Comparing Different Types of Washers and Dryers

Jul. 08, 2024

Comparing Different Types of Washers and Dryers

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When it comes to keeping a household running, few appliances work harder than your washer and dryer. Whether it's washing your kid's favorite sports jersey for yet another wear, drying towels after a day at the pool or washing fresh linens, you want to know that your laundry system is reliable and effective. The right washer and dryer should be within budget, fit your space and have the capacity to hold all the items you need to wash and dry.

With so many options for washers and dryers, it can be tricky to find the right one for you. Here's a comparison of the most common types of washers and dryers, so you can find the right setup for your home.

Types of washers

There are three main types of washing machines: top-loading machines, front-loading machines and portable washing machines. Here's how they compare.

Top-loading washers

A top-loading washing machine is the most traditional and most affordable option. Typically, it costs $450 to $700 or more.1 It's usually a box-shaped machine with an opening on the top where you load and unload your clothes. Within top-loading machines, there are two main subcategories:2

Agitator washers use a post in the middle of the machine that twists back and forth, moving the clothes around during the wash cycle.
Impeller washers use a low-profile cone that spins, rubbing clothes against each other to clean them.

Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of top-loading washers:3

All top loaders Top loader with agitator Top loader with impeller Pros

High efficiency
Faster wash cycle than front loader
Low risk of mold or mildew
Can add clothes mid-cycle

Fastest wash cycle
Very good cleaning power
Familiar to most people

Requires less water
More capacity, especially for bulky items

Cons

Not stackable
Can be difficult to access, particularly for people with mobility concerns
Less cleaning power than front loaders
Bulky
Less efficient than front loaders

Can be tough on clothing

Longer wash cycle than agitator
Unbalanced loads can cause an error

Front-loading washers

Front-loading washers are more efficient and more effective at cleaning than top-loader washers. In fact, all front-loaders are high-efficiency (HE) machines.4 They use less water and leave clothes drier, which means your clothes will need less time in the dryer. Since the door is at the front of the machine, these are a great option if you'd like to add storage on top of your machine, or if you would like a stackable washer and dryer. In short, they're great for small spaces.

Front-loading washers are often the most expensive. They can cost $700 to $2,000 or more.1 Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of front-loading washers:3

Pros Cons Front-loading washer

Great at cleaning
Highly effective
Reduce dryer time for clothes
Accessible for people with mobility challenges
Stackable
Good for small spaces

Prone to mold or mildew
Require more maintenance
Prone to damage from overloading
Must bend or squat to load and unload, which may be uncomfortable for some people
Can't add clothes mid-cycle
Expensive

Portable washers

Portable washing machines are great for apartment living. These machines are top loaders that temporarily connect to your sink to draw water and drain. When they're not in use, you can store them in a closet or anywhere else out of the way. Portable washers are much cheaper than full-size washers, typically costing about $100 to $300.5

Here are the pros and cons of portable washers:6

Pros Cons Portable washing machine

Very small
No installation costs
No special outlets or water connections needed
Can be used in apartments and rentals
More affordable than full-size options

Limited capacity and cleaning power
Some landlords or apartment complexes don't allow them
Potential for costly leaks
Requires the sink for the entire use of the cycle, so you can't multitask
Need to store when not in use

Types of dryers

There's a lot of variety when it comes to dryers. To find the right one for you, you'll need to consider:7

Power source: Dryers are either electric or gas-powered. Check the power in your laundry space (or consider what you're willing to have installed) to know which is right for you.
Vented or ventless: Some dryers need a vent to the outdoors to release steam. If you don't have a vented space, you'll need a more expensive ventless dryer.
Size and capacity: If you have plenty of space, choose a dryer that fits everything you want to launder, including bulky items like bedding. If you don't have much space, opt for a compact or stackable dryer.
Door orientation: All dryers are front-loading, and most have the door hinges on the left side. Some dryers allow the door to open down (like an oven) or allow the hinges to be installed on either the right or left. When shopping, consider what's best for your space and laundry process.

Looking for more details? Here are the pros and cons of different types of dryers:

Electric dryers

Electric dryers are affordable and easy to install. They typically cost about $500 to $700, although some models with features like ventless drying and Wi-Fi controls can cost much more.8 Here are the pros and cons of electric dryers:9

Pros Cons Electric dryer

Affordable
Easy installation
Widely available, at a variety of price points

Less energy efficient
Costs of operation can add up over time
Longer drying time
Requires 240-volt outlet, larger than the typical outlet in a home

Gas dryers

Gas dryers run on natural gas or propane. Although they're often more efficient and cheaper to operate, they cost more up front. On average, you can expect to pay $900 for a new gas dryer, plus an additional $125 to $250 to have it installed by a professional who is capable of working with a gas line.10 Here are the pros and cons of a gas dryer:9

Pros Cons Gas dryer

Fast drying time
Energy efficient, which means lower costs to operate
Less static on the clothes

More expensive to purchase&#;a gas dryer costs, on average, about $100 more than an electric dryer with similar features
Requires professional installation in most cases
Potential for gas leaks

