Ventless dryers are a good option for homes that aren’t equipped for vent-style dryer installation. A ventless dryer constantly recirculates air through the drum to pick up moisture from the clothes, then condenses the moisture later in the process through a heat exchanger. This contrasts with vented dryers, which push hot humid air outside through a dryer vent.

How does a ventless dryer work?

There are two types of ventless dryers, which are also called condensing dryers. 

Ventless washer dryer combos

Ventless all-in-one washer dryer combinations are exactly what they sound like—a laundry appliance that combines the functions of a washer and a dryer. Simply load your clothes and choose your settings; this appliance runs a washing cycle, then transitions to a drying cycle using ventless technology. Because they combine two appliances into one, ventless washer dryer combos can be a great choice for families who live in apartments or homes in which space is at a premium.

Should I consider a ventless dryer?

If you live in an apartment and don't have access to a dryer vent or have limited space for your laundry appliances, it can be a challenge to find a dryer that fits your needs. Fortunately, ventless dryers can offer a solution. Popular in Europe for decades, ventless dryers — and more recently, ventless washer dryer combos — have started to catch on in the United States thanks to their space-saving properties. If you have limited space for laundry appliances or want energy-efficient options, a ventless dryer may be a good choice for your home.