8 Best Smart Washers and Dryers of 2022

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Load ‘em and let them go!

Smart devices are everywhere. It started with smartphones and smartwatches, but now we have smart devices that span the entire household. Smart cleaning products, in particular, aren't new — we've been testing robot vacuums and app-connected vacuum mops for years, but we're now seeing more smart washers and dryers, too.

So what makes a washer and dryer smart? It can be app connectivity, inter-appliance communication, Alexa connectivity or even smart detergent dispensers that allow you to store multiple loads worth of detergent in the washer at once. While none of the smart washers and dryers we’ve tested have all of these smart features, all have at least one that can make your laundry day just a little easier (and a whole lot cooler).

In the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care and Cleaning Lab, we’ve tested hundreds of washers and clothes dryers in the last 120-plus years, along with other frequently used laundry products like detergents and fabric softeners, plus innovative new products like laundry detergent sheets. We test smart washers and dryers the same way we’ve tested all of the washers and dryers that have made their way into our Lab. Using standards developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), we test each washer and dryer for cleaning performance and ease of use. App-compatible models are connected to our own smartphones for testing. After collecting thousands of data points from nearly a dozen different tests, we assign each washer and dryer an average score and feature only the top scorers in our lists of the best.

With the exception of our best compact pick, all of the prices listed below are for the washer in a smart pair and offer dryers that are gas or electric models. We've also made sure that all of the picks on our list are high-efficiency models and that dryers are Energy Star-certified.

You can read more about how we test washers and dryers in our Lab, plus find answers to some frequently asked questions at the end of this guide. Looking for more laundry day options? Check out our guide to the best portable washing machines and the best clothing steamers.

Buy the Samsung Stackable Steam Cycle Electric Dryer

Packed with enough smart features to rival the latest smartphone, this front-load washer and dryer pair from Samsung seriously impressed our experts in Lab tests. After just a few runs, it learned our favorite cycle settings and automatically had these pre-loaded for the next laundry load. Through the easy-to-use Smart Things app — which also controls other Samsung app-enabled devices — you can schedule wash cycles, remotely start and stop them and receive alerts when cycles end.

Other neat smart washer features include Optiwash which adjusts the cycle length and amount of detergent as it senses the load's soil level, an automatic detergent and fabric softener dispenser and a notification every 40 cycles to remind you it's time to run a self-clean cycle. This Samsung washer was also lauded by our Cleaning experts for how quietly it ran, and it earned a 2021 Good Housekeeping Cleaning Award.

Communication between appliances lets the dryer know what kind of load has just finished being washed, allowing it to pre-set the dryer cycle. The dryer also automatically reminds you when it's time to clean the lint filter and vent, plus alerts you to any blockages in the vent. Though they are large models with extra-large capacities, they work well in small spaces as they can be stacked. No need to tip-toe to reach the controls on your dryer either — the washer's control panel controls the dryer too. This pair is only available in Brushed Black so your color options are limited, but the doors are reversible so they can accommodate different kinds of spaces.

Buy the Whirlpool Profile Smart Capable Steam Cycle Electric Dryer

This washer and dryer pair from Whirlpool boasts an impressive list of smart features, but one feature, in particular, sets it apart from the dozens of others in its category. The washer has a removable agitator in the drum allowing you to accommodate larger loads and bulkier items like comforters and other heavy bedding. When we tested this washer, it impressed us enough to earn a 2021 Cleaning Award in the appliances category. We found the Whirlpool app easy to use, and it allowed us to schedule and remotely start cycles. Both the washer and dryer allow you to create and save custom cycles, and the app can also suggest the best dry cycle depending on the wash cycle used.

An automatic dispenser holds up to 20 loads worth of detergent at a time. This detergent can also be added to the water stream of the washer's built-in faucet to spot-treat stains right in the appliance or deposited into the drum for an up-to-120-minute presoak for heavily stained garments. As a wash cycle progresses, the washer automatically adjusts the water levels and washer actions based on the size of the load. Similarly, the matching dryer in this smart pair senses the dryness of a load and adjusts the cycle time to avoid over-drying garments and wasting energy. Both the washer and dryer can be voice-activated with a compatible Google Home or Amazon Alexa device. Some consumers say they are louder than others they’ve used in the past.

