If you regularly dry large loads of laundry and have enough room, choose a separate tumble dryer. If you can only fit one appliance, a washer-dryer lets you wash and dry your clothes in the same place, but its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. Whichever option you choose, check the dimensions and installation requirements for the exact model. With a washer-dryer, compare the figures for the full wash-and-dry cycle, not just the wash cycle.
If you have room for two appliances, either side by side or stacked using a compatible stacking kit, a dedicated tumble dryer lets you dry a load without tying up your washing machine. Compare its drying capacity with the size of your usual loads. Bosch notes that a washer-dryer’s drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity.
A washer-dryer combines both functions, so there’s no need to transfer laundry between machines. You’ll still need to measure the space and allow for the door to open, then check that the load you want to dry is within its drying capacity.
If you’re choosing a dedicated tumble dryer, it’s worth comparing heat pump models with other technologies. UFC-Que Choisir highlights their lower electricity use, though cycle times should also be considered. For a washer-dryer, check the energy, water and duration figures for the full wash-and-dry cycle for the model you’re considering.
First, work out whether you can actually install a separate appliance, then compare the load you need to dry with the cycle times. If you can only fit one machine, look at the washer-dryer’s full cycle rather than its washing specifications alone.
Consider this if: you have a suitable space and regularly dry several loads.
Bear in mind: a second appliance takes up space. If you’re stacking the machines, the kit must be suitable for both models, as specified in the manufacturer’s instructions.
Consider this if: there’s room for only one machine in your flat and its drying capacity is enough for your laundry.
Bear in mind: its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. UFC-Que Choisir also notes that drying takes longer than with a conventional tumble dryer, and that water use is worth checking.
| Consideration | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Load size and frequency | Compare drying capacities in kg with the amount of laundry you dry per cycle. With a washer-dryer, don’t confuse its washing capacity with its drying capacity. | If I do laundry often or have large loads, I want to know how much will be dry after one cycle without splitting every load. Around 34% of shoppers make this a priority. |
| Available space | Measure the alcove, access routes and depth with the door open. If stacking the machines, check that the kit is compatible with both model numbers. | If I only have space for one appliance, installing two machines is only an option if a suitable stacked set will fit. This is the top consideration for around 33% of shoppers. |
| Drying time | Check the duration of the programme for the load you have in mind and, for a washer-dryer, the length of the full wash-and-dry cycle. | If I need to get through several loads, I want to know when the laundry will actually be dry before choosing a machine. Cycle time is the top consideration for around 20% of shoppers. |
| Energy use and venting | Compare electricity use and, for a washer-dryer, water use for the full cycle. If you’re considering a vented model, check the vent and the requirements in its instructions. | I want to keep running costs under control without choosing an appliance that can’t be vented properly in my home. Around 13% of shoppers put these practical requirements first. |
When comparing technologies, UFC-Que Choisir describes heat pump tumble dryers as using less electricity than conventional condenser or vented models, which are generally quicker. These are broad trends, so check the figures and cycle times for the specific model you’re considering. Only consider a vented tumble dryer if your installation and home ventilation meet the requirements in its instructions.
Advertised capacities can differ. For example, Electrolux lists one model with a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. So, a full load of washing may not be able to dry in one go.
Choose a model based on its drying capacity and the size of the loads you want to dry.
If your load is larger than this capacity, you’ll need to take some laundry out or run another drying cycle.
According to the European Commission, washer-dryer labels distinguish between the energy use and duration of a wash-only cycle and those of a full wash-and-dry cycle. UFC-Que Choisir also recommends taking the water used to dry laundry into account.
Check the label or EPREL listing for the model and compare the full-cycle figures if you want your laundry washed and dried in one go.
The route for vented air depends on your home and the model. Instructions published by BSH Hausgeräte warn that insufficient ventilation can lengthen drying times and increase energy use.
Before buying, check your proposed vent route against the instructions. If changes to your home might be needed, confirm that they’re possible first.
Bosch’s installation instructions for the WTH8300SFR tumble dryer rule out stacking without the appropriate stacking kit.
Note down both appliance model numbers, check which kit the manufacturer recommends, and measure the available height and depth.
Bosch’s range includes washer-dryers and tumble dryers. Whether you can stack them depends on the models you choose.
Electrolux offers heat pump and condenser washer-dryers. Compare them by capacity and full-cycle performance.
LG product specifications let you compare washing and drying capacities, as well as the space needed with the door open.
Miele offers dedicated heat pump tumble dryers, worth considering if you have room for a second appliance.
These appliances cover the two main options: washer-dryers if you only have room for one machine, and heat pump tumble dryers if you can install a dedicated appliance. Compare their capacities with your usual loads and check the installation requirements for each model.
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A freestanding appliance that combines washing and drying. Its stated capacities are 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so compare the second figure with the size of the loads you plan to dry.
Check the door clearance, connections and full-cycle figures on the model’s label.
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A practical choice if space is limited and you need just one appliance. Its stated capacities are 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so you’ll need to split a larger load before drying.
Before choosing, check the dimensions, connections, and the energy use and duration of the full cycle.
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A good option if you have room for a second appliance and want to dry laundry separately from washing. This freestanding model has a stated capacity of 8 kg and an option for direct drainage.
Check the dimensions, programme times and electricity use. You’ll also need to decide how the condensed water will be drained in your home.
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Wash and dry your laundry in one machine. Its stated capacities are 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so use the second figure when planning a continuous cycle.
Compare energy, water and duration figures for the full cycle, then check the dimensions and required connections.
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A separate drying option if your flat has room for a second appliance. Its stated capacity is 8 kg.
Compare its electricity use and programme times with other models, then measure the space needed for installation.
Not if the wash load is larger than its drying capacity. For example, Electrolux and LG list models with respective wash/dry capacities of 10/6 kg and 11/6 kg. If you have more than 6 kg of laundry to dry, you’ll need to remove some of the load and run another cycle.
For each model, compare the figures for the full wash-and-dry cycle separately from those for washing alone. The European Commission says the label includes information such as energy use, water use and cycle duration. Make sure you compare figures for the same type of cycle before choosing between appliances.
No. Compatibility depends on the models and the kit recommended by the manufacturer. Bosch’s instructions for the WTH8300SFR tumble dryer require a suitable stacking kit. Note down both model numbers and check the installation instructions before planning a stacked setup.
Only if the model and your home allow it to be vented as described in its instructions, without compromising ventilation. Check the route for the vent and, if changes to your home are needed, confirm they’re possible before you buy.
Follow the instructions for your chosen model. For a condenser or heat pump tumble dryer, check how to manage condensed water and maintain the filters. For a washer-dryer, refer to the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions and any recommended maintenance cycles.