Washers and Dryers – Four Things to Know Before Shopping

When a washer or dryer breaks it can throw a family’s routine off schedule, since everyone needs fresh clean clothes. Parents need work clothes. Kids need to look sharp for school and to get the mud off sports jerseys. Picking the right washer and dryer can be a daunting task, especially since the newest complicated models can cost upwards of $1,500 each.

Consider these four tips before you dive into your next washer/dryer purchase:

Tailor the Features to Your Lifestyle

Before making a purchase, consider your typical laundering needs. Do you live by yourself and don’t get your clothes too dirty? Simple space-saving machines might be plenty for you. If you’re a family of five and your kids get muddy every week, then you might need a heavy-duty machine to handle washing shoes, towels, and dirty bath mats. If you need your clothes to look professional, then consider a washer and dryer that have anti-wrinkle technology. If your machines aren’t in a garage and the noise can be bothersome, then choose a model with extra insulation or specially-built frames. Match the features to your needs so you don’t overspend or you aren’t stuck with a machine that doesn’t make your daily chores easier. 

Reviews are Important

When choosing a washer and dryer, you should keep in mind the key attributes of quality products which are “clean clothes that dry quickly and don’t shrink.” You should read reviews of each product you are considering and pay special attention to how well or poorly certain machines are rated for their cleaning prowess and the quality of their drying. Reviews will help you see if there are any appreciable differences in performance with the $1,300 machine versus the simpler $500 machine. Buying these appliances is not cheap, so take a little time to read reviews and make an informed decision.

Front or Top-Loading Machines Both Have their Advantages

Washers and dryers come in two main configurations, the front loaders and the top loaders. Front loaders are typically more expensive, but the tradeoffs come in larger load capacities and they can be stacked for tight spaces. Front loaders are also usually more efficient due to better spin cycles, so you should judge the energy savings versus the higher initial cost. A drawback to front-loaders is they often require the machine to be on a $150 to $250 pedestal to make loading comfortable and for storage. Top loading machines are gaining in popularity and tech features. They also aren’t as prone to leaking and don’t have the potential for moldy smells that can happen in the rubber gaskets sealing front loaders.

 

You Should Insure Your Washer/Dryer against Damage

Today’s washers and dryers are a significant investment. The repair of these appliances can also be costly, so it makes sense to utilize cost-effective insurance to avoid the hassle of repair bills. However, when you are asked at the sales register (or during online checkout) to pay pause.  Before opting out or choosing the in-store warranty plan, look to third-party firms such as Protect Your Bubble, which offers complete protection packages as well as an all-in-one plan that covers the things that matter most under your roof, no matter what the brand.

About the Author

Stacey Vogler is Managing Director of Protect Your Bubble USA, a new kind of specialty protection brand that understands that 21st century lives are busy and complicated and offers an online service that makes protection plans simple and uncomplicated. The company offers a range of products, such as warranties for televisions and home theater systems, that is specifically tailored to offer protection in a fast changing, modern world, so that customers are prepared with the coverage and support they need in the event the unexpected happens. Protect Your Bubble also offers a new type of coverage – an all-in-one plan that covers multiple devices, electronics and appliances. The company’s new multi-device protection plan covers all the things that customers can’t live without, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, PCs, TVs, appliances and other items like cameras and gaming gear. Visit ProtectYourBubble.com for more information.