Best Portable & Compact Washer and Dryer Combo for Apartments
Updated: Mar. 23, 2024
Buying a washer dryer for an apartment is a game-changer. Say goodbye to schlepping to the laundromat and paying for each load at the communal machines.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
As someone who’s navigated the challenges of residing in some of New York City’s tiniest studios, I know the struggle of finding the ideal washer dryer for apartment living. After all, nobody wants to schlep their clothes to and from the laundromat every time they need clean socks.
For those of you skeptical about finding a washer or dryer suitable for your small abode, reconsider. We’ve identified the best apartment washer and dryer options tailored for renters, owners and landlords seeking to save both time and expenses. This list even includes no-hookup-required appliances for those inhabiting the tiniest spaces.
via merchant
Best Overall Apartment Washer and Dryer
LG WashTower Electric Stacked Laundry Center
The LG WashTower stacked laundry center boasts the same load capacity as a traditional washer and dryer but occupies only half the space. It offers six wash and dry cycles, including a special one that eliminates 95% of pet dander and other allergens. Additionally, the SensorDry function, which detects moisture levels, ensures the appliance stops at the optimal time to prevent shrinkage and energy waste.
This stackable washer dryer for apartments can be easily paired with LG’s ThinQ app, allowing you to monitor your laundry from anywhere. It also helps with diagnosing issues, such as addressing a smelly washing machine.
Pros
- Slim footprint and large load capacity
- Compatible with LG ThinQ app
- SensorDry prevents over-drying
- Six washing and drying cycles
Cons
- Some reviewers found installation difficult
via merchant
Best Budget Apartment Washer and Dryer
Giantex Portable Mini Washing Machine and Dryer
The lightweight and portable Giantex mini washing machine and dryer serves as an ideal solution for college students, traveling nurses or anyone seeking an affordable and compact laundry option. While some sacrifices are necessary—the dryer acts as a glorified spinner and is half the size of the washer—all that’s required is a traditional outlet and a water inlet for clean clothes. Two size options are available, with the larger one accommodating up to 26 pounds of laundry.
This budget-friendly washer and dryer bundle boasts more than 9,400 five-star Amazon ratings praising its unbeatable value. Users also share tips for optimal performance, like how to stabilize the washing machine. One happy customer, Martha Ochoa, writes: “I was tired of using public laundromats and spending almost $100 to do laundry for all my family. This thing is small but powerful.”
Pros
- Affordable
- Weighs just 20 pounds
- Easy to use
- Two size options
Cons
- Dryer is half the size of the washer
via merchant
Most Compact Washer and Dryer for Apartments
Equator Pro Washer/Dryer Combo
The Equator washer/dryer combo is smaller than most all-in-one washer/dryers, and includes a range of features absent in pricier alternatives. Notably, the dryer actively prevents wrinkles by tumbling your clothes every five minutes until they’re removed. The quiet mode, reducing noise to less than 60 decibels (equivalent to a normal conversation), proves beneficial for apartments with thin walls.
The only factor preventing this from claiming our top spot is the lower-load capacity. However, on the bright side, it is available in six different colors and offers eight washing cycles and four drying cycles.
Pros
- Smaller than average combo washer/dryers
- 12 total programs
- Dryer tumbles after cycle ends to prevent wrinkles
- Quiet mode
Cons
- Low-load capacity
via merchant
Best Stackable Apartment Washer and Dryer
GE Electric Stacked Laundry Center
A stackable, single laundry unit like the GE stacked laundry center is a favorite for tight spaces that have at least 76 inches of ceiling space. There are two width options—26.75 inches and 23.75 inches—to accommodate apartments and utility closets of different sizes. The vent and washing machine hose hookups are located on the lower back of the washer, eliminating the need to account for extra depth as required by many vented models.
The washer comes with six water temperatures for better performance when cleaning special fabrics. The dryer, with four cycles, has a slightly greater depth than the washer, promoting airflow and ensuring proper drying.
Pros
- Washer and dryer in one stackable tower
- Two width options
- Six water temperatures
- Two colors available
Cons
- Weighs 249 pounds
via merchant (2)
Best Side-by-Side Apartment Washer and Dryer
Miele Smart Front-Load Washer and Dryer
If you have the space for a side-by-side washer and dryer, the Miele smart front-load washer and matching dryer are some of the best laundry machines on the market. Plus, they each only take up about 23 inches in width. The TwinDos detergent system dispenses just the right amount of cleaner per cycle; while the dryer allows for the infusion of special Miele fragrances, ensuring your clothes smell delightful straight out of the machine.
With a powerful spin speed of 1,600 revolutions per minute (RPM), the smart washing machine helps dry your clothes before they even reach the dryer, which saves you money and energy.
Pros
- Compact side-by-side design
- Smart laundry detergent dispensing system
- More than 20 cycle options
- Dryer comes with a fragrance option
Cons
- Pricey
via merchant (2)
Best Portable Apartment Washer and Dryer
Black+Decker Small Portable Washer and Dryer
This Black+Decker washer earns our top spot among portable options when combined with this Black+Decker dryer. Our research identified these as having the fewest customer complaints regarding durability and functionality among all portable laundry appliances on the market.
