Best Stackable Washer And Dryer 2024 - Forbes Vetted

Oct 21, 2024

The best stackable washers and dryers save on floorspace without sacrificing cleaning strength. These machines are perfect for apartment dwellers or individuals seeking to minimize the footprint of their laundry appliances. Our top pick is LG’s WashTower for its sleek style, central control panel and generous capacity. However, there are other options on our list that are also worth considering.

The best stackable washers and dryers save on floorspace without sacrificing cleaning strength.

Stackable units come in two main styles: all-in-one units or models that can be mixed and matched to work together. Single units are more convenient—you don’t need additional hardware to put them together—but individual models allow you the flexibility to change your laundry room layout in the future.

To select the best stackable washer and dryer for your requirements, consider factors such as capacity for each machine, available space and preferred features. Additionally, if the machines is aesthetically appealing, it's even better. From compact, space-saving sets to smart devices, here are the best stackable washers and dryers currently available on the market.

Best Buy

Size: 27 x 74.4 x 30.5 inches | Washer capacity: 4.5 cubic feet | Dryer capacity: 7.4 cubic feet | Special features: Center control panel, load-sensing, ThinQ app connectivity | Energy Star certified: Yes | Washer capacity: 1 year (parts and labor)

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This stackable washer and dryer is hands down the best option for small spaces. With generous capacities in both machines, it easily handles large loads, which isn’t always the case with other stackable units. Its standout feature is the mid-level control panel, conveniently positioned between the washer and dryer. In addition to practical features like Speed Wash, steam settings, allergen detection and load sensing, this unit is built for durability. The LG WashTower not only impresses with its sleek design and stylish finish, but also its scratch-resistant tempered glass doors and stainless steel tubs, which prevent chips that could damage clothing.

What the editors say: “The WashTower is truly a game changer for stackable washers and dryers. It has a lot to offer, but one seemingly simple feature that stands out is the control panel in the center of the unit. It makes it so easy to operate,” explains Lindsay Boyers, executive strategy editor. “It also performs really well, and I love the sensing feature that shuts the dryer off when clothes are dry. I’ve had other front-loading units that leave puddles of water after a wash cycle, but this one has outperformed them all. I highly, highly recommend it.”

Best Buy

Size: 26.7 x 75.8 x 30.8 inches | Washer capacity: 3.8 cubic feet | Dryer capacity: 5.9 cubic feet | Special features: Auto-load sensing, 6 wash/rinse temperatures | Energy Star certified: No | Warranty: 1 year

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While this may not be the flashiest stackable washer and dryer, it’s a reliable, budget-friendly option that won’t disappoint. With 11 wash cycles, you can easily customize each load. The washer allows you to manually select the water level, or you can let its built-in technology detect the load size and adjust the water accordingly. Customers also appreciate its ease of use and surprisingly large capacity. Another great feature is the cycle status lights on both machines, which make it easy to track the progress of your laundry.

What the editors say: “My first New York City rental apartment came with this duo, and I relied on it for two years straight,” says home and kitchen editor, Sholeen Damarwala. “While it doesn’t offer too many snazzy features, I appreciated its ability to handle dirty laundry effectively. Additionally, I found it surprisingly spacious and capable of accommodating an entire king-sized comforter with ease.”

Best Buy

Size: 27 x 77.4 x 32.9 inches | Washer capacity: 4.8 cubic feet | Dryer capacity: 7.3 cubic feet | Special features: 16-hour Fresh Hold, wrinkle control, vibration control, sanitize cycle | Energy Star certified: Yes | Warranty: 1 year limited

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Maytag is known for producing some of the quietest appliances, and its stackable washer and dryer is no exception. Along with its extra-large capacity (5 cubic feet for the washer and over 7 cubic feet for the dryer), it offers plenty of specialized settings. For tough stains, the Extra Power option uses an intense pre-wash cycle to tackle stubborn spots. And if you often forget to add a garment, the Late Add feature lets you pause the cycle to toss in last-minute items.

Another standout feature is the 16-hour Fresh Hold. Perfect for those who tend to leave laundry in the machine, it uses an internal fan to aerate and intermittently tumble your clothes after the wash cycle, keeping them fresh for hours.

AJ Madison

Size: 27 x 74.2 x 32.8 inches | Washer capacity: 5 cubic feet | Dryer capacity: 7.4 cubic feet | Special features: Center control panel, duct clogging and clean filter indicators, ThinQ app connectivity, SpeedWash cycle | Energy Star certified: Yes | Warranty: 2 years (parts and labor), 10 years (washer motor)

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The ultra-large capacity Studio WashTower not only looks sleek but also offers the functionality and space to handle heavy laundry loads. With a 5-cubic-foot washer and a 7.4-cubic-foot dryer, it can easily manage a king-sized comforter or a large load of towels in one go. Its AI technology optimizes motion and temperature settings to care for your fabrics, while TurboSteam technology helps fluff items between washes. Plus, the washer is AAFA-certified with an Allergiene cycle that removes over 95% of pet dander and dust. Although it’s a pricier option, the roomy drums make it a worthwhile investment for those needing to tackle extra-large loads in smaller spaces.

