Washer dryers are a great way to save space and cut down on the time it takes you to move each load between machines. In this guide we’ve found the UK’s best integrated washer dryers, so not only do you get the convenience of two machines in one but you can close the door and have it blend seamlessly with your kitchen cupboards.
As with many types of washing machine, integrated washer dryers come in different types and have a multitude of features. We’ve created this list so you can explore the strengths and weaknesses of each model before making a purchase.
In a hurry? Check out the Grundig GWDI854 model – our number one integrated washer dryer in the UK. You can jump to this section by clicking its entry in the table of contents below.
Table of Contents
What is an integrated washer dryer?
Integrated washer dryers combine a front loading washing machine and a tumble dryer into a single unit. They are meant to fit snugly into your fitted kitchen to ensure it maintains its streamlined look. Their flat front design means you can attach your kitchen cupboard door to the machine so that it operates behind the scenes.
Integrated washer dryer machines tend to be quieter than their standalone equivalents as they work behind kitchen cupboard doors that muffle most of the noises and vibrations. They are generally small-sized as they have to fit into fixed spaces. The most significant consequence of this is that most models can only hold small loads that don’t often exceed 8kg of wash and 5kg of dry clothes.
Integrated washer dryers are available in two main types; fully integrated and semi-integrated. The fully integrated type will be completely concealed behind the cupboard door. Semi-integrated models have most of their body hidden. However, the space along the top will be visible to allow you to monitor what’s happening on the display panel.
Some integrated machines cost more than their freestanding counterparts and can consume more water and power than most standalone washers. This makes it particularly important that you do your research and choose your machine carefully. Every model in this list has been selected following our rigorous selection criteria, which includes value for money and efficiency.
Will I have less choice by going integrated?
Yes. All integrated machines, not just the washer-dryers, are almost always fewer in number and can come with reduced functionalities than their conventional equivalents.
In the case of washer-dryer combos, there’s a noticeable difference in the available varieties of these machines compared to the freestanding models. In terms of functionalities, the biggest compromise you’ll be making once you decide to go integrated is load capacity. During our extensive market search, the best we found hold a maximum of 8kg wash load. Most models have a 7kg capacity which is 4-5kg less than most standard freestanding machines hold.
So, if you do a lot of washing or have a large family, integrated washer-dryer combos might not be suitable for you. But if you live in a smaller household, or don’t have access to other drying options, these machines are well worth the extra investment.
Why choose an integrated washer dryer?
When it comes to placing your integrated washer dryer, its a lot easier than most standard tumble dryers. You will need electricity and water, but there is no need for the usual dryer outlet. This is because any water vapour produced by the wet clothes is condensed and added to the washing machines outlet pipe. So, as long as you have standard washing machine plumbing, you’re ready to go.
Below is a summary of the pros and cons of using integrated washer dryers:
Pros
- They’re easy to use and take clothes from dirty to clean and dry in one cycle
- Low noise and vibrations compared to freestanding models
- They will blend in with your existing kitchen cupboards
- There is no need for a tumble dryer outlet pipe
- They take up one space instead of two.
Cons
- Some are pricier than freestanding equivalents
- Suited for smaller loads, so they aren’t ideal for larger families
What should I look for when buying an integrated washer dryer?
The number of integrated washer dryer combos in the market might not be big compared to their freestanding counterparts. Still, selecting the right machine that suits your needs and preferences can be a daunting task.
To help you find the right machine consider the following features:
Load capacity
The load capacity is the maximum weight of washing the drum can accommodate at one time. With washer dryers, there are two types of load to consider: the washing capacity and the drying capacity.
Washing capacity for standard integrated washer dryers ranges from 5-8kg. The higher the capacity, the more clothes you can wash in one go and the more time, energy and water savings you will enjoy.
The drying load capacity is always lower than the washing load capacity and often range from 2.5-5kg. The reason behind this is drying requires additional space in the drum for air to circulate, unlike washing where clothes can be packed in tightly. A machine with more drying capacity offers extra space for spinning. This helps to reduce the time and energy required to dry your laundry.
Energy and water efficiency
Water and energy consumption is an essential consideration when buying an integrated washer dryer. The model you choose should be able to use as little of these resources as possible.
