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Life on the road is about getting away from it all and enjoying time with your loved ones. Unfortunately, even RV owners have to do some chores. Getting laundry done can be a challenge. Campground facilities are sometimes limited, expensive, and crowded. Finding public laundromats is a hassle. So many RVers wind up dreaming of at-home laundry convenience in their RV.
If you have been spending too much time searching for quarters, driving to the laundromat, or waiting your turn at the RV park laundry room, then an RV machine can save you time and your sanity. Here’s a look at the best RV washer dryer combo and stackable options and how to pick the right one for your RV.
Best RV Washer Dryer Combos
The best RV laundry machines are small-sized to fit in a small space. They offer decent load capacity so you can wash more than one towel at once. In addition, the best machines offer functionality, durability, and reliability at a fair price. Here is our list of best RV washer dryer combos out there
Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|
Giantex Portable Mini Compact Twin Tub Washing Machine 17.6lbs Washer Spain Spinner Portable Washing Machine, Blue+ White | Prime | Buy Now | ||
COMFEE’ Washing Machine 2.0 Cu.ft LED Portable Washing Machine and Washer Lavadora Portátil Compact Laundry, 6 Modes, Energy Saving, Child Lock for RV, Dorm, Apartment Ivory White | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | ||
COSTWAY Portable Mini Washing Machine with Spin Dryer | Prime | Buy Now | ||
Equator Laundry Center EW824N(1.6 cu.ft)+ED850 (3.5 cu.ft.) | Prime | Buy Now | ||
Splendide Washer 24IN 115V 60HZ | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | ||
LG WM3555HWA 24 Inch Smart All In One Washer/Dryer | Prime | Buy Now | ||
Equator 18 lbs. All-In-One Washer Dryer Combo | Prime | Buy Now |
RV Portable Machines
Portable machines are easy to store and simple to operate. They don’t need to be permanently installed and can be filled with water manually or attached to a bathroom or kitchen faucet. They drain in a sink or tub. Some portable machines are very basic and small, and some offer features that rival more expensive machines.
Giantex Portable Mini
This portable twin tub machine has one side for washing and one side for drying. The washing side has a wash timer that can be set for up to 15 minutes of wash time. You can also choose between a “soft” delicate wash or a normal wash.
The washing side can take up to 11 pounds of clothes. This means that it could wash seven towels or pairs of jeans, or two sheets and an assortment of clothes.
The drying side offers a spin-dry and can be set for up to five minutes.
The Giantex Portable Mini works on a 120V system. You can fill the washing machine with water from your faucet or a hose. This makes it convenient as you won’t need to plumb the machine permanently.
You’ll add a few tablespoons of laundry soap into the water. Fill the tub about half full with water. Make sure you don’t put too many clothes in at once as the machine won’t spin correctly if it is overfilled. The washing side is drained with gravity. You’ll open up the drain and might need to tip the machine to get all the water out.
Then, you’ll spin the clothes on the spin-dry side. This will get rid of the soapy water. Next, put the clothes back in the wash side and add soap-free water for a final rinse. Finally, you can put the clothes into the spin-dry section to dry them.
The dryer side doesn’t add heat. Instead, it spins the clothes to remove moisture. Most reviewers find that the clothes are about 90% dry after the spin cycle. You might need to hang a line and air dry your items for a final flourish.
The dryer side can handle six pounds of clothes at a time, which is about half of what the washing side can handle. The spin dryer can run at the same time as the washing side.
Because you don’t need to permanently install the machine, you could use it wherever is convenient. For example, you could set the machine up outside and easily drain it. Or, you can use it in your shower space. Because it only has a spin cycle, you won’t need to worry about venting the dryer.
Pros
- The Giantex Portable Mini is easily movable. You can store it in one location and use it in another.
- Large, 11-pound washing capacity means you can do a decent size load at once.
- Hose filling, gravity draining, and spin-drying mean no installation time.
