The Pros and Cons of a Stackable Washer and Dryer

May 30, 2020

Every household has different needs when it comes to laundry. Find out here if a stackable washer and dryer is right for you.

a man is putting clothes in a washing machine .

If you're looking for a new washer and dryer, then you might be looking for laundry machine options that won't take up too much space.

Perhaps you live in a small apartment, townhouse, or condo where every square foot matters. Maybe the garage is the only place you can fit them into, and there isn't much space there either.

If so, then finding a stackable washer and dryer might be the right fit. But you should consider both sides of it.

Here are the pros and cons of purchasing a stackable washer and dryer for your property. Be sure to consider them all before deciding whether or not to buy one.

Pro: They Take up Less Space

Perhaps one of the most obvious benefits to a stackable washer and dryer (and probably the main reason you're interested in them) is the opportunity to have your laundry machines take up less space.

Because they're meant to be stacked in such a way, you don't need much square footage in order to fit them in. 

They'll fit perfectly in the awkward corners of your property or right by the entryway door in your garage.

Better yet, they can fit into a small closet that you have. As long as the closet is deep and tall enough to fit them, the width shouldn't be an issue.

Con: They Can Be Expensive

Your stackable washer and dryer might be the first front-loading laundry machines that you've ever had.

If so, then be warned: front load washers are more expensive than machines that you load from the top. Why? Because they require more technology to ensure the water stays in the washer without leaking.

Seeing as how you're interested in stacking your washer and dryer, front-loaded machines are your only option. 

Simply do some research on front load laundry machines, set your budget accordingly, and this shouldn't be too much of an issue.

Pro: Energy-Efficiency

Did you know that front load washers require less water to operate? Their loads are often smaller, and they use less water to prevent possible leaks.

That leads to more efficient use of energy with every laundry load that you wash and dry. 

More importantly, washers are required to inform you of their energy efficiency by the government.

All you need to do is find the energy sticker on the washer as you're shopping around (you can find them online as well), and you'll be informed of the energy that machine requires.

More importantly, saving on energy means saving you money as well. The less energy that your washer uses (usually an energy-hogging appliance), the more money you'll save.

Speaking of, if you believe your laundry machines are costing too much money on your energy bill, it could be a sign that something is wrong. Be sure to schedule an appointment with a trusted washer and dryer repair service.

Con: Less Loading Capabilities

As previously mentioned, your stackable washer and dryer will have less room inside of them for each load of laundry.

That limited room is a double-edged sword: it's good for saving on your energy bill but bad for the amount of laundry you can do.

This might lead to you having to do any additional load or two, depending on the number of clothes, towels, and blankets you need to be cleaned.

Now, if you're a family of only one, two, or even three people, then this shouldn't cause too much of a problem.

However, for those of you that have large families (5 or more people), it might be quite a process. If everyone does their own laundry , then it won't be too much of a hassle for any one person. But if one person does it all, it could be a hellish chore to have.

Pro: Out of Sight, Out of Mind

Some of you might not want your washer and dryer exposed out in the middle of your home. But if you're living in an apartment or condo, you might not have much of a choice.

Stackable washers and dryers can give you that choice back by placing them in a small closet.

That way, you no longer have to place them right next to your kitchen or have them consume a significant portion of your second bedroom.

Con: Elevated Dryer

Those of you reading this that would consider yourselves on the petite end of the spectrum might not enjoy a stackable washer and dryer.

That's because the dryer will be in a much higher position than you're used to, and the knobs to turn it on will be even higher.

Some people have to use a stepping stool to do laundry in stackable washers and dryers. Others aren't looking to get a shoulder workout while they put in each new load.

However, if you're on the taller side, then you might enjoy the stacked washer and dryer more. There's less bending involved, and the dryer will probably meet your eye line.

Size plays a factor in your washer and dryer use, so be sure to consider where you fall and how it might affect you.

Consider Whether a Stackable Washer and Dryer is for You!

Generally speaking, the "cons" of a stackable washer and dryer really shouldn't deter you from buying one.

Want to take the best care of your new washer possible? Be sure to read this article on why you need an experienced technician to repair your appliance.

For more inquiries, please feel free to reach out via our contact us page. We'll be happy to assist you further!

 

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