Portable Washer and Dryer Buyer’s Guide
The portable washer and dryer is the ultimate compact washer and dryer. It is even smaller in size than regular space-saving laundry machines, namely, washer dryer combos and stackable washers and dryers. Because of this, it has lower lb. capacity than regular compact units, but it can fit in tiny living spaces. It is suitable for light laundry requirements. Some of the smallest portable washer and dryer models can be lugged around when camping or going on RV or caravan tours.
If you are looking to buy a portable washer and dryer, the following are the options available to you.
Features
A portable washer and dryer machine can perform the basic washing and drying functions that bigger machines can. Like washer and dryer combos, it is a two-in-one machine that performs the washing and drying functions in the same unit. Its portable design sets it apart from other washing machines. It may have retractable wheels or sliding feet for ease of transport. Generally, it does not need complex or permanent plumbing and electrical installation. Setting them up is easy. Most models are ventless and some can be vented manually inside or outside the home.
Brands
Portable washer and dryer units have a relatively smaller market than non-portable laundry appliances, so it can be a challenge to find one. You can start by checking out the manufacturers. Smaller players that specialize in compact home appliances like Avanti, Clatronic, and The Laundry Alternative, Inc. manufacture portable washers. Some manufacturers make separate portable dryer units, as well. Big-box stores may sell these products; Walmart does, and carries the Avanti line. Major manufacturers like Electrolux, Haier, Whirlpool, GE, and LG have entered the portable washing appliances market, while Samsung, washer and dryer manufacturing giant, has yet to do so.
Styles
Some portable washer and dryer machines look like mini versions of bigger washer dryer combo machines, while others are small enough to fit on the countertop or in the closet when not in use. Most are top load portable machines rather than front loading ones. Such is the Avanti W7571 21 Portable Top-Load Washer. Two models that can fit on the countertop are the Wonderwash Portable Hand Crank Mini Washing Machine and the Avanti Eco-Egg Mini Washing Machine.
Size and Capacity
There’s a wide variation in size between portable washer and dryer machines. It ranges from approximately 21 inches to about the size of a personal computer for the travel-friendly models, like the Wonderwasher and the Eco-Egg. Their washing capacity ranges from 2 lbs. to about 10 lbs. They are generally easy on clothes, but the travel models can’t handle heavy fabrics, like towels and sheets. Even some of the portable washer and dryer models that are intended for home use aren’t suitable for heavy washing.
Price and Other Costs
The pricing range between portable washer and dryer models is wide at around $50 to $750. Shipping and maintenance costs necessarily come with purchasing appliances. The good thing about portable appliances is you can just buy them and take them home with you the same day. However, for bigger units, the shipping costs would depend on the retail outlet. It makes sense to research the shipping costs and return policies of retail outlets near you before you buy. Also, you want to care for and maintain your machine, so research the availability of maintenance and service repair centers near you.
If you spend a lot of time in the great outdoors and are always mobile, then it makes sense to purchase travel models. If you are an urbanite living in a tiny apartment in a big city, you want a portable washer and dryer bigger than the travel models.