Washer Dryer Combo vs Traditional Machines: What’s Best for You?

When it comes to setting up your laundry, one of the biggest decisions Aussie homeowners face is choosing between a washer-dryer combo or the traditional separate washer and dryer setup. While both options have their strengths, the best choice comes down to your space, lifestyle, laundry habits, and budget.

In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from key differences to pros and cons, to help you make the most informed choice for your home.

✅ What Is a Washer-Dryer Combo?

A washer-dryer combo is an all-in-one appliance that washes and dries your clothes in the same drum. You don’t need to move your laundry from one machine to another—it handles the full cycle from start to finish.

These units are especially popular in apartments, small homes, and even caravans across Australia. Modern models, like the LG washer dryer combo, come packed with features including steam wash, allergy care, and app-controlled settings.

✅ What Is a Traditional Washer and Dryer Setup?

A traditional laundry setup includes two separate machines—a washing machine and a dryer. You wash your clothes in one unit, then transfer them into the dryer for the drying cycle.

This setup has long been the standard in many Aussie households, especially in larger family homes or places with a dedicated laundry room.

🏡 Pros & Cons of Washer-Dryer Combos

✅ Pros:

• Perfect for compact homes: Especially useful in units or tiny homes where space is limited.
• Set and forget: You can load your laundry and let it run through the wash and dry cycle without touching it again.
• Lower upfront cost: Buying one appliance is cheaper than buying two.
• Modern features: Many newer models like the LG washer dryer combo include smart sensors, steam refresh, and allergen removal—great for sensitive skin.

❌ Cons:

• Drying performance: These combos tend to dry slower and are best suited for smaller loads.
• Longer cycle times: Full wash and dry cycles can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours.
• Less energy efficient for drying: Some models use water during the drying phase, increasing consumption.
• Smaller load size for drying: Often, you can wash more than you can dry in a single run, so you may need to split the load.

🧺 Pros & Cons of Separate Washer and Dryer Machines

✅ Pros:

• Faster drying time: Traditional dryers generally dry clothes quicker than combos.
• More capacity: Ideal for large households or heavy-duty laundry needs.
• Flexibility: You can wash one load while drying another—saving time.
• Specialisation: Each machine is designed specifically for its task, meaning better performance overall.

❌ Cons:

• Takes up more space: You’ll need a dedicated laundry area to fit both machines comfortably.
• Higher upfront cost: Buying two appliances adds up quickly.
• Manual effort: You’ll need to be around to transfer clothes between cycles.

🏠 Which One Is Best for You?

✅ Go for a Washer Dryer Combo if:

• You live in an apartment or home with limited space.
• You do small loads of washing regularly.
• You want an easy, all-in-one solution.
• You value energy and water efficiency in the washing process.
• You’re a single, couple, or small family with moderate laundry needs.
• The LG washer dryer combo is a top choice in Australia thanks to its smart tech, energy ratings, and compact design.

✅ Go for Separate Washer and Dryer Machines if:

• You have a larger family or do frequent, heavy loads of laundry.
• You’ve got the space for a full laundry setup.
• You want faster drying times and the ability to multitask.
• You’re happy to invest a bit more for long-term performance and speed.

🔍 Other Factors to Consider

🧑‍🔧 Maintenance

Combo machines tend to be slightly more complex, so repairs might be more expensive or require specialised servicing. Separate units are easier to replace individually if one breaks down.

💸 Energy & Water Bills

If you’re eco-conscious or budget-minded, always check the Energy Rating Label and Water Efficiency Labelling (WELS) for any model you’re considering. Combo machines generally use less power and water during washing, but might use more when drying.

📲 Smart Features

Many modern combos, especially from brands like LG, come with Wi-Fi connectivity, app controls (LG ThinQ), and AI-powered settings that adjust wash times and temperature based on your load.

💬 Final Thoughts

Both washer-dryer combos and traditional machines have their place in Aussie homes. The best one for you depends on your space, lifestyle, and laundry habits.

If you're tight on room and want simplicity, a combo is a fantastic space-saving option, particularly models like the LG washer-dryer combo, known for their reliability and feature-rich design. But if you're part of a larger household with back-to-back laundry demands, a separate washer and dryer setup might be your better bet for speed, capacity, and flexibility.

No matter which option you choose, the goal is to make your laundry routine easier, quicker, and more efficient—and that’s something we can all get behind. 🧺✨