With space in Sydney studios and apartments often at a premium - especially in rental properties - it is vital to maximise the limited amount of room you might have to work with.
Whilst rearranging items in your laundry could open up a few extra inches here and there, the only way to seriously make the most of the area you have is to own a washer and dryer in one. The differences in size and awkwardness between these and separate washing and drying units can be vast.
Washer-dryer combinations are extremely popular in Asia and Europe - regions renowned for small, compact living spaces - because of their floor-saving dimensions.
There are other important aspects of these machines that you may want to consider before rushing into a purchase.
One of the most significant advantages is that a range of program options are available depending on your specific requirements at the time.
You can either wash and dry your clothes at the one time, or set the unit to run either cycle separately. In essence you have two different machines performing two different functions, conveniently packaged into a single unit. Since both the washing and drying will take place as part of the same process, you can often save time simply by not having to remember to change the laundry in between cycles.
And remember the times you forgot about your items in the washing machine and later discovered them with that musty smell? With a washer-dryer, you will never again be forced to start the entire process again, putting your damp clothes through for a second cycle.
Is it true that washer dryer combos take longer?
In some cases yes, depending on how you are doing your wash. Today with the wash/dry options including temperature and spin speed, these will all vary the time. Best practice is to read the manual where it will state the times washes, but most machines will also display the wash/dry time on the LCD display. Don’t be scared if you see a cycle for 3 hours. Keep in mind you are washing and dryer, a lengthy process in itself.
Where does the dryer vent from?
The dryers in washer dryer combos are fully sensor condenser dryers. This means that the water is taken out of the clothing and drained out in the same hose as it does when you’re washing your clothes. This can take a little bit longer to dry but it is great if you want to put this in a room that can’t be ventilated, ensuring that the moisture wont damage your walls or ceiling.