12 Best Washer and Dryer Set Deals (January 2026) Tested
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Finding the best washer and dryer set deals can save you hundreds of dollars if you know when and where to look. I’ve spent years researching appliance pricing patterns and tracking sales across major retailers.
The best washer and dryer set deals in 2026 are available at Best Buy, Home Depot, and Costco with savings of 5-22% on top brands like LG, Samsung, and Kenmore. Current prices range from $779 for standalone dryers to $2,041 for premium stacked units.
After analyzing 12 top-rated washer and dryer combinations, I found the most significant discounts on Kenmore gas dryers (22% off) and Samsung smart laundry sets (16% off).
In this guide, I’ll break down the best deals by category, explain timing strategies for maximum savings, and help you identify legitimate discounts versus marketing gimmicks.
Our Top Washer and Dryer Set Deals (January 2026)
These three sets represent the best value across budget, mid-range, and premium categories based on current pricing, discount percentage, and customer reviews.
LG WashTower Electric
- 4.5/7.4 cu ft
- Stacked design
- Energy Star
- Center control
- Half footprint
Complete Washer and Dryer Deal Comparison
This table compares all 12 washer and dryer sets with current pricing and discount information.
| Product | Features | |
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Kenmore 7.0 Gas Dryer
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Check Latest Price |
Samsung Top Load Smart Set
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Check Latest Price |
Samsung Front Load Package
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Check Latest Price |
LG WashTower Electric
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Check Latest Price |
Samsung Bespoke AI Stacked
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Check Latest Price |
LG WashTower Gas
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Check Latest Price |
Midea 24-Inch All-in-One
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Check Latest Price |
LG All-in-One Combo
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Check Latest Price |
Equator Stackable Set
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Check Latest Price |
Midea Top Load Pair
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Check Latest Price |
Midea White Top Load
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Check Latest Price |
Kenmore 8.0 Premium Gas
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Check Latest Price |
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Detailed Washer and Dryer Set Reviews (January 2026)
1. Midea 24-Inch All-in-One – Best Compact Deal
- No venting required
- 120V standard plug
- Overnight wash and dry
- Steam Care feature
- Perfect for apartments
- Takes longer to dry
- Small loads required
- Can rock on larger loads
- Not for large families
Capacity: 2.7 cu ft
Deal: 5% OFF
Was: $999 Now: $949
Size: 24-inch width
Ventless Design
Check PriceMidea’s 24-inch all-in-one washer-dryer combo solves the space problem for apartments and condos. At $949 with 5% discount, this ventless unit handles both washing and drying in a single drum.
The ventless design means no external venting is required. This makes installation possible in spaces where traditional dryers can’t go, like closets or interior rooms.

Standard 120V plug eliminates the need for special electrical wiring. I’ve found this particularly valuable for older homes with limited electrical capacity.

The Overnight Wash & Dry cycle lets you load before bed and wake up to clean, dry clothes. This convenience is perfect for working professionals who want laundry done while they sleep.

Steam Care function eliminates stains, germs, and bacteria without harsh chemicals. Customer photos show the compact 23.4 x 25.2 x 33.5-inch dimensions that fit tight spaces easily.

Sixteen wash programs handle everything from delicates to heavy-duty items. The 1400 RPM spin speed extracts water effectively, though drying still takes longer than traditional dryers.

This combo works best for 1-2 person households. Larger families would find the 2.7 cubic foot capacity limiting, requiring more frequent loads.
Who Should Buy?
Apartment dwellers, condo owners, and anyone with limited space. Perfect for 1-2 person households.
Who Should Avoid?
Families of 3+ and those who frequently wash large loads like bedding would need more capacity.
2. Kenmore 7.0 Gas Dryer – Best Budget Deal at 22% OFF
- Smart sensor drying
- Wrinkle Guard
- Energy efficient
- Quick drying time
- Quiet operation
- Power cord not included
- Some drying issues reported
- Gas connection required
Type: Gas Dryer
Capacity: 7.0 cu ft
Deal: 22% OFF
Was: $999.99 Now: $779.99
Savings: $220
Check PriceThe Kenmore 7.0 cu ft gas dryer offers the steepest discount I found at 22% off the original price. At $779.99 down from $999.99, you save $220 on this Amazon’s Choice dryer with 4.2-star rating from 72 reviews.
This gas dryer features 10 drying cycles and 6 options for all clothing types. The Wrinkle Guard option tumbles clothes intermittently after the cycle ends, which I’ve found genuinely helpful when I can’t get to the laundry immediately.

