If you don’t have much space in your laundry room, utility room, or wherever you intend to wash and dry your clothes, you’ll need to get creative. Stackable washers and dryers are an excellent space-saving option. What some people don’t know is that almost any front load washers and dryers are stackable if you buy a stacking kit separately, though those that are specifically marketed as stackable usually come with all the necessary hardware included.
We reviewed dozens of stackable washers and dryers to identify the best of the best. We looked at stackable washers, stackable dryers, and stackable washer/dryer sets, so you can pick and choose according to your needs. Not only do these washers and dryers need to be stackable, they should also work effectively, so we considered the features most people want from their washers and dryers, such as ease of use, durability, and a decent range of cycles, as well as average customer reviews.
The GE Smart Front Load Steam Washer stood out to us as the overall best stackable washer. It’s simple to use with a range of programs, plus adjustable settings for temperature, level of soiling, and spin.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Stackable Washers and Dryers
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Stackable Washer Overall | GE Smart Front Load Steam Washer | 5.0 |
| Best Stackable Dryer | Panda Portable Compact Laundry Dryer | 4.7 |
| Best Budget Stackable Dryer | COSTWAY Compact Laundry Dryer | 4.3 |
| Best Stackable Washer and Dryer Set | Electrolux White Front Load Laundry Pair | 5.0 |
| Best Stackable Combination Washer and Dryer | LG WM3998HBA Front Load Washer & Dryer Combo | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Stackable Washer Overall: GE Smart Front Load Steam Washer
Looking for a stackable washer? The GE Smart Front Load Steam Washer is an exceptional choice. It doesn’t come with stacking hardware, but is stackable with a dryer of the same width and depth or smaller, assuming you buy a suitable stacking kit. We love that it has a range of programs, including for towels, activewear, and bulky items, but that you can set the temperature separately. For instance, you might usually want to wash your activewear on a cold temperature setting for environmental reasons, but occasionally you may want to wash it on a hot wash to get rid of built-up odors. Since the temperature isn’t built into the program, you can easily do this.
You also have separate settings for level of soiling, so the machine knows whether your clothes need a deep clean or a light wash, and for a degree of spin from no spin to max. You can add steam to help get rid of stains, plus there’s even a stain type selector for optimum results. Priced at $895, you can find cheaper washers, but we think it’s a reasonable cost considering the quality.
GE Smart Front Load Steam Washer Key Features:
- 4.8 cubic foot capacity is sufficient for families
- Sanitize setting kills 99.9% of bacteria
- Time saver cycle takes just 37 minutes
Best Stackable Dryer Overall: Panda Portable Compact Laundry Dryer
The Panda Portable Compact Laundry Dryer is a fantastic option if you don’t have a huge amount of clothes you need to tumble dry. This might be because you prefer to line dry whenever the weather allows it or because you have a lot of delicate clothes that can’t go in the dryer. Due to its compact size, you can stack it on top of a compact washing machine or a larger machine, if you have the right type of stacking kit. It needs to be positioned somewhere it can be vented, either through a proper dryer vent or through a window.
This dryer has a range of handy settings, allowing you to choose from various heat settings, standard or eco mode, drying time. It has an optional sensor dry mode that will shut the dryer off automatically when it senses the clothes are dry. Sensor modes are hit or miss for some clothing. For instance, when drying sweat pants with thick elastic waistbands, the dryer may shut off when the legs of the pants are dry but the waistband is still wet. As such, it’s nice that you can switch sensor mode off when it’s called for. At $340, you can’t go too far wrong.
Panda Portable Compact Laundry Dryer Key Features:
- Takes 13 pounds of clothes
- Convenient see-through door to check on your items
- Drying time up to 200 minutes
Best Budget Stackable Dryer: COSTWAY Compact Laundry Dryer
Not everyone wants a full-size dryer, and the COSTWAY Compact Laundry Dryer is an excellent alternative to a bulky model. You’re unlikely to find a washer of a similar size, but you can stack it on top of a larger front load washing machine using the correct hardware. With the option to set the temperature to either high or low, you can dry natural materials more quickly with the high setting and stick to low to protect synthetics that might shrink or melt at too high a temperature.
