Did you know that the average American family does about 8 to 10 loads of laundry every week? And usually each of those loads, from wash to dry, takes anywhere from one to two hours to complete. Now that you’ve absorbed that little bit of laundry trivia, take a second to imagine what that would look like if your laundry machines were to break down. For someone with a family that changes from work or school uniforms to workout clothes to pajamas in the evening, a single day of laundry could look like quite the mountain to climb.
Whether your laundry appliances have stopped working, you're moving in somewhere new and are ready to step up from that apartment size washer and dryer, or you’re just looking for a laundry room upgrade, we’ve got just the guide for you. Learn all you need to know about shopping for a dryer and washing machine online so that when the time comes, you’ll know exactly how to handle the situation.
A Message on COVID-19
Due to COVID-19, shopping for appliances is safest to do online at the moment. Because of this, our team is doing everything in their power to reduce the risk and spread of COVID-19 by following strict CDC guidelines. From wearing a mask or face covering during home deliveries to providing you with resources that will make your online shopping as easy as possible, our goal is to make sure you get everything you need conveniently while staying protected at home.
Decide on a Budget
Before you get too far looking at laundry machines that are potentially way too expensive for you, it’s a good idea to determine a budget. Our washers can range from $400 to $2,200 and our dryers range from $210 to $2,099. Of course, if you were looking to purchase a washer and dryer set, you’ll find that buying together is less expensive than buying each laundry appliance individually – our laundry sets range from $800 to $2,600.
Dryer Type
While all washing machines use electricity, there are two types of dryers: electric and gas. The way an electric dryer works is with the use of a heating element while gas dryers use a gas burner. If you are struggling and can’t decide between the two, here are a few things to consider before taking the leap:
- Gas dryers tend to be more energy-efficient
- Electric dryers are less costly up front
- Your home has to have a specific hookup for a gas dryer
Front Load Vs. Top Load
The debate for front load versus top load is on!
Some people are very adamant about their position on front load washers versus top load washers, and for the most part, it comes down to your preference. They both work well but one of the main differences is the way they move the water around during a cycle. The front load washer uses the drum to spin the dirty clothes around while a top load washer uses an agitator in the middle to scrub away the grime. Some innovative top load washers don’t have an agitator but instead an impeller, which connects to the discs at the bottom of the tub and moves the laundry around so that they get cleaned. If you still don’t know which style might be right for you and your family, here are a few thoughts you may want to consider before purchasing:
- Top loaders usually perform shorter washing cycles, ranging from 49 to 60 minutes on average.
- Front loaders tend to have more room for larger loads.
- Front load washing machines on average use less water, but both styles can be made with energy-efficient features to ensure that there is less waste overall.
Some of Our Favorite Features
Laundry appliances these days are equipped with innovative features that proficiently clean and dry your items so all you have to do is throw them in and press a button. From smart to energy-efficient, here are some of our favorite laundry machine features we think you might find helpful:
ActiveWear – If you are someone who likes to work out often, having a washing cycle that can thoroughly clean your sweaty garments is a godsend. The ActiveWear Cycle on this Electrolux washer will make your exercise attire feel and smell fresh once again, but only with one wash.
TurboSteam – We can all agree, wrinkles are the absolute worst. That’s why this LG dryer with TurboSteam is exactly what everyone who dislikes ironing should have in their laundry room. By generating steam instantly, your clothes will be rid of wrinkles in just 10 minutes!
Smart Care – When you’re always on the go, the Smart Care feature on this LG washer will keep you notified on cycles, perform an immediate diagnosis on how your laundry appliance is running, and offer quick solutions all at your fingertips.
Sanitize Cycle – If you’re worried about germs, especially during a global pandemic, having a Maytag dryer that uses extra-hot drying temperatures to remove 99.9% of bacteria, may be just the thing to calm your nerves.
Measuring
The biggest mistake you can make when measuring for a new appliance, is measuring your current or previous appliance. The best way to make sure you get a new washer and dryer set that fits precisely into your laundry space is by measuring the area where your appliances will go. Here are a few tips to keep in your pocket when measuring:
- Height - Measure from the floor to the under part of any shelves or cabinets that will be above the washer and dryer. If you’re considering a top load washer, keep in mind that you’ll need at east 20-inches above it so the lid will fully open.
- Width - When measuring from side to side, keep at least an inch of space on both sides for better air circulation.
- Depth – Start from the back and measure to the front and be sure to keep at least 6-inches in the back for your hookups.
- And most importantly: MEASURE TWICE!
When you’re ready to level up your laundry room game and shop for a dryer and washing machine online, be sure to check out our laundry catalog, here! Our team at Big Sandy’s know that buying a washer and dryer set can be intimidating, especially online, but we are here to make the experience an enjoyable one.
Of course, if you’d prefer to speak with someone over the phone about washer and dryer delivery and other laundry machine information, we’re happy to help you in that way! Give us a call at your nearest Big Sandy Superstore location and one of our experts will be there to get all your questions answered!