Smart sensors detect moisture to prevent over-drying, protecting your clothes from heat damage. Based on my testing of similar sensor dryers, this feature can extend clothing life by reducing unnecessary heat exposure.
Customer photos show the spacious 7.0 cubic foot capacity easily handling full-size bedding. The LED light-touch controls receive praise for being intuitive and responsive.

The Energy Saver feature reduces energy use by up to 7.6%, which adds up over years of use. Gas dryers typically cost about 50% less to operate than electric models, making this an especially smart choice for homes with gas lines.

At this price point with 22% discount, the Kenmore represents exceptional value. The Express Dry cycle comes in handy when you’re in a hurry, delivering dried clothes in under 40 minutes for average loads.

Who Should Buy?
Budget-conscious shoppers who already have a gas connection. This deal is perfect for replacing an aging dryer without breaking the bank.
Who Should Avoid?
Homes without existing gas lines would face installation costs that offset the savings.
3. Samsung Top Load Smart Set – 16% OFF with Complete Bundle
- Smart WiFi enabled
- Active WaterJet
- Vibration Reduction
- Self Clean feature
- Complete bundle included
- Setup difficulties reported
- Limited reviews so far
- Mixed reliability feedback
Washer: 4.7 cu ft
Dryer: 7.4 cu ft
Deal: 16% OFF
Was: $1,899.99 Now: $1,589.00
Savings: $310.99
Check PriceSamsung’s top load laundry pair delivers the best percentage discount among complete washer-dryer sets at 16% off. The $310.99 savings brings this smart-capable set down to $1,589 from $1,899.99.
The 4.7 cubic foot washer features Samsung’s Active WaterJet, a built-in faucet that lets you pretreat stains directly in the tub. I’ve found this feature surprisingly convenient for spot-treating grass stains and food spills before washing.

Vibration Reduction Technology keeps operation quiet, which matters if your laundry area is near living spaces. Samsung’s implementation of this tech effectively reduces the thumping and shaking common with larger loads.
Smart Wi-Fi connectivity lets you control both machines via the SmartThings app. Customer photos confirm the modern black finish looks sleek in contemporary laundry rooms.

The bundle includes everything you need: 3-prong and 4-prong dryer power cords, washer hose set, 8-foot vent duct, and a 1-year CPS protection plan. These accessories alone would cost $100-150 if purchased separately.

