Standard sizes of dryers are around 27”x 39”x 32” for front load units (width height x depth). Top load units are a little different, with 27” x 42” x 27”.
With stacked dryers, the dimensions remain the same. However, the height increases if the washer and dryer are stacked vertically. In that case, you can expect the total height of the product to be around 27″ x 75″ x 32″.
In the case of side by side washer and dryer, you can expect the width to be around 56”. The rest remains the same. You’ll need some laundry space in the area and a margin of six inches between the wall and the machines to allow for ventilation. However, you can avoid this step if you have a ventless drying machine that uses an in-built heat exchanger instead.
Pros and cons of a stackable system
When it comes to home appliances, you’ll be racking your brains for weeks researching the best pick for you and still be confused at the end of it all.
We’re here to help make the decision easier.
Pros
Ideal for small spaces
Of course, the main reason anyone would consider this monstrosity is the constriction of space. That’s not to say someone with plenty of space won’t consider stackable. However, it is most preferred by RV and small apartment owners.
If it’s the vertical style, you can expect to save space in width and stack it in the smallest of spaces. You can place your fridge next to it or have more space for food prep.
It can save you trips to the laundromat.
No more air-drying at home or visiting laundromats or even friends’ houses’ on Sundays to finish off the laundry. With stacked washers and dryers, you’ve got everything in one place and ready for Project Heavy Load!
Customize as you please!
Not only is the placement of the machines completely your choice but also where they come from. If you like washers and dryers from two different brands, but both are stackable, you can have them both!
The placement is also entirely up to you. Whether you want it side-to-side or stacked on top, you can choose depending on your:
- space
- surroundings
- and laundry needs.
Easy on your back
An advantage of top-stacked machines is that you won’t have much bending to do. Bending down to fill and gather clothes from a top-load machine is tough on your lower back.
If you’re already prone to backache, getting a stacked unit might be a good idea. That way, you can sit on the floor, gather clothes and simply toss them right up to the top. Neat, isn’t it?
Cons
Higher cost
The cost of the stackable unit is more than a normal one. With each one being between $1000 and $2000, it’s bound to be a big cut out of your budget. If you get two separate units from two different brands, your cost could be even higher. You can expect a bill of up to $2500.
Saving space could lose you big money! And not to mention the extra bills of the rough in if you haven’t already had it done.
Less holding capacity
Because of its stacking feature, these machines don’t have more than 2.5 cubic feet of space. A standard washing machine will hold around 3-4 cubic feet. But it’s a great buy if you have a small family and hence a smaller wash load!
Always go for a high-capacity unit if you have a large family and kids. Those baby clothes will be quite a hassle.
Difficult extra care
With extra space comes extra care. The dryer on top won’t be easily accessible from where you stand. That’s what makes the cleaning so much more tricky.
You’ll be using stools and ladders to clean the inside of a dryer. It must be done at regular intervals since there are chances of mildew or mold growth due to the moisture of the clothes.
Height issues!
You might have gotten a top dryer without realizing that it’s going to be a challenge for short people. Whether it’s to get the far-off clothes out or cleaning for mold, a short person will have to use some extra help.
It’s probably a good idea to measure your unit’s approximate height before you buy one that you can’t even reach.