Portable dryers

Portable dryers are smaller, movable versions of an electric dryer. They connect to a regular outlet and can be vented out a window. They're perfect for apartments and other small spaces that don't have a designated space for laundry or the 240-volt outlet, gas connection or vent needed to run a full-size dryer.11 You can expect to pay about $200 to $350 for a portable dryer.12 Here are the pros and cons of a portable dryer:11

Pros Cons Portable dryer

Small footprint
No special connections needed
Less expensive than full-size dryer
No installation costs
Can be vented out a window

Limited capacity
Must have storage space for it when not in use
Can lead to heat and humidity indoors if not properly vented

Comparison of washers and dryers

A new washer and dryer should last for about 10 years, so choosing one can feel like a big commitment.13 Here's what to consider when you think about which machine is right for you.

Ease of use

Laundry is always a chore, but with the right setup, it can feel a bit easier. Here's what to think about:

Your space. Having the right machine for your space will make it more functional. If you want to put storage over your machines, opt for front loaders. For small spaces, stackable, compact or portable machines are a good choice.
Your physical capabilities. Will you be able to reach a lost sock at the bottom of a top-loading washer? Or pull a portable dryer into position? Consider which machines will be easiest, physically, for you to use.
Features. Some machines have features to make laundry a little easier, like Wi-Fi controls and wrinkle protection (for when you don't fold clothes promptly). These features usually cost more, so consider how often you'll use them before you spend the money.

Cleaning power

Cleaning power is arguably one of the most important aspects of a washer. If you're generally tidy, you can probably get away with a portable washer that's good for cleaning lightly soiled loads. But if you play outdoor sports, have children or do any other messy hobbies, you'll likely appreciate the more powerful cleaning power of a full-size, front-loading washing machine.

Energy efficiency

Having an efficient machine isn't just important for environmental reasons; in addition, these machines are often cheaper to operate over time.4 Remember that these days, most washers and dryers are energy efficient&#;though some have a higher energy rating than others. Also, consider how the energy efficiency will impact the cycle time. Sometimes, machines that use less energy take a longer time to wash or dry clothes.

Cost

Staying within budget is a key consideration. But when you consider the price of a washer and dryer, remember that you're purchasing items you'll probably be using for more than a decade. Over that amount of time, the price difference for a machine that really works for you might seem smaller. In addition, you can save money by purchasing a washer and dryer set.

Paying for a new washer and dryer

Getting a new, efficient washer and dryer can save you time and money in the long run. After all, trips to the laundromat are time-consuming and expensive! Whether you're splurging for a top-of-the-line machine or dealing with an unexpected washer and dryer replacement, the Synchrony HOME&#; Credit Card can help with covering the cost of buying a new appliance that's just right for your home. Use the Synchrony HOME locator to find Synchrony HOME partner locations in your area that may offer special deals for cardholders.*

When Planning a Big Purchase, Check the Calendar

**Subject to credit approval.

Portable Washing Machine Review

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Four years ago I moved into a cheap but very conveniently located apartment that had one major flaw: no laundry in the building. Being that I lived in an urban area, I didn't think the laundry situation would be so bad. There are laundromats everywhere in the city. As it turns out, everywhere except my neighborhood.

With the closest laundromat over a mile away, I tried every creative solution I could think of. I schlepped the mile with the laundry bag on my back, I took Ubers to the laundromat, I even had my laundry picked up and delivered. Somehow I was spending nearly $100 and hours of my time each month on laundry.

In an effort to recoup some of my time and money, I decided to invest in a portable washing machine &#; a small-sized washer that hooks up to your sink.

But when it came time to actually use the thing, I realized I had so many questions. Was I going to break the plumbing and flood my apartment? Did I need to leave the water on for the whole time? How would I dry my clothes?

Through some trial and error, I've learned just how convenient a portable washer can be. I've gained back hours of my time and managed to save a bit of money too. Here's what you need to know about buying and using a portable washer.

Who should buy a portable washing machine?

If you don't have laundry in your apartment building or home, a portable washer is a lifesaver and, in my opinion, an absolute must. It gives you full and exclusive access to laundry right in your kitchen or bathroom.

Even if you do have communal laundry, a portable washer can offer a much more personal and reliable option: You don't have to wait for the machines to be free, acquire a giant bag of quarters, or worry about someone taking your wet laundry out and dropping it onto a dirty counter. They're also popular in RV and boating communities and can be a good option for tiny houses, apartments, and some dorm rooms.

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Which portable washing machine should you buy?

There are many different styles of portable washers, but a good product should be compact, easy to use, and energy-efficient.

After much research, I purchased the Magic Chef 0.9 cu ft Compact Washer, which has a footprint of about 21 square inches. It was among the most compact washing machines I saw on the market. In the seven or eight months I've been using it, this machine has always operated smoothly, is simple to set up each time, and leaves my clothes feeling and smelling fresh. It also hasn't run up my electricity bill at all.

