Clothes dryers are essential for efficient laundry care. Here’s a detailed guide to help you choose the best dryer for your household needs.

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What Makes a Good Clothes Dryer?

Look for these features when shopping for a dryer:

Powerful Drying Performance
- Capable of efficiently drying different load sizes and fabric types.
- Tests evaluate heavy cottons, mixed loads, and delicates.

Sufficient Capacity
- Match the dryer’s capacity to your washer’s largest load.
- Ample space ensures better airflow and faster drying.

Moisture Sensor
- Stops the cycle when clothes are dry to save energy and prevent overdrying.

Quiet Operation
- Minimizes noise during tumbling, with the loudest sound being the end-of-cycle signal.

Convenience
- Features like ergonomic controls, easy lint filter access, and complementary washer cycles.

Reliability
- Based on brand performance and feedback from CR member surveys.

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Types of Clothes Dryers

Electric Dryers

• Price: $400–$2,200
• Power Source: 240-volt outlet
• Details: Most common, wide range of options. Costs more to operate where electricity is expensive.

Gas Dryers

• Price: $400–$2,300
• Power Source: 120-volt outlet + gas line
• Details: Performs similarly to electric dryers. Initial cost is higher but may save money if gas is cheaper in your area.

Compact Dryers

• Price: $800–$1,800
• Power Source: 240-volt outlet
• Details: Ideal for small spaces, often ventless, energy-efficient, and stackable.

All-in-One Washer/Dryer Combos

• Price: $1,550–$3,000
• Power Source: 120-volt outlet
• Details: Combines washing and drying in one unit. Energy-efficient but has longer drying times.

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What Is a Ventless Dryer?

• Technology: Uses condensing or heat pump systems.
• Benefits: No vent required, more energy-efficient.
• Drawbacks: Slower drying times compared to vented models.

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How to Choose the Best Dryer for Your Space

Measure Your Laundry Area:
- Full-sized dryers are typically 27 inches wide but can be wider with larger capacities.
- Leave at least 6 inches for venting and 1 inch between machines.

Check for Stackability:
- Opt for stackable washer-dryer pairs if space is tight.

Account for Height:
- Ensure the dryer fits under counters if needed (some can be as tall as 47 inches).

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Should You Buy a Washer and Dryer Together?

• Benefits: Matching washer-dryer sets often have complementary features and styling.
• Cost Savings: Bundle deals can save hundreds of dollars.
• Smart Pairing: Some pairs communicate for optimized drying cycles.

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Experts' Green Choice: Eco-Friendly Dryers

Dryers with the Green Choice designation are evaluated for:
- Energy Efficiency: Uses ~1.9 kWh per load.
- Materials: Includes sustainable options like stainless steel drums.
- Reliability: Based on survey results for durability and maintenance.
- Environmental Impact: Shipping footprint and eco-cycle features.

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Helpful Dryer Features

Moisture Sensor: Prevents overdrying and saves energy.

Steam Cycle: Softens, de-wrinkles, and deodorizes clothes.

Extended Tumble: Reduces wrinkles with intermittent tumbling post-cycle.

End-of-Cycle Signal: Alerts when laundry is ready.

Drying Rack: Protects delicate items like sweaters and shoes.

Auto-Dry Cycles: Automatically adjusts drying time for better results.

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How to Maintain Your Dryer

Clean the Lint Filter Regularly: Enhances performance and safety.

Inspect Venting: Ensure proper airflow by cleaning the vent and ductwork annually.

Check Seals: Replace worn-out door seals to maintain efficiency.

Level the Dryer: Prevents excessive vibration and noise.

Use Proper Loads: Avoid overloading for better performance and reduced wear.

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With these tips, you’ll be ready to select and maintain a dryer that fits your needs, space, and budget while maximizing efficiency and performance.

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