An important consideration when buying a washer and dryer is whether to choose a front-loading or top-loading model. Energy efficiency is another consideration, not only for the good of the environment, but for economic purposes as well. The types of items you wash, the amount of clothes you wash and issues such as noise level and space are other necessary considerations to make when buying a washer and dryer.

It is a good idea to consider the laundering needs of your particular household before buying a washer and dryer. Some newer washer and dryer models have features such as extra insulation and sturdier frames that help reduce noise. If you are short on space, consider buying a washer and dryer that is stacked vertically such as Whirlpool's "Thin-Twin." Whirlpool also has front-loading washers that can wash up to 16 pairs of jeans in one load. If your laundry needs require many different settings, consider buying a washer and dryer such as Maytag's models that have 12 different cycles.

If you are concerned about the environment as well as your energy costs, you should consider buying a washer and dryer such as Whirlpool's Efficiency-Top-Loading model with an Energy Star sticker. An Energy Star qualified washer is shown by the United States Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency to use between 35 - 50% less water as well as 50% less energy than a non-Energy Star approved washing machine. Whirlpool's Efficiency-Top-Loading washer can do three baskets of laundry in just one load and also has a stain penetration system. Whirlpool also has dryers with very fast drying times. Less drying time cuts energy costs.

Front-loading washers are more expensive, but offer a larger load capacity and can be stacked. Maytag has some very large capacity front-loading washers and dryers. Front-loading dryers often spin clothes faster and remove more water, saving time, money and energy. However the detergent for front-loading washers may be more difficult to find and may also be more expensive. Front-loading dryers may cost up to 40% more than top-loading models, but use less energy. It may take a few years to see the savings in utility bills, but many people today are buying a washer and dryer that will help them save on energy costs.

Top-loading models offer more variety in color choice, style and features. The detergent for top-loading washing machines is easy to find and often less expensive than detergent for front-loading models. Top-loading models are usually less energy efficient than front-loading machines and are not stackable. The top-loading models usually cost less though. Whatever choice you make, it is best when buying a washer and dryer to make both machines either both front-loading or both top-loading ones. Not only will they look neater, they may have similar operating times.