The Best Washing Machine and Dryers

The Best Washing Machine and Dryers thumbnail
A consumer's needs determine the best washing machine for his home.

Styles, models and brands of washing machines and dryers are always changing. Today's trends might be gone next year. This leaves consumers struggling to keep up with what's the best brand to purchase. Therefore, rather than concerning yourself with the brand, concern yourself with the features, your needs and your budget. After all, a washing machine is as unique to the owner as it is to itself. Does this Spark an idea?

  1. High-Efficiency

    • High-efficiency (HE) washers and dryers are becoming more popular. In fact, the majority of front-loading washers and dryers on the market are high-efficiency models. Upright washing machines, which are helpful if you don't want to bend down to load laundry, are also available in high-efficiency units. High-efficiency machines, however, are more expensive to purchase; therefore, first decide whether the monthly savings outweigh the initial purchase price — especially if you wash or dry infrequently. High-efficiency washing machines also require HE-approved or compatible detergents and softeners, which cost more than regular detergents.

    Space

    • Washers and dryers come in a variety of sizes to accommodate the different sizes of wash loads. Consumers limited on space should consider stackable units, available in both high-efficiency and regular models. If a side-by-side unit is your only option, consider the width and height available. Some front-loading machines, especially those on pedestals, take up a lot of space, while a top-loading machine is more compact.

    Cleaning Functions and Needs

    • Each consumer has his own washing and drying needs. While some consumers take items such as comforters and pillows to the dry cleaner, others prefer to wash them at home. Therefore, consumers must consider the washing needs of their households. Bulky items such as comforters or pet beds require high-capacity washing machines. Consumers that frequently launder heavily soiled items, such as rags soaked in grease, will need a deep-cleaning washing machine and dryer unit with a sanitation mode to clean items effectively.

    Additional Features

    • Certain models of washers and dryers are as fully loaded as a new car. Features range from steam cleaning to dry cleaning to refreshing. Be cautious though when choosing added features, unless you actually require them. For example, if you frequently dry-clean items at the dry cleaners, you can benefit from purchasing a washer and dryer combination that offers steam-cleaning and dry-cleaning capabilities. These features are typically found on high-efficiency, front-loading units.

Related Searches:

References

  • Photo Credit Ryan McVay/Photodisc/Getty Images

Comments

Related Ads

Featured