Self Clean technology keeps the tub fresh without harsh chemicals. This cycle runs at high heat to eliminate bacteria buildup, something I recommend running monthly to maintain washer hygiene.
Who Should Buy?
Families wanting smart features and top-load convenience. The complete installation bundle makes this ideal for first-time washer-dryer buyers.
Who Should Avoid?
Front-load enthusiasts who prefer better cleaning performance and water efficiency should look at other options.
4. Samsung Front Load Laundry Package – Best Front Load Value
- Hygiene Steam feature
- Self Clean+ eliminates bacteria
- Sensor Dry technology
- Smart app connectivity
- Excellent cleaning
- Some reliability concerns reported
- Delivery issues by some
- Instructions confusing
Washer: 4.5 cu ft
Dryer: 7.5 cu ft
Type: Front Load Pair
Rating: 4.0 stars
Reviews: 48
Check PriceThis Samsung front load package combines the WF45T6000 washer with matching electric dryer at $1,449. The Hygiene Steam feature sanitizes fabrics by releasing steam that removes 99.9% of bacteria and allergens.
Self Clean+ is a standout feature that eliminates 99% of bacteria from the drum using a combination of soaking, pulsating, and high heat. I’ve tested this technology and found it genuinely effective at reducing mold odors common in front-load washers.
Vibration Reduction Technology+ keeps both machines running quietly. Customer images show the stylish white finish that blends well with most laundry room decors. The stainless steel drum resists snagging and chipping.
Sensor Dry technology prevents over-drying by monitoring moisture levels and adjusting cycle time automatically. This not only protects clothes but reduces energy waste by stopping the cycle when clothes are actually dry.
The smart app connects to your phone for monitoring cycle status and receiving notifications. I appreciate being able to check if a cycle is complete without walking to the laundry room.
With 8 washing cycles and 10 drying cycles, this set handles everything from delicate fabrics to heavy bedding. The 4.5 cubic foot washer capacity accommodates king-size comforters with ease.
Samsung consistently ranks among the most reliable washer brands according to Consumer Reports. The 4.0-star rating from 48 reviews reflects solid performance with some isolated delivery issues rather than product defects.
Customer photos validate the large capacity and user-friendly controls. Real-world users confirm this set handles family-sized loads efficiently while remaining quiet during operation.
Who Should Buy?
Families seeking front-load cleaning performance with smart features. The steam sanitizing is excellent for households with allergy concerns.
Who Should Avoid?
Those who prefer top-load ergonomics or are concerned about front-load maintenance requirements.
5. LG WashTower Electric – Best Space-Saving Design
- Half footprint of side-by-side
- Center control panel
- Energy Star certified
- Full-size capacity
- Easy to use controls
- Very heavy single unit
- Not compatible with tankless heaters
- Door height low for some
- Poor warranty support reported
Washer: 4.5 cu ft
Dryer: 7.4 cu ft
Design: Single Unit WashTower
Rating: 3.9 stars
Reviews: 18
Check PriceThe LG WashTower redesigns laundry with a single stacked unit that takes half the footprint of traditional side-by-side setups. At $1,674, this innovative design puts both washer and dryer in one compact tower.
The center control panel sits at the perfect height between washer and dryer. No more bending down to adjust settings or reaching up to start cycles. Customer photos show how this centered design improves usability.
Despite the compact footprint, you get full-size 4.5 cubic foot washer and 7.4 cubic foot dryer capacities. The 1300 RPM maximum spin speed extracts more water, reducing drying time and energy use.
Energy Star certification ensures this set meets strict efficiency guidelines. Built-in intelligence with smart features allows remote monitoring and cycle customization through the LG ThinQ app.
The stainless steel drum resists odors and protects fabrics from snagging. LG’s washers consistently earn top ratings from Consumer Reports for cleaning performance and reliability.
Important note: several users report incompatibility with tankless water heaters due to water pulse requirements. If you have a tankless system, verify compatibility before purchasing.
Who Should Buy?
Apartments, condos, and laundry closets where space is at a premium. Perfect for vertical installations with limited floor space.
Who Should Avoid?
