Choosing The Right Washer And Dryer For Your Home

How many of you hate to do your laundry? Some of us spare and spend our weekends to sort out our laundry as much as we hate it. Although conveniences such as dobby and coin laundry machine operators are sprouting everywhere, there are some of us who still prefer to do our own laundry.

How do you choose the right washing machine and dryer? Here are some tips you can follow:

1. Space available at home

Depending on the space you have at home and your preference in arrangement, this is probably one the main decision making factors to take into account when buying a washer or dryer. Some of us may not need a dryer as Malaysia is a tropical climate country with sunny and hot weather throughout the year, but some of us may prefer to not worry about our clothes not being dried during rainy seasons. If you plan to get both washer and dryer at home, make sure you have enough space allocated to allow both machines to be stacked on top of one another.

2. Top load or front load?

Front load machines are usually more costly but they have been claimed to be able to wash your laundry more efficiently, gentler, and have been found to clean more thoroughly. However, they need more maintenance and some of them may attract mold so you need to make sure that thorough maintenance is observed. Occasionally wipe the front area where water can accumulate or leave the door open after use.
If you have difficulty bending down to collect your laundry, you’ll want to address this before purchasing one.
For top-loaders, some of the washing bins may be a slight tad too deep at times, so make sure you get one that is easy for you to bend to remove the clothes. Also note that, many top-load models today have foregone the inner agitator (the big spinning rod inside the machine) for a hollow bin while some Japanese manufacturers have opted for stainless steel tub. The higher speed spins mean that it will take less time for your clothes to dry.

3. Features in a machine

As technology progresses, machines come with more features as well. From Wi-Fi enabled features, self-cleaning, digital display to energy efficiency, make sure you don’t overburden yourself with wanting all these features and ending up not utilizing them. This means extra cost being paid but not being utilized. Check if you need these features first before opting for them. For instance, some machines come with the steaming function which can help to remove stains and limit creases. If most of your clothes are office attire, this can be a feature you may want to consider.

4. Warranty and reviews

Most washing machines and dryers come with at least a one-year manufacturer’s warranty but you may pay extra for extended warranty. Do not be pressured to purchase for an additional warranty, make sure you’ve read through the terms and conditions stated. Also, take the time to check out reviews of other people’s experience dealing with the machine so that you have a better idea of the pros and cons of the machine.

5. Where and when to buy the machine?

Electrical shops usually roll out special promotions during festive seasons or during the year end so do watch out for special price slashes then. Try not to opt for online purchase, as you would need to have a “feel and touch” of the machine before deciding. This is unless you have seen the physical unit a few times and know exactly what you are getting before making an online purchase. If you are opting for a washer and dryer, there are no hard and fast rules as to having to pick the same brand manufacturer for the items.
Also, do check with the shops on the ease of finding spare parts for the machine before making a purchase. A shop with a good after sales service is also essential as you do not want to have problems getting help later on.

[Image source: Photo by RODNAE Productions from Pexels]