The best washer-dryers of 2024 for a two-in-one solution to laundry

Saving space at home? Here are this year’s best washer-dryers, from budget to premium, as recommended by experts

A washer-dryer seems the perfect space-saving solution to buying separate washing machines and tumble dryers and is usually more affordable. But finding the best washer-dryer is harder than it may at first seem. You don’t want to get stuck with a sub-par combo which could run up high electricity costs and leave clothes damp after the drying cycle (if this is the case, you may want to buy a cheap-to-run heated clothes airer).
“A good washer-dryer is a convenient space saving machine that allows you to wash and dry laundry in one go,” says Carly Pearson, head of buying for household electricals at Argos. Washer-dryers, sometimes known as wash and dry washing machines, can cost anywhere from £350 to more than £2,000 but for most people, you’ll still be making a saving compared to buying separate machines.
The two main types of washer-dryers are freestanding and integrated, which are fairly self-explanatory, but you can read more about what to look for in a washer-dryer in the FAQ section below. Freestanding washer-dryers tend to be more popular, which is why I’ve focussed on them in this article. I’ve also asked experts for advice and their own recommendations of specific washer-dryers. If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick look at our top five:
“Washer-dryers are very similar to washing machines when it comes to the actual washing part of a cycle,” explains Pearson. “You add your detergent, which is directed to the drum at the beginning or throughout a cycle via the dispenser drawer.”
The cycle runs the same as a washing machine, with water being heated and released into the central drum which spins, alternating speeds for a thorough clean. Washer-dryers then transition to the drying cycle. “During this phase, the drum heats up, spins the clothes and evaporates the water either through a condenser or a vented dryer system,” explains Gwil Snook, washer-dryer expert at AO.
Note that the twin functions mean a washer-dryer takes two energy ratings. “Washer dryers combine two energy-intensive functions: washing and drying, using more energy than standalone washing machines,” says Snook. “This makes it challenging for washer-dryers to achieve the same efficiency ratings as standalone washing machines or standalone tumble dryers.”
The average energy rating for a washer-dryer, Snook says, is D. “However, washer-dryers have another energy rating for washing. For example a D rated washer-dryer can have an A energy rating for washing and is as energy efficient as the equivalent washing machine,” he explains. Below, I’ve listed the overall energy rating for each washer-dryer so you can gauge its energy consumption as a whole unit.
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To help you decide which washer-dryer to purchase, I asked the advice of experienced buyers Carly Pearson of Argos and Gwil Snook of AO. They advised me on the best washer-dryers of 2024 based on factors like energy efficiency, drum size, washing and drying capacity, ease of the control panel, spin speeds and how well they expel water.
Meanwhile, my colleague Emily Peck is working through the best at home, testing them on a variety of loads including bedding, towels and sports clothes, seeing how they fare against each other at erasing stains while being gentle with the clothes. Here is what I found, starting with the experts’ top pick…
 
£579, Samsung
Best washer-dryer overall, 10/10
We like: ecobubble technology means clothes can be washed at colder temperatures
We don’t like: the energy rating is still fairly low
Samsung’s Ecobubble comes recommended by both Gwil Snook of AO and Carly Pearson of Argos, who rate it for energy efficiency as a result of its ‘ecobubble’ technology: “It automatically mixes the perfect amount of water with your detergent to create powerful soapy bubbles that soak into fabrics and lift out dirt,” explains Snook. This makes the Samsung excellent at lifting stains.
Pearson adds, “The rich foam doesn’t need as much hot water, using just 30 per cent of the energy of a standard wash.” The technology also reduces energy consumption by requiring less spinning, although the washer-dryer can still reach speeds of 1400rpm if necessary. The 8kg washing capacity and 5kg drying capacity suit most households.
Samsung has focused on user experience with an intuitive LED display that makes operating the machine straightforward. Another notable feature is the ‘VRT Plus’ technology, which significantly reduces noise and vibration. Finally, the WD80TA046BE is compatible with Samsung’s SmartThings app. This allows for remote control and monitoring of laundry cycles via smartphone.
All in all, an innovative washer-dryer that delivers on several fronts without tipping too far into gimmickry. It’s efficient, relatively quiet and versatile enough for most households. While the smart features might appeal more to tech enthusiasts, the fundamental strengths of this appliance lie in its solid performance and user-friendly design.