- Low power use: 300 watts for washing, 110 watts for spinning
Cons
- Lack of cycle options
- Need to switch to rinse cycle manually
- Doesn’t use heat to dry clothes
Stats
- Portability: Easily portable
- Weight: 28 pounds
- Dimensions (inches): 24.8″Wx 15″D x 28.5″H
- Power Use: 110 volts, 300 watts
- Load Capacity: 15 pounds
- Water Usage: About five gallons per cycle
- Ventless
- 【Easy to Operate】: This is our portable mini compact twin tub washing machine which is easy for you to operate. Saving so much time that you dont have to go to a laundry mat or wash things by hand in the tub.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Comfee Washing Machine 2.0 Cu.ft LED Portable Washing Machine and Washer
This Comfee model offers the convenience of a portable unit without the work of manually switching your laundry to rinse and spin cycles. In addition, it has a 15-pound capacity, so it can handle a regular size load.
The machine’s portability means you can store it wherever you have space. It hooks up to a faucet and wall outlet. It also has a drain pump, so you don’t need to worry about monitoring a gravity drain. You can set up the drain hose to drain into your sink, tub, or outside.
The machine has six programs and three water level choices. You can choose from Normal, Heavy, Bulky, Quick, Delicate, or Spin Only. The machine also has a delayed start feature. In addition, it has a see-through lid and has an LED display. Most cycles take 40 minutes to wash and rinse.
The Comfee has wheels to easily move it from one location to another.
Pros
- Inexpensive
- All-in-one. You won’t have to switch from wash to rinse to spin manually
- Portable
- Compact size
Cons
- Spin dry doesn’t completely dry clothes
Stats
- Portability: Portable, doesn’t need to be installed
- Weight: 80 pounds
- Dimensions (inches): 21.63″W x 22.25″D x 37″H
- Power Use: 120 volts, 240 watts
- Load Capacity: 15 pounds
- Water Usage: unknown
- Ventless
- 【FULL-AUTOMATIC & EASY TO USE】 - This Full-Automatic Portable Washing Machine has 6 models most commonly used programs including Normal, Quick, Heavy, Bulky, Delicate, and Spin Only. The washer also has 3 water temperatures models, meet your different laundry needs. And it comes with a clear lid that allows you to look over the status of clothing at any time.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
COSTWAY Portable Mini Washing Machine with Spin Dryer
This is a great machine if you are looking for the smallest portable machine and only need to do a few items at once. If you live in your RV full-time, you might want to find a bigger option.
The COSTWAY is handy to wash lightweight towels, underwear, and shirts. Heavy jeans and bedding items should be saved for the laundromat or home machine.
You’ll have to manually monitor the machine’s progress. First, you’ll fill the machine with water and a small about of laundry detergent. Next, you can set the machine to a wash cycle. Then, you’ll drain the water into the sink or tub and then add fresh water for a rinse cycle. Finally, you will add the spin basket and spin-dry the clothes.
The washer is efficient and takes 10 minutes to wash and five minutes to spin. Like all machines of this type, you’ll still have to hang dry your clothes after the spin cycle.
Pros
- Small size means it can fit anywhere.
- Inexpensive
- Requires no installation
- It uses little power and water
Cons
- Small size means it can only wash a few items at once.
Stats
- Portability: Very easy to store and move.
- Weight: 12.1 pounds
- Dimensions (inches): 14″W x 13.5″D x 20″H
- Power Use: 110 volts, 170 watts wash, 120 watts spin
- Load Capacity: 5.5 pounds wash, 1.1 pounds spin
- Water Usage: Five gallons
- Ventless
- ▲【Compact & Portable Washing Machine】This washing machine is portable and compact. It is perfect for your limited space such as dorms, apartments, condos, motor homes, RVs, camping and more. And the light weight makes it easy for moving.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Stackable RV Washer and Dryer Options
Equator Stackable Set
The Equator Stackable Set features a separate washer and a separate dryer. The machines use minimal water and electricity. Both units connect to 110-volt power systems.
The machines have good capacity and can handle 13 pounds of laundry. The compact machines are about 60 inches tall when stacked.
Having a stackable washer and dryer for RV use means there’s less possibility of mildew growth. You can also save time by running both machines at once.
The washing machine offers 12 different options. You can choose from Standard, Towels, Heavy, Wool, Delicates, Baby, Quiet, Drain only, or Rinse/Spin. In addition, the machine has a handy RV winterization kit feature.
The doors swing 180 degrees which make for easy loading and unloading.
