Many homes in Australia, especially in metro areas, have limited space for laundry appliances. Compact living often means choosing between a washing machine and a dryer. Luckily, a washer-dryer combo solves this by combining both functions into a single machine. You get full washing and drying power without needing extra room.
This guide outlines what to look for and how to choose the best washer dryer combo in Australia for your space and lifestyle.
What is a washer dryer combo, and how does it work?
A washer-dryer combo in one is a two-in-one machine that completes a wash cycle and then transitions directly into drying. You load your clothes once, and the machine handles the whole process without needing you to move anything between appliances.
Washer dryer combos are useful for households with limited space or shared laundry access. They are also practical for renters, students, busy professionals or anyone living in smaller apartments, granny flats or studios.
The space-saving advantage
Many Australian homes have limited room for full laundry setups. A washer-dryer combo offers a practical way to save space while handling everyday washing and drying needs. Here are a few examples of how these machines can improve your space:
- Compact design — Combos are built to fit standard under-bench or narrow laundry spaces. Instead of needing space for two full machines, you only need one.
- Flexible placement — They can be positioned almost anywhere with plumbing access. Bathrooms, kitchens and enclosed balconies are all common spots.
- Simplified set-up — There is no second unit to connect or vent, saving setup time, plumbing costs and rearranging.
- More room in the home — Extra space could be used for storage shelves, a drying rack or a home office desk. The space you save can be reallocated easily.
When you replace two separate machines with a two-in-one appliance, you free up valuable space that can be used for storage, shelving or even a small workstation. For example, a former laundry nook can be repurposed as a folding or ironing station to make the most of the room available.
The value of washer dryer combos in Australian homes
With housing becoming denser in cities like Sydney and Melbourne, it’s no surprise that more people are turning to all-in-one laundry appliances. A washer dryer combo makes daily life easier by removing the need for bulky equipment or additional plumbing.
Most importantly, most washer dryer appliances don’t require external venting. That means installing them in a cupboard, kitchen or bathroom with a standard power and water connection.
Five things to consider when choosing a washer dryer combo
Choosing the best washer dryer combo in Australia means understanding how your lifestyle fits with appliance performance. Here are five key things to look out for:
- Capacity — Options often have different capacities for washing and drying. A model that can wash 10kg might only dry 6kg. This means larger loads need to be split for drying. Look for a size that suits your routine.
- Energy and water efficiency — Some models use more energy or water than separate machines. Star ratings are a helpful guide. Efficient machines may cost more upfront but offer savings on bills over time.
- Smart features — Modern features like delay timers, steam functions, auto-sensing and child locks make machines more practical for busy homes.
- Noise — If you plan to install the machine near bedrooms or shared living areas, look for a model that runs quietly.
- Lifestyle fit — Larger households may need high-capacity models with faster spins and more drying options. Compact models with basic features suit singles, renters or shared spaces.
Tips to make the most of your appliance
Once you’ve got your washer dryer combo in one, there are a few simple habits that can help maximise its performance and lifespan:
- Use the right load size — Avoid overstuffing the drum, especially during drying. Overloading reduces wash quality and limits airflow, leading to damp clothes and longer dry times. Split larger loads when needed.
- Clean regularly — Wipe down door seals and clean the lint filter after each use. Run a maintenance or tub-clean cycle monthly to clear out detergent residue and prevent odours.
- Use the correct detergent — Some machines require high-efficiency (HE) detergent to reduce suds and prevent build-up. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
- Sort laundry by fabric type and dryness level — Drying a mix of heavy items (like towels) and lightweight clothing in one cycle can lead to uneven drying. For best results, wash and dry similar fabrics together.
- Let the appliance rest — Give the machine a short break between loads, especially after drying. This helps prevent overheating and allows moisture to dissipate, improving overall performance.
- Leave the door ajar after use — Once a cycle is complete, leave the door slightly open to allow airflow. This helps prevent mould, mildew and unpleasant smells inside the drum.
- Keep the machine level and well-ventilated — Ensure the washer dryer sits on a level surface to avoid vibrations. Also, allow enough space around the unit for airflow, especially in a tight cupboard or under a bench.
Should you buy an all-in-one washer dryer appliance?
A washer dryer combo can be a smart choice if your home has limited space or no venting options. These machines offer convenience and function in a compact design.
They work particularly well for people who do smaller, more regular loads of laundry. Singles, couples, retirees and busy professionals who value a simple, space-efficient setup will likely find the combo format practical.
While they may not suit households with high laundry volumes or multiple heavy loads per day, many people benefit from the flexibility, space-saving and one-step functionality. A washer dryer machine is worth considering if you’re looking for a tidy, all-in-one solution that fits neatly into your home.
Big deals on compact solutions start here
Find your ideal washer dryer combo in one at Sydney Wide Discounts, where quality meets affordability. We offer a huge range of professionally refurbished and brand-new units, all tested by experts and backed by warranty. You can also explore our range of washing machines and dryers if you’re looking for separate appliances.
As a family-run business, we pride ourselves on honest advice, unbeatable prices and good old-fashioned customer service. With 100+ refurbished products arriving weekly, fast delivery across Greater Sydney and a team that genuinely cares, there’s no better place to shop.
Visit our Rydalmere store or browse online to grab a great deal on the best washer dryer combo in Australia — and enjoy the kind of service only a local, independent business can deliver.