£399, AO
Best value washer-dryer, 8/10
We like: efficiency without frills
We don’t like: lack of noise reduction technology
“If you’re on a budget, consider this Indesit, a great option for less than £400,” says Snook. “Its 7kg wash load and 6kg dry capacity are suited to medium-sized households.”
The maximum spin speed is 1,400 rpm, but its array of wash cycles caters to a variety of fabric types and stains. “It comes with a gentle wool programme,” says Snook, “and there’s a ‘Wash and Dry 45’ programme that gets 1kg of laundry clean and dry in three quarters of an hour.”
This washer-dryer really is designed with ease of use in mind, with a straightforward control panel. The overall design lacks the modernity of higher-end models, but will integrate well into most home settings. Performance-wise this washer-dryer is reliable, Snook says – but it lacks advanced noise-reduction technology, so it is louder than others on this list. 
In terms of energy efficiency, it sits around average for this price range. There is an Eco setting, says Snook. “This works by using only the right amount of water and energy,” he explains. It has decent performance at lower temperatures and is modest with water and electricity consumption, but certainly doesn’t lead the pack. 
There are no smart features, which might appeal to those who prefer uncomplicated controls. Its excels in its straightforward operation, versatile array of wash programmes and decent performance across both washing and drying tasks.
£899, Currys 
Best low noise washer dryer, 9/10
We like: TurboWash technology means you can wash big loads quickly
We don’t like: it’s expensive
LG has a reputation for innovation: the LG FWY996WCTN4 is no exception. The washer-dryer uses AI, has a large capacity and is efficient. Quiet operation and smart connectivity add to its appeal.
“The AI Direct Drive system uses deep learning for increased fabric care,” explains Pearson. The AI automatically selects the best wash settings and so is safer for delicate materials like silk, cashmere and lingerie. 
The generous 9kg washing capacity and 6kg drying capacity caters well to large households and the standard 1,400rpm spin speed ensures efficient water extraction, reducing drying time. “When you are in a hurry, TurboWash 360 function can blitz through at 5kg load in just 39 minutes,” says Pearson.
In terms of user experience, it has a sleek, modern aesthetic with an intuitive touch screen control panel and an LED display, which makes navigating the various settings and programmes fairly straightforward. 
The Direct Drive Motor, backed by a 10 year warranty, promises quiet operation by minimising vibrations and noise. As for energy efficiency, it washes well at lower temperatures and LG’s EcoHybrid technology reduces energy usage during drying cycles.
The FWY996WCTN4 offers Wi-Fi connectivity, meaning you can control and monitor laundry via the LG ThinQ app, adding to its reputation as a high-performing, reliable and feature-rich washer-dryer.
£1,049, John Lewis
Best low energy washer-dryer, 9/10
We like: automatically adjusts washing and drying times to suit the load
We don’t like: the busy control panel takes some getting used to
Reviewed by Emily Peck
This AEG model has a reassuringly good overall energy rating of A. It connects to the AEG app over WiFi so you can control the appliance from the convenience of your smartphone should you wish. I think this is a handy extra to monitor your wash and dry, but if smart control isn’t your thing there’s a rotating programme dial that takes you through a wide range of wash and dry cycles on the appliance’s screen.  
Setting up the machine was straightforward and the delivery team plumbed it in for me on arrival. The control panel is extensive and at first I found it a little overwhelming, but after a little play I managed to navigate successfully. As well as all the standard cottons, synthetics, eco 40-60, delicates and wool/handwash modes, there’s also a quick 20-minute wash, sports and a hygiene cycle. The 20-minute wash cycle worked well when I was in a hurry as did the Steam mode.
The washing capacity of 10kg and drying capacity of 6kg is perfect for larger households and the 1,600rpm spin speed allows for quick drying time.
The Steam mode for those who don’t like ironing (life’s too short!), comes in useful for loosening any wrinkles on shirts and t-shirts and giving them a quick refresh without washing. It’s worth noting that if you link to the app, you get even more programme options with settings such as ‘running shoes’, ‘bed linen’, ‘baby’ and ‘denim’.
Synthetics mode was my go-to as it seemed to do well with a mix of fabrics and always produced fresh results. When I needed a load dried, I simply pressed the Dry button at the start of the cycle and it increased the wash/dry time. I was a little concerned about shrinking, but the machine has ‘SpecialCare Wash-to-Dry’ and this adapts to each fabric type you put in and automatically adjusts washing and drying times to suit the load size. 
