efficient than a traditional vented dryer. That's a trade-off you have to accept with compact dryers like this, and you may have to run another cycle or air-dry your damp clothes. Another trade-off is cost: Expect to pay more for compact washers and dryers in terms of dollar cost relative to their capacity. That's certainly true of Miele appliances, but considering their track record for longevity, they're worth the price.
If you have pets, we probably don't have to tell you that animals can make your laundry routine more difficult. Tough stains and excess hair are more likely if you have non-human members in your family, and Maytag has the answer: the Pet Pro MVW6500MBK washer and matching MED6500MBK dryer.
The Maytag Pet Pro washer and dryer is a good set for general laundry needs, with some added features designed specifically to handle things like pet hair. Pet hair can pose a clogging risk in most washing machines, but the Pet Pro MVW6500MBK has a special pre-wash cycle that can loosen and remove hair and trap it in a special filter before the main wash commences. The MED6500MBK dryer also has an extra-large lint trap designed to catch any remaining pet hair (although that's not likely a problem if you use the Pet Pro wash cycle).
This is a solid all-around washer and dryer set, even if you don't have any pets. The drum capacities are large enough for families, and the washer's deep-fill option can handle larger loads. There's a nice selection of washing and drying functions; however, some things are curiously absent, like soil level or spin speed selectors. There's no way to see how much time remains on a cycle, either. These are relatively minor drawbacks, though, given the excellent performance of the Pet Pro washer and dryer set.
LG is a cutting-edge brand that makes some of the best smart appliances on the market, and its WM4000HBA washer and DLEX4000B dryer make for an effective and efficient laundry setup with Wi-Fi connectivity and useful smart features. You can connect the washer and dryer set to your wireless network and monitor and control operation and energy usage from the ThinQ app. You can even download additional cycles to try out.
Some users have had trouble connecting to the app, though, so you may not want to over-rely on it. Nonetheless, you don't have to bother with the app if you don't want to. Even without smart features, the LG WM4000H washer and DLEX4000 dryer set are incredibly capable. They operate quietly and quickly, with noticeably shorter cycle times than many comparable machines. The stainless steel drums are large and gentle on clothes, as well. No agitator post also means the washer can easily and safely handle bulky items like king-size comforters.
Both machines offer a wide range of cycles (12 each, not including additional ones you can download), including steam cleaning. The washer's TurboWash cycle is especially effective at removing stains and tackling tough messes. With so many washing and drying cycles and options, the control cluster can be overwhelming and difficult to read in low light. Still, if you want an advanced washer and dryer set with useful smart technologies, the LG WM4000H and DLEX4000 form an excellent combo.
What sets the best washers and dryers apart is that they do their primary job (cleaning and drying) well while being more efficient, feature-rich, and reliable than the competition. Today's washers and dryers also have new technologies, including things like smart connectivity, that the machines of yesteryear lacked. These aren't appliances most people shop for very often, so bringing yourself up to speed on what to look for in a good washer and dryer set is a good idea. But if reliability is your main concern, you can’t go wrong with the Speed Queen TC5003 washer and DC5003 dryer set.
Washer Dryer Sets
Energy Efficiency: Appliance manufacturers and buyers alike put a big emphasis on energy efficiency and eco-friendliness. When shopping for a washer and dryer set (and other appliances), look for Energy Star-certified models. This indicates that the U.S. Department of Energy recognizes the appliance for energy efficiency and can save money on those monthly utility bills.
Additionally, pay attention to the Energy Factor rating. Josh Mitchell, plumbing technician and owner of Plumbing Lab, tells buyers: "Look for washing machines with an Energy Factor (EF) rating of at least 2.5 or higher. The EF measures the energy efficiency of a washer." Regarding dryers, Mitchell adds, "Energy Star-certified dryers are typically about 20% more efficient than standard models. Look for dryers with a Combined Energy Factor (CEF) rating of 3.73 pounds of laundry per kilowatt-hour (kWh) or lower."
Front-loading washers and dryers are generally more efficient than top-loading designs. That's because front-loaders can spin their drums more quickly, which means washers use less water, and dryers can quickly wring water out of wet clothes. Gas dryers are also more efficient in the long run than electric dryers, which is something to consider if you have a natural gas hookup for this.
