Types of freestanding washer dryer
- Standard washer dryers: one drum handles both jobs, in a machine the same size as an ordinary washer. This is the most common type.
- Heat pump washer dryers: less common, these dry using a heat pump, reusing warm air instead of heating fresh air.
- Laundry centres: two drums in a single tall cabinet, with the washer below and a heat pump dryer above.
Does a freestanding washer dryer suit you?
If the plumbing and floor space only stretch to one appliance, this is how you get indoor drying as well. Freestanding models give you the most choice, including big drums for family washing, and you can take yours with you when you move. If nearly everything gets tumble dried, though, a washing machine plus a separate tumble dryer will get through it quicker. For a model hidden in the kitchen, see built-in washer dryers.
Which size suits you?
| Wash load | Suits | Worth checking |
| 7–8kg | Couples, flats and smaller homes. | Expect the drying figure to be a few kg lower. |
| 9–10.5kg | Families who wash most days. | How close the drying figure gets to the washing figure. |
| 11–12kg | Big households, bedding and bulky items. | How far the machine sticks out compared with your worktop. |
| Laundry centre | Heavy users who want separate drums running side by side. | Space for a full-height unit, and whether the top drum is at a comfortable height. |
Making the choice
Drying capacity
It's always smaller than the wash capacity. The closer together the two numbers are, the less often you'll need to split a load.
Wash-and-dry programmes
Cycles that go straight from washing to drying mean you don't have to come back halfway.
Spin speed
More water removed on the final spin means less time drying.
Steam and care cycles
Good for reviving worn-once clothes and caring for woollens and waterproofs.
Sensors, dosing and apps
Moisture sensors stop drying at the level you've picked, so fabrics aren't baked. Some machines store liquid detergent and softener and measure each dose. Many link to an app, letting you start a cycle remotely or get a message when it's done.
Noise and colour
Near a lounge or open-plan area, a low decibel rating helps. White isn't the only option: many brands offer darker greys or black.
Before you order
- Measure the space. Height, width and depth, plus room behind for the hoses.
- Water and waste. Cold feed, drain and power point all within hose and cable reach. No vent needed.
- Firm footing. An even, solid floor stops the machine walking at top speed.
- Door clearance. Front-loading doors open wide, so keep the way clear and leave room to kneel and unload.
The brands we sell
Our freestanding washer dryers come from LG, Samsung, Haier, Hotpoint, AEG, Blomberg, Hisense, Hoover, Indesit, Schonhaus and Sensis. Ranges include AEG ProSteam, Haier's X series and Bosch's i-DOS auto-dosing machines. The brand filter narrows the list.
Buying a washer dryer from KDH Electrical
You get the full UK manufacturer's guarantee on every machine. Orders over £600 are delivered free, normally within 3–7 working days. In our installation area we can plumb in your washer dryer and recycle the old appliance, with each option priced in your basket.
Seen it cheaper at another UK retailer? Our price match means we'll do our best to match it. For a chat about which model fits, call 01622 541312 or visit our showroom in Rochester; please ring first to check what's on display.