Washing machine and dryer together or separately? Tips before buying

Are you thinking about buying a dryer, but don't know whether to opt for a separate one or a 2-in-1? Both solutions have their advantages and disadvantages that you need to consider before buying. We will advise you on how to choose the right one for your bathroom.

Are you tired of hanging wet laundry forever? A practical dryer could be the solution. If you want to get one, you have two options. You can buy it separately or together with a washing machine. In this article, we will compare both versions and all their strengths and weaknesses.

Combined washer dryer

A 2-in-1 washerdryer is preferred by many because it saves a lot of space in the bathroom. However, there are a few compromises to consider. So, what are its biggest advantages or disadvantages?

Advantages

• Space saving – you don’t need two appliances, but only one. A combined washer dryer is therefore suitable for smaller bathrooms.
• Lower price – if you don’t already have a washing machine, buying a 2-in-1 appliance will kill two birds with one stone and will be cheaper than buying a new washer and dryer.
• Automatic programs – the appliance washes and dries your laundry without any additional intervention, saving you the time and effort that you would spend moving your laundry.

Disadvantages

• Lower capacity – the maximum laundry volume may be lower, e.g. 8 kg washing and 5 kg drying.
• Less efficient drying – a combined appliance dries more slowly and less efficiently than a separate dryer.
• Higher water consumption – water consumption may be higher than in the case of a separate dryer, as some models also use water for cooling.

Who is it suitable for

A 2-in-1 washer-dryer is primarily ideal for small bathrooms with a lack of space, where two appliances cannot fit. It is also suitable for those who wash a smaller amount of laundry or have a lower budget. However, it is necessary to consider that if something goes wrong, you may lose both functions at once (washing and drying).

Separate dryer 

If you buy a separate washing machine and separate dryer, you can get the best of both appliances. However, you should expect a higher investment and higher space requirements. What are the positives and negatives of this solution?

Advantages

• Higher capacity and performance – both appliances will give you more efficient washing and drying without compromise.
• Fast drying – warm air or condenser dryers are more efficient and dry faster.
• Washing and drying at the same time – if you often wash a large amount of laundry, the ability to wash and dry at the same time is an advantage.
• Better durability – separate appliances are simpler, so they usually have fewer failures and a longer lifespan.

Disadvantages

● Space requirements – you need to find space for two appliances in the home, so they are often stacked on top of each other.

● Higher price – the initial investment is higher than in the case of a combined washer-dryer.

Who is it for

A freestanding dryer is ideal for larger bathrooms or homes with a laundry room or utility room, where there is enough space for two appliances. It is also suitable for larger families who wash more often and in larger quantities. They can wash and dry at the same time, saving time. A freestanding dryer is also suitable for someone who already has a washing machine and does not want to change it.

How much does a combined and a freestanding dryer cost?

Many people decide to buy based primarily on price. You need to consider whether it is worth keeping your current washing machine and adding a dryer to it or whether you would rather choose a combined appliance. If you are furnishing a new home and do not have any appliances yet, it may be better to buy a new freestanding washing machine and a freestanding dryer. 

The prices of dryers vary by brand, type, functions and energy class. However, we bring you an approximate overview of average prices in 2025:

2in1 Washer Dryer

Freestanding dryer

Freestanding washing machine