Size and Load Capacity: The old rule of thumb was that you should have a dryer with twice the capacity of your washer, but that's no longer the case due to more efficient modern designs. The typical capacity for a washing machine is 3.5 to 4.5 cubic feet, which can handle between 12 and 16 pounds of laundry per load (depending on the bulkiness of the items). A 6- to 7-cubic foot dryer is a good match for a washer of that size. That's enough for doing regular laundry for a family of three to five. Larger households should consider something with a larger load capacity, like the LG Signature WM9500HKA washer and DLEX9500K dryer set.
Remember to measure your laundry space and any areas the appliances will have to move through during delivery and installation (such as doorways and hallways). Account for 6 inches of space behind the washer and dryer to accommodate the vent and hose connections.
Wash Cycles and Fabric Care: Most washer and dryer sets come with standard wash and dry cycles, such as normal, timed wash/dry, permanent press, and delicate settings. Today's models often feature additional settings, such as eco-friendly cycles or sanitize functions that wash and/or dry the clothes at temperatures hot enough to kill germs.
A washing machine uses one of two methods to wash clothing: an agitator post or an impeller. An agitator is a central post inside the drum of top-loading washers that twists back and forth to rub and jostle clothes around and (in conjunction with detergent) get them clean. By contrast, an impeller uses a low-profile cone or fins to agitate and clean clothing. Impellers are a more recent design and are typically gentler on your clothes. Still, some machines include removable agitator posts or have agitators that are less rough on fabric than they used to be.
Noise and Vibration Levels: Washers and dryers are naturally going to make some amount of noise and will vibrate a bit when operating, but modern appliances should not be excessively loud, shaky, or squeaky when they're doing their thing. Today's machines are designed to dampen sound, and many let you adjust or even disable cycle signals if you find those beeps annoying or intrusive.
Excess noise and vibration from your washer or dryer can indicate a problem that needs attention, such as loose or worn-out components. It can also happen if you overload the machine with too much laundry. Try reducing load size, adjusting the feet on the bottom of the machine if possible, and making sure the drums and filters are clean, then see if the problem persists. If so, you should have a professional technician inspect the machine and determine if it needs repairs.
Brand Reliability and Warranty: You should always stick with trusted appliance manufacturers for large purchases such as these, and almost all of them include a one- or two-year warranty with a new washer and dryer set. Some include extended warranty coverage for certain components like the drum or impeller, and higher-end makers often offer even longer coverage. For example, Speed Queen includes three to five years of coverage on new washers and dryers, with a limited lifetime warranty on the stainless steel drums. You can usually purchase additional warranty coverage from your appliance retailer if desired.
Smart features: Many appliances, including washer and dryer sets, have smart features such as Wi-Fi connectivity and app-based interfaces. LG, GE, and Samsung are popular brands that make smart appliances nowadays. These smart functions allow you to sync your washer and dryer to your home's wireless network. Then, you can use the companion app to do things such as monitor energy consumption, schedule laundry tasks, or even control things using voice commands. Some washing machines also have load-sensing technologies that allow them to tailor the water used based on the amount of laundry you put in.
Smart capabilities vary by brand and aren't necessary for a washer and dryer to perform their primary jobs: cleaning and drying your stuff. Speed Queen, for instance, is a highly recommended brand (and our top pick), but its washers and dryers are fairly simple. That's why many people like them – simpler appliances are less likely to break. It's ultimately up to you whether the conveniences that smart features add are worth it.
the Best Washer Dryer Sets
When selecting the best washer and dryer sets, we considered cleaning capabilities, brand reliability, and energy efficiency as our primary criteria. Secondary factors like advanced cleaning cycles, smart connectivity, and conveniences played an additional role in narrowing down our top picks, but we didn’t weigh these quite as heavily. We also pored over customer reviews and consulted with appliance experts and professional technicians to identify the best washer and dryer brands with track records for reliability. We found that, while pricey, Speed Queen was a leading favorite among professionals and average users alike, with other makers like LG, Maytag, and Insignia offering great washer and dryer sets for the money.
WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?
Every U.S. News 360 Reviews team member has years of experience researching, testing, reviewing, and recommending products. Contributor Lucas Coll has written about consumer electronics, home appliances, and other everyday-use items for over a decade. Along with U.S. News, he has contributed buying guides, product features, and how-to articles to Digital Trends, Reader's Digest, and Business Insider. As someone who has been doing laundry for himself since college, Lucas is well aware of how much of a chore it can be – and how a good washer and dryer set can make life a bit easier.
and Upkeep
To keep your washer and dryer set running in top condition there are a few things you can do on your own to ensure optimal operation and avoid repairs.