If you have a small laundry room, you already know how precious floor space can be. With the Miele TwinDos washer and matching electric dryer, you don't have to give up much of it. These GH Seal-holders are compact and powerful and loaded with upsides like app controls. The dryer is ventless so it can be installed almost anywhere, and to save even more space, you can install them as a stacked unit. From the app, you can select washer cycle options and view performance data for both appliances. The washer has 18 cycles to choose from including an impressive QuickIntenseWash that removed tough stains in under one hour and noticeably whitened cotton swatches in our Lab tests. Detergent doses are automatically dispensed to garments at the right point in the washer cycle to best get clothes clean. Just refill the two TwinDos containers and forget about measuring doses.

If energy and water consumption are top of mind in your home, this smart pair can predict how much water and energy will be used for any selected cycle. After a cycle is done, you can see just how much water and energy were used. Miele also offers fragrance pacs with pleasant scents that dispense light scents to your laundry loads throughout a drying cycle. Take note that the washer alone costs about the same as many smart washer and dryer pairs, but you do get more cycles than with others that are half the price.

Buy the GE Stackable Steam Cycle Electric Dryer

This Good Housekeeping Seal-holder UltraFresh washer dries the inside of the machine when a cycle is finished and the gasket, dispenser and draining system are all treated with Microban to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. When we tested this feature in the Lab, we found that the washer was totally dry after the eight-hour cycle ended. All of the wash cycles we tested were very effective, removing stains from cotton and polyester stain swatches even with the shortest cycle which lasts just 20 minutes. The detergent dispenser holds up to 32 loads of liquid detergent and automatically dispenses the right amount for the kind of load selected. The latest version of this washer has Adaptive SmartDispense technology that allows users to scan their favorite detergent through the SmartHQ app. Then, the washer dispenses the amount of detergent that is recommended for each load by the detergent manufacturer. For very small loads, there's even a convenient cycle that washes and dries without applying any heat.

The matching dryer is equally as impressive. It smartly links to the washer to have dry cycles pre-set as soon as a load is washed, and it features an option that removes static by misting clothing as it nears the end of a cycle. A sanitizing cycle kills common household bacteria. The app is easy to use and will send alerts when loads finish. Specialty cycles can also be downloaded from the app, and you can remotely start and stop cycles. If your smart washer and dryer pair need servicing, the app links directly to the scheduling page on GE's website. These are best purchased as a pair to benefit from all of the available smart features.

GE Profile Smart Electric Dryer

When we tested this top-loading pair from GE in the Lab, we found navigating the cycle options was simple and loved the technology to help prevent tangled sheets. Both the washer and dryer earned a 2022 Best Cleaning and Organizing Award thanks to their strong performance and long list of innovative features. Some of the features that stand out the most are the fabric freshener dispenser in the dryer door, Microban antimicrobial treatment of the washer and the built-in Alexa that recognizes thousands of voice commands and questions including how to wash a specific fabric and how to best remove a stain.

Through the SmartHQ app, you can start, stop, monitor and download special cycles for the washer and dryer, plus save your favorite settings as your own custom cycle. If you’ve loaded a laundry additive to the auto-dispenser, you can have it dispensed in the pre-wash, main wash or rinse portion of the wash cycle through the app, too. Take note that during the spin portion of the wash cycle, we found the washer is a bit loud. We had to pause the cycle to manually rebalance the load several times to prevent the drum from knocking on the sides of the washer. Like many other smart washer and dryer pairs, the two models communicate with each other to have the right dryer cycle ready to go after a wash cycle ends. Even without a sale, it's a great value buy for the number of features it packs.

Buy the Maytag Smart Capable Electric Vented Dryer

Maytag washers and dryers have been top performers in our Cleaning Lab tests for many years. Arguably the most unique feature of this smart washer and dryer pair from the brand is the extra power button on both appliances. For the washer, this means clothing is washed in cold and warm water at different stages of the cycle to tackle more stains. On the dryer, the extra power button adds time, heat and tumbling to a load to make sure it's dry without needing a second go-around through the dryer. We tested a model with this extra power function years ago and found that it worked really well. We've also tested many other models from Maytag and even feature another model as our pick for the best top-loading washing machine in our guide to the best washers. Even with the capacity to handle extra-large loads and bulky bedding, this pair's footprint remains on par with other medium- to large-capacity washers and dryers on the market.

Connect to the app to remotely start and stop cycles, save your favorite cycle options and access a stain guide that recommends the best wash cycle to remove different kinds of stains. If you already have an existing Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant device, you can connect them to this pair to activate voice controls, plus automatically reorder laundry supplies like detergent and dryer sheets. Sensors inside the washer adjust the water level of each load according to the load size and sensors in the dryer sense the dampness of clothing and adjust the cycle time accordingly. Switch on the wrinkle-prevent option to keep the dryer tumbling for up to 150 minutes after a cycle ends to prevent stubborn wrinkles from forming.

