Washer-Dryer Combos:
Are They Worth It?

• Convenient - Wash and dry a complete load of laundry without swapping machines or unloading


• Compact Size - Smaller than most washing machines and dryers


• No Venting - Washer dryers are condensers, you don’t need to install any wall or window ventilation


• High Performance Washing - Little to no compromise on washing power compared to a standalone front loader


• Good Value - Can be more affordable than buying a high performance washing machine and dryer separately


• Gentle on Clothing - As they dry at lower temperatures compared to standalone dryers, and use front loader washing technology to help prevent wear and tear

• Limited Capacity - Generally less space than standalone models


• Different Dryer Capacity - Most combos have a smaller dryer capacity than wash capacity


• Long Cycles Times - Can take over 6 hours³ to complete a full load with drying


• Less Energy Efficient - Usually consumes more power and water than standalone units


• Complex Maintenance - Sometimes difficult to repair, plus both washing and drying functions may be out of order at the same time, which can be more inconvenient than losing only one appliance


• Inefficient Drying - Some models can take several hours to dry, and may not dry as effectively as standalone units

Small laundries don’t always have enough space for a washing machine and a dryer, so if you want a dryer but have limited room, a combo could work for you. Combos are also useful if you don’t have room for other space-saving options like a stackable washing machine and dryer.

If you only need a machine large enough to wash one or two people’s items, then a washer dryer can be a great choice. Staying on top of smaller loads of laundry is easier when you can start a load before you go to bed, or before you start your workday, and return to a completed load hours later.

Not sure what capacity you need? Our guide on What Size Washing Machine Do I Need can help you decide.

Different types of dryers have different installation needs, with some requiring alterations to your walls or windows for ventilation. Generally, condenser dryers don’t need ventilation, and since all combo washer dryers use condenser technology, this appliance makes for a good option in homes where alterations or venting isn’t possible.

Many combo users only use drying cycles when necessary, especially in warm and dry areas in Australia where air drying is usually the easiest option. However, if you live somewhere where rain or cold can ruin your air-drying plans, or you have limited space for a drying rack, then the option to tumble dry in a combo washer dryer can be a real benefit. Looking for more space-saving solutions? Explore our picks for the Best Laundry Appliances for Small Spaces.

While a combo washer dryer takes a lot of the fuss out of washing clothes, the amount of time and reduced capacity compared to standalone washing machines and dryers can cause problems in homes with many occupants. Because the same unit washes and dries, only a single load of laundry can be cleaned at once. With standalone units, where one machine is washing and another is drying a separate load, the cycle of laundry is made faster with two appliances working at once.

Washing machines and dryers can be draining on your water and power costs, but combo washer dryers can be especially inefficient when it comes to water consumption. Unlike most dryers, combos use water to regulate temperature during the drying cycle. For some models, this means that the drying cycle can actually end up using more water than the washing cycle.

If you’re looking for a more affordable laundry set up, standalone budget appliances can often be more cost effective than a high quality combo washer dryer. However, make sure to choose a budget washer and dryer that is still high quality.

While combo washer dryers usually perform as well for washing as standalone front loader washing machines, they often do not perform as well for drying cycles. Drying also tends to take longer, so if you need a high-powered fast dryer, then a standalone model may end up being more efficient.

• Space Saving - A combo unit has a far small footprint than two standalone appliances


• Streamline Design - Convenient design elements, like having no lint filter, and not requiring ventilation or complex plumbing

• Less Water Efficient - Particularly when it comes to drying


• Tougher Repairs - More complex design means that repairing combos can be more difficult and costly


• Less Affordable - A standalone washer and dryer can be cheaper

• Faster Drying Times - Can reduce cycle length by hours


• More Water Efficient - Don’t usually require water for drying


• Better Capacity - Easier to match washing capacity to drying capacity

• Larger Space Requirements - Needs enough room for two separate units, either stacked or side by side


• Some Home Alterations - Separate dryers may require venting and other home modifications

Washer-dryer combos need to handle a variety of fabrics and loads, so look for models with multiple wash and dry cycles. Features like automatic load detection, steam cleaning, or customizable programs can help simplify your routine. Some machines even let you tailor cycles to suit your specific laundry needs.

Modern combos come packed with smart features to make laundry even easier. Select Samsung models, for example, include Flex Auto Dispensing for detergent and an Auto Open Door function⁴ that lets in fresh air at the end of a cycle. These small touches can make a big difference.

Smart connectivity can take the guesswork out of laundry. If your combo is compatible with the SmartThings app⁵ you can use features like SmartThings Clothing Care - AI-powered suggestions tailored to your garments - or Laundry Planner to manage cycles from your phone.

Washer-dryer combos are complex, so solid customer support is key. Choose a brand that offers helpful how-to guides, live chat, and access to qualified technicians if needed. Samsung provides extensive support to help you get the most from your appliance.