WASHER
Use the Correct Detergent: If you have a high-efficiency (HE) washer make sure your laundry detergent carries the HE label on the bottle. If you don't use this type, you'll create too many suds that the machine must wash away with extra rinse cycles. Because many modern washers use sensors to detect suds, you may not notice it doing the extra work. Also, do not overuse laundry liquid, as this may cause too many suds, as well. Look for the lines on the laundry bottle cap – do not fill the entire cap.
Do Not Overload: Overloading your washing machine is one of the worst things you can do. This can cause the machine to unbalance and possibly cause damage. If the items you place into the wash don't move around freely or easily, this is a good sign that you've overloaded the washer tub. Large blankets and comforters are notorious for overloading, so you may want to take these to a local laundromat that offers large-capacity washers and dryers.
Clean the Lint Filter: Yes, washers can have lint filters, too. These do not need to be emptied nearly as often as the ones you have in your dryer, but it's a good idea to check them every few months for debris, such as lint, coins, or shirt collar inserts. These filters are located in different locations for different models of washers and will likely require a few steps to access, so consult your manufacturer's instructions on how to do it properly.
Regular Cleaning: Front-loading washers can sometimes retain bits of water that can lead to mildew or unpleasant odors. An easy way to combat this is to simply leave the door open for a few hours after a load is complete to let the washer air out. But if you can't do that because of mischievous children or pets, you can also wipe out the gasket or rubber seal that lines the opening to remove water and dirt. It's also a good idea to clean your washer's gasket every few months with a simple cleaner such as vinegar, baking soda, or mildew cleaner. Some washers also feature a sanitizing cycle that you can run with the aid of a cleaner like bleach.
DRYER
Clean the Lint Screen: Many people do this already but it's important to empty the lint screen before or after every load. It's also a good idea to vacuum out the compartment that houses the lint screen every few weeks, as lint can accumulate there, as well. If you have a dryer that uses a heat-sync system to remove moisture (ie. a non-vented dryer), it's a could idea to clean out the heat-sync every few months, as lint can accumulate in that, as well.
Do No Overload: Just like your washer, clothes must move freely to dry properly. If you stuff the dryer to the brim, it will take much longer to dry and put undue stress on your major appliance. Make sure to separate your loads to ease that burden. If an item is too large, like a comforter, put it on a line to dry or take it to a laundromat.
Level for Balance: When you install your dryer (and your washer), it's a good idea to get the level out and make sure it's properly leveled. If, not you could cause unnecessary wear and tear on the mechanical parts of your dryer, which could lead to malfunctions down the road. Most dryers have feet at the bottom that can be turned to help you level them properly.
In recent decades, front-loading washers and dryers have become increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional top-loading machines. Both have their advantages. Front-loading washing machines require less water than top-loading washers. Front-loaders can also be stacked vertically, allowing for more efficient use of space in places with limited room, such as apartments or narrow townhouses.
Traditional top-loading washers and dryers provide easier access to clothes, however, as you don't have to bend over to load and unload the machines. They’re often a bit cheaper, as well. On the other hand, shorter individuals may find top-loading machines hard to access, especially ones with large (and deep) cylinders. In this case, front-loading models may offer easier accessibility and increase efficiency, making them the obvious choice.
It's no secret that today's appliances are increasingly efficient, with the best washer and dryer sets requiring less water and energy to do their jobs. Some innovations contributing to this efficiency include front-loading drums, which can spin faster and need less water and time to wash and dry their contents. Larger drum capacities also allow users to wash and dry more clothes and linens at once. At the same time, advanced technologies like load sensors can tailor the amount of water used to the amount of laundry, further reducing waste.
You can expect to pay around $500 to $3,500 or more for a new washer and dryer set, depending on the capacity you need and what features you desire. Sets that feature a top-loading washer will often command a lower price than a front-load model, but keep in mind that it will use more water and may run less efficiently. Many retailers like Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowes will offer discounts when you buy a washer and dryer together, sometimes as much as several hundred dollars. Look for the best deals during holiday weekend sales such as Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day.
Lucas Coll has been a freelance writer for more than a decade and has penned articles on a range of technology-related subjects including computing, mobile technology, video games, and streaming services. He currently writes technology-related articles for numerous online publications.
David Dritsas is an Editor with the Home Goods team for U.S. News 360 Reviews, focusing on DIY, tools, outdoor home improvement, and more. He has covered consumer technology, home goods, and retail industries for more than 20 years for trade and consumer news outlets. He is an expert in navigating the online retail space.
U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.