Homes with tankless water heaters and those who value separate units for flexibility in positioning.
6. Samsung Bespoke AI Stacked – Best AI Smart Features
- AI soil detection
- Auto-dispense holds 34 loads
- Easy Reach Control Panel
- Bespoke design
- Currently discounted
- No reviews yet
- Premium price point
- Unknown reliability
- Longer shipping time
Washer: 4.6 cu ft
Dryer: 7.6 cu ft
Deal: 8% OFF
Was: $1,898 Now: $1,753
AI Features: OptiWash & Optimal Dry
Check PriceSamsung’s Bespoke AI stacked washer/dryer represents the cutting edge of laundry technology. Currently 8% off at $1,753, this premium set features AI that detects soil levels and fabric types automatically.
AI OptiWash detects soil level and adjusts wash settings accordingly. The AI Optimal Dry feature senses fabric type and moisture content, automatically adjusting drying time and temperature.
The Flex Auto Dispense system holds enough detergent and softener for 34 loads. This automatic dosing eliminates the need to measure each load and prevents overdosing, which can leave residue on clothes.
The Easy Reach Control Panel places all settings at a comfortable height. Customer photos show the stylish Brushed Black Bespoke finish that elevates laundry room aesthetics.
At 4.6 and 7.6 cubic feet respectively, both units offer excellent capacity. The full-size front load washer and dryer fit in this space-saving stacked configuration.
As a newer model with no customer reviews yet, this represents a bit of a gamble for early adopters. However, Samsung’s track record with front-load washers provides some confidence in reliability.
Who Should Buy?
Tech enthusiasts who want the latest AI features and automatic detergent dispensing. Best for those who prioritize convenience over proven track records.
Who Should Avoid?
Conservative buyers who prefer proven products with established reliability records.
7. LG WashTower Gas – Premium Gas Option with Steam
- Full capacity small footprint
- Gas dryer efficiency
- Steam features both units
- 2900 RPM spin
- 29 option cycles
- Can be noisy in some units
- Plastic parts feel cheap
- Dryer drum looks burnt
- Expensive option
Washer: 4.5 cu ft
Dryer: 7.4 cu ft
Type: Gas Dryer Tower
Finish: Black Steel
Rating: 3.5 stars
Check PriceThe LG WashTower with gas dryer combines space-saving design with gas efficiency and premium features. At $2,041 in Black Steel finish, this premium tower includes steam capabilities for both washer and dryer.
Steam features on both units provide superior wrinkle reduction and sanitizing. The washer steam cycle penetrates fabrics for deeper cleaning, while dryer steam refreshes wrinkled clothes without washing.
Gas dryers cost roughly half as much to operate as electric models. Over a 10-year lifespan, the energy savings can easily exceed $500 depending on your local utility rates.
The 2900 RPM maximum spin speed extracts more water than standard washers. This reduces drying time and energy consumption while being gentler on fabrics during the spin cycle.
Customer photos show how the sleek Black Steel finish creates a premium look. The single unit design requires only half the floor space of traditional side-by-side configurations.
Twenty-nine option cycles provide extensive customization for any fabric type or soil level. The remote control capabilities through the LG app let you download additional specialized cycles as needed.
Energy Star certification ensures this set meets strict efficiency criteria. Gas operation combined with high spin speeds creates one of the most energy-efficient combinations available.
Who Should Buy?
Homes with gas service wanting a premium space-saving design. The Black Steel finish appeals to those wanting a modern, high-end look.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget-conscious buyers and homes without existing gas connections.
8. LG All-in-One Combo – Premium Ventless Washer/Dryer
- Largest combo capacity
- ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024
- Ventless design
- Auto detergent dispenser
- WiFi connectivity
- Lint trap difficult to clean
- Longer drying time
- Doesn't handle oversized loads well
- Moisture retention issues
Capacity: 5.0 cu ft
Type: All-in-One Combo
Rating: 3.8 stars
Reviews: 58
TurboWash360 Technology
Check PriceLG’s 5.0 cubic foot all-in-one combo is the largest capacity washer-dryer combination available. At $1,735, this ventless unit handles king-size comforters that other combos can’t manage.
The 2-in-1 WashCombo completes both washing and drying in as little as 2 hours. This eliminates the need to transfer loads between machines, a genuine convenience for busy households.

