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Best Dryers

Updated March 2024
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
Samsung Bespoke 7.6 cu. ft. Ultra Capacity Electric Dryer with Super Speed Dry and AI Smart Dial
Samsung
Bespoke 7.6 cu. ft. Ultra Capacity Electric Dryer with Super Speed Dry and AI Smart Dial
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Most Spacious
Bottom Line

A sleek dryer with intuitive controls and steam that eliminates allergens.

Pros

Takes less than half an hour to dry at max capacity. Smart Dial remembers favorite settings and makes controls less complicated. Steam disinfects clothing and treats wrinkles. Connects to a smartphone app. Stackable with a washer.

Cons

On the high end of the price range compared to other options.

Best Bang for the Buck
Samsung 7.4 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with Sensor Dry
Samsung
7.4 cu. ft. Electric Dryer with Sensor Dry
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Bargain Pick
Bottom Line

A more affordable dryer that is easy to use and can be controlled from a smartphone.

Pros

Automatically adjusts drying time and temperature based on cycle needs. Offers 10 dry settings. Smartphone app lets you control and monitory cycles and troubleshoot the dryer. Available in electric or gas. Drum lights up when door is open.

Cons

Some reports of issues with Sensor Dry not working correctly.

Maytag 7.4 cu. ft. 240-Volt Smart Capable White Electric Dryer
Maytag
7.4 cu. ft. 240-Volt Smart Capable White Electric Dryer
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Feature-Packed
Bottom Line

This high-performing model can adapt to the changing needs of a family that needs to dry a variety of loads.

Pros

Built with front opening and see-through. Rapid dry cycle is ideal for small loads. Easy to load and remove clothes. Available in both electric and gas models. Comes in black or white. Offers 20 cycles and sanitize option.

Cons

The dryer is not stackable, making it less versatile for smaller spaces.

LG 7.4 cu. ft. Ultra Large Capacity Electric Front-Load Dryer
LG
7.4 cu. ft. Ultra Large Capacity Electric Front-Load Dryer
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Durable & Rugged
Bottom Line

This premium model is built with useful features and enough interior space to dry large loads.

Pros

The built-in sensor automatically adjusts according to moisture levels in clothes. FlowSense technology alerts you when lint builds up. Works with an LG stacking kit for homes with limited laundry space. Efficient and quiet.

Cons

May take a bit longer to dry than some similar models.

Whirlpool 7.0 cu. ft. 120-Volt White Gas Vented Dryer with AUTODRY Drying System
Whirlpool
7.0 cu. ft. 120-Volt White Gas Vented Dryer with AUTODRY Drying System
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Best for Small Households
Bottom Line

This dryer allows you to customize your drying preferences and is built with your convenience in mind.

Pros

Has 14 dryer cycles and three drying temperatures. AutoDry technology prevents over-drying by automatically stopping the cycle when necessary. Allows users to set drying times. Includes hamper door for easy transport of clothes.

Cons

Some noted drying may take longer than desired.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

30
Models
Considered
163
Consumers
Consulted
22
Hours
Researched
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Buying guide for Best dryers

Some folks find it relaxing to hang laundry out on a sunny summer day. But it takes time to pin wet garments to a clothesline, and sometimes, Mother Nature strikes … and sun-dried clothing ends up getting soaked all over again.

A dryer offers a quick and convenient way to get clothes dry. These days, most homeowners wouldn’t be without one. Options range from basic units to feature-packed clothes dryers with high-tech functions.

Person removing lint screen from dryer
If you’re concerned about saving energy, choose a dryer with a sensor that stops when moisture is no longer detected.

Types of clothes dryers

There are two types of clothes dryers: gas-powered and electric-powered.

Electric clothes dryers

These are easier to install, as long as an appropriate outlet is available. The upfront cost of an electric dryer is usually lower, too.

However, electric clothes dryers consume more energy in the long run than their gas-powered counterparts.

Person removing lint from lint screen
Expert tip
To get the best result from your dryer, always empty out your lint tray after each use.
BestReviews Cleaning Expert

Gas-powered clothes dryers

These must be connected to a natural gas supply to function. This typically requires installation by a professional, which will add to the overall cost of the appliance.

A gas dryer still needs electricity to function. Gas heats the unit, but electricity is necessary for almost everything else.

In spite of the higher upfront cost, a gas-powered dryer would likely save you money in the long run. Gas-powered dryers require less energy overall, as they reach drying temperature much quicker than electrically powered dryers.

Important dryer features to consider

A new dryer is a significant investment. Before you buy one, find out all you can about the following aspects of the product. Heading into a big purchase with a keen awareness of what you’re getting for your money is valuable indeed.

Dryer controls

A dryer may have dials, button controls, or even touchpad controls. For a no-fuss experience, pick a dryer with a control panel that you find easy to use. If you’re looking at a dryer with buttons or a dial, make sure the dial turns smoothly and the buttons don’t stick.

