Do you need a clothes dryer?

Many homeowners question whether a clothes dryer is necessary in their apartment. Especially when 2-in-1 models—washing machines with dryer functions—are available on the market. Which appliance should you choose: hybrids or separate units? Let's explore the nuances.

Will a washing machine with a drying function replace a tumble dryer?

Automatic washing machines with a drying mode were invented by home appliance manufacturers in an attempt to combine two important functions in a single appliance. These machines can both wash and dry clothes quickly. These models are very popular today because they eliminate the need for housewives to:

• hang laundry on the balcony or outside;
• place things on heating radiators;
• place clothes dryers around the apartment.

Washing machines with a drying option are an excellent option for small apartments without a balcony.

If space is limited in your apartment, installing both a washer and dryer can be challenging. A 2-in-1 washer/dryer is the best option. Furthermore, purchasing a hybrid washer/dryer is almost half the price of a dual washer/dryer.

The main advantages of washer-dryers:

• saving free space in the apartment;
• lower cost compared to two separate machines.

Does this mean that 2-in-1 washing machines are definitely better? Not really. When buying hybrids, there are several factors to consider:

• the drying function in the hybrid machine is implemented in a more “rough” way;
• You can dry less laundry in a hybrid at one time than you can wash;
• After drying in a hybrid washing machine, clothes become quite wrinkled.

Now let's examine each point in more detail. In washer-dryers, the drying function is considered secondary rather than primary. The machine's primary task is to remove dirt. Therefore, the potential of hybrids is aimed at cleaning clothes, not drying them. Removing excess moisture is merely a nice bonus.

Most 2-in-1 machines don't offer the ability to adjust the drying mode based on fabric type, which is a significant drawback. Some items need to be left slightly damp, not completely dry, which isn't possible with all hybrids. You can find a model with more or less extensive functionality, but it will still lack the capabilities of a dedicated dryer.

There is one more significant disadvantage. You can dry fewer items at a time in a hybrid machine than you wash. For example, if the machine has a capacity of 8 kg, then only 5-6 kg of laundry can be loaded into it for drying. Why is this?

The manufacturer allows for the possibility of laundry being packed tightly into the drum during the wash cycle. Water will still reach the fabric and remove the dirt. For drying, the clothes should be laid out evenly to allow for maximum space. Therefore, clean, wet items should be removed from the machine, some reloaded into the spin dryer, and the rest dried afterwards.

The capacity potential of the drum of an automatic washing machine for drying is 2-3 kg less than for washing.

This "inconsistency" isn't entirely convenient. A washing machine with a 9 kg drum capacity will only dry 6-7 kg of clothes well. And that's only if they're cotton items. Heavier items will reduce the capacity by a few more kilograms.

When it comes to creasing fabrics, hybrid machines tend to leave more creases in laundry than conventional dryers. Drying equipment has special modes that prevent items from wrinkling.

Whether you need a separate dryer is entirely up to you. They have both advantages and disadvantages compared to hybrid dryers. We'll explain why a stand-alone dryer is better than a 2-in-1 washing machine.

Why is a tumble dryer better than a hybrid washing machine?

When your apartment's size allows, it's best to install two machines: a washer and a dryer. This will allow you to get the most out of both appliances. Let's discuss the benefits of a separate dryer.

The first argument in favor of a separate dryer is its larger capacity compared to hybrids. As mentioned earlier, 2-in-1 dryers have a 2-3 kg lower maximum load capacity than a wash cycle. This allows the user to wash a load and then immediately load it into the dryer—a much more convenient and time-saving feature.

Stand-alone dryers have a larger drum. Even the most budget-friendly models have a capacity of 8 kg (Weissgauff WD 6148 D, priced around $300; ​​Indesit YT CM08 8B, $310), while more expensive models can handle up to 10 kg of laundry at a time (LG TD-V1329EA4).

In this case, the maximum load is also calculated for cotton items, as this material is quite lightweight. When drying denim, blended fabrics, or synthetics, you'll need to load 2-3 kg less into the chamber. Even so, the dryer's capacity will be higher than that of hybrid dryers.

The second advantage of tumble dryers is their programming. Even the most budget-friendly model will have more drying modes than any 2-in-1 machine. This greatly simplifies the care of various textiles.

For example, modern machines have automatic drying programs:

• cotton;
• synthetics;
• bed linen;
• jeans;
• outerwear;
• shoes;
• sporting goods, etc.

Some models also feature "Iron Dry," "Easy Iron," express drying programs, and more. Fan-type dryers can ventilate clothes, removing tobacco, smoke, or food odors. Some dryers even have a steam option, helping to quickly refresh lingering clothes.

Another argument in favor of a separate dryer is the absence of creases in the clothes. Most models have a wrinkle-prevention feature. The laundry in the drum doesn't get caked or wrinkled.

Modern tumble dryers feature delicate drying programs—when activated, the drum moves very slowly and smoothly, without shaking the clothes. This eliminates the need for daily ironing.

If you're considering buying a drying cabinet, you might as well get rid of your iron altogether. Wet clothes will hang in the chamber, where they'll straighten out under their own weight.

Installing a condensation dryer is straightforward. All you need is a power outlet. These units don't require a sewer line—the condensate collects in a special container that needs to be emptied periodically.

If desired, you can connect a condensation dryer to the sewer line. This will allow the pump to pump the liquid directly into the drain, eliminating the need to drain the tank. Ventilation-type units are a bit more complex, as they will need to be connected to the ventilation system, but these models are not widely available.

When is a tumble dryer really needed?

Even after reading all the information above, many people still can't decide whether they need a tumble dryer. In fact, it's an unnecessary appliance. While tumble dryers are effective, they're not affordable for everyone. So when is a simple tumble dryer enough?

• If you have a small family and don't overload your washing machine, it's perfectly feasible to wash and dry your clothes in one go.
• For those with a small apartment, accommodating two large dryers at once can be challenging, especially when the dryer needs to be connected to a ventilation or sewer system. In this case, a hybrid dryer would be more practical.
• If you don't have time to transfer washed items from one machine to another, many people work late and don't get home until evening. They like to start the wash in the morning and get clean and dry clothes. Then a hybrid machine is the perfect option.
• When the budget is limited, buying two cars at once can be very expensive for some. A simple machine with a drying mode costs from $250, and if you consider the most budget-friendly washer and dryer, you will have to spend from $450. There is a difference, and it's significant. If you're short on cash, it's better to opt for a good hybrid.

A washing machine with a drying option is suitable for small families and is ideal for placement in small apartments.

It is recommended to choose a stationary tumble dryer if:

• you have a spacious apartment and no problems with free square meters for installing equipment;
• You have a large family or small children. In this situation, a washer-dryer combo will be a real lifesaver;
• You don't want to constantly iron dried clothes. Thanks to a modern tumble dryer, wrinkled clothes are a thing of the past;
• Your wardrobe includes designer items and clothes made from delicate materials. These items require gentle drying, which 2-in-1 dryers can't provide. Some dryers have multiple preset settings to handle even the most delicate fabrics.
• you plan to dry outerwear and shoes in the machine;
• The allocated budget will be more than enough for both a high-quality washing machine and a top-of-the-line dryer.

Thus, smart appliances capable of drying laundry will become indispensable in your home. Whether to buy a tumble dryer in addition to a regular washing machine or opt for a 2-in-1 machine is entirely up to you. It all depends on your budget, apartment size, family size, and your personal preferences.

   

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