Finding space for laundry appliances can be a challenge, especially in small homes or apartments. This leads many people to search for the most compact washer and dryer options. When space is extremely limited, a washer dryer combo unit may be the best solution. But what is the smallest washer dryer combo available?
Page Contents
What is a Washer Dryer Combo?
A washer dryer combo is an all-in-one laundry appliance that combines washing and drying functions in one unit. This saves space by eliminating the need for separate washing machine and clothes dryer appliances.
In a washer dryer combo, the same drum is used for washing and drying. After the wash cycle finishes, the drum begins spinning to dry the clothes using heated air. This means you can start a load of laundry and walk away, coming back to clean, dry clothes.
The main advantage of a washer dryer combo is the space saving design. The downside is that most combos have smaller capacity drums than full size washers and dryers. They also tend to take longer to dry loads completely.
What is Considered a Compact Washer Dryer Combo?
Most washer dryer combos range in capacity from 1.5 to 3.0 cubic feet. That compares to a standard washing machine that is typically 4.0 to 5.0 cubic feet.
Here are some general size guidelines:
- Compact washer dryer combos: 1.5 to 2.0 cubic feet
- Standard washer dryer combos: 2.1 to 2.7 cubic feet
- Large washer dryer combos: 2.8 to 3.0 cubic feet
Any unit smaller than 1.5 cubic feet would be considered an extra compact or portable washer dryer combo. The smallest combos are typically designed for RV or apartment use where space is extremely tight.
The Smallest Washer Dryer Combos
Based on current models available, here are some of the smallest washer dryer combos made:
Magic Chef MCSCWD20W2 2 cu. ft
– Capacity: 2.0 cubic feet
– Dimensions: 23″ W x 22″ D x 33″ H
– Weighs only 110 lbs
– Top loading model
– Runs on 120V standard outlet
This Magic Chef model is one of the smallest top loading washer dryer combos available. The 2.0 cu. ft. capacity is able to handle small loads, making it ideal for apartments or RVs. It’s lightweight and compact in size.
Equator EZ 4400 C Quest Compact Combo
– Capacity: 1.6 cubic feet
– Dimensions: 21″ W x 19″ D x 33″ H
– Weighs 104 lbs
– Ventless condensing drying
– Runs on 110V standard outlet
The Equator EZ 4400 C is an ultra compact all-in-one combo with a 1.6 cubic foot capacity drum. The ventless condensing technology allows it to be used without any exterior venting. This is useful when installing in a small closet or bathroom. It’s one of the smallest capacity models on the market.
Westland WDC7100XC Ventless Combo
– Capacity: 1.5 cubic feet
– Dimensions: 23″ W x 22″ D x 33″ H
– Weighs only 88 lbs
– Ventless condensing dryer
– Runs on standard 120V electrical outlet
Westland specializes in compact laundry appliances and the WDC7100XC is their smallest capacity washer dryer combo. At just 1.5 cubic feet, this model is designed for small living spaces where laundry needs to be done in closet-like spaces. The unit is fully featured but packs it all into an 88 lb ventless combo unit requiring only a standard outlet.
Benefits of Compact Washer Dryer Combos
The main advantage of compact washer dryer combos is the small footprint that allows them to fit in spaces standard washers and dryers can’t. Here are some other benefits:
– All-in-one convenience – Wash and dry in one unit
– Ventless options for more installation flexibility
– Use standard 120V outlets, no gas or 220V required
– Lightweight for easier moving and installation
– Can be installed under counters and in closets
– Ideal for apartments, RVs, and other small living spaces
The smallest combos do have some limitations to be aware of. The capacity is very small, so you’ll have to do more frequent smaller loads. Drying also takes longer than a full size dryer would. But for tight spaces, a compact unit makes doing laundry possible.
Choosing the Right Compact Combo
When choosing a small washer dryer combo, keep the following criteria in mind:
- Size – Measure the space you have available and look for a compact model that fits.
- Capacity – Consider how much laundry you do to determine the capacity you need.
- Venting – Ventless condensing models offer more flexibility than vented.
- Controls – Look for models with full featured controls and cycles.
- Efficiency – Check energy ratings when available.
- Noise – Washer dryer combos will be louder than full size models, check sound ratings.
- Price – Entry level compact combos start around $800 with prices increasing for larger capacities and more features.
Taking measurements first, and thinking about your laundry needs, will help narrow the options. Focusing on the most compact ventless models makes installing in small spaces easier. With some planning, even the tightest spaces can accommodate laundry.
Top Brands for Compact Washer Dryer Combos
Some of the leading manufacturers producing compact washer dryer combos include:
- Magic Chef – Known for RV and apartment sized models like the 2.0 cu ft MCSCWD20W2 reviewed above.
- Equator – Specialize in apartment and small space laundry appliances.
- Midea – Make 1.6 and 1.8 cu ft capacity vented and ventless combos.
- Westland – Focus on compact laundry technology and ventless condensing drying.
- Giantex – Budget brand with 1.6 and 2.0 cu ft compact top load combos.
- Costway – Another budget brand with combos sized from 1.6 up to 2.7 cu ft capacities.
These companies all offer combos in the compact 1.5 to 2.0 cu ft range that work well when space is extremely limited. They provide quality combos with the latest features at reasonable prices.
Conclusion
The smallest washer dryer combos occupy just over 1.5 cubic feet of space and offer ventless or vented drying in a single unit. These compact all-in-one laundry appliances range from 1.5 to 2.0 cu ft capacities. Brands like Magic Chef, Equator and Westland specialize in units designed for RVs, apartments and other small living spaces where laundry facilities are limited. With measurements in hand, and an idea of your laundry needs, a compact washer dryer combo could provide the perfect small space solution.