While the washer weighs a little more than 100 pounds, it can easily be transported from room to room thanks to two rollers, two side handles and one adjustable leveling leg. While the dryer is smaller than the washer—a common drawback with portable picks—it still has an impressive load volume of 13.2 pounds.
Pros
- Washer weighs less than 100 pounds and the dryer weighs less than 50
- Easy-connect hose for quick installation
- RV-compatible
- Washer has a 26.5-pound capacity
- Five different drying modes to best suit your laundry needs
Cons
- Drying time varies from 30 to 200 minutes
via merchant
Best Under-Cabinet Apartment Washer and Dryer
KoolMore Two-in-One Front-Load Washer and Dryer Combo
The KoolMore front-load washer and dryer combo is a tiny apartment owner’s dream washing machine and dryer. This two-in-one unit measures 23.5 inches in width and depth and plugs into a 110-volt outlet, which is more common in apartments than the 220-volt outlets required by traditional washers and dryers.
The dual machine comes with 16 wash cycles and four drying cycles, and while it’s not a family-sized washer/dryer, it has enough space for seven large bath towels. The drum has a maximum spin of 1,300 RPM, which is the industry standard for most washers and dryers to wick moisture away from fabrics.
Pros
- Only 33.5 inches tall to fit under most cabinets
- 16 washing cycles and four drying cycles
- 20-minute quick-wash option
- RV-compatible
Cons
- Can take a long time to dry clothes
via merchant
Best All-in-One Apartment Washer and Dryer
GE Profile Ventless Smart All-in-One Washer/Dryer Combo
The GE ventless washer/dryer combo, sized similarly to most washers/dryers, optimizes space by integrating two machines into one unit, offering benefits beyond space efficiency. The dryer automatically detects water temperature, utilizing the precise amount of heat to eliminate moisture and conserve energy. The washer accommodates enough detergent for 32 loads, and by scanning your preferred detergent’s barcode, the machine self-programs to use just the right amount.
According to customer reviewers, this combo washer/dryer outpaces similar models in speed, a factor that, for some, justified the higher price tag. Plus, the easy-to-reach filter system makes cleaning this appliance a breeze.
Pros
- Smart washer and dryer in one unit
- Low-maintenance ventless system
- Holds enough laundry detergent for 32 loads
- Easy-to-reach lint filter system
Cons
- Expensive
What to Look for When Buying an Apartment Washer and Dryer
Here are some features to consider when shopping for a compact washer or dryer for your apartment:
- Size: Although there’s no standard definition of “compact,” we tried to look for machines that were either less than two feet in width and/or depth, except for combo machines that save space by reducing the need for a second appliance.
- Vented or ventless: This refers to the dryer exhaust. Vented systems force hot, humid air outside, and ventless dryers recirculate air, shunting the collected moisture to a collection tank or drain line. If you don’t have a dryer vent line and can’t install one, you’ll need a ventless dryer.
- Power source: Most washing machines need a 110-volt outlet. Traditional dryers require a 220-volt outlet, although newer heat-pump models may only need 110 volts.
- Water source: All washers require at least a cold water supply and a drain line. If your apartment lacks dedicated laundry hookups, consider a portable machine that hooks up to a sink faucet and drain.
- Smart features: These include remote controls, Wi-Fi capabilities, detergent storage to run multiple loads and more. Landlords should look for remote diagnostics that allow for troubleshooting without making a service call.
- Permission: This has nothing to do with the washer or dryer, but if you’re a renter, double check your lease to be sure it’s ok to install a washer/dryer in your unit or building.
Why You Should Trust Us
I’ve lived in all types of apartments throughout New York City—basement apartments, studio apartments smaller than some walk-in closets and even some luxury units. That’s all to say, I know what it’s like being tight on space (and budget), but still needing a reliable way to wash your clothes. In addition to my nearly lifelong experience as an apartment dweller, I’m a shopping writer at Family Handyman who strives to pick the best of the best appliances, as the brand is known for.
How We Found the Best Apartment Washer and Dryers
We researched more than 20 units, examining their width, drying and washing cycles, customer reviews and power requirements to find a washer/dryer suitable for every apartment type. We explored both longstanding favorites and surveyed appliance and home goods stores to see whether newer models had entered the market or if customers had found any hidden gems.
Finally, we looked at the price to make sure we offered options for all budgets. While washing machines and dryers can be a big investment, many of the models we identified are frequently discounted during washer and dryer sales, so keep an eye out for deals around major holidays.
FAQ
Can I put a washer and dryer in my apartment without hookups?
There are some washers and dryers that can be placed in an apartment without hookups, such as the Giantex portable washing machine and dryer. The downside is they come with smaller load capacities and their dryers aren’t very powerful. There are some dryers that are ventless, meaning they don’t have to be connected to an air vent, in which case all you need is a water inlet to fill the washing machine.
Is it hard to install washer and dryer hookups?
It’s not hard, but unless you have electrical or plumbing expertise, we recommend leaving it to the professionals. This process may involve altering your home or building’s plumbing or electrical system, and a mistake could lead to a faulty machine, electrical issues or even a leak.
Originally Published: March 13, 2023