I tested this washing machine in the height of summer when my family’s clothes were no stranger to ice cream, grass and mud stains from playing football – with lots of sand from the beach thrown in for good measure. The washer dryer coped well and clothes came out freshly cleaned without feeling over-dried.
£2,349, Miele
Best washer-dryer for an upgrade, 9/10
We like: high spin speed and precise design features
We don’t like: the price, but the premium features seem to justify it
Miele is known for its reliability (every product is tested for the equivalent of 20 years use before being released) and state of the art performance, and this WTR860WPM is the brand’s top of the range washer-dryer. You might have guessed that from the price.
The highlight is the TwinDos system, which automatically dispenses the optimal amount of detergent and fabric softener at the right time during the wash cycle. This both offers pristine cleaning results and reduces detergent consumption. The PowerWash 2.0 feature, meanwhile, enables faster and more efficient washing, making this a reasonably eco-friendly choice – to the extent that washer-dryers can be eco-friendly.
The washing capacity of 8kg and drying capacity of 5kg suits it to medium to large households and the 1,600rpm spin speed, among the highest available, ensures a quicker drying time.
Miele has made sure ease of use is at the core of this design, with a clear and responsive touchscreen display where you can select and customise programmes. The AddLoad function is particularly handy, meaning you can add forgotten socks after the wash cycle has started.
As would be expected of the modern machine, this Miele offers WifiConn@ct, which means you can control and monitor the appliance with the Miele@home app. Should you want them, you’ll receive real time notifications, remote control capabilities and even diagnostics support. 
£491, Appliances Direct
Best energy-saving washer-dryer
We like: cleans and dries efficiently for great results 
We don’t like: the way the machine takes a few moments to start
Reviewed by Emily Peck
This Whirlpool washer dryer has a good range of settings on its control panel to cater for all types of clothing, which reduces the fear of shrinking more delicate materials. It’s a clever appliance with ‘6th sense technology’ sensors inside the drum. The sensors can detect how soiled the laundry and automatically adjust the temperature and humidity to help save energy, time and water. 
While I really rate this machine, my only qualm would be that when you press start there’s a slight pause – a little longer than I’ve experienced before – and then you can hear the water and drum get going. This often had me double taking and pressing start again when trying to turn on a cycle, as the pause left me wondering if I’d hit the start button correctly.
After I’d checked the care labels on my clothes to ensure they could be tumble dried, my go-to on this appliance has been the ‘Wash & Dry 90’ mode. This has been great for washing and drying cotton and synthetic clothes with a max load of up to 2kg in 90 minutes. I’ve bundled everything in from jeans, shirts and tees and found the clothes come out fresh, hot and while not bone dry, nicely cupboard dry – occasionally a little damp, but perfect for folding up and placing in the airing cupboard or on my Lakeland Dry:Soon for that final blast of dry.
On the days that I’ve had a lighter load to get clean – often the kids school uniform that I’ve forgotten to wash over the weekend and need to get ready in a hurry on a Sunday night – I’ve opted for the ‘Wash & Dry 45’ cycle, which worked well. There’s also a ‘Steam Refresh’ setting that came in handy recently when we were going to a black-tie wedding. My partner’s shirt was clean in the wardrobe but came out looking a little ruffled and in need of a refresh, but thankfully the 45 minute cycle came to our aid.
£749, John Lewis
Best freestanding washer-dryer, 9/10
We like: the handy Reload function which means you can add clothes halfway through
We don’t like: there’s no smart connectivity
Pearson recommends the Bosch WNA144V9GB as an excellent freestanding tumble dryer for medium-sized households, citing its energy efficiency as its most attractive factor.
“It’s energy-saving, thanks to the ActiveWater Plus technology,” she says, “which is where sensors detect the weight and fabric type of each load and precisely adjust water consumption accordingly.” The EcoSilence Drive motor and Anti Vibration design keep the noise down and increase stability, contributing to its energy efficiency.
Bosch’s AutoDry technology precisely measures the moisture level in the drum to ensure clothes are dried to the perfect level – no more, no less. This helps to preserve fabric quality and also saves energy.
Specialised programmes include HygieneCare, which uses high temperatures to kill bacteria and allergens. This could be particularly useful for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies.
Despite the modern features, the washer-dryer is still relatively easy to use with an intuitive LED display which provides clear cycle information and options. The Reload function, like Miele’s AddLoad, allows you to add or remove items mid-cycle. 
