Some of the most used appliances in your home are your washer and dryer. With an average lifespan of 10 – 13 years, they are appliances you most likely will be replacing a few times in your lifetime. New models manufactured each year have additional options and settings, so it is often overwhelming to know which ones are worthwhile. Selecting the right washer and dryer involves consideration of your available space, appliance efficiency, and performance. Let’s discuss the pros and cons of three different sizes and configurations of washers and dryers: stackable, compact stackable, and standard.

Standard Washer/Dryer

Washers and dryers have a long history. Standard size automatic washers and dryers were introduced in the 1930s and to this day still offer the best capacity, making them ideal for families or anyone with large laundry loads.

Standard size models typically clean better than compact options, as larger drums allow clothes to move freely in the wash water. They also cost less than stackable units and provide easier access since they sit side by side. As that suggests, however, they require more floor space and may not fit well in smaller homes and apartments. Offered with top-load and front-load options, they allow for personal preference and convenience. It is important to note that front-loading standard washers require extra maintenance to prevent mold, while top-load models offer simpler operation with fewer maintenance concerns.

Stackable Washer/Dryer

Stackable washers and dryers first appeared in the late 1940s to early 1950s and were refined in the 1960s. The key selling feature at the time focused on space efficiency, making them ideal for apartments, small homes, and urban living. These units provided a full laundry solution without requiring the same footprint as traditional side-by-side models.

Today’s stackable models typically come with front-loading designs, efficiently cleaning clothing in less space. Stacking requires proper installation with brackets for safety. Costs for these models are often higher.

Compact Stackable Washer/Dryer

Compact stackable washers and dryers were introduced in the 1970s, though the concept gained mainstream popularity in the 1980s and 1990s as living spaces became smaller and energy efficiency became a greater concern. The key selling feature was their extreme space-saving design, allowing people in very small spaces to finally have personal laundering capabilities in the comfort of their own homes.

Today, compact stackable washers and dryers work best in small apartments or homes with limited space. Their smaller footprint and ventless options allow for flexible installation. These machines use less water and energy, making them efficient, but their reduced capacity means more frequent loads. Wash and dry cycles often take longer than their full-sized counterparts, which can also be inconvenient. Despite their size, compact front-load washers generally clean as well as standard stackable models.

Decision Time for Washers and Dryers

Hopefully, this brief review helps you decide where to start in your washer/dryer shopping adventure. Choosing the right option depends on your available space, laundry needs, and budget. Reach out to River City Appliance with any additional questions you have regarding the reliability of the models you are considering. With years of experience repairing a wide variety of washer and dryer models, we are happy to share our recommendations with you. Contact us today!