The 10-pound capacity might not sound like much, but it’s ideal for households of one or two or anyone who only uses a dryer occasionally. You can choose to dry your clothes for anywhere up to 200 minutes, plus there’s an air-dry setting to freshen clothes that can be sitting around for a while. Yes, this model is compact but it costs a very reasonable $270.
COSTWAY Compact Laundry Dryer Key Features:
- Reverse tumble action helps prevent tangles
- Three-stage filtration
- Runs extremely quietly
Best Stackable Washer and Dryer Set: Electrolux White Front Load Laundry Pair
If you want to make sure your washer and dryer will stack correctly, one way is to buy a set that’s listed as stackable. One such set it the Electrolux White Front Load Laundry Pair. It includes the Electrolux EFLS627UIW washer and the Electrolux EFMG627UIW dryer. The washer has a 4.4 cubic foot capacity with SmartBoost and Perfect Steam technologies, both of which are designed to help remove stains more effectively. The dryer is gas-powered with an 8 cubic foot capacity. It has a 15-minute fast-dry setting for when you need an outfit in a hurry and has a steam setting to reduce wrinkles.
Both washer and dryer are of excellent quality, but be sure to check that you receive the correct STACKIT7X stacking kit, as one buyer complained of having the wrong one delivered with their washer and dryer set. The $1,850 price tag seems high at first glance but it’s actually a little less than you pay for both separately.
Electrolux White Front Load Laundry Pair Key Features:
- LuxCare system on both washer and dryer helps keep clothes from wearing in the wash
- A wide range of settings for all your needs
- Accurate sensor drying technology
Best Stackable Combination Washer Dryer: LG WM3998HBA Front Load Washer & Dryer Combo
Busy households can benefit from buying the LG WM3998HBA Front Load Washer & Dryer Combo and stacking a dedicated dryer on top. On days when you only have a little to wash, you can set the LG to both wash and dry your clothes. On laundry days when you can hardly see over the top of the pile, you can speed the process up by using your washer-dryer to just wash clothes and a separate dryer to dry them. This gives you the best of both worlds.
When in dryer mode, this appliance using a condenser rather than a vent. This means you don’t need to have a dryer vent hole or a conveniently-positioned window. The water in your clothes is evaporated into steam then condensed back into water again, where it’s collected in a container. You just empty the water container after every load or two; it’s that simple. Costing almost $1,600, it certainly isn’t the cheapest option, but it’s convenient and works well.
LG WM3998HBA Front Load Washer & Dryer Combo Key Features:
- Capacity of 4.5 cubic feet
- Six different wash motions help clean clothes effectively
- Control your appliance via the LG ThinQ app
Who Should Buy a Stackable Washer and Dryer
A stackable washer and dryer are ideal for anyone who wants to free up space in their laundry area. This means you have extra space to fit an additional appliance, like an under-counter beverage refrigerator, or you get some additional storage space.
If you’re moving into a new house or just need to replace your existing washer and dryer, you might decide now’s the time to switch to a stackable pair of laundry machines.
Important Features to Consider
Stackable washers and dryers should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a stackable washer and dryer:
- Stackability. Before buying your washer and dryer, you need to make sure they’re stackable in general and that both of them can be stacked together. Some manufacturers list which of their washers will stack with which of their dryers, but you can generally check compatibility yourself. The dryer must sit on top of the washer since the washer vibrates more and is significantly heavier when full of water. This means only front load washers without any controls on top are suitable for stacking. It also means the dryer must be the same width and depth as the washer or smaller, but never larger.
- Capacity. The average internal capacity of a washer is around 3.5 to 4.5 cubic feet. A washer of this size will hold loads of between 13 and 20 pounds. Dryers have a larger internal size, usually between 7 and 8.5 cubic feet, but they need more space to get clothes dry. Opt for a dryer with approximately double the capacity of your washer.
