Options for Apartment Sized Washers and Dryers

If you're living in an apartment, have limited space, or just want to add an additional washer and dryer, there are some great space-saving solutions!

Laundry centers combine a washer and a dryer in one stacked unit. Compared with high-end washers and dryers, laundry centers have fewer "whistles and bells," meaning the washer has fewer cycle options but simpler controls. On the dryer, you'll find the basic settings. Most laundry centers require standard venting and a 240V electrical supply, just like a standard washer and dryer. It's also possible to get a laundry center with a dryer that runs on gas. Gas and electric dryers offer similar performance, but a gas dryer will save you money in fuel costs over the long run.

A combo washer dryer can be used virtually anywhere. There's no need for a designated laundry area; you can use the unit by a bathroom or a kitchen sink, and with a portability kit, you can roll it away and store it when not in use. All that's needed to install a combo are a 110V plug and access to a cold water faucet or sink to use as the water source and drain. Since no laundry hookup or venting is required, the ease of installation makes combo washers ideal not only for tight spaces, but for homes that lack traditional laundry connections.

Portable washing machines are ideal appliances if you live in an apartment or a small house and a full-sized washer is not an option. These units are designed to be moved from a storage area such as a closet to a kitchen or bathroom where you can hook it up to a faucet and start washing clothes. However, portable washers are small in capacity; they should be used only when you don't have space for a full-sized machine. A few things to consider when shopping for a portable washing machine is its design and of course its portability. You won't want to lug a cumbersome, heavy machine around the house every time you need to do a load of laundry, so look for a unit that's lightweight and also includes casters, allowing you to wheel it from room to room. Also, look for cabinet handles - they make it easier to carry. Every portable washing machine comes with a faucet adapter which allows you to connect it to a kitchen or a bathroom sink. This item is important, especially if your apartment or home doesn't have a washer hookup. Also, check your faucets for the threading to accommodate the
faucet adapter.