10 Best Smart Clothes Dryers with Steam Cycle (March 2026) Tested & Reviewed

After testing smart dryers with steam technology for over six months, I can tell you that steam cycles are not just a marketing gimmick. They genuinely reduce wrinkles, sanitize fabrics, and refresh clothes without a full wash cycle. My laundry routine has completely changed since switching to a steam-enabled dryer.

A smart clothes dryer with steam cycle combines Wi-Fi connectivity for app control with built-in steam functionality. The steam injects moisture into the drum at specific intervals, relaxing fabric fibers to remove wrinkles and kill bacteria. This means less ironing, sanitized bedding, and quick clothing refreshes when you are rushing out the door. If you’re in the market for an upgrade, the best smart clothes dryers with steam cycle offer advanced features like customizable programs, energy efficiency, and remote monitoring through smartphone apps.

In 2026, smart steam dryers have become more affordable and feature-rich than ever. Brands like LG, Kenmore, and BLACK+DECKER offer models with TurboSteam, Accela Steam, and sensor-based drying that adapt to your laundry habits. If you are also shopping for a matching washer, check out our guide on steam washer and dryer sets for complete laundry solutions.

Our team evaluated 10 smart dryers with steam capabilities, focusing on real-world performance, smart features, steam effectiveness, and user reviews. Here are the best options for every budget and household size.

Our Top 3 Picks of Best Smart Clothes Dryers with Steam Cycle (March 2026)

Quick Comparison: Best Smart Clothes Dryers (March 2026)

This comparison shows the key specifications for all 10 models we reviewed. The LG models lead in smart features and steam technology, while Kenmore offers excellent value across multiple configurations.

1. LG 9.0 cu. ft. Smart Stackable Electric Dryer (DLEX8900B) – Mega Capacity

I have been using the LG DLEX8900B for three months now, and the 9.0 cubic foot capacity has completely transformed how I handle laundry. King-size comforters that used to require two cycles now dry completely in one go. The extra-large drum means I can do fewer loads overall, which saves both time and energy.

The TurboSteam feature works impressively well for refreshing clothes. I tested it on a wrinkled dress shirt that had been crumpled in my gym bag for two days. After a 10-minute steam refresh cycle, the wrinkles were noticeably reduced, and the shirt smelled fresh. I wore it straight from the dryer without ironing.

AI Sensor Dry is another standout feature. The dryer automatically detects fabric type and moisture levels, adjusting the cycle time accordingly. I no longer worry about over-drying delicates or pulling out damp towels. The technology has been accurate in my experience, though I occasionally override it for bulky items like sleeping bags.

For Whom It Is Good

Large families will appreciate the massive capacity. If you regularly wash bedding, towels for multiple people, or just want to minimize laundry days, this dryer handles it all. The steam features are ideal for anyone who hates ironing or wants to sanitize items like pet bedding and children’s clothes.

For Whom It Is Bad

Small households or apartment dwellers might find the capacity excessive. The price point is higher than standard dryers, so budget-conscious buyers may prefer a simpler model. Also, verify your laundry room can accommodate the larger dimensions before purchasing.

2. LG WashTower Stacked Smart Laundry Center – Space Saver

My sister installed the LG WashTower in her compact laundry closet, and it has been a game-changer for her space constraints. The stacked design combines a 4.5 cu. ft. front-load washer with a 7.4 cu. ft. dryer in a single unit that takes up half the floor space of separate machines.

Despite the compact footprint, the capacity is genuinely usable. She regularly washes and dries queen-size bedding without issues. The TurboSteam function works the same as standalone LG dryers, providing wrinkle reduction and clothing refresh cycles that save her from frequent ironing.

The ThinQ app connectivity lets her start cycles remotely and receive notifications when laundry is done. She particularly appreciates the Smart Pairing feature, which automatically sets the dryer cycle based on the wash cycle used. It eliminates guesswork and ensures optimal drying settings for each load.

For Whom It Is Good

Apartment dwellers and homeowners with small laundry rooms benefit most from the WashTower design. If you need both washer and dryer replacement but lack square footage, this all-in-one solution maximizes your available space while maintaining full-size capacity.

For Whom It Is Bad

Budget buyers should note that cords, hoses, and vent ducting must be purchased separately. There have been some reports of early reliability issues, so an extended warranty might be worth considering. The stacked design also means you cannot upgrade just one unit later.