How to use a portable washing machine

Step 1: Gather your laundry

Portable washers typically hold only a very small load of laundry. In a typical wash, I can fit probably three to four days' worth of clothes for one person. Between me and my husband, that usually works out to a load every other day or so to keep up with net-zero laundry.

To discourage laundry pile-ups, we downsized to a smaller laundry basket. We really like the Sterilite 1.5 Bushel Square Laundry Basket. It's lightweight and unobtrusive, and when it's full, I know it's time to run a load of laundry.

Step 2: Presoak anything that needs special treatment

Portable washers don't have all the bells and whistles that a full-size unit has. If anything is stained or needs special treatment, do it first. We love OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover because we find it helps preserves color and gets stains out fast. You can presoak your clothes in a bucket, tub or sink, or even in the body of the washer itself. My washer has a soak mode, but you can also just fill up the washer and let it soak on its own.

Step 3: Connect your washer to the tap

Every portable washer is a little different, but all operate on the same premise: an inlet hose that connects to your sink tap to fill the machine with water and an outflow hose to drain. When you set up your washing machine, you'll follow manufacturer instructions to connect the hoses to the body of your machine. You'll need a wrench to make sure the hoses are connected tightly to the unit.

Connecting to the tap takes some trial and error at first. The tap connector has two parts: a quick release and a screw-on nozzle. Using your fingers, depress the quick-release valve and remove the screw-on nozzle. Lining the threads of the nozzle up with the threads on your sink tap, screw the nozzle onto your sink. You may need to remove the aerator from your sink tap, if it has one.

If the nozzle included with your machine doesn't fit your sink tap, you can purchase a pack of adapters from Amazon and see what works. A good fit means minimal leaking from the area around the nozzle (minor leaks can be okay). Once the nozzle is installed, push the hose with the quick release onto the nozzle and turn the water on at the tap.

Step 4: Place the drainage tube into the sink

After reading horror stories of drain hoses slipping out of sinks and flooding floors, I use a piece of string to secure the outflow tube to the sink. If you're using your bathroom sink to fill the washer, you may choose to place the outflow in your bathtub instead.

Step 5: Leave the water on

The first load of laundry I did with my portable washer, I sat next to the machine and turned the water tap on and off every time it switched from filling to agitating. This is not the right thing to do. Leave the tap running the entire cycle. Depending on what you're washing you can either set the tap to cold or hot water. I prefer cold water because it's easier and makes colors less likely to run, but you may wish to use hot water for undergarments, sheets, and towels.

Step 6: Turn your machine on

You may need an extension cable to reach your nearest three-prong outlet. Plug your machine in and press the "on" button. Select your load size and laundry mode, then press start. The washer should immediately begin filling with water.

Step 7: Add detergent

Most portable washers don't have detergent dispensers, so you need to add the detergent right into the tumbler. It's best to do this while the water is running to avoid the detergent clumping in one area.

While we've outlined the best laundry detergents for every need, I've found that liquid detergent, like our top pick, Tide Free and Gentle Liquid Laundry Detergent, works best with portable washers because it mixes in with the water easily.

Laundry pods like Tide Pods 3-in-1 or also work great, but be sure to place them on top of your laundry near the water flow. If a pod is wrapped up inside a bulky item, it may not dissolve all the way. One laundry pod or a half cup of detergent should be enough for one load of laundry. Whatever soap you use, make sure it's specifically for laundry.

Step 8: Disconnect the hose at the end of the cycle

When the cycle ends, turn the tap off and wait a few seconds before disconnecting the quick-release valve to let any built-up water pressure peter out. Disconnect the water hose from the tap and give it a few minutes to drip dry in the sink.

Drying your clothes

The spin cycle should have gotten a good chunk of the water out of your clothes, but they still need to be hung to dry. In the summer months, we hang laundry on a clothesline on our back porch. For small outdoor spaces, the Hawatour Elastic Travel Clothesline can stretch up to 10 feet, stays taught, and has built-in clothespins for easily attaching your laundry.

In the winter, your best bet is a laundry drying rack. In our guide to the best clothes-drying racks, we named the Honey-Can-Do Heavy Duty Gullwing Drying Rack our top pick and the Home Solution Foldable Garment & Clothes Drying Rack the best for small spaces.

Storage and care

To minimize any excess spilling, I store the ends of the hoses inside my washer when not in use. Even though the portable washer has a small footprint, it is deceptively heavy. This appliance dolly by Spacecare makes moving your portable washer around much, much easier. Plus, it only adds a few inches to the machine's footprint, so you can still store the washer in a small closet or corner of a room.

Like any appliance, it's important to periodically clean your washer. Once every six months or so, run the washer empty with some bleach or appliance cleaner. Our top pick is Lemi Shine Washing Machine Cleaner, which easily removes dirt, bacteria, and soap buildup.

The bottom line

A portable washing machine is absolutely a worthwhile investment if you live somewhere without easy access to laundry. We love them for apartments, RVs, boats, and other small spaces. The process is a bit different than using traditional machines, but you'll eventually save time and money with a portable machine.

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Comparing Different Types of Washers and Dryers