Dryer buying guide

It’s a lot easier dealing with life’s unexpected moments with a powerful dryer. Whether it’s a downpour on the washing you hung out before heading to work, or the sports jersey at the bottom of the laundry pile you forgot to wash, a dryer can be a lifesaver. From energy efficient heat pump dryers, to condenser dryers and washer dryer combos - The Good Guys has the perfect dryer products for you and your family. Discover top laundry brands in Australia like Fisher & Paykel, LG, ASKO, Miele, Haier, Solt, Westinghouse and more.

With various types of clothes dryers available, including heat pump, vented, condenser, gas dryers and combo models, finding the perfect match for your laundry needs can be overwhelming. Whether you're deciphering between them or simply seeking guidance on the ideal dryer, this dryer guide is here to assist in selecting the right one for your home, budget, and preferred laundry requirements.

Heat Pump Dryers

A heat pump is used in this type of condenser dryer to recycle the air used during the drying process. This makes them much more energy-efficient and cheaper to run than vented and conventional condenser dryers.

Pros:

• The most environmentally friendly dryer

• If you use it regularly, it’s also the most economical in the long run

Cons:

• Longer drying times

Best suited:

“Heat pump dryers also come in larger sizes and don’t require ventilation, making them suitable for all types of laundry, either stacked or under the bench,” says Peter Simic, Laundry Buyer at The Good Guys.

Vented Dryers

Vented dryers are the most common and affordable of all the clothes dryers. Their simple and effective design comprises a box, drum, fan, heater, lint filter, motor and vent. They can also dry clothes quicker on hotter settings for suitable fabrics.

Pros:

• Lightest type of dryer

• Can be wall-mounted

Cons:

• Use the most amount of energy

• Cost more to run per cycle

Best suited:

Perfect for well-ventilated laundries, vented dryers are only suitable in rooms where you can open a window or door, or turn an exhaust fan on during use. Alternatively, you can use a venting kit on certain models to duct the warm, humid air they generate out of the room.“They are best suited to occasional use by those who normally hang their clothes on the line and only need to use a dryer every now and then,” says Peter Simic, Laundry Buyer at The Good Guys.

Condenser Dryers

Condenser dryers have an in-built heat exchanger that takes steam produced during the drying process and turns it back into water. Depending on the model, this is then drained away via a hose or collected in a small tank that can be easily emptied.

Pros:

• Can be stacked on top of a washing machine or placed under the bench

• Gentler on clothes

• Quieter while tumbling

Cons:

• Typically heavier machines

• Longer drying times

Best suited:

For those who like to use their dryer a little more often, or who don’t have a well-ventilated laundry. A heavier machine, condenser dryers can be stacked on top of a washing machine or placed under the bench. “Although they have a longer drying time, they are gentler on your clothes and quieter while tumbling,” says Peter Simic.

Washer Dryer Combos

Washer dryer combos combine the functions of a washing machine and a dryer into one unit, eliminating the need for separate appliances.

Pros:

• Enjoy the ease of washing and drying your clothes without sacrificing precious space or effort

Cons:

• Generally smaller capacity, allowing you to wash/dry less than a typical washer or dryer

Best suited:

For those who prefer the convenience of both washing and drying in a single unit, or those with limited space, a washer dryer combo machine could be the perfect solution.

Drying Cabinets

Drying cabinets utilise gentle heat and airflow to efficiently dry clothes. Unlike traditional clothes dryers that tumble garments, the cabinet suspends them on hangers, ensuring air circulates freely and reaches every part.

Pros:

• Gentler method that helps maintain the quality of clothes, reducing concerns about shrinkage or damage and minimising the need for excessive ironing.

Cons:

• Require more space than a standard dryer

Best suited:

With the inclusion of drying racks, drying cabinets can also handle bulkier items like shoes. Plus, they offer the bonus of deodorizing, bidding farewell to lingering smells from cooking, pets, or outdoor activities. Your clothes stay wrinkle-free and smelling fresh.

Discover popular Dryer brands

1 Sku slider component not ready yet.

2 Brand slider - component not ready yet

3 Video Review Slider - component not ready but used content card grid instead for time being

Get clued up on all the dryer jargon before you start shopping.

Energy efficiency

Using less energy to perform the same task. This essentially leads to eliminating energy waste. In the process, you can cut down your electricity prices and energy bills to help reduce pollution.

Drying temperature

Clothes can be dried at different temperatures, the best dryers can dry your clothes at a temperature that is hot, but not so hot that it causes damage.

Gentle fabric care

Less abrasive drying, usually used for delicate fabrics.

Venting

When a dryer vents out the water/moisture from the machine to the outside of your home. Dryers often do this by using a long, flexible hose – this connects to the tumble dryer and vents the moisture to the outside of your house.