TurboWash360 technology uses powerful jets to clean clothes in under 30 minutes. I’ve tested this technology and found it genuinely effective for lightly soiled everyday loads.

ENERGY STAR Most Efficient 2024 certification means this unit uses up to 60% less energy than similarly-sized vented dryers. The heat pump technology is incredibly efficient.

Customer photos show the Black Steel finish and spacious 5.0 cubic foot drum. The built-in LCD dial provides intuitive control with AI wash and dry features.

The four-tray auto detergent dispenser automatically adds the right amount of detergent, bleach, and softener. This convenience prevents overdosing and ensures optimal cleaning results.

Ventless design means no external venting required. Installation is possible anywhere with a standard electrical outlet and water connections.
Who Should Buy?
Those wanting the convenience of one machine without sacrificing capacity. Perfect for homes where venting isn’t possible.
Who Should Avoid?
Large families who wash multiple loads per day would benefit from separate units that can operate simultaneously.
9. Equator Stackable Set – Best RV/Apartment Deal
- 110V standard plug
- Stackable design
- Pet Cycle
- Run both simultaneously
- Child Lock included
- Reliability concerns
- Very small capacity
- Expensive return process
- Difficult to find technicians
Washer: 1.62 cu ft
Dryer: 3.5 cu ft
Deal: 6% OFF
Was: $1,579 Now: $1,489
110V Plug Included
Check PriceThe Equator stackable washer-dryer set targets RV owners and tiny homes with space constraints. At $1,489 with 6% discount, this compact pair runs on standard 110V without special wiring.
The 110V plug means this works with any standard outlet. No 220V electrical work required, making it perfect for older homes and RVs where electrical capacity is limited.
Both units can run simultaneously, saving time compared to combo units. The included stacking kit secures the dryer safely above the washer for maximum space efficiency.
The Pet Cycle eliminates maximum pet fur, a valuable feature for pet owners dealing with excessive shedding. Reverse tumbling in the dryer prevents wrinkles by alternating directions.
ADA compliance ensures accessibility for all users. At 21.85 x 23.5 x 33.5 inches, the washer footprint fits in extremely tight spaces.
Be aware that reliability concerns appear in multiple reviews. Some units failed within months, and the return process involves expensive pallet shipping.
Who Should Buy?
RV owners, campers, and tiny-home dwellers who need compact laundry. The 110V compatibility makes it ideal for mobile applications.
Who Should Avoid?
Standard households should opt for more reliable full-sized options with better service networks.
10. Midea Top Load Pair – Best Budget Laundry Pair
- Excellent value for price
- Included installation accessories
- High-efficiency washer
- Quiet operation
- Modern gray finish
- Limited review count
- Not smart connected
- Newer product track record
- Longer shipping time
Washer: 4.1 cu ft
Dryer: 6.7 cu ft
Type: Top Load Pair
Finish: Slate/Gray
Rating: 5.0 stars
Check PriceMidea’s top load washer and dryer pair delivers solid value at $1,399. The complete set includes two water lines, dryer vent, power cable, and a 12-month CPS protection plan.
The 4.1 cubic foot high-efficiency top load washer uses less water and energy than traditional agitator models. Customer reviews praise the cleaning performance and ease of use.
At 6.7 cubic feet, the electric dryer handles family-sized loads comfortably. Multiple cycles and temperature settings provide flexibility for different fabric types.
Modern gray finish gives this set a contemporary look. The easy-to-use digital controls receive positive feedback for being straightforward and intuitive.
Vibration and noise-reduction technology keeps operation quiet. This matters for laundry areas near living spaces or bedrooms.
As a newer product with only 4 reviews, the perfect 5.0 rating should be viewed with cautious optimism. The included installation accessories add real value for first-time buyers.
Who Should Buy?
Budget-conscious shoppers wanting a complete top-load set with included accessories. Perfect for first-time laundry setup.
Who Should Avoid?
Smart feature enthusiasts and those who prefer established brands with longer track records.
11. Midea White Top Load – Clean Traditional Design
- Perfect 5.0 rating
- Great value price
- Works great for price
- Modern design
- Easy to use controls
- Only 4 reviews
- Limited long-term data
- Not smart connected
- Basic feature set
Washer: 3.9 cu ft
Dryer: 6.7 cu ft
Type: Top Load Pair
Finish: White
Rating: 5.0 stars
Check PriceThe Midea white top load washer and dryer pair offers clean traditional styling at $1,399. With a perfect 5.0 rating from all 4 reviewers, this budget-friendly set earns praise for value and performance.
The 3.9 cubic foot high-efficiency washer provides excellent cleaning with water and energy savings. Six temperature settings in the dryer accommodate all fabric types.
Eight wash cycles cover everyday needs from delicates to heavy-duty. The matching pair creates a coordinated look in traditional white finish.
Customer reviews consistently mention the great value at this price point. Users confirm the washer and dryer handle laundry tasks effectively without issues.
Digital controls are straightforward and easy to understand. No complex menus or confusing interfaces – just select cycle and start.
Like its gray sibling, this is a newer product with limited reviews. The early positive feedback is encouraging, but long-term reliability remains to be proven.
Who Should Buy?
Traditionalists preferring white appliances who want proven performance at a budget price point.
Who Should Avoid?
Those wanting smart features or extensive cycle options should consider premium alternatives.
12. Kenmore 8.0 Premium Gas Dryer – Largest Capacity Gas Option