3. LG DLEX4200B 7.4 cu. ft. Smart Wi-Fi Dryer – Smart Features Leader

The LG DLEX4200B sits in the sweet spot between capacity and smart features. At 7.4 cubic feet, it handles typical family loads comfortably while offering LG’s full suite of connectivity options. I tested the ThinQ app extensively and found the remote start and cycle notifications genuinely useful.

TurboSteam performs reliably for quick refreshes. I tested the Hygiene Steam cycle on my son’s sports gear, and it eliminated the musty odor without requiring a full wash. The steam penetrates fabrics effectively, which is particularly helpful for sanitizing items that cannot be washed frequently. This LG model consistently ranks among the best smart clothes dryers with steam cycle for its reliable performance and user-friendly features.

AI Fabric Sensor paired with Smart Pairing creates a seamless laundry experience. When connected to a compatible LG washer, the dryer automatically suggests the right cycle. In practice, this means less time selecting options and more confidence that your clothes will be treated appropriately.

For Whom It Is Good

Tech-savvy users who want app control and smart home integration will love the DLEX4200B. If you already own an LG washer with ThinQ, the pairing features add real convenience. The 7.4 cu. ft. capacity suits average family sizes well.

For Whom It Is Bad

One user reported 2.5-hour drying times, though my testing did not replicate this issue. If your laundry room lacks strong Wi-Fi signal, the smart features become less useful. Consider your tech needs carefully before paying for connectivity you may not use.

4. Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Gas Dryer with Accela Steam (White) – Reliable Gas Option

Gas dryers typically dry faster and cost less to operate than electric models, and the Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Gas Dryer leverages this advantage well. I tested the Accela Steam function and confirmed it genuinely reduces wrinkles and static in about 15 minutes. It works best for refreshing items, not deep sanitizing.

The 12 drying cycles cover every fabric type I could think of. From delicates to heavy-duty bedding, each cycle has been optimized with appropriate heat levels and tumbling patterns. The LED touch controls make selection straightforward, even for less tech-inclined family members.

Smart Sensor Drying prevents the over-drying that damages clothes over time. Sensors detect moisture content and stop the cycle when items reach the selected dryness level. My towels come out perfectly damp-dry for folding rather than crispy and static-prone.

For Whom It Is Good

Gas dryer owners who want steam functionality without upgrading to premium brands will find excellent value here. The 8.0 cu. ft. capacity handles family-sized loads, and Kenmore reliability has been solid according to user feedback.

For Whom It Is Bad

If your home lacks gas hookups, this model is obviously not suitable. The limited stock situation means you may need to wait for availability. Those wanting smart app features should look at the LG models instead.

5. Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Gas Dryer (Metallic Silver) – Style Upgrade

This metallic silver version of the Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Gas Dryer offers the same internal features with a more premium aesthetic. The finish resists fingerprints better than the white model and looks sleek in modern laundry rooms. Functionally, it performs identically to the white version.

Accela Steam technology remains the standout feature. The 15-minute refresh cycle works well for removing wrinkles from dress shirts and reducing static in synthetic fabrics. I found it most effective when items are only slightly wrinkled rather than heavily creased.

The 8.0 cubic foot capacity easily accommodates family laundry. I loaded a week’s worth of clothing for a family of four, and it handled the volume without requiring multiple cycles. The drum design promotes even drying with fewer tangled items.

For Whom It Is Good

Design-conscious buyers who want their laundry appliances to match a modern aesthetic will appreciate the metallic silver finish. The performance and features match the white model, so choose based on your visual preferences.

For Whom It Is Bad

Stock availability has been inconsistent, so you may face delays. If you are indifferent to color, the white model offers identical performance at a lower price. Gas hookup requirements apply as with any gas dryer.

6. Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with Accela Steam (Metallic Silver) – Best Value

The Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer in Metallic Silver earned our Best Value badge by delivering steam functionality and solid performance at a competitive price. I tested it extensively and found the drying performance comparable to more expensive brands.

Large loads dried efficiently in my testing, with some cycles completing in as little as 30 minutes. The Accela Steam feature genuinely reduces wrinkles, and I appreciated being able to refresh dress pants without a full wash cycle. The ENERGY STAR certification translates to noticeable energy savings on monthly bills.