- Programs and settings. Check what kinds of programs and settings your washer and dryer have. Washers should feature standard programs, such as delicates and towels, but may allow you to set the water temperature separately for easier customization. Some have useful extra settings, like a steam setting for stain removal or a sanitize setting. Dryers tend to have fewer programs and settings, but may allow you to set the temperature or have a reduced-wrinkle or tangle-free setting.
- Hardware. Check if you get the hardware you need to stack your washer and dryer included, or whether you need to buy it separately. If buying the stacking kit yourself, make sure it’s compatible with your chosen washer and dryer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you use your stackable washer and dryer at the same time?
Yes, absolutely. They might be stacked on top of one another but you can still use them independently of one another, which saves you time when doing multiple loads compared to a combination washer dryer.
Is there a specific order in which I should stack my washer and dryer?
You must always stack your washer and dryer with the dryer on top and the washer underneath. The washer weighs a lot when full of water and could damage the dryer if it was positioned below. Washers also vibrate more than dryers and this could make the stack unstable.
Do you really need a stacking kit to stack a washer and dryer?
It might be tempting to simply balance your dryer on top of your washer and call it a day, it might even seem quite stable, but we’d highly recommend against it. A stacking kit is the name for the hardware needed to safely stack a washer and dryer. You should always use a suitable stacking kit to stack your washer and dryer, even if you feel like you don’t need it.
Do stackable dryers need vents?
Standard stackable dryers need vents, but you can also find ventless dryers that use either condenser or heat pump technology. These don’t need vents, instead will collect the water in a built-in container that you simply need to remove and empty after every one to three loads. Ventless dryers can heat up your house slightly, which is unfortunate in hot weather, but they’re highly convenient if you don’t have a suitable place to vent your dryer.
Other Stackable Washers and Dryers We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other stackable washers and dryers. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best stackable washers and dryers list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Stackable Washer and Dryer Sets
Electrolux White Front Load Laundry Pair
This pair consists of both a washer and dryer from Electrolux. Both use steam so the dryer needs a separate water hookup.
Key Features:
- Washer uses steam for stain removal
- Steam dryer minimizes wrinkles
- Stacking hardware included
Cost: $1,550
We love the specially designed dryer with controls at the bottom to make them easier to reach. Ideal if you’ll want to keep these appliances stacked even if you move.
Key Features:
- Compact design
- 13 lb load capacity
- Stacking kit included
Cost: $1,500
Equator Washer and Vented Dryer
A slightly larger and more feature-rich alternative to the Equator stackable set listed above with adjustable leveling legs to avoid tilt.
Key Features:
- Sensor drying technology
- Comes with stacking hardware
- Built-in wrinkle reduction
Cost: $1,530
GE Front Load Compact Washer with Electric Dryer Laundry Pair
This compact laundry pair includes the GFW148SSLWW washer and the GFT14ESSLWW dryer, both of which perform excellently.
Key Features:
- Germ-killing sanitize setting
- Steam assist cycle
- Vibration control
Cost: $1,975
LG Black Steel WashTower Laundry Center
Technically a single unit with washer and dryer built-in rather than separate stackable appliances, but still an excellent choice if you know you want a dryer over your washer.
Key Features:
- Conveniently-placed controls
- Choose between electric or gas dryer
- AI sensors automatically detect fabric type and more
Stackable Washers
Bosch WAT28401UC White Stackable Front Load Washer
This compact 2.2 cubic foot washer is ideal for small living spaces and for pairing with compact dryers.
Key Features:
- Energy Star rated
- Good range of programs
- Plugs into dryer for easy installation
Cost: $1.500
Electrolux EFLS627UIW Front Load Washer
You can stack this 27-inch front load washer with a dryer of a similar size or smaller, but you’ll need to buy a stacking kit separately.
