The Convenience of Apartment-Sized Washers and Dryers
Many apartment complexes come with free amenities for renters — including an on-site laundry facility. If your building doesn't — or if you want the convenience of doing your laundry in your own apartment — you might consider an apartment-sized washer and dryer to avoid carrying heavy baskets of clothes to the laundry room or laundromat.
Check if your apartment has existing washer and dryer connections. If there aren't any existing connections, you may still be able to install an all-in-one washer dryer, or even a portable washer and portable dryer, that runs on a standard 120-volt electrical outlet.
To read more on finding the best apartment size washer and dryer, read our guides — Tips for Finding the Best Washing Machine for Your Home and The Best Dryer for Your Laundry Room.
Be sure to check with your building management office to confirm that you’re allowed to install a washer and dryer in your unit. Also, ensure that having a washer and dryer is covered in your rental insurance plan.
When installing your washer and dryer, follow all manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure that you have proper ventilation, drainage and an adequate power source. Never use an appliance in an application for which it isn't expressly made.
Measuring for Your Apartment Washer and Dryer
When space is at a premium, choosing the right size washer and dryer becomes even more important. Apartment size washer and dryer dimensions vary by space. Be sure to properly measure the width, depth and height (from the floor to the bottom of any structure that’s above) of the space before you buy to ensure it can accommodate a washer and dryer. A top-load washer needs at least 20 inches of space to open the washer lid. For a front-load washer and dryer, make sure you have enough clearance to open the door.
Remember to account for proper air circulation, and make sure there's at least one inch of space on either side of the washer and dryer. Then add six inches of space behind the dryer for vents and hookups.
Vented or Ventless Dryer?
Before purchasing a dryer for your apartment or an apartment washing machine and dryer, you should find out which venting option the apartment supports — either vented or ventless. A vented dryer takes the humid air that’s created inside the tumbler and expels it outside through an exterior aluminum duct vent. With a ventless dryer, there’s no need for a vent since the hot air is recycled in the dryer.
If you have the option to use either a vented or ventless dryer, there are a few things to consider. A vented dryer dries clothes faster than a ventless dryer and typically has a larger drum. However, because it needs to vent the air, it must be placed near a window or exterior wall. A ventless dryer doesn’t require a duct to the outside and can be installed almost anywhere. It does, however, take considerably longer to dry clothes, and the excess heat and humidity could lead to mold growth.
Because of the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning, gas dryers must be vented outdoors.
Stackable Washer and Dryers
At 24 inches wide, typical apartment-sized washers and dryers are compact appliances. They’re available from 24 to 26 inches deep and from 33 to 36 inches tall. When using a laundry-stacking kit, a small stackable washer and dryer combo can be up to 72 inches tall. This is a versatile option — the components can be installed side-by-side as space allows. Because apartment size stackable washer and dryers are the most popular choice for small spaces, you’ll have a large selection to choose from at Lowe's.
Stacked Laundry Centers
A stacked laundry center is like a stackable washer and dryer, except the appliances are attached, one on top of the other. The washer is always on the bottom because of the weight of the appliance, especially when the drum is filled with wet clothes. The washing machine is either top load or front load. The dryer, because of the height, is front load. Stacked apartment size washer and dryers are sleek and compact, making them a popular choice for many renters.
All-in-One Washer Dryer
Keep in mind that an all-in-one washer-dryer might not be the best option if time is of the essence on laundry day. Running a complete cycle could take anywhere from three to six hours, depending on the model.
Portable Washing Machines and Portable Dryers
Another apartment washer and dryer option is a portable washing machine and a portable dryer. The portable or mini washer and dryer is a duo of compact appliances that are perfect for apartments and other small spaces. Because of their portability, they’re easy to move from one room to another. However, due to their small drum size, you’re limited to the amount of clothing that can be washed and dried in a cycle.
All portable washing machines are top load. Some connect to a sink or bathtub, while others need a drain and water source, like a full-sized washing machine. Portable dryers run on electricity, and some have the option of venting. Use a laundry-stacking kit to install the portable dryer over the portable washing machine. Even the smallest spaces can utilize a portable apartment washing machine and dyer.