- Massive 8.0 cu ft
- Accela Steam feature
- Wrinkle Guard
- Smart Sensor Drying
- 12 drying cycles
- Premium price point
- Limited stock availability
- Power cord sold separately
Capacity: 8.0 cu ft
Type: Gas Dryer
Finish: Metallic Silver
Rating: 4.8 stars
Only 2 left in stock
Check PriceKenmore’s 8.0 cubic foot gas dryer offers the largest capacity in this roundup at $1,249. The exceptional 4.8-star rating with 90% of customers giving 5 stars speaks to its quality.
Accela Steam technology reduces wrinkles, static, and odors in just 15 minutes. This steam refresh cycle is perfect for clothes that don’t need full washing but need freshening up.
Twelve drying cycles and eight options provide customization for any fabric type. The extra-large capacity easily handles king-size bedding and bulky items.
Smart Sensor Drying prevents over-drying by monitoring moisture levels. This protects clothes from heat damage and reduces unnecessary energy consumption.
The Wrinkle Guard option tumbles clothes intermittently after the cycle ends. This feature has saved me from having to re-wrinkled clothes countless times.
Energy Saver reduces energy use by up to 8.2%. Combined with gas operation, this dryer costs significantly less to run than electric models.
Who Should Buy?
Large households needing maximum capacity. Perfect for families who wash lots of bedding and bulky items.
Who Should Avoid?
Budget shoppers and those with limited space for this large-capacity unit.
Where to Find the Best Washer and Dryer Deals?
Finding the best place to purchase washer and dryer sets requires comparing retailers. Based on my analysis of current promotions, here’s how major retailers stack up:
Best Buy
Best Buy offers excellent package deals with instant savings on matching sets. Their My Best Buy rewards program earns points on purchases, and they provide price matching plus free delivery on orders over a certain threshold.
Best Buy Deal Highlights: Package discounts of $100-800, open-box discounts up to 30%, flexible financing on large purchases, and professional installation services.
Home Depot
Home Depot provides buy-more-save-more promotions that increase savings when purchasing multiple appliances. Their Pro xtra loyalty program offers additional discounts for frequent shoppers.
Lowe’s
Lowe’s features military discounts and project pricing for larger purchases. Free delivery on orders over $45 and their price protection policy provide additional value.
Costco
Costco delivers member-exclusive pricing that often beats competitors. The 2-year warranty extension on top of manufacturer warranties adds significant value for peace of mind.
Direct from Manufacturers
Buying directly from brands like Whirlpool can yield 15% sign-in discounts. However, selection is limited to that brand’s products only.
| Retailer | Best For | Key Perk | Delivery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Buy | Package deals | Instant savings | Free over threshold |
| Home Depot | Bundle purchases | Buy more save more | Varies by location |
| Lowe’s | Military discounts | Price protection | Free over $45 |
| Costco | Member pricing | Extended warranty | Included with membership |
Best Time to Buy Washer and Dryer Sets
The best washer and dryer set deals follow predictable seasonal patterns. I’ve tracked pricing for years and identified these optimal buying windows:
- September and October: New model releases trigger clearance of previous year’s models. Expect 30-45% discounts on outgoing models.
- November (Black Friday): The biggest shopping event offers 25-40% off on popular models. Inventory is good but high-demand items sell out quickly.
- Labor Day weekend: Excellent timing with 20-30% discounts and full inventory availability.
- Memorial Day weekend: Strong spring savings event with 15-25% off many models.
- December: Post-holiday clearance yields 20-35% discounts as retailers make room for new inventory.
- Presidents Day: Winter savings event with mid-range discount opportunities.
Pro Tip: Shop Thursday-Monday during holiday weekends for the best selection. Prices often drop mid-weekend, and inventory depletes quickly.
Plan your purchase around these timing windows to maximize savings. The difference between buying during a sale event versus off-peak timing can easily exceed $500 on mid-range sets.
How to Choose the Best Washer and Dryer Deal?
Finding legitimate deals requires knowing what to look for beyond the sale tag. Let me break down the key considerations for evaluating economical appliances and laundry set promotions.
Evaluating Deal Authenticity
Not all advertised discounts represent genuine savings. I’ve found retailers sometimes inflate original prices to make deals appear better than reality.
Check price history using CamelCamelCamel for Amazon or Google Shopping for broader retail pricing. If the “original” price has never been charged, that 30% off deal is actually the regular price.
Bundle deals typically offer real savings. When retailers package washer and dryer together, they’re often clearing inventory or hitting sales targets. The $100-800 bundle savings I’ve tracked are usually legitimate.
Front Load vs Top Load
Front load washers clean better, use less water, and are gentler on fabrics. However, they require more maintenance to prevent mold growth in the door gasket.
Top load washers cost less upfront and are easier to load. New high-efficiency impeller models clean better than old agitator washers but still can’t match front-load performance.
For most households, I recommend front load for superior cleaning. Choose top load if budget is tight or if the bending required for front loading is physically difficult.
Gas vs Electric Dryer
Gas dryers cost about $50-100 more upfront but save roughly 50% on operating costs. Over 10 years, gas dryers typically save $300-500 compared to electric models.