Surprisingly at this price point, there’s no connectivity with Bosch’s Home Connect app, which is used alongside many of the brand’s other appliances to remote control, monitor, receive notifications and troubleshoot. So perhaps one for someone wanting a modern, high-tech washer-dryer without the need for smart connectivity.
£580, Argos
Best integrated washer-dryer, 8/10
We like: integrated model means it can be tucked behind a cupboard door
We don’t like: susceptible to fluff build-up
Hoover: impressive 1600rpm spin speed
There’s a reason freestanding washer-dryers are so popular – they can be slotted anywhere in a room and generally have a larger capacity. But some will prefer to have an integrated washer-dryer, like this Hoover HBD0S695TAMCE, which can be covered by a kitchen door panel once installed. 
This Hoover washer-dryer subverts the usual preconceptions about integrated washer-dryers; it still has a large capacity at 9kg for washing and 5kg for drying and the spin speed is 1,600rpm, making it the joint highest on this list along with the Miele and Hotpoint machines.
Standout features include the Eco-Power Inverter Motor, which minimises noise and vibration during cycles. This is obviously a major plus for an integrated washer-dryer, which risks making even more noise if vibrations force it to clash against the enclosed walls.
The washer-dryer is controlled via a touch control panel and the LED display makes it easy to flick through settings. While it’s not the most exciting model on the market, it’s a fair option for those wanting an integrated machine without compromising on size and spin speed.
£469, AO
Best washer-dryer for delicate clothes, 9/10
We like: range of settings for more demanding fabric types
We don’t like: slightly confusing buttons around the LED panel
This Hotpoint washer-dryer excels at both removing stains at lower temperatures and protecting delicate fabrics, with separate options for woollens and hand-washable garments. Although it doesn’t have the best energy rating of E, reasonable energy use is standard for washer-dryers so it won’t cost an unprecedented amount in bills.
The impressive 9kg washing and 7kg drying capacities suit this washer-dryer to large families, while three all-in-one settings automatically switch from washing to drying without fiddling with the settings between, for those on the go. A quick wash will also clean a load in 30 minutes.
The control panel is simple to navigate, although there are a few unfamiliar buttons around the LED screen that are worth keeping the instruction booklet for until you get used to them. The display shows how long is left and a pause function allows you to add clothes during the cycle.
The high spin speed of 1,600rpm means clothes will be evenly and thoroughly dried, so you needn’t worry about pulling damp jeans out of the same wash as cupboard-dry t-shirts.
£418.97, Currys
Best sustainable washer-dryer, 8/10
We like: the tub is made from recycled water bottles
We don’t like: not the best quality, understandable given the price
An excellent all-rounder washer-dryer option is the Beko WDEX8540430W, says AO’s Gwil Snook. “It’s compatible with the HomeWhiz app, meaning you can control it from your phone,” he says. 
The HomeWhiz app belongs to Arçelik AŞ, the Turkish household appliances manufacturer responsible for Beko, Grundig, Blomberg and Arçelik – which are all also compatible – so you can control various appliances from different brands with one app. Handy.
Another attractive feature is the RecycledTub, a Beko technology that means the drum is made from recycled plastic bottles, says Snook. Combined with the D energy rating – average for a washer-dryer, says Snook – it’s a great choice for anyone looking for something either wanting to save money on bills or looking for an eco-friendly choice, or both. 
The delay timer also means you can set the machine to run at cheaper off-peak energy times (generally between 11pm and 6am, although it will depend on your energy supplier). Meanwhile the ProSmart Inverter Motor keeps the machine from being too loud, again for efficiency reasons, but also to suit anyone with a washer-dryer in a central living space.
With a washing capacity of 8kg and drying capacity of 5kg, it will best suit a medium sized family. The range of settings include Super Quick, which washes a load in less than an hour for busy households. Altogether a reasonably eco-friendly washer-dryer with a good flexibility of settings.
£449, Currys
Best quiet washer-dryer, 9/10
We like: it’s fairly quiet
We don’t like: long cycles
“Another great large capacity model is the Hisense 3 Series WDQA1014EVJM,” says Snook. “Its 10kg wash and 6kg dry capacity caters to larger households and an inverter motor makes it quiet.” An inverter motor uses magnetic fields instead of carbon brushes, which reduces noisy friction and makes stopping and starting more efficient. 
As with the more expensive washer-dryers, the Hisense detects the amount of load you’ve put into the machine and adjusts the motor speed accordingly, to further improve energy-efficiency. The Pause Add feature allows you to add clothes during washing but the stand-out feature is probably self cleaning: Drum Clean mode uses water at a higher temperature and drum rotation to clean the inside and keep washing performance high.