Pros
- Separate drums mean less mildew
- Compact size
- Winterizing Feature
Cons
- Heavy
Stats
- Portability: Machines must be permanently installed
- Weight: Washer: 156 pounds, Dryer: 52 pounds. 208 pounds together.
- Dimensions (inches): Washer: 23.5″W x 22″D x 33.5″H. Dryer: 23.5″W x 21.5″D x 26.5″H. The machines are 59 inches tall when stacked.
- Power Use: 110 Volt, 1650 watts
- Load Capacity: 13 pounds
- Water Usage: unknown
- Vented
- Brought by Equator Advanced Appliances specialized in Appliances for Small Spaces.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Splendide WFL1300XD Stackable Washer and Splendide DV6400X Stackeable Dryer
You’ll have to buy Splendide’s stackable set seperately, but these machines are a great option if you are looking for a stackable set. The set features reinforced components and internal circuitry to ensure your machines can survive life on the road. Both the washer and dryer have a long-lasting heavy-duty stainless drum.
The 15-pound load capacity is one of the biggest on our list and is comparable to a standard home machine. You’ll be able to wash your sheets, towels, and clothing items easily and efficiently.
The wash cycle has a Reduce Wrinkles feature to reduce fabric wear and creasing. The washing machine has a super-silent operation, which is great for small spaces. The advanced auto-balance system ensures that your loads won’t become unbalanced and vibrate. The machine also features floor protection so you won’t scuff up your floor.
The washing machine has 12 cycles so you can easily choose your water temperature, add an extra rinse, or delay the start. The machine has an easy-to-use, classic selector knob and a digital display for the best of both worlds.
The dryer has a 13-pound capacity. The extra-large, 4 cubic foot drum is dual-rotating which minimizes fabric creasing.
Stats
- Portability:
- Weight: Washer: 148 pounds. Dryer: 67 pounds. Together: 215 pounds
- Dimensions: Washer: 23-1/2″W x 22-3/4″D x 32-7/8″H. Dryer: 23-1/2″W x 22-3/4″D x 32-3/4″H. Together: 23.5W, 22.75D, 55.5H
- Power Use: 110 volt. Washer: 720 watts. Dryer: 1440 watts.
- Load Capacity: 15 pounds
- Water Usage: unknown
- Vented
- Reinforced internal circuitry and components - perfect for RV travel
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- Heavy-duty stainless steel drum with the largest RV-ready dryer drum capacity
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Best RV Washer Dryer Combo Machines
Combo machines are all-in-one machines. They use a single drum to wash and then dry clothes. These machines are convenient and a great space saver. Since you are buying just one machine, they are usually less expensive than a stackable pair. Combo machines are the most popular choice for full-time RV families.
Combo machines need to be plugged into an electrical wall outlet, plumbed to water and have a drain setup.
Combo machines are a lot more expensive than portable machines but perform better. You won’t have to set up a portable machine each time, manage switching the laundry, or monitor the drain. Instead, you’ll have the convenience of an installed machine just like at home.
Because combo machines have just one drum doing two jobs, they take more time to complete a cycle. This can be inconvenient if you have several loads because you can’t wash a second load while the first one drys.
Splendide WD2100XC White Vented Combo Washer/Dryer
The Splendide Washer/Dryer combo is an all-in-one unit that will save space while getting the job done. At an average price of $1500, this is one of the most expensive machines on our list.
The Splendide offers a 15-pound wash with an 11-pound dry capacity. This makes it comparable to a home machine and means you can easily wash your sheets, clothes, and towels.
The Splendide features ten wash cycles and three dry cycles. The loading door is extra wide, which makes it easy to manage. You can choose the water temperature, heat temperature, spin speed, or choose an extra rinse.
The washing machine uses between 7.5 to 16 gallons per cycle. It runs on 120 volts.
The machine is a convenient size at 23.5 x 22.6 x 33.12 inches. However, it is quite heavy at 145 pounds. The weight and installation requirements mean that the machine should be permanently installed and not considered portable.
This washer dryer combo requires a vent, so you will have to plan ahead to make sure the exhaust can escape.
The machine features a self-cleaning filter that automatically removes lint.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Quiet
- Shock absorption
- Multiple cycles and modes to choose from
Cons
- Heavy
- Expensive
Stats
- Portability: Unit must be installed and connected to electricity, a water system, and a drain system.
