Stackable washer-dryers offer the performance of a full laundry setup in a streamlined design. They can generally fit into designated laundry areas, smaller closets, and other spaces that have access to proper venting. Like most washer-dryer sets, you can expect to pay a minimum of $1,000 for both appliances, while high-end units with smart technology may cost over $3,000.
After researching dozens of models, we chose the LG Stackable Smart Front Load Washer and Smart Gas Dryer as our top pick due to its impressive built-in intelligence, efficiency, and easy front-loading design. While this high-performing set is our top all-around pick, we’ve also selected six other models that stand out as the best stackable washer-dryers in specific categories.
Best Stackable Washer-Dryers: Our Top 7 Picks
- LG Stackable Smart Front Load Washer and Smart Gas Dryer: Best Overall
- Samsung Front Load Washer & Dryer Set: Best for Quiet Washing
- Electrolux Laundry Tower Single Unit: Best for Speed
- LG Single Unit Front Load LG WashTower: Best Smart Washer
- GE Top Load Washer and Electric Dryer: Best Budget Pick
- Whirlpool Front Load Washer and Electric Dryer: Best for Businesses
- Maytag Stackable Front Load Washer and Electric Dryer: Best Features
Compare Top Stackable Washer-Dryers
| Product | Washer Capacity | Dryer Capacity | Dryer Heat Source | Single Unit or Modular | Reversible Dryer Door |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
LG Stackable Smart Front Load Washer and Smart Gas DryerCheck Price | 4.5 cu. ft. | 7.4 cu. ft. | Gas | Modular | Yes |
Samsung Front Load Washer & Dryer SetCheck Price | 4.5 cu. ft. | 7.5 cu. ft. | Electric | Modular | Yes |
Electrolux Laundry Tower Single UnitCheck Price | 4.4 cu. ft. | 8 cu. ft. | Electric | Single Unit | Yes |
LG Single Unit Front Load LG WashTowerCheck Price | 4.5 cu. ft. | 7.4 cu. ft. | Electric | Single Unit | No |
GE Top Load Washer and Electric DryerCheck Price | 3.9 cu. ft. | 5.9 cu. ft. | Gas and Electric Available | Single Unit | No |
Whirlpool Front Load Washer and Electric DryerCheck Price | 3.1 cu. ft. | 6.7 cu. ft. | Gas and Electric Available | Single Unit | Yes |
Maytag Stackable Front Load Washer and Electric DryerCheck Price | 4.8 cu. ft. | 7.3 cu. ft. | Gas and Electric Available | Modular | Yes |
Terms To Know for Stackable Washer-Dryers
- Single Unit or Modular: Refers to the stacking configuration; single unit washer-dryers are vertical and cannot be separated; modular units may be stacked vertically using a kit or set side by side.
- Dryer Heat Source: Dryers may use either gas or electricity to generate heat to dry clothes; gas dryers are typically more expensive. Ventless dryers that use a heat pump are also available. These have the highest energy efficiency, but are the most expensive.
- Reversible Dryer Door: Some dryers allow the door opening path to be reversed; this can come in handy if you’re fitting your unit into a cramped or awkward space.
Best Overall
LG Stackable Smart Front Load Washer and Smart Gas Dryer
Good for: The person who wants a luxury laundry experience in a small space.
This large-capacity washer uses TurboWash 360° technology consisting of five powerful jets that spray clothing from multiple angles. The machine also uses AI technology with built-in sensors to detect load size and fabric texture for optimal settings. The ThinQ app even syncs up washing and drying cycles. Gentle steam reduces common household allergens in fabrics by more than 95%.