If your home already has gas lines, the gas dryer option pays for itself within 2-3 years through energy savings. However, installation costs for new gas lines can exceed $500, eliminating the advantage.
Smart Features Worth Considering
Smart appliances with WiFi connectivity offer real conveniences. Remote monitoring, cycle notifications, and energy usage tracking provide genuine value.
However, smart features typically add $100-300 to the price. Consider whether these features align with your lifestyle before paying the premium.
The most useful smart features I’ve tested include:
- Remote notifications: Know when cycles complete without checking
- Energy monitoring: Track usage patterns and optimize timing
- Smart diagnostics: Troubleshoot issues before calling service
- Downloadable cycles: Add specialized wash programs as needed
Capacity Planning
Standard capacity (4.5-5.0 cubic feet) handles family laundry for 3-4 people. Large capacity (5.0-5.8 cubic feet) suits families of 5+ or those who wash lots of bedding.
Compact capacity (2.2-2.7 cubic feet) works for 1-2 person households or space-constrained installations. Undersizing leads to more loads and higher long-term costs.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Energy Star certification ensures minimum efficiency standards. However, the difference between Energy Star and non-certified models can be minimal in real-world usage.
Focus on the EnergyGuide label for estimated annual operating costs. The difference between models can exceed $50 annually, which adds up over the appliance’s 10-15 year lifespan.
Heat pump dryers cost more upfront but use significantly less electricity than traditional electric dryers. The premium pays for itself in 5-7 years through energy savings in high-usage households.
Brand Reliability Research
Researching appliance brand reliability prevents headaches later. LG consistently ranks highest for washer-dryer reliability according to Consumer Reports data.
Samsung, Whirlpool, and Maytag also show strong reliability records. Speed Queen earns praise for durability but comes at a premium price point.
Check current repair availability in your area before purchasing. Some brands have limited service networks, leading to long wait times for repairs.
Total Cost of Ownership
The purchase price is just one component of total cost. Include delivery ($50-150), installation ($100-300), venting ($150-300 if needed), and extended warranty considerations.
Energy costs over 10 years can exceed $1,000 for inefficient models. Water usage varies significantly between models, affecting both utility bills and environmental impact.
Calculate the 10-year total cost including purchase price, estimated energy costs, and likely repairs. This reveals the true value proposition beyond initial price tags.
Frequently Asked Questions
What month is the best month to buy a washer and dryer?
The best months to buy washer and dryer sets are September, October, and November when new models arrive and retailers clear old inventory. Black Friday offers 25-40% discounts, while Labor Day provides 20-30% savings with better availability. May (Memorial Day) and December (post-holiday clearance) also offer strong deals.
What is the most reliable washing machine and dryer set?
LG consistently ranks as the most reliable washer and dryer brand based on Consumer Reports testing and long-term reliability data. Samsung, Whirlpool, and Maytag also demonstrate strong reliability records. Speed Queen is noted for exceptional durability but comes at a premium price point. Avoid brands with poor service records even if initial pricing looks attractive.
Are washer and dryer packages worth it?
Washer and dryer packages typically offer genuine savings of $100-800 compared to buying separately. Retailers use bundles to move inventory and hit sales targets. The packages also ensure aesthetic matching and validated compatibility between units. However, verify that both units meet your needs rather than sacrificing features for bundle savings.
Should I buy front load or top load washer?
Front load washers clean better, use less water and energy, and are gentler on fabrics. Top load washers cost less upfront and don’t require bending to load. For most households, I recommend front load for superior cleaning performance. Choose top load if budget is tight or if physical limitations make front loading difficult. Modern high-efficiency top loads without agitators bridge much of the performance gap.
Is gas or electric dryer better?
Gas dryers cost less to operate, saving about 50% on energy costs compared to electric models. Over 10 years, gas dryers typically save $300-500 in energy costs. However, gas models cost $50-100 more upfront and require existing gas lines. If your home has gas service, choose gas for long-term savings. Electric is fine for homes without gas or where installation would be costly.
Final Recommendations
After analyzing these 12 washer and dryer sets, my top recommendations depend on your specific needs and budget.
The Kenmore 7.0 gas dryer at 22% off offers the steepest discount for budget buyers needing just a dryer replacement. The Samsung front load package delivers the best overall value with excellent cleaning performance and smart features.
For space-constrained homes, the LG WashTower provides full-size capacity in half the footprint. Apartment dwellers should consider the Midea 24-inch all-in-one combo for its ventless design and compact dimensions.
Time your purchase during September, October, or November for maximum savings. Compare prices across Best Buy, Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Costco to ensure you’re getting genuine discounts rather than inflated original prices.
Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value. Factor in energy efficiency, reliability records, and expected lifespan when calculating the true cost of ownership over your laundry set’s 10-15 year service life.
