Start by considering the space available and the volume of laundry you need to dry. A separate heat-pump tumble dryer is ideal for regularly drying full loads, while a washer dryer is primarily suited to homes where space is limited, with a drying capacity that is often lower than its washing capacity. If you do not want to add another appliance, an effective spin cycle will prepare your laundry for indoor drying, but it cannot replace a drying function.
You may be short of drying space or want to reduce the time damp laundry remains in your living areas. ADEME states that air-drying laundry is a significant source of indoor humidity: compare a drying appliance with a more effective spin cycle before making your choice.
You can install a tumble dryer alongside your washing machine and regularly dry full loads. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a condenser tumble dryer can be installed without an external vent; however, check the dimensions, connection requirements and condensate management specified in the instructions.
You need to combine washing and drying within the footprint of a single appliance. A washer dryer meets this space requirement, but its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity and the cycles require a different approach to planning.
Consider this if: you often dry full loads and have a dedicated space.
Bear in mind: the appliance takes up a separate space and condensate management depends on the model.
Consider this if: you want to keep using an airer and are mainly looking to remove more water before drying.
Limitation: this option does not dry laundry, so you will still need to hang it up or transfer the load.
Consider this if: your home does not have room for a separate washing machine and tumble dryer.
Compromise: observe the maximum drying load, which is generally different from the washing load.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Reduce indoor air-drying | Compare the drying method, capacity and installation requirements. A condenser appliance does not require an external vent, subject to the instructions. | I want damp laundry to spend less time in my living areas, without assuming that an additional appliance is essential. |
| Volume of laundry | Check the maximum drying capacity in kg. With a washer dryer, compare the washing and drying capacities separately. | I want to dry my usual amount of laundry without having to split my washes every time. |
| Space and condensate | Measure the height, width and depth, then check the clearances specified in the instructions. Also check the collection tank, supplied hose or compatible kit. | My appliance must fit through the access points, fit its allotted space and allow for practical management of condensed water. |
| Energy label and noise | Compare appliances in the same category using the label: class A to G, stated consumption in kWh/100 cycles and noise level. The applicable European regulation for tumble dryers sets out this labelling basis. | I want to compare like-for-like information, particularly if the appliance will operate close to living areas. |
The drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity, so a full wash load may need to be divided, changing how you plan your cycles.
Always compare both figures in kg and choose according to the amount you actually want to dry.
A condenser tumble dryer may use a collection tank, hose or accessory kit, depending on the model and the position of its reservoir.
Before buying, check the product information and instructions to see whether a hose is supplied, whether a kit is required and whether the installation is compatible with your drainage.
Capacity, drying method, noise, energy label and installation requirements all affect how well the appliance suits your home.
Compare appliances of the same type based on the label, drying capacity, dimensions, noise level and condensate-management solution.
Information shown for a washing machine alone cannot tell you how repairable or reliable a tumble dryer is.
For the exact model you are considering, check the documentation covering spare parts, repairs and the warranty.
An example of a heat-pump tumble dryer range including the 8 kg WTH85V02FF, suited to households looking for a separate condenser appliance.
A heat-pump tumble dryer range including condenser models with collection tanks, to be compared according to how condensate is managed.
A heat-pump tumble dryer range including 8 and 9 kg models, for households considering a side-by-side or stacked installation, depending on the model.
A washer dryer range designed for homes that can accommodate only one appliance, with washing and drying capacities listed separately.
Joybuy options covering a separate tumble dryer and washing machines designed to spin laundry before indoor drying.
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For regular family-sized loads when you have space for a separate tumble dryer.
Stated capacity: 8 kg; energy class C; stated noise level: 64 dB; direct drainage hose specified. Check the instructions, clearances and connection requirements before installation.
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A separate tumble dryer option for everyday laundry, with an installation space that has already been measured.
Stated capacity: 8 kg; stated dimensions: 60 × 65 × 85 cm; stated noise level: 66 dB(A); reversible door and collection tank specified. Check the drying method and whether condensate drainage can be connected.
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For preparing laundry for an airer in a home where available depth is limited.
Stated capacity: 8 kg; maximum spin speed: 1,400 rpm; stated depth: 470 mm. This washing machine does not dry laundry; check the required clearances, particularly with the door open.
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For households with regular laundry loads looking to reduce moisture in laundry before air-drying.
Stated capacity: 9 kg; maximum spin speed: 1,400 rpm; stated depth: 55 cm, or 63 cm including the door. Laundry must then be hung up or transferred to a drying appliance.
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For large volumes of laundry to be spun before air-drying or transferring to a tumble dryer.
Stated capacity: 11 kg; maximum spin speed: 1,400 rpm; stated depth: 68.1 cm. This model does not dry laundry; check the depth with the door open and the clearances around the installation space.
No. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a condenser tumble dryer, including a heat-pump model, can be installed without an external vent; a vented model, however, requires an external opening or access to a duct. Always follow the instructions for the location, power supply and clearances.
This depends on the model and compatible accessories. Bosch specifies a water drainage hose for the WTH85V02FF, while the Electrolux E2YH01 kit is intended only for certain appliances. Check exact compatibility before buying or installing.
The drying capacity is generally lower because laundry needs more room in the drum during drying. For example, Samsung specifies 9 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying on the WD90T634DBH/S3, so a full wash load may need to be split before drying.
Check the energy label and the model information sheet. Delegated Regulation (EU) 2023/2534 governs energy labelling for household tumble dryers; compare the A to G class, stated consumption per 100 cycles and noise level between appliances in the same category.