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They also can be more budget-friendly than buying the machines individually.
The Spruce
We’ve tested this set at home and in the lab.
What is a washing machine agitator?
My husband even noted that our clothes smelledtoo cleanone time, even though we use unscentedlaundry detergent pods.
PHOTO: AJ Madison
What really sets the top-load washer apart from the rest, though, is the removable agitator.
The washer also has specialty cycles like activewear and jeans, but does not have a suite of dispensers.
The washer’s cycles are a bit long, and mainly because the spin portion is quite extensive.
A side-by-side view of the LG WM400HWA washer and LG DLEX400W dryer. To stack them, you’ll need to use a stacking kit.PHOTO: The Spruce
That said, the dryer produces just a low hum, and dries most loads in just one go.
But, beyond those details, this set really isn’t feature-packed.
It’s a basic set that’s still feels modern.
For a large family who does five to 10 loads per week, this is a massive game-changer.
It also features a central agitator.
There are no steam or hand-wash options.
Load capacity is improved, too.
The washer features 4.5 cubic feet of drum space, which is on par with many standalone washing machines.
The dryer keeps up with 7.4 cubic feet of room.
In both appliances, youll have plenty of cycles and options to choose from.
What is a laundry center?
One of the more innovative design features of the LG WashTower is the aforementioned central control panel.
(The heavy-duty one, especially, was great at cleaning diapers with minimal stainingand no odorsleft behind.)
As much as we love this washing-and-drying duo, there are a few design issues to point out.
We tested the titanium finish, which easily scratches if you placelaundry basketson top.
We also struggled to reverse the doors on these machines.
The screws were very hard to re-install and a trip to the hardware store for longer screws was necessary.
We recommend asking an installation expert to complete this task for you to avoid any frustration.
It’s a full-featured pair that won’t disappoint.
The units have plenty of capacity and innovative features.
The control panel is located in the center of the appliance for easier access.
you could also check out ourwashing machine load-size reference chartfor more information on machine capacity and laundry load sizes.
In a front-load washer, youll see a big drum with small fins protruding from all sides.
However, this gentler agitation also means longer cycle times to ensure that clothes are clean.
PHOTO: Home Depot
The other is an impeller designed as a rotating plate with fins/ridges in the bottom of the machine."
Typical top-loaders with a tall agitator are said to shorten the longevity of garments.
That way, you might get the best of both worlds.
The removable agitator in this machine just twists out when you want to use the impeller.The Spruce
Our top picks also include specialty cycles for activewear, jeans, colors, and bulky items.
Stainless steel drums are always considered the smoothest and most durable choice for washing machine drums.
Less commonly seen, but sometimes used in low- or mid-range machines, are heavy-duty, plastic washtubs.
This washing machine has always left our clothes smelling fresh and looking flawless.PHOTO: The Spruce
This helps prevent anylaundry detergent stains on your clothes.
(That said, follow any instructions that are in your washer’s manual first.)
That will also provide enough room to dry larger items, like any queen- or king-sized comforters.
When Is the Best Time to Buy a Washer-and-Dryer Set on Sale?
If you’re in the market for a new set, definitely consider the calendar.
Many retailers, such as Home Depot and Lowe’s, offer online and in-store shopping options.
There are also retailers that offer a larger online selection than what’s limited to showrooms.
In general, you could expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 for a new washer-dryer set.
What Are the Most Reliable Washer-and-Dryer Brands?
Washing machines on average last up to 11 years, while dryers canlast between 13 and 15 years.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Our Experts:
Washer and Dryer Certification.National Sanitation Foundation International.
This Whirlpool appliance set includes a top-load washer and a front-load dryer.The Spruce
This Whirlpool appliance set includes a top-load washer and a front-load dryer.The Spruce
PHOTO: Best Buy
PHOTO: Lowes
PHOTO: AJ Madison
The silver finish makes the Electrolux’s Front Load Washer and Dryer scratches more noticeable.The Spruce
The Spruce
Whirlpool’s Moisture Sensing Dryer has a large capacity that doesn’t require splitting loads.The Spruce
