8 Best All-in-One Washer/Dryers

What Is an All-In-One Washer/Dryer?

An all-in-one is a clothes washer and dryer in a single appliance. It’s a great choice if:

• Space is limited;
• You’re single or a couple;
• Laundry loads are light;
• You own an RV or sailboat.

While standalone and all-in-one washer/dryers do the same things — clean and dry clothes — there are some distinct differences.

All-in-ones take up less space than two standard standalone washer and dryer units, are almost always front-loading and powered by electricity.

Where they diverge: Standard dryers use heat to dry clothes, while the drying function of an all-in-one works on a ventless condensing system. Also, all-in-ones tend to be more delicate mechanically than their traditional cousins, which can require extra care to avoid repairs.

Often people own smaller, all-in-one units to save space. Ron Shimek, president of Mr. Appliance, a Neighborly company says, “People tend to overload them which can make them wear out faster or cause breakdowns.” But, he adds, “With proper repair, care and maintenance, an owner should be able to maximize the life spans on either type.”