For homes with room for just one appliance
A washer-dryer combines both functions in one machine. However, you’ll need to adjust your loads for drying, as its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity, as UFC-Que Choisir points out.
Which set-up is right for you?
The space you have available isn’t the only thing to consider: how much laundry you need to dry and whether you can install two appliances matter too.
For households that often dry full loads
If you regularly dry bedding, towels or family-sized loads, a separate tumble dryer lets you choose a dedicated capacity. Compare it with your usual loads and the space you have for the appliance.
For homes with more height than width
Stacking keeps two appliances together without placing them side by side. According to UFC-Que Choisir, this requires compatible front-loading appliances of suitable dimensions, with the tumble dryer on top, and both sets of instructions must be followed. Check the stacking kit and make sure the floor is stable too.
How do you compare your options?
First decide whether you can install one or two appliances. Then consider drying capacity, energy consumption and installation requirements in light of how you do your laundry.
Heat pump tumble dryer
Consider this if: you have space for a dedicated tumble dryer and its electricity consumption is an important factor in your decision.
Bear in mind: UFC-Que Choisir says this technology uses less energy than conventional condenser dryers, but other technologies generally dry clothes faster.
Conventional condenser tumble dryer
Worth considering: if you already own one or are buying second-hand, after checking its condition and installation requirements.
Bear in mind: according to UFC-Que Choisir, it generally uses more electricity than a heat pump model.
Washer-dryer
Consider this if: you only have space for one appliance.
Bear in mind: drying capacity is lower than washing capacity, and cycles can be long, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
Stacked washing machine and tumble dryer
Consider this if: you have room for two appliances vertically, but not side by side.
Bear in mind: stacking requires documented compatibility between the appliances and the kit, as well as a stable floor. The tumble dryer controls will also be higher up.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Available space | Measure the width, depth and usable height, as well as the clearance needed to open the doors. | If I can only set aside one space on the floor, I want to combine washing and drying without blocking access to the machine. Around 28% of consumers would make this space saving their priority. |
| Electricity consumption | Compare the energy figures for the relevant model and programme. For a recent tumble dryer, check its A to G energy label. | If I dry laundry regularly, I want to be able to assess how much electricity this will use. Around 28% of consumers would make energy consumption their priority. |
| Capacity and cycle time | Compare the washing and drying capacities in kg, then check the length of the cycles that suit your loads. | If I’m doing several family-sized loads, I’d rather not have to remove some of the laundry before drying every time. Around 22% of consumers would prioritise capacity and cycle time. |
| Installation compatibility | For a stacked set-up, check the appliance and kit model numbers, the limits in the instructions and the stability of the floor. | If stacking is the only way to fit two machines, I need to know whether they can be installed together safely, without improvising. Compatibility would be the top priority for around 22% of consumers. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Choosing a washer-dryer based only on its washing capacity
Its maximum drying load is lower, so you may not be able to dry a full wash without removing some laundry first. UFC-Que Choisir also notes that cycles can be longer with this type of appliance.
Compare both capacities in kg and size your wash-and-dry cycle according to the drying capacity.
Splitting a load can mean extra cycles and waiting time, as well as higher water and electricity consumption.
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Stacking two machines without confirming they’re compatible
A stacked set-up depends on the appliances’ dimensions, a kit designed for them and a stable surface. The tumble dryer must go on top of the washing machine, in line with the instructions. UFC-Que Choisir also highlights these requirements for stacking.
Before installation, check the exact model numbers of both appliances, that they’re front-loading, the kit instructions and the limits set by the manufacturers.
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Comparing an old energy class with a current one
The A to G scale that applies to the tumble dryers concerned since 1 July 2025 can’t be read in the same way as the previous classes. The European Commission gives this date as the start of the new energy labelling and ecodesign requirements.
Check the label and product information for the exact model, then compare cycle data on a like-for-like basis rather than looking at the letters alone.
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Measuring only the width of the space
An appliance may fit between two units but still not have enough room for its door, hoses or the clearances specified in its instructions.
Measure the depth too, including with the door open, and check the delivery route and access to connections. Confirm the room meets the installation requirements before ordering.
Brands to consider for these set-ups
These examples can help you identify types of appliances and things to check. A model’s capacity or installation requirements won’t necessarily apply to the whole range.
