What's the Best Apartment-Size Washer and Dryer?

You've had it with trekking to the laundromat, and you're ready to begin the doing-laundry-at-home chapter of your life. The only foreseeable issue: You live in an apartment, and thus aren't exactly swimming in open space. Never fear! There are plenty of washing machines for apartments available. If your apartment has an available laundry hookup and you're ready to begin considering your at-home laundry options, we've got a breakdown of the best apartment washers and dryers!

The Stacked Washer and Dryer

This is probably the first style that comes to mind when you think of an apartment-size washer and dryer: A separate washer and dryer in a single unit, also called a laundry center. Most models have a top load washer serving as the base and a front-load dryer attached directly on top. These models are tall but slim, and take up very little floor space. This is a great space-saving option that comes in a variety of capacities and price ranges from trusted brand names. Stacked washer and dryer units are available with electric dryers or gas dryers, but please be aware that both types of dryer require an outdoor vent.

The Washer and Dryer Stacking Kit

Looking to save space, but still want to buy two front-loading units? A stacking kit allows you to turn a separate washer and dryer into a stackable apartment washer and dryer! Many washer and dryer brands offer size-specific stacking kits with brackets or shelving to enable safe vertical stacking of individual washer and dryer units. Since many washers and dryers are available in widths of under 24", a stacking kit (sold separately) will save even more room. Again, be aware that a standard dryer for apartment usage requires outdoor ventilation.

The Portable Washer and Dryer

If your laundry loads tend to be on the smaller side, portable washers for apartments may be your best bet. What these appliances lack in load capacity, they make up for in convenience! A portable washer usually includes an inlet hose and a drain hose - just hook the inlet hose up to a faucet and drape the drain hose into the sink's basin. You'll have to manually fill the washer with water, but the direct connection to the faucet makes it easy. Portable dryers feature a ventless design that allows them to be used in virtually any room in your home. Be aware that most portable washer and dryer units require a standard three-prong outlet, so make sure you've got one available near your kitchen sink.

The All-In-One Washer and Dryer

This is the creme de la creme of space-efficient laundry appliances. An apartment washer and dryer combo means that your laundry is washed and dried in one single unit - just load it up, choose the appropriate options, let it do its thing, and your clothes will be clean and dry the next time they're in your hands. While an all in one washer dryer combo can be pricey, it doesn't require a vent and is very low maintenance. This makes it fantastic for use in apartments. These styles are also front-loading, which results in less wear and tear on your clothes during washes than the top-load style that's common for a portable or stackable washer and dryer.

Ready to bring home the convenience of an apartment washer and dryer? Get started now, and don't forget to clean the lint trap!