Appliances Connection

Size: 24 x 77 x 25.3 inches | Washer capacity: 2.3 cubic feet | Dryer capacity: 4 cubic feet | Special features: Self-dispensing detergent, steaming feature, WiFi connectivity, Honeycomb dryer drum | Energy Star certified: Yes | Warranty: 1 year

If you’re in the market for a smart set, this option from Miele should be seriously considered. Among its key features is its CapDosing, a brilliant technology for laundering specialty garments or homewares. Once you place the brand’s portioned capsules in the fabric conditioner compartment, the machine does the rest of the work for you. It’s designed to automatically dispense the solution at the optimal time during the wash process, preventing clothes from becoming too sudsy.

The standout feature for this model, however, is its convenient WiFi capability, which allows you to control your machines from a smartphone anywhere in your home. It allows users to select and start programs without ever leaving the couch. Reviewers also give this duo high marks for its reliability and overall cleaning performance.

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AJ Madison

Size: 27 x 76 x 32 inches | Washer capacity: 4.3 cubic feet | Dryer capacity: 8.0 cubic feet | Special features: LuxCare Wash/Dry System, reverse tumble dry, cycle for dry-wick garments, StainTreat technology, reversible washer door, delay start | Energy Star certified: Yes | Warranty: 1 year

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Reviewers give this stackable set high praise for its ability to fit into tight spaces and for its many customizable wash cycle features—like a dedicated setting for activewear. The compact washer also includes a sanitizing option that eliminates 99% of bacteria and 95% of allergens per load. With 12 wash cycles and a reversible door for flexible installation, it’s perfect for small rooms where space is at a premium.

The ventless dryer, offering eight dry cycles, comes with standout features as well. Its LuxCare Dry System ensures clothes are dried evenly, while additional settings like anti-static, Instant Refresh and Perfect Steam Wrinkle Release keep your laundry looking its best. Many reviewers also appreciate the dryer's surprisingly spacious interior. As a bonus, the stacking kit includes a pull-out folding surface, adding convenience to your laundry routine.

AJ Madison

Size: 27 x 77.5 x 31.5 inches | Washer capacity: 4.5 cubic feet | Dryer capacity: 7.5 cubic feet | Special features: Noise reduction, self-cleaning technology, moisture-sensing technology, intelligent diagnostics | Energy Star certified: Yes | Warranty: 1 year

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Samsung is a powerhouse in the laundry world, and its stacked washer and dryer set lives up to the brand’s reputation. With a generous 4.5 cubic feet for the washer and 7.5 cubic feet for the dryer, this pair can handle large loads with ease. It features noise reduction technology to keep cycles quiet and moisture-sensing technology to ensure clothes are dried perfectly. Both the washer and dryer offer 10 cycle options, while the dryer includes five additional temperature settings. Plus, Samsung’s Smart Care feature allows for instant diagnostics and solutions via your smartphone, making appliance maintenance a breeze.

To select the best stackable washer and dryer in multiple categories, Forbes Vetted’s home editorial team first narrowed down our search criteria to what we considered to be most important to home users.

Capacity is a crucial factor when choosing a stackable washer and dryer, as it directly affects the size of loads your machines can comfortably handle, explains Mallory Micetich, home expert for Angi. "Washer capacity typically ranges from 2.5 to 6.2 cubic feet," Micetich notes. "Dryer capacity spans from 3.4 to 9.2 cubic feet." At the lower end of this spectrum, you'll find more compact machines, she adds—an essential consideration if space is limited. "On the larger end, a bigger capacity is ideal for larger families to prevent overloading the machine and straining it over time," Micetich suggests. "Moreover, if you frequently wash bulky items like comforters and bedding, opting for a larger capacity set is advisable."

Overall, Cheryl Nelson, laundry expert and founder of Prepare with Cher, emphasizes the importance of evaluating your laundry needs and usage frequency. "Some stacked machine sets offer smaller capacities, so this is an aspect to weigh," she advises. However, choosing a stackable machine doesn't mean sacrificing capacity. "These units are no longer just compact," highlights Patric Richardson, laundry expert and author of House Love: A Joyful Guide to Cleaning, Organizing, and Loving the Home You're In.

According to Micetich, Energy Star certification indicates that appliances consume less energy compared to traditional machines. While these machines may have a higher initial cost, they can lead to savings on utility bills in the long run, while also benefiting the environment. Micetich further notes that high-efficiency machines can typically handle larger loads and complete cycles in less time.

Nelson echoes this sentiment, recommending sets with Energy Star certification whenever possible. She highlights that these appliances "conserve water and reduce your carbon footprint," emphasizing their environmental benefits.

It's crucial to meticulously measure the space intended for your stackable washer and dryer, considering depth, width and height. Most manufacturers advise leaving a minimum of six inches of space between the back of your machines and the wall, with at least one inch of clearance around them. Depending on the tightness of the space, it's worth considering the depth of your machines when the doors are open as well.

Consumers often rate GE, Electrolux, LG, Maytag and Miele as top trusted brands for washers and dryers time and time again. These are dependable brands and makers of home appliances that consistently hold up over time and are worth the investment. In multiple tests, LG repeatedly came out on top as the producer of our favorite washers and dryers, including the LG WashTower and LG Studio 27-Inch WashTower.

Stackable washers and dryers tend to have a smaller drum for laundry loads than traditional front-load machines. This means it can take more loads to get through a basket of dirty sheets, towels and clothing, which translates to more time and money spent on doing laundry week after week. Additionally, you can’t mix and match brands the way you can with side-by-side washers and dryers. For instance, GE stackable machines are only compatible with other GE machines, and the same goes for Electrolux, Maytag, Miele and all other brands. That means you have to commit to one brand and one brand only.