What Is a Washer-Dryer Combo? Is It Worth Buying?
A washer-dryer combo is a single machine that both washes and dries your clothes, all in one cycle without you needing to move the load between machines. For Sydney apartment dwellers with limited laundry space, they're a compelling option — but they also have real trade-offs you should understand before buying.
How Does a Washer-Dryer Combo Work?
A washer-dryer combo (also called an all-in-one washer-dryer) completes a full wash and dry cycle without you doing anything between them. Most use condenser drying technology (no external venting needed), which makes them ideal for apartments. The process:
- Wash cycle: agitates clothes in water with detergent, same as a standard front loader
- Spin cycle: extracts most of the water
- Dry cycle: uses a heating element and condenser to remove remaining moisture
Total cycle time for a full wash + dry: typically 3–5 hours for a full load.
Washer-Dryer Combo vs Separate Machines
| Feature | Combo Unit | Separate Machines |
|---|---|---|
| Floor space | One machine footprint | Two machine footprints (or stacked) |
| Wash capacity | 7–9kg | 7–12kg |
| Dry capacity | 4–6kg (half of wash load) | 7–10kg (full load) |
| Total cycle time | 3–5 hours | Wash 60–90 min + Dry 60–90 min separately |
| Throughput | One load per 3–5 hours | Wash a second load while first is drying |
| Price | $799–1,800 | $500–$1,000 each |
| Venting required | No (condenser) | Depends on dryer type |
Who Should Buy a Washer-Dryer Combo?
Yes, buy a combo if you:
- Live in an apartment or home with space for only ONE laundry machine
- Do 1–2 loads of laundry per week (throughput limitation matters less)
- Can't install venting for a separate dryer
- Want the convenience of walking away and coming back to fully washed and dried clothes
Stick to separate machines if you:
- Do 3+ loads per week (the combo's throughput will frustrate you)
- Have space for separate machines (even stacked)
- Regularly wash heavy items like jeans, towels or bedding (combos struggle with large damp loads in the drying phase)
Best Washer-Dryer Combos in Australia
- LG 8/5kg Combo: Excellent value with LG's reliable Direct Drive motor. AI DD detects fabric type. Very quiet. ~$1,299 new.
- Bosch 8/5kg Combo: German build quality, very quiet EcoSilence motor, excellent wash quality. ~$1,599 new.
- Samsung 8.5/6kg Combo: Slightly larger capacity, very good wash performance, EcoBubble technology. ~$1,299 new.
- Miele 8/5kg Combo: Best quality, 20-year lifespan, TwinDos automatic detergent. ~$2,999 new.
Find Washer-Dryer Combos at Oceania
We regularly stock used and refurbished washer-dryer combos from all major brands. Buying used saves 40–60%, and because these machines have long lifespans, a 3–5 year old combo still has 10+ years of service ahead. Free delivery across Sydney. Browse at oceaniaappliances.com.au or call 0450 700 001.