WASHER AND DRYER SETS: TYPES, SIZES & FEATURES
Washer and dryer sets work together to get the job done right. They come in different configurations designed for different spaces and laundry needs, such as a standard top load pair or a space-saving stacked laundry center.
Besides the convenience of buying two appliances at once, laundry pairs help bring a cohesive look to your space, match up washer and dryer cycles, and may even cut down on costs. Read on to learn more about how to find the right washer and dryer set and why these essential appliances can be better together.
TYPES OF WASHER AND DRYER SETS
Matching washer and dryer sets come in four main types: top load, front load/stackable, laundry centers and all-in-one combos. Top and front load washer and dryer pairs are separate but complementary appliances. Laundry centers are stacked but attached, while all-in-one combos wash and dry in one single machine.
1. TOP LOAD WASHER AND DRYER SETS
Top load laundry pairs are simply side-by-side top load washer and dryer sets from the same brand that complement each other. While dryers always load from the front, they are called “top load” because they match top load washers. The controls for both are located on the top back panel of the machine, and you lift the lid on top of the washer to load your laundry. Explore top load washers and top load dryers from Maytag brand.
SHOP MAYTAG® TOP LOAD WASHER AND DRYER SETS
Top load washer and dryer pairs from Maytag brand are designed to make laundry day simpler. Select washers include a Built-in Water Faucet for quick rinses, spot treatments or soaking—no extra steps. After three hours of soaking, the water drains automatically so your clothes are ready to wash. Meanwhile, select dryers feature a convenient, latch-free Hamper Door that drops down, creating a handy chute for loading and a sturdy surface for unloading, folding and stacking.
2. STACKABLE FRONT LOAD WASHER AND DRYER SETS
Front load pairs are also separate, complementary machines, but their controls are located on the front of the appliance. However, many front load pairs can also be stacked to save space or lifted up with the installation of laundry pedestals for more storage and easier loading.
Ask a sales associate in a store or check product specifications online to find out if a model is stackable. For instance, most Maytag® front load washers and front load dryers are stackable. Read more about how to stack a washer and dryer or how to install a front load washer.
SHOP MAYTAG® STACKABLE WASHER AND DRYER SETS
Maytag® front load washers and dryers are designed for flexibility—whether side by side or stacked, they help you make the most of your laundry space without compromising on power. The 12-Hr Fresh Spin™ option on select washers helps prevent wrinkles by tumbling clothes for up to 12 hours after the wash cycle ends, ideal for those times that you can’t transfer laundry right away. When it’s time to dry, select dryers with Advanced Moisture Sensing monitor moisture and air temperatures to help dry loads evenly.
3. GAS AND ELECTRIC WASHER AND DRYER SETS
Deciding between electric or gas dryers hinges on the existing setup in your space, as gas appliances require a dedicated gas line. Another difference between the two is how they heat your clothes. Gas dryers use natural gas or propane, while electric models rely on electricity-powered coils to produce heat.
Generally, electric dryers tend to have a lower entry price point and don’t need a dedicated gas line, but they also might take slightly longer to dry your laundry. Both top and front load washer and dryer sets can be purchased with either fuel option. Learn more about how to install gas and electric dryers.
SHOP MAYTAG® ELECTRIC LAUNDRY SETS
Discover Maytag® electric dryers and matching washers designed to help complete your laundry fast, so you can get back to your day. The Quick Dry Cycle on select Maytag® dryers tackles small loads fast, especially when paired with the Quick Wash Cycle in the matching washer. Using extra high-spin speeds, this cycle cleans small, lightly soiled loads in just 30 minutes—so your clothes are ready before you know it.1
SHOP MAYTAG® GAS LAUNDRY SETS
Maytag® gas dryers deliver powerful, consistent heat to handle everything from delicates to bulky bedding with ease. Select Maytag® dryers use the power of steam to help prevent wrinkles and refresh clothes—even on deserted loads. Plus, with the Late Add Feature on select Maytag® washers, you can pause the washer and add in last-minute items so you have the clothes you need, when you need them.
4. LAUNDRY CENTERS
These laundry powerhouses are technically one appliance with a dryer stacked on top of a washer. They cannot be separated, and both sections are controlled from a top panel. Laundry centers tend to be small enough to fit in a closet, so they are an optimal solution for apartments or other small space living.