Buy the Electrolux Front Load Electric Dryer

This stackable washer and dryer pair from Electrolux caught our eye thanks to its ultra-fast wash and dry cycles that can clean and dry small, lightly soiled loads in 30 minutes — perfect for when you need an outfit fast. In our tests, this cleaning pair performed very well, nixing stains from our test stain swatches easily. There's no app to download extra cycles or remotely start and stop the appliances, but you can still delay start both the washer and dryer, select special cycles like activewear and towels and treat stains right from the control panel. Both models have a feature that keeps garments fresh if they are left in the drum for long periods of time after the cycle ends. Both can remember the cycle options selected for the next time you wash a load. The SmartBoost technology in the washer premixes the detergent from the dispenser with water in a small compartment before they are dispensed onto a load. According to the manufacturer, this allows the detergent to cover the clothing more evenly to clean clothes better than other washers.

With a capacity of 8 cubic feet and a reversible door, the dryer can accommodate loads for small and large families alike. A sensor allows the dryer to prevent temperature spikes and keep garments cooler without adding dry time. It automatically detects the humidity in garments to prevent over-drying. An instant refresh option refreshes clothing after light wear without having to run them through a wash cycle.

This stacked smart washer and dryer from LG is sold as a single unit with just one control panel in the center to control both appliances — convenient for both space-saving and for those that don't want the hassle of buying and linking two separate appliances. Cleaning Lab Executive Director, Carolyn Forté tested this model at home and found it incredibly easy to use. Even shorter users had no problem loading and unloading the WashTower.

There are plenty of notable smart features to mention: Sensors in each drum adjust the washing and drying cycles based on the fabric texture and load size and app connectivity allows users to start, stop and monitor cycles and download additional ones. If you’re prone to using one cycle more than others, this pair remembers your preferred options and automatically has them ready. For allergy sufferers, there's an Allergiene wash cycle that the manufacturer says removes up to 95% of common allergens like dust and pollen and it's certified asthma and allergy friendly by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Take note that this pair cannot be separated so if either one needs replacing, you’ll need a whole new WashTower.

Our cleaning pros have been testing washers, dryers and other big and small cleaning products for over 120 years. In all, we’ve tested hundreds of washers and dryers, collecting thousands of data points for each washing machine we test (288 data points just from one cycle on a single washer). To test washers and dryers, compact, medium and large-capacity models are installed in our Lab which can accommodate seven full-size models at a time. Using tests that have been adapted from industry standards developed by the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM), we evaluate the cleaning performance of each load and how gentle they are on fabrics and assign scores for energy usage, ease of use and how clear and concise the owner's manual is.

Each washing machine cycle is tested for its ability to remove six stains from six strips of fabric. The stains are measured using color measurement technology, and a stain removal index for each cycle is calculated. To test the gentleness of a washer cycle, we run them with swatches of cotton fabric with five pre-cut holes in them. After the cycle ends, we count every single frayed thread on the fabric and assign each cycle a score based on this number. Our Cleaning Lab is equipped with special tools that measure the water and energy usage of each washer we test. Careful consideration is given to how easy the washer is to use based on factors like adding detergent, adjusting cycle options and opening and closing the door. Specialty cycles like those for sanitizing and bulky bedding are tested too. We also try all of the smart functions on each model, connecting washers to our own smartphones for testing.

Dryers are tested in a temperature- and humidity-controlled room in our Lab where we evaluate performance, drum capacity, total footprint and ease of use. Each dryer sits on a balance as it runs a drying cycle so that we can easily determine when the wet load is as dry as it was before it went into a washing machine. We assign scores for how well each drying cycle dries clothes, how quickly it dries them, how well each dryer removes wrinkles and how well they capture lint from the load. Using temperature strips that we attach to swatches of fabric, we determine which dryers dry garments without excessive (or damaging) heat. Like with smart washers, we assign a score to every owner's manual, consider how easy each dryer is to use and try every smart function offered.

You’ll want to look for the same things you consider when you shop for regular washers and dryers, plus decide what kind of smart features are most beneficial for your home. Here's what our experts consider when shopping for these appliances:

✔️ Smart features: Smart washers and dryers come loaded with features that are meant to make laundry day easier, but not all smart washers have the same ones. Some of the smart features we’ve seen in the Cleaning Lab include a built-in Amazon Alexa feature that allows you to control the machines with voice commands, automatic detergent dispenser, starting and stopping cycles from your phone and dryers that will automatically select a cycle based on the wash cycle used.