- Weight: 145 pounds
- Dimensions (inches): 23.5″W x 22.6″D x 33.12″H
- Power Use: 110 volts, 1300 watts
- Load Capacity: 15 pounds
- Water Usage: 7.5 – 16 gallons
- Vented
- Reinforced internal circuitry and components - perfect for RV travel
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
LG WM3555HWA 24 Inch Smart All In One Washer/Dryer
If you’ve always wanted an assistant to do your laundry for you, you’ll love the LG Smart All-In-One. This compact machine is just 24 inches wide, meaning it can fit almost anywhere. In addition, the machine uses ventless technology, so you won’t have to cut holes in your RV or make other concessions.
The LG uses Artificial Intelligence to detect fabric type and load size and then chooses the best wash settings for your load. This innovative machine uses steam cleaning and will remove over 95% of dust and pet dander.
If you want to select options manually, you have 14 to choose from. You can choose Normal, Bulky, Heavy Duty, Baby, Steam Refresh, Delicates, Permanent Press, Wash & Dry, Speed Wash, Drain & Spin, Tub Clean, or Sanitary.
The dryer can be programmed for low, normal, iron, eco, or timed dry.
The Smart All in One uses Sensor Dry to detect moisture and adjust its drying time. As a result, you’ll save electricity by not over-drying items.
You can download the ThinQ app and control your laundry from your phone. Start a cycle, check the remaining time, and monitor your machine anywhere. The app will send you an alert when your laundry is done.
The attractive tempered glass door is scratch-resistant and made to last. In addition, the machine has a TrueBalance Anti-Vibration system and a NeveRust Stainless Steel Drum.
Pros
- High-tech machine with Wi-Fi app and steam technology
- Ventless
- Large capacity
Cons
- Heavy at 170 lbs
- It takes 2.5-6 hours to complete one cycle
Stats
- Portability: Needs permanent installation with power, water, and drain hook-up.
- Weight: 170 lbs
- Dimensions (inches): 24’W x 22 1/4″D x 33 1/2″H
- Power Use: 120 volts, 13 amps, 1560 watts
- Load Capacity: 17 pounds
- Water Usage: unknown
- Ventless
- All in one washer and dryer combo
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Equator EZ 5500 CV
This Equator Combo has an 18-pound capacity, making it one of the largest capacity machines on our list. It can manage up to 12 bath towels a cycle.
The machine uses sensors to determine the best amount of water to use. In addition, sensors will automatically dry for the best time without wasting energy.
This machine is the first combo to offer vented or ventless drying. You can switch between vented or ventless drying at the touch of a button.
The Equator combo has ten different wash cycles. It can also self-clean and has an allergy cycle. It also has a Winterize function, making it easy for RV owners to manage winterization chores. In addition, the drum baffles are anti-bacterial to help reduce the risk of mold and mildew.
Pros
- Large capacity
- Many functions and options
Cons
- High power usage
- Long cycle times
Stats
- Portability: No, needs to be installed
- Weight: 190 pounds
- Dimensions: HxWxD 33.5 x 23.5 x 24.8
- Power Use: 110 volts, 1500 watts
- Load Capacity: 18 pounds
- Water Usage: unknown
- Vented or Ventless
- Compact size - 10 to 12 bath towels (Approx size of Dishwasher)
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Do You Need an RV Washer/Dryer? – Pros and Cons of Washer Combos
There are many considerations if you are adding a new washer dryer to your RV. You must find space, power, a water connection, and manage the washer’s gray water. In addition, you’ll have to budget for the initial purchase.
Most RV washer dryer combos are smaller than regular machines, so you won’t be able to do as much laundry at once. However, while some setup is involved, many find the benefits of in-RV-home laundry outweigh the costs. After you’ve completed the installation, you can enjoy years of convenience and clean clothes.
Benefits – Pros of RV Washer and Dryer Combos
The ability to do laundry in the comfort of your own RV home has many benefits. You can throw in a load and fire up the BBQ simultaneously. You can do your laundry in those portable washing machines whatever time suits you, rather than organizing your day around the RV Park or laundromat’s hours.