5. ALL-IN-ONE WASHER AND DRYER COMBOS
Some models combine a washer and dryer into a single appliance with a single drum. You can think of it as a washing machine that will also dry your clothes. All-in-one washer and dryer combos can be handy if you don’t have a large, dedicated laundry space.
WASHER AND DRYER SET SIZES: WHAT TO CONSIDER
Choosing the best washer and dryer set for your home means finding the right fit for your space and household needs. From capacity and dimensions to setup options and laundry room placement, here are some factors to consider before you buy:
CAPACITY NEEDS
Capacity should be top of mind when choosing a washer that suits your family's routines. Washers range from about 2.0 to 6.0 cu. ft., but if you're opting for large capacity, make sure to pair a large capacity washer with a matching dryer. Your dryer’s capacity should be about 1.5 times larger than your washer’s capacity. For households of three or more, a washer with over 5.0 cu. ft. can handle the loads you toss in, while a large capacity dryer can help move pile after pile. Large capacity dryers typically feature anywhere from 5.0 to 7.4 cu. ft.
DIMENSIONS
Before choosing a washer and dryer, make sure your laundry room has the space to accommodate their dimensions. Most standard front load models measure about 27 inches wide, 39 inches tall and 32-34 inches deep, while top load models are typically 27 inches wide, 42-44 inches tall and 27-28 inches deep. Also, keep the door in mind—both the washer and dryer need enough clearance for the door to open fully for easy loading and unloading.
STACKABLE VS. SIDE-BY-SIDE
When deciding between a stackable or side-by-side washer and dryer setup, think about both your space and your workflow. Stackable front load pairs are a great option for saving floor space, but you’ll need to account for height. Full-size stacked units typically measure 77-80 inches tall, 27 inches wide and 32-34 inches deep. And, don’t forget to leave 1-5 inches of space behind the units for hoses and proper ventilation.
LAUNDRY ROOM’S LOCATION
When considering different types of washers and dryers, be sure to factor in your laundry room’s location and consider the route you’ll need to take during installation. This can help ensure that your washer and dryer can fit through hallways and doorways with room to spare.
SHOP MAYTAG® LARGE CAPACITY LAUNDRY SETS
Large capacity washers and dryers from Maytag brand are built to handle everything from everyday laundry to bulky loads like towels and bedding—all with the power and performance you need to get laundry day done. Select large capacity Maytag® washers are ENERGY STAR® certified, exceeding government standards to help conserve natural resources and save money on your utility bills. And, even with bulky loads, Moisture Sensing on select Maytag® dryers uses two sensors to closely monitor inside moisture and air temperatures to deliver the right results without the decision-making.
LARGE CAPACITY
TACKLE LARGE LOADS OF LAUNDRY
This Maytag® large capacity washer is large enough to handle even your largest loads of laundry with ease
WASHER AND DRYER SET FEATURES: WHAT MATTERS MOST
The right laundry pair for your house should include the cycles, settings and features your family can make the most of to help make laundry day easier. Explore key feature considerations below to learn which washer and dryer features to look for and help narrow down your search.
WASH AND DRY CYCLES
Think about your family’s typical load types and laundry routines when choosing which wash and dry cycles you’ll use most. Beyond basic settings like soil level, fabric type and water temperature, consider cycle options and settings that go above and beyond as they tackle your unique laundry needs. Options like Extra Power or the Steam Option on select Maytag® washers can help you combat everyday dirt and residue on your favorite items.
With the dryer, keep an eye out for cycles and options that help make sure clothes are ready to wear when the cycle ends, like the Reduce Static Option or Steam Refresh Cycle on select Maytag® dryers.
SPEED AND PERFORMANCE
Consider a laundry pair with quick wash and dry cycles that give you flexibility when you’re in a pinch. For a deep clean and thorough drying, look for pairs that offer features like the Power™ Agitator on select Maytag® washers, which uses a 360-degree wash action to keep clothes moving and helps break up messes and stains. When it comes to the dryer, look for features that work hard to get your laundry done. The Sanitize Cycle on some Maytag® dryers, for instance, uses extra-hot drying temperatures to remove up to 99.9% of three common household bacteria.3
ENERGY EFFICIENCY
ENERGY STAR® certified washers and dryers can help conserve energy, save you money on your utility bills and contribute to protecting the environment. Keep an eye out for the ENERGY STAR® certification label as you browse for your next laundry pair.
