Unless you prefer to take the time to dry your clothes on a line, you probably use a dryer. There are a dozen reasons to shop for a new one but hundreds of factors to consider. How the dryer is powered, how much laundry it can hold and what drying modes it has are some of the most important.
The best dryer is the Samsung 7.5-Cubic-Foot Platinum Electric Dryer With Steam. It uses a standard electrical hookup, can hold more than enough clothes and has a steaming mode to reduce wrinkles.
Dryers are powered via electric or gas hookup.
Capacity is given in cubic feet. Dryers come in three capacity tiers: compact, standard and oversized.
Dryer dimensions are hard to predict as they rarely align with capacity. For example, one 5-cubic foot capacity dryer could be a few inches smaller all around than another. When shopping, know how much space you have for installation, leaving a minimum of 3 inches empty space on all sides.
Most dryers have a huge variety of modes including timed or sensor drying, temperature changes and the use of steam. It may seem beneficial to have as many modes as possible but ask yourself if you’ll actually use all of them. If not, you’re wasting money.
It may seem unimportant, but not having an internal light can be a frustrating experience. The recessed drums of a dryer make it difficult for light to enter, so it will be hard to see if you’ve retrieved all your items.
A basic dryer big enough for one person costs $400-$700. Midrange options good for any circumstances cost $700-$1,000. The huge feature-packed models can cost as much as $2,000-plus.
A. Yes, with the most basic being ensuring your electric or gas connection is secure and properly installed. If you are even slightly unsure of your ability to install properly, hire a professional. Also, routinely check your power connection to make sure it stays secure. Leave at least 3-6 inches of space on all sides for proper ventilation. Don’t overstuff the dryer, and make sure to empty the lint trap after each cycle. Finally, don’t let the dryer run while you’re away from home, lest a fire start when you're away.
A. Yes. Delicates shouldn’t be dried unless your dryer has a specialized setting for them. Antimicrobial clothes and any kind of shoe shouldn’t be dried, either.
A. Not if the dryer is operating as it should. If you do smell gas, you have an extremely hazardous situation on hand that a professional will likely need to be brought in to fix, preferably immediately.
Samsung 7.5-Cubic-Foot Platinum Electric Dryer With Steam
What you need to know: This has plenty of features at an excellent cost.
What you’ll love: A matching washing machine can be bundled for a discount. The steam setting kills 99.9% of bacteria and greatly decreases wrinkles. The door is reversible. It’s also available in a gas-powered version and it comes in three finishes.
What you should consider: It can make a surprising amount of noise. Some consumers had issues with the heating element failing within a few years.
Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot
Whirlpool 7-Cubic-Foot 120-Volt White Gas Vented Dryer With Autodry Drying System
What you need to know: It has more than enough space and capability.
What you’ll love: A matching washer is available in a discounted bundle. It has 14 drying cycles with three temperature levels. You can choose a drying length or let AutoDry detect when clothes are done to prevent overheating them. The door opens downward to stop clothes from hitting the floor.
What you should consider: Drying time can be much longer than with most models and on rare occasions, it needs a second cycle to fully dry. It isn’t stackable.
Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot
LG Electronics 7.4-Cubic-Foot Vented Smart Electric Dryer With Sensor Dry
What you need to know: This is a great dryer for smart-home enthusiasts.
What you’ll love: A matching washer is available in a discounted bundle. Sensor Dry runs the dryer precisely as long as each load needs. It’s Energy Star certified, runs quietly and is stackable. And it can connect to your phone for alerts and troubleshooting.
What you should consider: Drying time is a little longer than with most models, and it doesn’t have an interior light. A few consumers had issues with door leaks.
Where to buy: Sold by Home Depot
Sign up here to receive the BestReviews weekly newsletter for useful advice on new products and noteworthy deals.
Jordan C. Woika writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.