Pros and Cons of LG Stackable Smart Front Load Washer and Smart Gas Dryer
- Has a NeverRust stainless steel tub
- Is AAFA (Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America) certified
- Features a tempered glass door that looks beautiful while resisting scratches and shocks
- High spin setting can be harsh on clothes
- Washing cycles for some settings seem longer than needed
What People Are Saying About The LG Stackable Smart Front Load Washer and Smart Gas Dryer
Our research showed that with thousands of positive reviews, this LG stackable washer-dryer is one of the top-rated choices in this category. The large load capacity and easy-to-use controls lead the way for reasons why consumers love this set. However, intensive wash and spin cycles did leave some reviewers wondering if this model puts fabric through more stress than necessary.
Best for Quiet Washing
Samsung Front Load Washer & Dryer Set
Good for: Someone who lives in a condo or apartment where sound travels easily.
This laundry set from Samsung features a front-load washer with 4.5 cubic feet and a dryer with 7.5 cubic feet, making it large enough for families who need to do frequent large loads. We also would recommend this set to anyone with a laundry setup near bedrooms or living rooms, as it reduces noise and vibration for a quieter wash cycle. It also eliminates 99% of bacteria from the drum using Samsung’s Self Clean+, and the dryer has sensor drying with 10 preset cycles.
Pros and Cons of Samsung Front Load Washer & Dryer Set
- Has a nearly unmatched 20-year limited warranty on the digital inverter motor
- Can troubleshoot issues via the companion smartphone app
- Is ADA-compliant when purchased with Samsung Riser
- Some people had issues with the washer becoming unbalanced
- Can quickly develop a mildew odor if you aren’t diligent about leaving the washer door open following cycles
What People Are Saying About The Samsung Front Load Washer & Dryer Set
In our research, we found that people loved the large load capacity and whisper-quiet performance from this washer-dryer. One recurring complaint is that water can sometimes take a while to dry after pooling in the washer basin. While mildew issues can usually be resolved by keeping the door open for a little bit after unloading clothes—a common issue with all front-load machines—some people were annoyed that this was necessary.
Best for Speed
Electrolux Laundry Tower Single Unit
Good for: The person who always forgets that they’ve put a load in the machine.
A top pick for roominess, this laundry tower has a number of features that ensure your laundry can stay fresh when you forget to swap it out right away. The extended refresh feature adds a spin after the wash cycle to keep garments fresh until they’re transferred to the dryer. When you’re in a hurry, you can wash and dry a load in just 30 minutes.
Pros and Cons of Electrolux Laundry Tower Single Unit
- LuxCare lint shield stops messes and debris
- Dryer has extended tumble to reduce wrinkles if you don’t remove the load immediately
- Uses sensor to adjust washing action and temperature based on load size
- End-of-cycle alarms are quiet enough to miss
- Vibration is strong at times
What People Are Saying About The Electrolux Laundry Tower Single Unit
People who own this vertical washer-dryer really enjoy its intuitive setup that features eye-level controls that don’t require reaching. The large capacity and quick cycles are also appreciated. While reviewers generally felt that performance was quiet, several noted that the vibration could be heavy at times.
Best Smart Washer
LG Single Unit Front Load LG WashTower
Good for: Someone who likes to keep chores organized from their phone.
This LG washer-dryer uses the latest AI-driven technology to automatically customize washing motions and drying temperatures based on fabric type and load size. This helps you plan efficient washes while prolonging the lives of garments. The LG ThinQ app provides notifications about usage and maintenance to help you stay ahead of any issues.
Pros and Cons of LG Single Unit Front Load LG WashTower
- AAFA (Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America) certified
- Door is made of attractive and durable tempered glass
- Center control panel is easy to reach to control both washer and dryer
- Settings between the app and the control panel aren’t always interchangeable
- Dryer settings are slightly limited compared to other models
What People Are Saying About The LG Single Unit Front Load LG WashTower
Overall, people who have purchased this unit are happy with the appearance and performance. While reviewers love how the smart features help to streamline laundry chores, there is a theme that it takes time to figure out washing and drying cycles through the app. There are also several complaints over the fact that soil settings can’t be controlled through the app.
Best Budget Pick
GE Top Load Washer and Electric Dryer
Good for: Someone living in an apartment or condo where space is at a premium.
