By Ruislip Appliances, independent kitchen and laundry appliance specialist in Ruislip since 1958. Updated October 2026.
A washer dryer washes and dries in one machine, so it suits homes without space for a separate tumble dryer. It is a good compromise, as long as you know where the compromises are.
Every washer dryer has two figures, for example 9kg wash and 6kg dry. The dry capacity is always smaller, so a full wash load usually needs to be dried in two halves, or you choose a model whose dry capacity is close to its wash capacity. If you wash and dry big loads every day, a separate washing machine and tumble dryer will be quicker.
Many models offer a continuous "wash and dry" programme for a smaller load, for example 5–6kg. It is ideal for a load you need dry the same day.
Most washer dryers dry by condensing, which uses some water while drying and more energy than a heat-pump tumble dryer. Look at the energy label for both the wash and the complete wash-and-dry cycle. If you dry most loads in the machine, a separate heat-pump dryer may cost less to run over the years.
Washer dryers fit the same 60cm space as a washing machine and need the same cold water supply and waste connection. No outside vent is needed. Integrated models fit behind a kitchen door.
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