✔️ Front-loading vs. top-loading: Both kinds of washers will leave your laundry loads clean. Front-loading washing machines are gentler on clothes, can often be stacked with a matching dryer pair to save space in your laundry room and use less water per load than top-loading washing machines, but you won't be able to add clothes mid-cycle like you can with a top loading model. You’ll also have to bend and reach lower to remove garments from the drum, though a pedestal can make this task easier. Many top-loading washers can also be used to soak clothing and have shorter wash cycles than front-loaders. Make sure that you can reach into your top-loading washing machine comfortably.

✔️ Capacity: Compact washers with capacities smaller than 3 cubic feet are a great space-saving option for apartment dwellers. Medium-capacity washers range in size from 3 to just over 4 cubic feet. These are great for regular to large loads of laundry but might not be big enough for heavy comforters and sheet sets. If you’ll be washing extra-large loads and heavy bedding often, opt for a large-capacity washer that is over 5 cubic feet instead.

✔️ Cycles: Most washers and dryers have at least the same staple cycle options: normal, whites and delicates. If you wash lots of activewear, bedding or items that need to be sanitized often, look for a machine with these cycles built-in or one with an app where you can download new cycles. Being able to manually adjust the temperature, spin speed and soil level is also helpful if you like creating your own cycles.

✔️ Gas vs. electric dryer: Most dryers can be purchased in either gas or electric configurations. If you already have an electric dryer and are replacing it with a newer model, it's easiest to just purchase another electric dryer. Setting up a new gas dryer will require connecting a gas line to your laundry room. Electric dryers do cost more to run over time than gas dryers do, but have a lower upfront cost.

✔️ Dryer venting: Dryers remove moisture from your laundry loads through heat. But where does this moisture and heat go when the cycle ends? There are two options. Most dryers require outside venting through a long duct that can travel all the way from the back of your dryer to just outside your home (usually your back or front yard) to release the excess moisture and heat. If outside venting isn't possible in your home or you live in an apartment, opt for a ventless model that traps moisture in a drawer right on the dryer. This drawer can then be easily emptied into a sink after each load.

✔️ Energy efficiency: Look for smart washers and dryers that are labeled "high-efficiency." These models have been made to work faster while using less water and energy. The yellow Energy Guide labels on the front of the appliances will tell you how much energy it uses, the cost of running it and how it compares to other models.

Smart washers and dryers do the same thing regular washers and dryers do — get your clothes clean! But, they have a few additional features that regular washers and dryers may be lacking.

Some are voice-controlled when paired with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, and some can be remotely stopped and started through an app on your smartphone or can even communicate with each other to automatically select a matching drying cycle after a wash cycle has ended. Others can be pre-loaded with multiple loads worth of your favorite laundry detergent to automatically dispense the correct amount according to the load size or can adjust washing and drying settings as the cycle progresses thanks to built-in sensors inside of the appliance's drum.

These bonus features likely won't change the way your clothes are cleaned, but they can make your laundry day just a little bit more personalized.

Different Wi-Fi-connected washers and dryers come with different smart capabilities. Some, like the GE Ultra Fresh Front Load Washer with Odor Block can be voice-activated when paired with an Alexa smart home device. Others, like the LG WashTower can communicate with each other to have a cycle pre-set in the dryer by the time a washing cycle finishes. Most of these smart devices’ apps allow the user to start or stop cycles or download new cycles onto the appliance from the app. If you want a smart washer, but prefer not to have it connected to Wi-Fi, you can still use it as a regular washer and dryer, though you won't be able to enjoy some of the extra functions that come with these smart devices.

Smart washers and dryers are worth it if you like the idea of having control of your devices in the palm of your hand or already have other smart home devices. As long as you have a smartphone, you can easily check in on your washer and dryer from anywhere. Downloading new cycles for specialty fabrics like activewear is also a great benefit if you have lots of this type of clothing.

Jodhaira Rodriguez has been testing and writing in the Good Housekeeping Institute Cleaning Lab since 2021. During that time, she has tested hundreds of laundry products, including conducting a new test of laundry detergent sheets, dozens of laundry products for the 2022 Best Cleaning and Organizing Awards and two of the washer and dryer sets in this roundup. All of the picks in this story were selected in collaboration the Cleaning Lab's executive director, Carolyn Forté who has tested hundreds of washers and dryers in the Good Housekeeping Institute.

Jodhaira (she/her) is a product reviews analyst at the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care & Cleaning Lab, where she tests and writes about home appliances, cleaning products and cleaning tips. Prior to joining GH in 2021, she graduated from Hofstra University with a bachelor's degree in forensic science and spent two years as an analyst in an environmental lab in Queens.

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