While searching for a new apartment, you will inevitably come across units that seem perfect but lack some amenity or another that you think you can’t live without. For example, if you’ve found a great apartment that doesn’t have washer dryer hookups, you are not destined to schlep your laundry to the laundromat or shared laundry room every time you need to wash your clothes. For the right apartment, you can definitely find an effective solution. In the case of finding an alternative way to do your laundry in an apartment without washer dryer hookups, allow me to introduce you to the washer dryer combo, the perfect apartment washer dryer solution.
What is a washer dryer combo?
Combos aren’t just reserved for fast food. If you haven’t heard, a washer dryer combo is a singular machine that does both the washing and drying of laundry — what a steal! With a washer dryer combo (not to be confused with a stackable washer and dryer), you won’t have to worry about forgetting your clothes in the dryer or making a trip to the laundromat whenever you want to wash your linens. It’s truly an all-in-one appliance. You still have to manually fold your clothes though (there’s no way around that yet, unfortunately).
Washer dryer combos are particularly popular in high-density areas of Europe and Asia, where space comes at a high premium. They haven’t quite caught on in the U.S. yet, but the rise of tiny homes and small apartments is creating a need for more apartment-sized washer dryer solutions.
How does a washer dryer combo work?
You don’t need special washer dryer hookups in your apartment to use a washer dryer combo, just a standard (in North America, anyway) 120-volt electrical outlet and a connection to cold water. A washer dryer combo operates like a regular washing machine does, using water (at your preferred temperature) and detergent to cleanse your clothes in a spin cycle. You can also use your sink to hook up your washer dryer combo, usually with the help of a portability kit. The main difference between traditional washing and drying and using a washer dryer combo comes in with the drying part of the process. Let’s air it out.
Ventless washer dryer combo.
A ventless washer dryer combo dries your clothes using a condensation method, which involves heating air to dry wet clothes by evaporating the water on the clothes and flushing out the excess water into a tank or drain.
Vented washer dryer combo.
A vented washer dryer combo functions more like a traditional dryer. However, the vented option is usually included in a dual ventless/vented washer dryer combo (you’ve got serious options when it comes to specific kinds of washer dryer combos). You’ll have to find a way to release the extra hot air that the vented dryer will emit, so you don’t wind up with a humid apartment and, eventually, mold.
Something to keep in mind: since washer dryer combos are smaller than traditional washers and dryers, you’ll have to do smaller loads of laundry and use less detergent when you use them.
Overall cost implications
You can expect to pay in the neighborhood of $1,000 (give or take) for a new washer dryer combo, depending on what kind of all-in-one washer dryer you want. In addition to the upfront cost, you can expect to save money on your water and electric bills, in comparison to using a traditional washer and dryer.
Most washer dryer combos are energy-efficient appliances with Energy Star ratings. They also use one-third to two-thirds less water than a traditional washing machine. You’ll also save on laundry detergent since you won’t need as much per load. Ka-ching!
Is getting a washer dryer combo a good idea?
Getting a washer dryer combo may be a good idea for you if:
- You don’t have access to washer dryer hookups
- You’re renting a small apartment and space is limited
- You do have access to cold water
- You don’t mind doing smaller loads of laundry
- You’re ok with waiting a little longer for clothes to dry
- You would rather not have to use a laundromat or shared laundry room
Washer dryer combos can be a convenient apartment washer dryer solution if you don’t have laundry hookups and space is at a premium. As a renter, you can always take your washer dryer combo with you when you move. Being smaller than traditional washers and dryers, washer dryer combos are also easier to transport when you eventually decide to move out.
It is worth noting that some apartment complexes may not allow a washer dryer combo in your unit. This may be for liability in the event the unit leaks or causes trouble with the electrical system. Always check with your landlord or property manager before you purchase a washer dryer combo, you don’t want all that money going down the drain.
If you decide not to invest in a washer dryer combo, but still want to rent an apartment without washer dryer hookups, consider opting for a laundry service or visiting a laundromat to clean your linens and clothes. You always have options.
