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.
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.
Expert tip
To get the best result from your dryer, always empty out your lint tray after each use.
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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.
Users looking for simple installation and a low upfront cost may opt for an electric dryer as opposed to a gas-powered option. We research a variety of electric dryers to find the best on the market.
Gas-powered dryers appeal to many consumers, as they often use less energy than electric dryers over time. When researching gas-powered dryers for recommendation, we look at a variety of sizes and designs.
Dryer controls come in many designs and levels of complexity. When researching a dryer, we consider how functional, reliable, and user-friendly its controls are.
Your needs and space determine the dryer size that would suit you best. We research and evaluate compact, regular, and oversized dryers to find quality models in each category.
Many dryers come with unique perks, such as an interior light or bacteria elimination. When considering a dryer, we take note of any special features it offers.
Some dryers have moisture-sensing capabilities that end the drying cycle when clothes are ready. We consider any features that reduce environmental impact when researching dryers.
When researching dryers, we evaluate how versatile each model is by considering whether different heat levels and drying modes are offered. Some dryers, for instance, include wrinkle-guard and steam functions.
Some modern dryers are WiFi-enabled, which allows you to conveniently control your dryer from afar. We assess performance and ease of use for these models and their corresponding apps.
When considering dryers for recommendation, we research basic, mid-range, and high-end options to find quality models for diverse preferences and budgets.
Some dryers have a basic and utilitarian design, while others can be quite sleek and stylish. We take aesthetic considerations into account, such as whether dryers come in multiple colors and finishes.
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.
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Compact dryers are best for those with space constraints or folks doing laundry for only one or two people.
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Regular-size dryers should suit most multi-person households, but potential buyers should make sure they have room for the appliance.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
Caution
Do not place shoes in the dryer. The rigorous bouncing can damage your appliance. It’s not good for the shoes, either.
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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.
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.
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.
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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.
