How to choose a washer and dryer set

When shopping for a new washer and dryer set, you want to be informed about all of your options to make the best choice for your home. Washer and dryer sets come in many different configurations that offer varying features to meet your laundry needs, and the best way to determine which set is a good fit is understanding the differences between each configuration. Use the following guide to answer questions about appliance shopping and to learn how to choose a new washer and dryer.

Should you buy a washer and dryer together?

There are several benefits to buying a washer and dryer together, including cycle consistency, matching designs and finishes, similar maintenance services and potentially lower purchasing costs.

Many washer and dryer sets are designed to work together, meaning that their cycle settings are meant to coincide with each other. Their cohesive functions also make maintenance solutions simpler as you can trust the same technician to service both appliances.

Purchasing the two machines together can also potentially lower the overall cost of the washer and dryer as you may be able to receive bundle pricing or reduced service and installation fees.

Finally, washer and dryer sets allow you to create a cohesive and clean aesthetic in your laundry room. The design and finish of these appliances are made to complement one another, with details like similar button sizes, control displays and door styles.

Can you mix and match washers and dryers in a set?

There are different types of washers and dryers that can work together as a set, like front-loading machines that can be stacked or top-loading machines that can be installed side-by-side. If you’re unable to settle on a pre-packaged matching washer and dryer, you can browse options to create your own set.

Picking a washer and dryer: types of sets

Top-load, front-load/stackable, laundry centers and all-in-one combos are the four most common washer and dryer sets to choose from. Read on below to learn more about the different types of laundry sets.

1. Stackable washer and dryer sets

Stackable/front-load washer and dryer sets' controls and doors are located on the front of the appliance for easy access, and they can be installed in two configurations: side-by-side and stacked. This option is great for laundry rooms with less floor space and offers convenient loading capabilities. 

Whirlpool brand offers a selection of stackable washers and dryers that help save on space without compromising functionality. Shop front-load washer and dryer sets together with pairs picked by Whirlpool brand to fit your laundry routine.

2. Stacked laundry centers

Like stackable washer and dryer sets, stacked laundry centers are an excellent option for apartment or small space living. This option is technically one appliance that cannot be installed in a side-by-side configuration and is typically small enough to  fit inside a closet.

Whirlpool^® stacked laundry centers can turn a small space into a mini laundry room. These appliances offer a variety of washing and drying cycles like the Dual action Agitator with Fabric Softener Dispenser and the AutoDry™ Drying System to help you care for your clothes.

3. Washer and dryer combos

Washer and dryer combos typically differ from stacked laundry centers and washer/dryer sets as they combine both washing and drying functions into a single machine. These options are easy to install almost anywhere as it only requires the space of a single appliance rather than two stacked or side-by-side machines.

You can save on time and space when you choose a Whirlpool^® washer and dryer combo. This option helps you get laundry done in any room so you can care for your family’s clothes without taking up a lot of space.

4. Matching top-load washers and dryers

Matching top-load laundry sets are the most commonly seen laundry configuration. They are simply side-by-side washers and dryers that come from the same brand. These machines are designed to aesthetically complement each other even though they have functional differences. For example, many of the dryers in top-loading sets actually load from the front, but the style of the dryers match their washer counterparts.

Browse top-loading washers and dryers or shop top-load sets perfectly paired for you by Whirlpool brand.

Should you replace your washer and dryer at the same time?

It’s recommended to replace your washer and dryer together, especially if you originally purchased them around the same time. This way you can make sure you are getting the most out of both appliances and can take advantage of all the benefits of a matching set.

Replacing the appliances simultaneously is also more convenient and can be more cost effective depending on any bundle savings offered by the distributor.

Explore Whirlpool^® washer and dryer sets

Whirlpool^® laundry sets are designed to make laundry day easier, with machines that can accomodate your home’s layout and your family’s laundry needs. Browse select models that offer features like the Load & Go™ Dispenser that lets you skip detergent refills for up to 20 loads¹ and Wrinkle Shield™ Plus Option with Steam for improved wrinkle-fighting performance.