While washers and dryers have become a must-have for any modern household, they are one of the toughest appliances to shop for. That of course includes multiple reasons. Which brands to go for, what the perfect type of washer and dryer for my home is, what is the right size for my need, and whether to go for a washer and dryer combo: these are questions that commonly surface, and before you decide to zero in on one, read on so that you make an informed choice.

Types

The first thing to decide while buying a low cost washer and dryer is the type of washer and dryer you need. Types of washers and dryers commonly available include top load washers, front load washers, electric and gas dryers, and combination washer and dryers. These models differ in design, utility and capacity. For example, if space-crunch is one of the issues you have to deal with, then you should go for an option in the form of stackable washer and dryers.

Height, Width, Depth

Second is the question of size: height, width and depth. These will of course depend on the load of washing that you would need to do per day or per week as well as the number of people using it and availability of space. Washer and dryers commonly range from 3.4 cu. ft. to 9.2 cu. ft. or even larger. Anything in between this range is more than enough for a normal household of four to six.

Brand

Like everything else, brands offering washer and dryers differ in design, range, price and not all are the same. Although, a brand of choice is entirely based on reliability, some brands stand out in the manufacturing of certain appliances more than others. Similarly, when it comes to washer and dryers, brands such as Ariston, Asko, Bosch, Electrolux, Fisher & Paykel, LG, Miele, Samsung, Hoover, Simpson, Westinghouse and Whirlpool offer the best product at the right price.

Features

Not all low cost washer and dryers have the same features. While some offer great features such as sensor-controlled suds detection, extra rinse options, delayed start options, precision dispense options, and eco-friendly options; others have to be monitored more closely in person. Moreover, washers and dryers differ greatly in speed: some offer “fast cycles” while with others you might have to wait a while longer. If time is always of the essence for you, and you want your machine to take care of your laundry, go for one with a delayed start option and a fast cycle, but that is sure to burn a bigger hole in your pocket!

Combo (or not)

Combining washing and drying in one appliance surely sounds like the perfect laundry appliance, but in some cases it is too good to be true. Low cost washer and dryers that come as a single appliance often cannot match up to the performance of two separate appliances. Moreover, the price of a combo washer cum dryer is almost the same as buying them separately. However, a combo is highly desirable under certain circumstances. For example, they are the perfect solution to the problem of space-crunch. And although, it is more time-consuming, one can manually always perform the two functions separately. This in turn yields the same level of satisfaction.

Price

The price of washer and dryers differ due to a variety of reasons. Prices differ from brand to brand, but also because of the features offered, the size of the washer and dryer, the type (front load, or top load, or combo) and design. Most mid-range, low cost washer and dryers are packed with the fast cycle feature, can take a load ranging between 90 to 120ltrs, and come with a sleek design and eco-friendly system.