The Hisense’s Quick Wash setting washes up to 1kg of laundry in 15 minutes and Pure Steam uses steam to remove bacteria, odours and wrinkles. There are four drying options: cupboard dry for single-layered clothes, extra dry for thicker clothes, iron dry which leaves clothes slightly moist for easy ironing and time dry, which dries laundry for a specified period. For less than £500, this is an excellent choice with all the options you could want.
£779, AO
Best large capacity washer-dryer, 8/10
We like: the large capacity
We don’t like: the advanced settings might overwhelm non tech-savvy users
Another large washer-dryer, the Haier i-Po Series 5 has a 10kg wash and 6kg dry capacity, making it ideal for large families or heavy laundry days. It’s equipped with a Direct Motion motor for minimal noise.
“Operating without a belt, the motor is directly attached to the drum, vastly reducing noise and vibration, increasing durability as well as reducing energy and water consumption,” explains Pearson. “Haier offers a lifetime warranty for this.”
She adds, “The digital internal scales weigh your laundry and automatically adjust the water consumption and cycle duration accordingly. This guarantees minimum energy consumption on lighter loads.” 
Pearson also notes the Haier’s Anti-Bacterial Treatment (ABT), approved by the VDE Institute which tests and certifies electrical devices based on quality and safety. “The I-Pro eliminates 99 per cent of bacteria, ensuring the hygiene of your clothing,” explains Pearson. 
Remote operation is also available via a smartphone app to start, stop and monitor cycles. The settings are fairly advanced for the mid-range price, so those not accustomed to smart technology may struggle.
£420, Argos
Best speedy washer-dryer, 7/10
We like: the one hour wash and dry function
We don’t like: noisier than other models
The Bush WDSAE86W offers a versatile, budget friendly solution with quick wash settings, specialised settings for delicate fabrics, a decent capacity of 8kg for washing and 6kg for drying, with user-friendly controls.
This one comes recommended by Pearson, who says, “In addition to six drying programmes there are nine washing programmes. When time is short, there is a one hour wash-and-dry function. The anti-crease drying option also eliminates time spent at the ironing board.”
In terms of ease of use, Pearson says, “The LED display is straightforward to navigate and the 24 hour-delayed start option gives you the flexibility to time your wash around your schedule.”
Compared to higher-end models, the Bush tends to be noisier during operation, which might be a concern. It also lacks smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity and app control (which many will be glad of). Overall, it provides reliable performance and good value for money, without all the bells and whistles.
 
Choosing the best size and capacity for your home are key before buying a washer-dryer. “It’s important to check the dimensions to ensure it will fit in your space,” says Snook. “Think about the drum size you’ll need. Washer-dryers with up to 7kg capacity are suitable for six trousers and t-shirts or one single duvet. 8-9kg is ideal for eight trousers and t-shirts or a double duvet and 10-11kg suits 10 trousers and t-shirts or one king-size duvet.”
Pearson says, “Remember that the machine’s drying capacity is often 50-70 per cent of the washing load, so factor this into your decision making.”
Secondly, consider energy rating. “More efficient models use less water and electricity, so could save money in the long run,” says Pearson. “Some models also offer eco-friendly wash and dry cycles that further reduce energy and water consumption.”
The final thing to consider, says Pearson, is noise level. “If your washer-dryer will live in a part of your home that can’t be shut away to keep quiet, make sure you go for the quieter option.”
“Firstly, make sure the drum is empty. Then, run a hot wash cycle with two cups of white vinegar added. Once the cycle has finished, repeat but this time, add half a cup of baking soda to the drum,” says Gwil Snook. “Alternatively, you can add a washing machine tablet into the drum and use it in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.” 
Pearson agrees and recommends doing this once a month to eliminate mould and bacteria. Leaving the door ajar when the machine is not in use will also allow air circulation and prevent bacteria growth.
Every couple of months, Snook recommends removing, soaking and then scrubbing the dispenser drawer with a cloth and only replacing once it’s dried thoroughly. “It’s also important to clean the door seal with a cloth soaked in water and vinegar, ensuring to focus on the crevices where dirt can build up,” he says.
Pearson suggests cleaning the lint filter after each use with a vacuum, a dry cloth or by hand. For the exterior, a wipe down with a hot soapy cloth will do the job.