If you often dry large loads and have the space, compare separate tumble dryers, particularly heat pump models. Stacking the appliances can free up floor space, provided they and the stacking kit are compatible. If you only have room for one appliance, a washer-dryer saves space, but its drying capacity may be lower than its washing capacity and a complete cycle may take longer. An airer is another option that avoids using electricity for tumble drying, as long as you can manage the drying time and moisture in your home.
If you don’t want to add a second appliance on the floor, compare a washer-dryer’s drying capacity with the option of stacking two appliances using a compatible kit. Que Choisir explains the trade-off between washing and drying capacities, while Bosch states that whether its kit is compatible depends on the models.
If you regularly dry large loads, compare the drying capacity, cycle times and energy consumption of a separate appliance and a washer-dryer. Que Choisir and LG’s product specifications provide details for the specific appliances they cover.
If you use an airer because you don’t have convenient outdoor space, consider how much room it takes up, how long clothes take to dry and the moisture in the room. ADEME discusses the moisture released when drying laundry indoors.
Consider this if: you often dry large loads and have a suitable space. Compare capacity, cycle time and energy consumption in the specifications for each model.
Bear in mind: Que Choisir says this technology generally uses less electricity than a conventional condenser dryer, while the latter generally dries clothes faster.
Consider this if: drying time is a priority. Compare it with the model’s electricity consumption and how you plan to use it.
Bear in mind: Que Choisir notes that these dryers generally use more energy than heat pump models.
Consider this if: you only have room for one appliance and can adjust the load to suit the drying capacity.
Bear in mind: Que Choisir notes that drying capacity is often lower than washing capacity, and cycles take longer.
Consider this if: you have enough height for two appliances but want to free up floor space.
Bear in mind: check that the washing machine, tumble dryer and stacking kit are all compatible. The requirements for the Bosch 00717525 kit do not apply to every machine.
Consider this if: you can leave your laundry to dry without needing it by a certain time, and your home allows you to manage the moisture.
Bear in mind: ADEME highlights the moisture released when drying laundry indoors.
| Consideration | What to check | Who should take note |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Dimensions with the door open; explicit compatibility of both appliances and the kit if you plan to stack them. | If I only have room for one appliance on the floor, I want to avoid adding another without compromising on drying capacity. Around 29% of consumers prioritise the space available. |
| Capacity and laundry routine | Drying capacity in kg, which is separate from washing capacity; cycle time for the load you plan to dry. | When I have several loads to get through, I look at how much laundry can actually be dried and how long it takes before I can start the next load. Around 29% of consumers put the amount of laundry dried first. |
| Energy and water use, and cycle time | Water and electricity consumption, as well as programme duration; for a washer-dryer, check the figures for the complete cycle. | To assess regular use, I compare consumption and cycle times with the programmes I plan to use. Around 21% of consumers prioritise keeping running costs under control. |
| Moisture and condensed water | Room ventilation; the model’s instructions and whether you can empty the tank or connect a compatible drain hose. | If laundry dries in the room, I consider how long it will take up the space and how I’ll manage the moisture. Around 21% of consumers prioritise reducing the amount of damp laundry indoors. |
Drying capacity may be lower. For the LG F964V42IXRS, LG lists a washing capacity of 9 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg.
Compare both capacities and the duration of a complete cycle before assuming a load can be washed and then dried without any intervention.
The European Commission says tumble dryer energy labels have used a scale from A to G since 1 July 2025. Some product specifications may still show an old rating.
Ask for the label and product information applicable to the model being sold, then compare energy consumption on a like-for-like basis.
The Bosch 00717525 kit requires a depth of more than 55 cm and excludes certain models.
Check that the specific washing machine, tumble dryer and kit references are compatible before ordering.
ADEME highlights the moisture released when drying laundry indoors.
Before deciding whether to keep or stop using your airer, consider your home’s ventilation and how long the laundry will take up the room.
LG offers washer-dryers and separate heat pump tumble dryers, making it possible to compare the two setups using specific models.
Bosch offers heat pump tumble dryers and stacking kits to consider if you’re planning to stack your appliances.
The FFTBCM118XBFR is one model to consider if you’re looking at a conventional condenser dryer.
Beko’s range includes the D3H28303W heat pump tumble dryer.
These tumble dryers available on Joybuy are designed for drying laundry at home. Compare their capacity, technology and the features that matter for your installation.
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An option to compare if you’re looking for a separate tumble dryer for drying laundry at home.
The title lists an 8 kg capacity and propane refrigerant; the description for this model also mentions OptiSense and a water collection tank.
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Worth comparing if you’re looking for a separate heat pump appliance for drying laundry at home.
The title lists an 8 kg capacity. The description for this model mentions direct connection of the drain hose; check the model’s installation requirements.
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Its stated 10 kg capacity may be worth considering if you regularly dry large loads.
The title also mentions UV Light, Refresh and Quick Dry functions, as well as an LED display. Compare the model’s features and programmes with your needs.
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Worth comparing if you’re looking for a separate heat pump tumble dryer with a stated capacity of 8 kg.
The title mentions UV Light, Refresh and Quick Dry functions, as well as an LED display. Check that the programmes suit the way you plan to use it.
Not necessarily: check the washing and drying capacities separately. For the LG F964V42IXRS, LG lists a washing capacity of 9 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg. If your load exceeds the drying capacity, you’ll need to reduce it or split it into smaller loads.
No. Check the model references for both appliances and the kit. For its 00717525 kit, Bosch specifies a depth requirement of more than 55 cm and lists some washing machines as incompatible.
The condenser dryers described by Que Choisir do not need an air vent leading outside. Condensed water can be collected in a tank; direct drainage depends on a connection or a kit that’s compatible with the model. Follow the model’s installation and ventilation instructions too.
Compare the water and electricity consumption and the duration listed for the complete cycle, then factor in your tariffs and how often you plan to use the appliance. Don’t confuse these figures with those for washing alone: LG lists the capacities and cycle figures for the F964V42IXRS separately.
Not across the board. The European Commission clarifies that the new ecodesign requirements in force since 1 July 2025 do not apply to machines that were placed on the market before that date and are held in retailers’ stock. Check the label and the status of the model you’re considering too.