Our Top Picks
- Best Overall: BLACK+DECKER
- Best Budget Dryer: Euhomy
- Premium Choice: Kenmore 2682273
- Best for Best Top-Load Washing Machine: LG DLEX8600BE
- Best for Front-load Washing Machine: LG DLEX6700B
- Best for Best Budget Washing Machine: GE GFD55ESSNWW
How to Choose the Best Dryers?
So, how do you actually pick a dryer that’s right for you? Let’s break it down like we’re talking over coffee.
Electric or Gas Dryers?
Ask yourself. Do I already have a gas line in my laundry room?
Electric dryers are usually cheaper to buy and easy to install because most homes already have the outlet you need. The downside? They can cost more to run in the long term.
Gas dryers cost more upfront but can save money on your energy bill and dry clothes a little faster. You’ll need a gas hookup, though, and sometimes professional installation.
No gas line? Go electric. Got gas already hooked up? A gas dryer might save you money later.
How Much Space Do You Have?
Do you live in an apartment, condo, or small house?
Compact dryers are perfect for tight spaces or for people who don’t do huge loads of laundry.
All-in-one washer-dryer combos save even more space because you don’t have to switch clothes between machines, but they take longer and don’t hold as much.
If you have a laundry room with some space, you can go with a full-size dryer and even stack it on top of a washer if you want to save floor space.
Vent or Ventless?
Can you run a vent outside? Vented dryers are the traditional choice. They’re faster and cheaper but need a vent going outside.
Ventless dryers (like condenser or heat pump models) don’t need an outside vent, so you can put them pretty much anywhere. They cost more and can take longer to dry, but they’re great if you live in an apartment or can’t install a vent.
Features
Steam cycles help with wrinkles and refresh clothes without rewashing.
Sensor drying stops the cycle when your clothes are dry, saving energy and protecting your clothes.
Wrinkle prevention and quiet operation are lifesavers if your laundry room is near bedrooms or living spaces.
Smart features like Wi-Fi control can let you start or monitor your dryer from your phone.
Decide how much you want to spend, not just on buying the dryer but also on running it every month. Finally, check reviews of the models you like. Real-life feedback is gold when choosing appliances.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a good washing machine and dryer comes down to your space, budget, and laundry habits. A top-load or front-load washing machine paired with a reliable dryer like the LG DLEX6700B can save time and keep your clothes in great shape. Don’t forget to use a quality detergent to protect fabrics and keep everything fresh.
Among the products listed, the BLACK+DECKER stands out for being a well-rounded choice with dependable performance and easy-to-use features. If you want something more affordable, the Euhomy is a great dryer that still handles everyday laundry with ease.
FAQs
1. What is the average life of a dryer?
The average life of a dryer is around 10 to 13 years. How long it lasts depends on how often you use it and how well you maintain it. With good care, some dryers can even run for up to 20 years.
2. What is the most expensive part of a dryer?
The control board. It typically costs between $90 and $280, depending on the brand and design. This part controls the temperature, timer, and cycle settings.
3. How much should I pay for a dryer?
Dryers generally cost between $800 and $1,200, with factors like dryer size, dryer depth, and dryer capacity influencing the price.