All washer dryers must come with an EU label that displays their energy rating. Ratings range from A to G, with A being the most energy-efficient and G the worst. In practice though, it’s near-impossible to find a model with a rating lower than C. We recommend going for machines with the highest possible energy efficiency, as this translates to less energy consumption and consequently reduced utility bills and carbon print.
Most machines now come with a label indicating the litres of water consumed per kilogram of washing. A water efficiency of approximately 35 litres per 3.5kg is at a good standard. We have seen some that consume up to 70 litres for the same load, so it’s always worth checking.
Now, numerous additional features have been designed to can help you save on energy and water. They include quick wash functions and weight detection technology. Weight detection technology will weigh each load and apply a unique program that gets them both clean and dry, with precisely the exact amount of power and water required. There are also washer dryers available that use sensors to detect when the clothes are dry and then turn the machine off.
Spin speed
The number of times your washer dryer spins per minute are referred to as the spin speed. Most integrated washer dryers have spin speed ranges of 1200-1600rpm. We recommend going for machines with higher spin speeds as they’re able to remove most of the water during the washing phase. As a result, they reduce the time it takes to dry clothes, thus saving more energy and money.
Special features
Different integrated washer dryers pack various additional (and often intelligent) features that influence their overall performance. A few useful functions you might want to consider are:
- Steam function – a forward-looking option that helps you get rid of stubborn stains while maintaining your fabric’s texture and reducing creases.
- Sensitivity feature – this one is ideal for people who are sensitive to dust and pollen.
- Child lock – helps to minimize dangers by ensuring your little ones can’t switch on the programmes when you’re not around.
Best integrated washer dryers in the UK
These are our picks of top five integrated washer dryers available in the UK, based on factors such as price, energy and water efficiency, programmes, drum size and dimensions:
No 1: Grundig GWDI854
Grundig GWDI854 specification |
|
| Price (£) | 669 |
| Energy rating | A |
| Water usage (litres) | 15600 |
| Spin speed (rpm) | 1400 |
| Wash capacity/Drying capacity (kg) | 8/5 |
| Special programmes | Mini Wash & Dry, HygieneCare Wash & Dry, Cotton Eco |
| Dimensions (cm) | H82.0 x W60.0 x D55.0 |
No 2: Zanussi Z716WT83Bl
Zanussi Z716WT83BI specification |
|
| Price (£) | 519 |
| Energy rating | A |
| Water usage (litres) | 19000 |
| Spin speed (rpm) | 1600 |
| Wash capacity/Drying capacity (kg) | 7/4 |
| Special programmes | DuoSensor, AutoAdjust Load Sensor, NonStop 60-Minute Programme |
| Dimensions (cm) | H81.9 x W59.6 x D54.0 |
No 3: AEG L7WE7631Bl
AEG L7WE7631BI specification |
|
| Price (£) | 699 |
| Energy rating | A |
| Water usage (litres) | 19000 |
| Spin speed (rpm) | 1550 |
| Wash capacity/Drying capacity (kg) | 7/4 |
| Special programmes | NonStop 60-Minute Programme, ProSense Technology, DualSense |
| Dimensions (cm) | H81.9 x W59.6 x D54.0 |
No 4: John Lewis JLBIWD1405
John Lewis JLBIWD1405 specification |
|
| Price (£) | 699 |
| Energy rating | A |
| Water usage (litres) | 19000 |
| Spin speed (rpm) | 1600 |
| Wash capacity/Drying capacity (kg) | 7/4 |
| Special programmes | Steam Refresh, Reduce Time Function, One-Hour Quick Wash |
| Dimensions (cm) | H81.9 x W59.6 x D54.0 |
Best budget integrated washer dryer: Beko WDIX7523000
Beko WDIX7523000 model details |
|
| Price (£) | 399 |
| Energy rating | B |
| Water usage (litres) | 15000 |
| Spin speed (rpm) | 1200 |
| Wash capacity/Drying capacity (kg) | 7/5 |
| Special programmes | ProSmart Inverter Motor Technology, 28-Minute Quick Wash, Anti-Allergy Wash & Dry Function |
| Dimensions (cm) | H82.0 x W60.0 x D55.0 |
Conclusion
Choosing the best integrated washer dryer doesn’t have to be a daunting task, at least not after you’ve read our detailed guide. Before choosing a suitable machine from the five we’ve reviewed here, start by identifying your laundry needs and the maximum budget available. After that, weigh the pros and cons of each model and pick one that befits your household.