How to Choose the Best Washer and Dryer

Choosing the right appliances for your family could be tricky. Now a days; it almost seems that you need a PHd to determine what each appliance does, and, if it will actually work for you and your household.

Amongst the hardest to decifer are certainly Washers and Dryers.

Why??? - simply because I remember my Mom teaching me how to scrub clothes on a washboard.

NO! I am NOT that old, but that is what we did back then. We wore cloth diapers, and I don't wish to divulge how my Mom cleaned my younger brother's cloth diapers. It certainly was NOT in one of these hi-tech washers.

So, times DO change.

Well, if you have 9 kids and just cannot allow the dirty laundry to keep producing itself, a small, hide-a-way washer and dryer may not be right for you. Although, if you have a family of 3 - mom, dad, and child - a small, stackable unit might just work.

Just like a house or an apartment - it really depends upon what you are able to live with and contend with. It also depends upon the space that you have available in your home!

Please see the other links available for you.

Front loading, stand alone washers and dryers are very similar to those that are found in the neighborhood laundromat.

They are large in size (and capacity). Each unit is able to handle a large wash or dry load - from start to finish. If you have never used one of these machines - "watch out"! Step aside, and let your work be done for you.

While a normal washer may clean 4 pair of jeans in one cycle - one of the HP (High Performance) machines could possibly clean 12. That is important if you have a member of the household who is frequently changing clothes, or who is similar to my husband - a building contractor - who changes his clothes 3 or 4 times a day, along with a 6 year old daughter.... a HP may be a good investment for you!

Well, sure, if you have a HP Washer, one would assume that you would want a HP Dryer - no?(A brother or a sister??)

Here is the catch - There are WAY too many people who are experiencing bad times right now. These units are expensive.

Here in New Jersey - we have no choice as to purchase a clothes dryer.  The winter months are cold and icy.  Although - many families in the southern states have decided to go without.

Clothes lines are a great invention that we should revert back to and save money along the way.   Even if it's just for the summer months.  It also helps us keep our clothes smelling clean. It is unfortunate that over the years, some families were frowned upon for having clothes lines in their backyard.  If a Clothesline is available to you - why not make it work?

So, after all this, I will assume that you will figure what is right for your life, your budget, your family needs and your housing situation.

Sure, choosing any type of appliance is difficult - but let's be certain that you choose one that is suited towards your needs. While you may OOHH, and AAHH over the big, new and expensive appliances each time that you visit your local Home Improvement Store; don't fret. Be comfortable and choose an appliance that fits all of the needs of your family. Don't go overboard (it's easy to do!).

Remember, you have to work them, and you have to pay the bills to support them. (Yes, sometimes, without you knowing, these new hi tech appliances have a bigger out of pocket expense than the birth of a child!)

It's all about you. What you need to keep your laundry matters efficient and what you can afford. Hey, what the heck - if your friend just purchased two new machines (for $4,000.) - and she is showing them off - step back. $4,000. could probably get you 2 or 3 years of paying your electric and gas bill.

Don't let your friend laugh you to the poorhouse. Stand your ground and be certain to analyze your family's needs.

Most importantly.... do your research before you buy! Check the web for ratings. Consumer Reports is a great place to do so. Check various websites to get feedback from other consumers who have purchased the product - this is a great way to "try" before you buy!

Store salespeople are there to sell; normally they don't have much negative feedback to share. By checking websites which display actual consumer comments, you will be ahead of the game.

Yes, it takes time to do all of this! Be patient, and be persistent. The time spent will pay off in the long run.