This GE model’s compact design may be just what someone in a smaller home or apartment is seeking. This set’s PreciseFill technology determines the right water level based on load size to get maximum performance. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of high-tech washers and dryers, it does offer something for all fabric types between its 12 wash cycles and six water temperatures.
Pros and Cons of GE Top Load Washer and Electric Dryer
- Uses an impeller, which makes it easier to add bulky items
- Status lights and end-of-cycle chimes make it easy to anticipate when you need to unload
- Easy to operate for anyone who doesn’t want to learn how to manage cycles and settings through an app
- Doesn’t have a detergent or softener dispenser
- Noisy performance
What People Are Saying About The GE Top Load Washer and Electric Dryer
Overall, people say that this set is perfect for limited spaces. Affordability, decent load capacity, and quick cycles all earned this GE model positive reviews. Among reviewers who were less than impressed, some felt that the machine was too rough on fabrics. The loud cycles also left some reviewers frustrated.
Best for Landlords
Whirlpool Front Load Washer and Electric Dryer
Good for: Landlords who want a single washer-dryer unit for their tenants that takes up minimal space.
This Whirlpool washer-dryer comes with a factory-installed coin drop and coin box. It’s also built with a commercial-grade cabinet made of galvanized steel intended to increase longevity in a situation where tenants are doing high volumes of laundry. It also gets its durability from a watertight, flexible triple-lip seal featuring a garter spring that directs moisture from the shaft to reduce wear.
Pros and Cons of Whirlpool Front Load Washer and Electric Dryer
- Strategically designed bellow helps to prevent smaller garments from snagging
- Has a heavy-duty, die-cast hinge
- Time-of-day pricing lets the owner set pricing based on peak times
- Prone to shaking when loads are unbalanced
- Electric cord and vent kit are sold separately
What People Are Saying About The Whirlpool Front Load Washer and Electric Dryer
People who have purchased this washer-dryer praise it for being a well-made appliance that offers substantial performance in a compact design. Reviewers also like that the machines are easy to program for tenants. A few disliked the unit’s vibrations.
Best Features
Maytag Stackable Front Load Washer and Electric Dryer
Good for: Good for someone who is particular about their laundry.
This high capacity, high-efficiency stackable setup boasts the ability to handle 30 towels at once. This washer-dryer set impresses with a list of features that includes quick wash, a sanitize cycle, wrinkle control, late-add feature, extra power button, and 16-hour fresh hold.
Pros and Cons of Maytag Stackable Front Load Washer and Electric Dryer
- Unique extra power button uses both hot and cold water to fight different stain types
- Well-made wash basket made from stainless steel
- Has a wrinkle-control feature for the dryer
- Performance can be loud and clunky
- Longer-than-average wash times
What People Are Saying About The Maytag Stackable Front Load Washer and Electric Dryer
Overall, people who have this unit in their homes are impressed by the performance they are getting for the size and price. Noise and vibrations are the two major complaints.
What To Know Before Buying Stackable Washer-Dryers
How do you choose the best stackable washer-dryer for your home? The truth is that the space that you’re purchasing the laundry system for plays a big role in determining what’s appropriate. While some buyers may be restricted in what they can consider due to space limitations, others may be focused on avoiding noise and vibration because they share a wall with a neighbor. This guide covers all the major considerations when buying stacked washers and dryers.
What are the typical capacities of stackable washers and dryers?
For the washer portion, the capacity is usually in the neighborhood of 3 to 6 cubic feet. Dryers have a larger capacity of about 5 to 8 cubic feet. Most manufacturers will give you examples of what a load looks like by describing a unit that can fit 20 towels or a king-sized comforter.
What designs and finishes do stackable washer-dryers come in?
Manufacturers of stackable washers and dryers generally translate the core designs and common finishes that are available in full-sized models into compact washer-dryer designs. Front-load designs are common for both the washer and dryer portions. However, some space-saving designs will pair a top-load washer with a front-load dryer to optimize space.