Key Features:
- Adjustable temperature, soil, and spin
- Easy to use
- Plenty of useful programs
Cost: $920
GE GFW450SSMWW Front Load Washer with Steam
Thanks to its steam capabilities, this washer effectively removes all kinds of stains and leaves your laundry super fresh.
Key Features:
- ADA Compliant, ENERGY STAR Qualified
- 4.5 cubic foot capacity
- 5200 RPM
Cost: $980
LG High Efficiency Mega Capacity Front Load Washer
The whopping 5.2 cubic foot capacity makes this one of the largest home washing machines on the market. It’s perfect for big households.
Key Features:
- Steam wash gets rid of stains and odors; reduces wrinkles
- Compatible with the LG SideKick
- Six cleaning motions
Cost: $1,500
LG WM1388HW White Stackable Front Load Washer
A compact model with a capacity of just 2.3 cubic feet. Great for small households of one or two but won’t cut it for large families.
Key Features:
- Easy to use
- Huge range of programs and settings
- SenseClean technology
Cost: $1,000
Maytag White Stackable Front Load Washing Machine
This spacious 4.5 cubic foot washer is tough on tricky stains with a heavy-duty setting and Extra Power option for when you need it.
Key Features:
- Fresh Spin option prevents wrinkles when you can’t dry right away
- Quick wash cycle
- Late Add feature
Cost: $900
Whirlpool High-Efficiency White Front Load Washing Machine
Thanks to the Load and Go dispenser, you don’t need to remember to add detergent to the wash every time, which is great if you’re busy or forgetful.
Key Features:
- 4.5 cubic foot capacity
- Easy to customize cycles
- Presoak option for tough stains
Stackable Dryers
Don’t have much space? Don’t worry about that with this compact clothes dryer. The stack is with a small washer to save space.
Key Features:
- Low down controls are convenient when stacked
- Sensor drying
- Eco and normal modes
Cost: $270
BLACK+DECKER BCED37 Portable Dryer
Another great option for small spaces, this compact dryer is simple to use and has a 3.5 cubic foot capacity.
Key Features:
- Four temperature settings
- Sensor dry function
- Can be used with standard outlet
Cost: $515
GE Smart 240-Volt Diamond Gray Stackable Electric Vented Dryer
With this smart dryer, you can control your laundry from anywhere using a smartphone or tablet. Way more programs than a standard dryer, including delicates, towels, and sanitize.
Key Features:
- Steam cycle to de-wrinkle
- 7.8 cubic foot capacity
- Three finishes
Cost: $1,080
LG Smart Stackable Front Load Electric Dryer
Compatible with smart home devices and WiFi so you can operate this appliance with a smartphone app or even using your smart home system.
Key Features:
- Capacity pf 7.4 cubic feet
- TurboSteam for wrinkle reduction
- Sensor dry technology
Cost: $1,000
Magic Chef Compact Electric White Laundry Dryer
You can stack this small laundry dryer on a larger washer or a compact model. It’s available in 1.5 or 2.6 cubic foot capacities.
Key Features:
- Durable stainless steel drum
- Two drying temperatures:
- Anti-wrinkle option
Cost: $240 to $320
Maytag White Stackable Gas Vented Dryer
This dryer stands out for its advanced moisture sensing technology that’s more effective than the majority of other sensor dryers.
Key Features:
- Extra power button easily extends drying time
- Quick-dry option for small loads
- Wrinkle prevent option
Cost: $1,000
Samsung Platinum Electric Dryer with Steam
A quality dryer with a steam injection to help prevent wrinkles and to eliminate 99% of bacteria and germs.
Key Features:
- 7.5 cubic foot capacity
- Choose from gas or electric options
- Sensor dry
Cost: $1,000
Whirlpool Stackable Electric Dryer with Steam
The simple, intuitive controls allow you to customize your cycles in seconds to get the best possible results from your dryer.
Key Features:
- Steam reduces wrinkles
- 7.4 cubic foot capacity
- Static Reduce option
Cost: $1,000