HIGH-EFFICIENCY MACHINES
High-efficiency washers are designed to work with lower water levels to give your clothes the same deep clean. These washers are available in top load impeller, top load agitator and front load models, so you can find a high-efficiency model no matter which configuration you prefer. These washers perform best with HE detergent, which disperses quickly and keeps sudsing to a minimum.
SMART TECHNOLOGY
Connected washer and dryer pairs can help keep laundry moving, even when you’re away. For instance, select smart washers and dryers from Maytag brand let you remotely start or stop your appliance, get end-of-cycle notifications, discover Personalized Smart Tips, access specialty cycles and more using the Maytag™ app.
SELF CLEANING FEATURES
Maintaining your washer is essential for long-term care of your appliance, but it doesn’t have to be a hassle. Some washers include self cleaning cycles that help make maintenance simple. For instance, select Maytag® washers include the Clean Washer with affresh® Cycle, which has been designed to deep clean the inside of your washer with the affresh® washing machine cleaner tablet or liquid chlorine bleach.
SHOP MAYTAG® PET PRO WASHER AND DRYER SETS
Tackle messes from every member of the family with Maytag® Pet Pro Washer and Dryer sets. Toss pet hair-covered bedding, clothes, toys and more into the washer drum, then select the Pet Pro Option on the washer, which unleashes additional water and uses a deep rinse to activate the Pet Pro Filter to lift and capture pet hair from clothes. Use the Pet Pro Option on the dryer for a no-heat, extended dry cycle that helps lift pet hair from clothes and captures it in the XL Lint Trap.
BENEFITS OF BUYING A WASHER AND DRYER SET
From seamless aesthetics and potential cost-effectiveness to cycle compatibility and easy maintenance, explore how matching washer and dryer sets can improve your laundry routine and your laundry room.
MATCHING AESTHETICS
Should you buy a washer and dryer together, you’ll enjoy a cohesive, clean look in the laundry room—laundry pairs from the same brand are designed to look good together. Small style details will be the same like button type, knob sizes and trim style. It’s also the best way to ensure the washer and dryer color and finish match exactly.
CAN YOU MIX AND MATCH WASHER AND DRYER MODELS?
You can mix and match washers and dryers if you’re unable to find a prepackaged pair you like, or you want to create your own set.
POTENTIALLY LOWER PRICES
Sometimes retailers offer a discount when you buy a washer and dryer as a bundle. Plus, depending on your needs, you could potentially save on any fees associated with delivery and installation.
CYCLE CONSISTENCY
Washer and dryer sets are built to work together. For example, if the washer has a Delicate or Heavy Duty Cycle, the matching dryer often does too.
MAINTENANCE AND SERVICE
If your finished laundry is subpar, your dryer isn't drying or you’re having an issue with one or both of your appliances, first make sure you understand the basic workings of a washer and dryer. Also, scheduling a service call or troubleshooting, can be a possible way to get your appliance up and running again.
WARRANTY
Finding a washer and dryer pair with a comprehensive warranty can help you buy with confidence. For instance, Maytag® washers and dryers are backed by a 10-year limited parts warranty2 that can help give you peace of mind. As you shop, be sure to consider how long the warranty stays in effect and which parts it covers to help you make your decision. There may also be Extended Service Plans to offer additional coverage for your appliance.
WHERE TO BUY A WASHER AND DRYER SET
If you’re shopping in a store, some laundry pairs will be displayed together, but this isn’t always the case. Ask a sales associate for information on the matching washer or dryer if you don’t see one, or check the product information on the appliance. If you’re shopping online, many retailers will suggest a matching machine on the product’s page to help you complete your pair.
SHOP ALL MAYTAG® WASHERS AND DRYERS
Discover the Maytag brand difference, designed specifically to assist you in finding your optimal washer and dryer set. With features on select models like the 16 Hr Fresh Hold® Option that keeps clean clothes smelling fresh for up to 16 hours in the washer and Extra Power that boosts drying power on any cycle in the dryer, trust Maytag brand to help you maximize the power of your washer and dryer by finding a pair that works together.
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1. Based on a 3-lb load
2. Visit maytag.com for warranty details.
3. Bacteria tested were S. aureus, P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae.