For finishes, white, stainless steel, and black stainless steel are standard. Lower-end models may only be available in white. In some ways, the appearance of a stackable efficiency dryer can be even more important compared to full-sized units simply because you may be putting your laundry system in a high-visibility spot because you don’t have a laundry room. This creates a good case for matching your washer and dryer to create uniformity.
What are the major differences between laundry center units and standalone units?
With standalone units, you’re getting two separate appliances with their own controls that just happen to be intended to be paired together. With a laundry center, you’ll be using controls that are placed in the middle of a combo unit. Some people like the aesthetic of having two separate units that resemble more of a traditional laundry setup when placed together. However, laundry centers are attractive to many people because these designs place the controls in the center for easy reach. However, the downside is that you will need to replace both your washer and dryer if one half of the center breaks down.
What are the typical dimensions of a stackable washer-dryer?
A standard stacked washer-dryer is 27 inches wide by 74 inches high with a depth of 30 to 35 inches. A large-capacity stackable dryer will often be as large as 29 inches wide by 83 inches high. With height varying by model and manufacturer, it’s important to read product specifications carefully before ordering a washer-dryer.
What are some key features to look for in a stackable washer-dryer?
It’s important to think about the washing experience instead of just settling for a washer-dryer because it’s guaranteed to fit into your tight space. Fortunately, most major appliance manufacturers include their core features in compact models. Here are some must-have or live-without features to decide on while shopping:
- App-based controls versus traditional controls
- ENERGY STAR certification
- Number of cycles and temperature options
- Quick cycles
- Smart load-size and load-type detection
- Steam cleaning
Deciding Between a Gas or Electric Dryer
People shopping for laundry appliances for the first time are sometimes unaware that dryers in washer-dryer units can either be electric or gas. Some manufacturers will make a version of each for each model. While performance is similar, there are a few things buyers need to know about the differences between gas and electric dryers.
Gas Dryers
Gas dryers use gas to generate heat that powers that dryer drum, fan and controls. You must have a gas hookup in order to use a gas dryer. Gas dryers are generally cheaper to operate. However, they do tend to cost more initially.
Electric Dryers
Electric dryers work the same as essentially all standard electrical appliances by using your home’s electricity to generate heat. While they have a lower initial price, electric dryers can cost more to operate over the years compared with gas. Unlike dryers that require a gas hookup, electrical models just need a 240-volt electric outlet.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stackable Washer-Dryers
Do stackable washer-dryers require a separate vent?
All vented stackable washers and dryers will require the same venting and hoses as full-sized, separate washers and dryers. This requires you to leave up to 5 inches of space behind the unit to allow for hoses and ventilation. If you select a ventless model, air will recirculate through the condenser drum until clothes are dry.
What are some possible downsides to using stackable washer-dryers?
Some people find stackable washers and dryers ergonomically challenging because the top unit is often above a person’s head. It is sometimes necessary to use a step stool with a washer-dryer. While stackable models may be the only options in tighter spaces, these designs have smaller load capacity compared to full-sized units.
How do you install a stackable washer-dryer?
The manufacturer should provide you with step-by-step instructions for safe and proper installation of your new washer-dryer. Most models come with a stacking kit with the materials needed to stabilize the two units. Stacking kits generally include a frame, screws, and other components needed to secure the washer and dryer together. The rule to remember during installation is that dryers always go on top of washers.
Can stackable washer-dryers be set up side-by-side?
Yes, some stackable washer-dryers can simply be placed side by side instead of being attached. However, confirming the manufacturer’s guidelines is important to ensure that you can safely and properly install units in your home. Stackable washers and dryers are never intended to be stacked with anything other than their manufacturer-approved counterparts.
Our Methodology
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, including power tools, outdoor equipment, major appliances, kitchen gadgets, electronics, and more that focus on product quality and helpfulness to our readers.
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of stackable washer-dryers with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we compared each model’s feature set to create a final short list, selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.