Best Stackable Washers and Dryers

The best front-load washer and electric dryer pairs in our ratings all come from LG, a brand that gets a top score in our reliability surveys for both types of machine. In our testing, front-loaders are especially energy- and water-efficient (typically using 10 gallons per load), and they’re gentle on fabrics. That said, they have longer wash times than other types of washers and can be prone to mold and mildew. 

These front-load washers pair with electric dryers, the most popular drying solution for most homes, and are available in a wide range of price options.

The front-load washers in this section, which come from LG, pair with gas dryers instead of electric dryers. Gas dryers perform similarly to electric dryers, though they’re $50 to $150 more expensive, and can cost less to operate where gas is cheaper than electricity.

All of the compact washers and dryers CR tests are stackable. Compact front-loaders offer most of the same features, benefits, and performance as full-sized models but with less capacity and potentially more vibration. 

Stackable washers and dryers are independent machines that can be installed separately, side by side, or stacked using a kit provided by the manufacturer so that the dryer rests on top of the washer. They’re not to be confused with laundry centers—a single, compact space-saving tower housing both a washer and dryer—that you see in many apartment buildings and condos.

Stackable washers are almost always full-sized front-loaders or front-load compacts that manufacturers design to work with a specific dryer. But not every washer or dryer is stackable. The lid of top-load machines (both agitator washers and HE washers), for example, prevents dryers from being stacked above them. Front-load washers with control panels mounted on top of the machine can’t be stacked, either. Only front-load machines with control panels on the front of the washer can be stacked.

Stackable washers are typically compatible with dryers of a similar model and cycles for optimized performance. So if the washer has a wrinkle-free or delicate cycle, the dryer will as well. For example, GE and LG offer some front-loaders with intelligent stacking kits that allow you to control both wash and dry cycles from the washer control panel. This is convenient if you have trouble reaching the higher dryer controls.

“Compatibility is really important because the stack kit can only work with a compatible washer and dryer, and some features, like Dryer Control, can only work between a compatible pair,” says Chris Naber, senior director of product management for clothes care at GE Appliances. “Beyond space savings, there are no differences between stacking units and using them side by side.”

CR and manufacturers recommend shopping for your preferred washer first to find one with the capacity, feature set, and price you’re looking for, and then choosing your preferred dryer. A washer is a more complicated machine that does most of the heavy laundry lifting, and manufacturers typically suggest a compatible dryer for each washer. It’s best to choose a washer and dryer pair from the same brand and model type.

We’ve found that buying a washer and dryer pair is a better economic option compared with purchasing them separately. Some washer and dryer sets come with stacking hardware included, while other kits must be purchased at an additional cost. Stacking kits can range from $50 to $250, so consider this while purchasing your washer and dryer pair. In addition, factor any delivery and installation costs into your overall purchase.

You know a few things by now, like how versatile stackable washers and dryers are—they can be stacked vertically or used side by side. Here are a few more things to think about before you invest in a stackable washer-dryer pair:

Measure your space. Determine whether stacked machines will fit through your doorways and in your laundry space, and whether electrical outlets, hot and cold water hookups, drainpipes, and vents are accessible. If you choose a gas dryer, you’ll need a gas line nearby as well, and that hookup may require a plumber.

Get ready for alterations. If stacking, your dryer ductwork might need lengthening or adjusting so that air flows freely through the vent to the outside. As with any dryer, don’t use foil accordion-style ducts. Some dryers may need access to a water line for steam features, so figure that out well ahead of time, too. You might need to reconfigure a reversible dryer door so that both washer and dryer open in the same direction after stacking. This requires relocating the hinges to the opposite side.

Self-installation can get complicated. Stacking a washer and dryer can be tricky, and must be done correctly to prevent safety or performance issues down the line. You’ll need the right hardware. Plus, you’ll need a helper to lift and stabilize a heavy dryer on top of the washer.

“The machines vibrate and move a bit during operation, so it is important that the proper hardware is used to lock them together,” says Rich Handel, CR’s laundry expert. “If they aren’t compatible and able to lock together with the stacking kit from the manufacturer, the dryer could come loose and topple down, causing damage or injury.”

You may need a pro. If the installation requires plumbing, electrical, or gas work, a professional could cost over $500.

“Consult a plumber to handle the gas line setup, especially if you’re switching from a side-by-side to a stacked setup,” Handel says. “If you already have a stacked setup, an installer may be sufficient.”

Your retailer may offer installation, but read the fine print. Special promotions may not apply to stackable machines, or they may require you to buy the stackable washer, dryer, and stacking kit together. (Buying just one stackable appliance may not qualify.) Factor delivery, installation, and stacking kit costs into your overall purchase.