What's the best tumble dryer brand?

Key Steps

1. Consider your needs. Work out what the best tumble dryer for you is based on your requirements over size, efficiency, capacity, and cost

2. Set a budget for your new purchase

3. Research your options and generate a shortlist of appliances

4. Read reviews from users to finalise your decision

Whether you’re looking for an upgrade or are buying a tumble dryer for the first time, there are several things you need to consider to find the best tumble dryer to buy. It’s only natural that you’ll need a little help making the final decision, and we’re here to help.

Follow our tips on finding the best tumble dryer brand – from assessing your own needs to reading tumble dryer reviews – and get the help you deserve when drying laundry at home.

Read tumble dryer reviews and check the installation method of different tumble dryers before you buy. Some dryers need to be connected to a wall vent so make sure you consider this requirement alongside other factors such as cost and efficiency.

What Is The Best Tumble Dryer To Buy? Defining Your Needs

When looking for the best tumble dryer for your home, there is no simple answer. What you consider the best model might not be the same as that of your neighbour or family. This is because the best tumble dryer for you is the one that meets your needs. You’ll need to define these before you start looking at appliances – and there are a few things to consider.

• • What type of boiler?

There are two main types of dryer: vented and condenser. Vented dryers need to be connected to a wall vent or window vent via a hose to pump out evaporated water. Condenser boilers collect the evaporated water in a built-in water tank and can be positioned freely in your home. They’re likely to cost a little more, though, and you’ll need to remember to empty the water tank each time it fills up.

• • How does it work?

Not all tumble dryers work in the same way so check the set-up before buying. With condenser boilers, you’ll also need to choose between standard condensers and heat pump or gas condensers. Standard condensers are normally cheaper to purchase outright, but gas and heat pump condensers may be cheaper to run.

• How big is it?

  You need to consider two things here: is the tumble dryer big enough for your needs, and is it small enough to fit in your home. Measure the space you have available to get your dimensions and don’t forget to consider whether your model needs to be positioned by a wall or window vent. The average capacity of a tumble dryer is 6-7kg which should be enough for the average family. You can also get bigger 8kg models for large families as well as smaller 3-5kg models that are ideal for smaller households or those who don’t expect to use the appliance regularly.

• How much energy does it use?

  The best tumble dryer for the environment is one that uses as little electricity as possible. Most tumble dryers on the market have a B or A efficiency rating, but remember that the best tumble dryer brands for efficiency also tend to be the most expensive. This is only when considering the upfront cost though. Over the lifetime of the machine the annual energy savings might be enough to offset this, so do your math before making your decision.

Buying the Best Tumble Dryer: Setting Your Budget

Now that you have an idea of the type of dryer you need, or want, it’s time to think about how much tumble dryers cost. Most definitions of the best tumble dryer claim it is the one that offers best value, but this doesn’t always mean lowest buying price. Investigate running costs, functionality, and energy use to assess whether you’re really getting a bargain.

• How much does it cost to buy?

Vented tumble dryers are often the cheapest options, starting at around £150, but they cost more to run so if you’re likely to be a heavy user then you may want to look at dearer models. If you’re not sure on the best tumble dryer, reviews could be the answer: have a read and see what others have to say.

• How much does it cost to run?

This will depend on the energy efficiency of the model, the energy plan you are on, and when you use the appliance. Energy costs at cheaper during off-peak periods so if you’re on a tariff that separates these costs then it makes sense to use your appliance overnight when it is cheaper. Limiting your use of the tumble dryer and drying clothes on an indoor airer from time to time can also help reduce costs.

• Are there any cheaper options?

If you’re strapped for cash then a gas tumble dryer might be a cheaper alternative you can try. There aren’t very many on the market, and they’ll need to be installed by a specialist which is likely to cost a little more upfront, but they are much less expensive to run than electric-operated dryers. In fact, Which estimates they cost half as much to run as their average electric counterparts.

Knowing the Best Tumble Dryer to Buy: Making Your Final Decision

Now you’ve worked out everything you need, it’s time to do your research and build a shortlist of models. Have a look at them in shops, if you can, and don’t forget that when seeking the best tumble dryer, reviews are your best friend – so read plenty of them!

Once you’ve decided on the best tumble dryer for you, shop around to find the best price.