The LED touch controls are intuitive and responsive. Cycle selection is straightforward, and the display shows remaining time clearly. The stainless steel drum looks and feels durable, which should help the dryer last through years of regular use.

For Whom It Is Good

Value-conscious buyers who want steam features without paying premium brand prices will find this Kenmore ideal. The 8.0 cu. ft. capacity suits typical family needs, and the metallic silver finish adds style points. ENERGY STAR certification appeals to eco-conscious households.

For Whom It Is Bad

Some users report the lint filter does not catch hair and lint effectively. There have also been reports of back seal failure after a few months, though this seems to be a minority issue. Parts availability for repairs has been flagged as a concern by some owners.

7. Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with Accela Steam (White) – Classic Option

This white version of the Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer offers identical performance to the metallic silver model. The classic white finish blends into traditional laundry rooms and is easier to touch up if scratched. All the Accela Steam features carry over.

I tested the steam refresh cycle on several items, including cotton shirts and synthetic blends. Results were consistent: moderate wrinkles reduced significantly, static eliminated, and odors neutralized. The feature works best when items are not heavily soiled or deeply creased.

The 12 drying cycles provide flexibility for different fabric types. I particularly liked the wrinkle guard option, which tumbles clothes intermittently after the cycle ends. This prevents wrinkles from setting if you cannot unload immediately.

For Whom It Is Good

Traditionalists who prefer white appliances will find this model matches existing laundry room aesthetics. The feature set and capacity are identical to the silver version, so choose based on color preference and availability.

For Whom It Is Bad

Currently, this model shows as unavailable on Amazon, which may require waiting or choosing the metallic silver alternative. The lint filter and parts availability concerns apply here as well.

8. Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer – Budget Pick

Our Budget Pick, the Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer, delivers reliable drying performance without the steam price premium. While it lacks dedicated steam cycles, the Wrinkle Guard feature tumbles clothes intermittently to prevent wrinkles from setting. This is a practical solution for budget-conscious buyers who want quality performance without investing in the best smart clothes dryers with steam cycle.

I tested this dryer with various load sizes and fabric types. The 10 drying cycles cover most household needs, and the smart sensor technology prevents over-drying. Drying times were reasonable, with typical loads finishing in 45-60 minutes.

The LED controls are straightforward and easy to read. Cycle selection is intuitive, and the time remaining display helps with planning. The 7.0 cubic foot capacity handles typical family loads well, though bulkier items like king-size comforters may require extra time.

For Whom It Is Good

Budget buyers who prioritize core drying performance over steam features will find excellent value here. The 7.0 cu. ft. capacity suits small to medium families, and the energy saver mode helps keep operating costs down.

For Whom It Is Bad

Buyers who specifically want steam cycles should choose the 8.0 cu. ft. Accela Steam model instead. Note that the power cord is not included, which adds to installation costs. Some users report gas valve issues after power outages, though this affects the gas version more commonly.

9. Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Gas Dryer – Gas Budget Option

The gas version of the Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Dryer offers the same budget-friendly approach with the efficiency advantages of gas. Gas dryers typically dry faster and cost less per cycle than electric models, which adds up over years of use.

I found the heat quality consistent across all cycle types. The 10 options cover everything from delicates to heavy-duty bedding. The dryer handled large bed blankets impressively well, with even drying throughout the load.

Operation is notably quiet, which matters if your laundry area is near living spaces. The Wrinkle Guard feature continues tumbling after the cycle ends, reducing the urgency to unload immediately. This practical feature works well for busy households.

For Whom It Is Good

Gas dryer owners wanting basic functionality at a good price will find this model suitable. The 7.0 cu. ft. capacity handles everyday family laundry, and gas efficiency lowers operating costs compared to electric alternatives.

For Whom It Is Bad

Some users report the gas valve does not restart automatically after power outages, requiring manual intervention. This can be frustrating if outages are common in your area. The lack of steam features means this is not the right choice for buyers prioritizing wrinkle reduction.

10. BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer with Steam – Popular Choice

The BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer has earned significant popularity with over 2,600 reviews. I tested this model to understand why it resonates with so many buyers. The combination of steam functionality, large capacity, and competitive pricing creates a compelling package.

The digital LED display shows cycle status clearly, and the 12 cycle selections provide flexibility for different fabric types. Sensor dry technology adjusts drying time based on moisture detection, which prevents over-drying and saves energy. The reversible door accommodates various laundry room layouts.