Bosch
Worth considering for a separate heat pump tumble dryer, installed on the floor or in a compatible stacked set-up.
- According to Bosch’s product information for the WQG24502FR, this model has a stated capacity of 8 kg and measures 842 × 598 × 613 mm.
- Bosch requires the washing machine and stacking kit to be compatible. Check the instructions for the combination you’re considering.
LG
Worth considering when comparing a washer-dryer in a single appliance with an integrated stacked set-up: two formats with different space requirements.
- LG states that the F164R78BSTA has an 11 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. Its WashTower F761TOWERB is listed at 17 kg and 16 kg respectively.
- The WashTower needs enough vertical space and depth: LG lists the F761TOWERB at 700 × 1 890 × 770 mm. Also check the separate drying capacity of any washer-dryer you’re considering.
Electrolux
Worth considering for a heat pump tumble dryer or a stacked set-up using a dedicated kit.
- Electrolux offers programmes for different fabrics across its heat pump tumble dryer range.
- For its STA8GW4 kit, the brand specifies front-loading appliances with a depth of 47 to 60 cm, but also asks you to check compatibility by PNC number. Depth alone isn’t enough.
Beko
Worth considering for a separate heat pump tumble dryer, comparing models based on the space available and the capacity you need.
- Beko describes how hot air is reused in its D3H19E01W heat pump tumble dryer.
- To decide if it’s right for you, check the dimensions, capacity and energy label of the specific model rather than assuming these features apply to the entire brand.
Appliances to consider on Joybuy
These models suit two different set-ups: a separate heat pump tumble dryer if you can make room for one, or a washer-dryer if you only have space for one appliance on the floor. For each model, compare its drying capacity and installation dimensions with the space you have at home.
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Hotpoint CHD84MWBSEE, 8 kg heat pump tumble dryer
Worth considering if you have space for a dedicated tumble dryer and want to dry loads of up to its stated capacity of 8 kg.
Check its dimensions, installation clearances and energy label before deciding where to put it.
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Samsung WD11DG6B85BEU3, 11/6 kg washer-dryer
This washer-dryer combines both functions in one appliance if you only have space for one.
Its stated capacities are 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so limit the load for a continuous wash-and-dry cycle to the drying capacity. Check the length of the programme that suits your laundry.
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Samsung WD10HG6U34BEU3, 10/6 kg washer-dryer
Consider this if you want to wash and dry with a single machine and its stated drying capacity of 6 kg suits your loads.
Its stated washing capacity is 10 kg. If you wash a full 10 kg load, you’ll need to reduce it before drying. Check the model’s dimensions and label to make sure it suits your installation.
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Roborock Zeo Lite, 10/6 kg washer-dryer
This combination machine lets you wash and dry without needing floor space for a second appliance.
Its stated capacities are 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. Before choosing, compare the model’s dimensions and energy consumption figures with your requirements.
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CHiQ JW85882HG, 8/5 kg washer-dryer
Worth considering if one appliance suits your set-up and loads of up to its stated drying capacity of 5 kg meet your needs.
Its stated washing capacity is 8 kg. Check the exact dimensions, particularly the width, before deciding whether it will fit in your space.
Frequently asked questions
Does a condenser tumble dryer need an external vent?
No. According to UFC-Que Choisir, condenser tumble dryers, with or without a heat pump, don’t need the external vent required by vented models. However, follow the ventilation, clearance and connection requirements in the instructions for the appliance you choose.
Can a 9/6 kg washer-dryer dry 9 kg after washing?
No. If a washer-dryer is rated at 9 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, the load for drying must not exceed 6 kg. Remove some laundry if needed and check the length of the wash-and-dry programme.
Can you put any tumble dryer on top of a washing machine?
No. According to UFC-Que Choisir, stacking requires, among other things, compatible front-loading appliances of suitable dimensions, with the tumble dryer on top. For the exact models you’re planning to install, check the instructions, suitable stacking kit, load limits and floor stability.
Which energy label should you check when choosing a recent tumble dryer?
For tumble dryers covered by the measures that have applied in the European Union since 1 July 2025, check the A to G energy label. The European Commission states that the new measures came into effect on this date. Don’t compare an old label directly with a letter on the new scale, and check the figures for the specific model.