Dryer size

Dryers are sold in three sizes: compact, regular, and oversized.

  • Compact dryers are best for those with space constraints or folks doing laundry for only one or two people.

  • Regular-size dryers should suit most multi-person households, but potential buyers should make sure they have room for the appliance.

  • Oversized dryers are best for those who find themselves frequently washing and drying large loads of laundry.

For most people, the amount of space available dictates the size of clothes dryer they can accommodate. If you have a good-sized laundry room, consider the number of people in your household and the amount of dirty laundry you produce on a regular basis. Larger households may wish to opt for a clothes dryer with a bigger capacity.

Measure your space before starting to shop for a clothes dryer, and don’t just squeeze in the biggest sized dryer you can find; there should be enough room for proper air circulation around the perimeter of the dryer, too.

Interior light

Not all dryers come equipped with an interior light. But a light is a useful feature to have, especially if you often find yourself doing laundry in the evenings.

For example, an interior dryer light might help you spot that missing sock you’ve been searching for.

Drying modes

If you prefer simplicity, opt for a clothes dryer with basic drying modes only. But if you’d like a little more control over your heat, consider a clothes dryer with different drying modes.

  • A clothes dryer with a wrinkle-guard mode prevents clothes from sitting immobile inside the dryer. The dryer will tumble without heat to ensure your clothes come out looking smooth. It’s not a perfect solution, but it works in a pinch.

  • A clothes dryer with a steam function may also help you banish wrinkles. The results are hit-or-miss depending on the clothing items involved. A steam function won’t work as well as an iron, but it’s a convenient way to keep wrinkles at a minimum.

  • A dryer with a “quick-dry” mode uses higher heat to dry your laundry faster.

Extra features

Some dryers go further than the basics. For example, you might spend a little more to get a dryer with a moisture sensor. With a moisture sensor, you don’t waste precious energy drying clothes that are no longer damp or wet.

Some dryers can kill any lingering bacteria in your clothing as it dries.

Some models come equipped with smart features such as the ability to control the appliance via Wi-Fi.

And some dryers come with a rack that can be removed and used to dry items that would bounce around if not contained properly, like shoes.

Basket with laundry in front of dryer
Expert tip
Choose a dryer based on your load sizes. If you live in a climate that requires bulky clothing, like winter jackets, you may find a dryer with a large drum capacity beneficial.
BestReviews Cleaning Expert

The price of a new dryer

You could spend anywhere from $400 to over $1,000 for a new dryer. Price varies based on several factors, including brand, size, and features.

Basic

Basic and compact dryers cost as little as $400. These budget models are usually smaller in size and do not have fancy features or technology such as moisture sensors or WiFi connectivity.

Mid-range

As you go up in price, dryers typically look sleeker and come with more features and functions. Mid-range clothes dryers may cost anywhere from $400 to $900.

High-end

Oversized clothes dryers are usually very high in quality and cost upwards of $1,000. High-tech clothes dryers with smart features also fall at the upper end of the price scale.

Person looking in dryer
Caution
Do not place shoes in the dryer. The rigorous bouncing can damage your appliance. It’s not good for the shoes, either.
STAFF
BestReviews

Dryer safety tips

Here are a few tips to help you make sure you’re using your clothes dryer safely.

Declutter your dryer area

A cluttered space could help a fire spread if one were to start.

Install your dryer correctly

This is very important. It may mean hiring a professional for an extra cost, but your safety is worth the expense.

Clean your dryer lint trap frequently

Not cleaning your lint trap increases the risk of fire.

Don't put too much in the dryer at once

Overcrowding a dryer can cause it to work overtime, which could result in overheating and premature breakdown.

Inspect your gas line regularly

If you have a gas dryer, regular inspection of your gas line is essential.

Don't start your dryer before bed or before leaving for work

You should be home and alert when your dryer is running in case of an emergency.

Woman placing clothes in dryer
Are you unsure if a particular garment should go in the dryer? When in doubt, check your clothing’s label for care instructions.

FAQ

Q. It takes forever for my dryer to finish drying a load of laundry. What’s going on?

A. You may be stuffing too much laundry in at once for your dryer to work effectively. If this isn’t the case, your dryer may not be functioning properly. Have a professional check your dryer to make sure it’s safe to continue using.

Person touching power button on dryer
Expert tip
Dryers are pretty low maintenance. To keep the outside looking fresh, wipe it down with a microfiber cloth to clean off excessive lint and marks.
BestReviews Cleaning Expert

Q. Does a gas dryer impart any sort of gas odor on clothing?

A. No. You should not smell any kind of natural gas when using a gas-powered dryer. If you do smell gas, there is a problem.

Q. Is there anything I shouldn’t put in my dryer?

A. Delicate clothing should be line-dried unless your dryer has a special delicate setting. Workout clothes with anti-microbial properties should also be dried in the open air. Placing shoes in the dryer can be detrimental to both the shoes and the dryer.

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