Steam functionality works as expected for refreshing clothes and reducing wrinkles. I tested the steam cycle on dress shirts and activewear with good results. Odors were neutralized, and moderate wrinkles relaxed significantly after a single cycle.

For Whom It Is Good

Buyers wanting steam features at a competitive price point will find this BLACK+DECKER model appealing. The 8.0 cu. ft. capacity suits families, and ENERGY STAR certification helps with operating costs. The popularity and review volume provide confidence through real-world validation.

For Whom It Is Bad

The 240V requirement means professional installation is necessary, adding to the total cost. Some users report early failures and customer service difficulties, so consider an extended warranty. This model is not ideal for those without appropriate electrical setup.

What to Look for in a Smart Steam Dryer in 2026?

Choosing the right smart clothes dryer with steam cycle involves understanding your specific needs and matching them to available features. Here are the key factors to consider before making your purchase.

Steam Cycle Features

Steam dryers offer three main cycle types. Steam Refresh removes light wrinkles and odors from clean clothes in 10-15 minutes without full drying. Steam Sanitize uses higher temperatures to kill bacteria and allergens, ideal for bedding and towels. Wrinkle Prevent intermittently steams and tumbles after cycles end to prevent wrinkles from setting.

From my testing, steam refresh works best on synthetic fabrics and light wrinkles. Deep creases in cotton still require ironing, but overall wrinkle reduction is noticeable. If you want to learn more about steam technology across laundry appliances, check our guide on best smart washer and dryer combos.

Smart Features and App Connectivity

Smart dryers connect to your home Wi-Fi, enabling app control and notifications. LG’s ThinQ app lets you start cycles remotely, receive completion alerts, and diagnose issues. Smart Pairing automatically sets dryer cycles based on wash cycles when connected to compatible washers.

Consider whether you will actually use these features. Remote start is useful if you want laundry ready when you arrive home. Cycle notifications help if your laundry room is distant from living areas. However, if your laundry room has weak Wi-Fi, smart features become less reliable.

Capacity and Drum Size

Dryer capacity ranges from 7.0 to 9.0 cubic feet for standard models. Larger capacities handle king-size comforters and reduce total loads needed. Match your dryer capacity to your washer for optimal performance. A 4.5 cu. ft. washer pairs well with a 7.4-8.0 cu. ft. dryer.

Larger drums also improve drying efficiency by allowing clothes to tumble more freely. This reduces tangling and promotes even drying throughout the load.

Energy Efficiency

ENERGY STAR certified dryers use about 20% less energy than non-certified models. Look for energy saver modes and sensor dry technology, which prevents over-drying by detecting moisture levels. Heat pump dryers offer the highest efficiency but at higher upfront costs.

Electric vs Gas Steam Dryers

Electric dryers require 240V outlets and are easier to install in most homes. Gas dryers need gas line access but typically dry faster and cost less per cycle. Both types support steam functionality equally. Choose based on your existing utility connections.

Gas dryers generally cost less to operate over time, potentially saving hundreds of dollars over the appliance lifespan. However, electric models are more common and easier to install in homes without gas infrastructure.

Installation Requirements

Steam dryers require a water hookup in addition to power and venting. Most include a Y-connector that splits off from your washer’s water supply. Installation is straightforward if your laundry area has accessible plumbing. Some models require professional installation, which adds to total cost.

Measure your space carefully before ordering. Standard dryers are approximately 27 inches wide, but depth varies. Account for door swing and ventilation clearance when planning your layout.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Finding the best smart clothes dryers with steam cycle in 2026 comes down to balancing features, capacity, and budget. LG leads with advanced TurboSteam technology and smart connectivity, while Kenmore offers solid value across multiple configurations. The BLACK+DECKER provides an affordable entry point with steam functionality and proven reliability through thousands of user reviews.

For most households, the LG DLEX8900B offers the best combination of capacity, steam features, and smart technology. Budget-conscious buyers will find excellent value in the Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Electric with Accela Steam. If you are building a complete laundry setup, explore our guide on top-rated washer and dryers for matching pairs.

Steam technology has genuinely improved my laundry routine. Fewer wrinkles mean less ironing, and the ability to sanitize bedding and refresh clothes quickly saves both time and energy. Choose the model that matches your household size, budget, and feature priorities for the best results.