Washer Stacking Kit or Washer Dryer Combo - Which Is Better?

Living in a small apartment can be challenging when selecting your home appliances. As a result, buying a stackable unit that uses a washer stacking kit or a washer-dryer combo will save time and space. There are advantages and disadvantages to both options which we will explain here. 

Washer Stackable Kit vs. Washer Dryer combo

A stackable washer kit is an accessory used to securely stack a regular tumble dryer on top of a washing machine or vice versa. They are specifically designed for this purpose and completely safe to use. They can be used with most models and brands of washers and dryers and you may even be able to mix and match brands. 

On the other hand, a washer and dryer combo is one machine that works as a washing machine and a dryer. It allows you to choose between wash or dry cycles only or both.

Washer/Dryer combos have never been popular as they can be prone to high maintenance and if one function breaks then you need to replace the whole machine. However, if your space is limited then they can seem like the only option. The washer dryer combo often costs less upfront, but it can be more expensive in the long run. 

If you opt for a regular washing machine and tumble dryer and then buy a stacking kit you can get the same space saving effect while also getting the exact appliances that you want.  

Is it Better to Have a Stackable Washer and Dryer than a combo?

There are a lot of questions that people have about washer stacking kits and washer dryer combos. Which one is better? Is one better for the environment? Should I buy a stack kit or a combo? 

A washer-dryer combo combines a front-loading machine and dryer into one unit that is of roughly equivalent size to a stand-alone washer. 

• It can be time-consuming as you must wait for the machine to finish washing and drying before adding another load.
•  Some combos may be bigger than a standard washing machine, so you need to be sure of the measurements of your space.
• With a combined functionality, its mechanical parts are complex, posing challenges of something going wrong.
• Electric dryers do have a significant impact on the environment but neither the combo nor the separate dryer is particularly worse. 

Overall, both options are great choices for small spaces but the washer and dryer with a stacking kit gives you greater overall flexibility. If you are limited by budget, then you may choose to buy the combo but be aware that the maintenance costs may be more in the long run.