From Mariette Mifflin,
Your Guide to Housewares / Appliances.
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Moving to a smaller home and need to downsize your laundry units? Or just want to have more space for shelving in your laundry room?

Many households are downsizing and manufacturers are rushing to meet this need with a variety of laundry units, that not only take less space, but can still manage your average loads. They can be placed side by side, under counter, or stacked to minimize floor space. Here's what the market has to offer in way of space saving laundry units:

One Piece Laundry Units

These are stacked laundry systems that are one-piece in design. They've been around for awhile, but new designs have been added, some of which have drying centres, as opposed to a regular dryer on the top. These also are generally the same width as regular models but may require more depth than usual, and height clearances also need to be considered. They are now available with either frontloading or toploading washers.

The main drawback to this model is what happens when one part of the unit is not repairable? I’ve never had both, washer and dryer break down at the same time.

Regular Size Units With Stacking Options

A great way to save on space. Some of these require a supporting framework, so check with the dealer before purchasing. Ensure that you have enough height to accommodate the unit when stacked.

Compact Laundry Units

These come in various size capacities, from 10 lb to the 3 cu.ft. range. They can either be stacked, placed under a counter, or positioned side by side. The larger compacts are rated to handle average loads with some manufacturers reporting load capacities of 16 bath towels or jeans.

With a width ranging from 21" to 27", these can easily be tucked into a closet or small space. Some compact pairs have optional pedestal drawer bases. A great feature for storage, as well as to raise the unit to provide better access especially for frontloading washers.

Washer/Dryer Combos

These are all-in-one appliances, which can wash and dry your average load in the same machine. They sport impressive features, like preset timer to have the load completely finished just before you arrive home from work, and water level/dryness sensors. They also do not require venting and can plug right into a standard wall outlet, making them very easy to position anywhere.

As impressive as these features are, there are a few drawbacks to this design. Loads take twice as long, and some users have reported even longer completion times. Prices are quite high for these units, probably because they're new on the block. And there seems to be very mixed reviews on these models.


Other things to consider when shopping for compact units, include voltage requirements, adequate height room, installation space required at the back of the washer for the plumbing, and ensuring that setting controls have not been sacrificed for size.

When purchasing major appliances, Energy Star ® qualified are more efficient than other brands and check your state or province and country for any rebates which may be available for certain models.

Warranties also vary from product to product. As these types of units are often more expensive overall than the traditional washer and dryer pair, the time spent comparing models is well worth it and will ensure these serve you well over the years.