Many RV owners enjoy managing their laundry in the privacy of their own homes instead of at a shared facility. You don’t have to lug your heavy items around, remember detergent, or hunt for quarters. In addition, you can easily control your machine’s cleanliness.
You won’t have to worry about getting back to the machine before someone empties your laundry on the floor or table. Finally, if you accidentally leave a red sock with your whites and dye all your clothes red, you’ll have no one to blame but yourself.
If you are packing up your RV for a weekend trip or a vacation, you can pack fewer clothes since you’ll be able to wash them. RV families that have dogs and kids usually have some sort of washer and dryer in their RV so that they can easily keep up with laundry demands.
Disadvantages – Cons of RV Washer Dryer Combos
First, the machines take up space, which is always a precious commodity in an RV. You’ll have to pay for the machines upfront. Some machines require installation, and you’ll have to hook them up to your electric and water supply in addition to sorting out a drain solution. In addition, a vented dryer will require modifying your RV to accommodate the vent.
The washing machine will need fill water and a drain system. If you are plugged into a sewer connection, this shouldn’t be an issue. However, if your RV site doesn’t have a sewer connection, you’ll have to use your gray water tank to store the dirty laundry water.
The machines also use electricity, so you should ensure your RV electrical system can handle the load. For example, if you are running on solar power, it might be challenging to run a full-option washer and dryer. However, even boondockers can add a portable machine that uses just 300 watts. The higher-powered machines can use over 1500 watts while operating.
When budgeting for power consumption and planning how you’ll use your machine, remember that RV laundry machines are smaller than home machines and laundromat machines. As a result, you might have to do more loads to complete your laundry chore.
Using Shared RV Park Laundry Machines
Using RV park facilities or a laundromat can save you time and money up-front. If you’re just getting started with the RV lifestyle, you might want to use RV park machines while you consider your options and get used to the lifestyle. Using RV park machines or a laundromat can be efficient as you can usually wash more at once and get the chore done in less time.
Benefits – Pros of RV Park Laundry or Laundromats
Using the RV park laundry machines has some benefits. You won’t have to invest in your own machines up-front. You won’t have to find space or re-organize your RV to accommodate the machines. You won’t have to complete the installation process.
Doing laundry at a large RV Park or laundromat can be more efficient than using an RV facility. For example, you can do all your laundry at once at the laundromat if you have multiple loads. If you have large bedding items, the laundromat is the place to go.
Disadvantages – Cons of RV Park Laundry or Laundromats
Doing your laundry at the RV Park or the laundromat changes your control over your laundry. First, you’ll have to figure out when the machines are available. For example, if you finish a hike at 5 PM and want to wash your dirty clothes at 6 PM, the RV park facilities might already be closed for the day. Now, you’ll have to re-arrange your schedule to get the laundry done tomorrow, taking time out from other activities.
Once you get to the laundry center, you might have to wait on another guest to finish using the machines before you get started, further disrupting your day.
Using shared machines can be time-consuming, inconvenient, and frustrating. Imagine waiting for someone else’s load to finish washing so you can use the machine. You’d much rather be driving to a new place, going on a hike, or launching your canoe.
After their machine finishes, the laundry doer is nowhere in sight. They’ve probably gone on a hike! You have no idea where they are. At some point, you will have to empty the machine for them and that usually ends in some sort of uncomfortable confrontation.
Laundromats can be a better situation because they will probably have more machines. However, you will now have to drive to the laundromat, remember your detergent and coins, and babysit your items. And nice laudromats are surprising hard to find in America, especially in the rural areas where most people like to camp.
With RV park and laundromat machines, you don’t control the machine’s or facility’s cleanliness. The machines and tables might not be up to your standards. Many people shy away from folding and handling their unmentionable items in public, and public facilities offer little privacy.
After shopping for a washer/dryer, you might want to think about a hybrid approach. Most RVs don’t have enough space for home-sized units, and the smaller units you can fit tend to not handle large loads well. So many full-timers wind up doing their every day loads in the RV and taking a once-a-month trip to a laudromat with oversized washers for those big jobs like comforters and rugs.
RV Washer Dryer Combo Considerations and Key Features
Even if you have space, don’t be tempted to install a home-style washer or dryer in your RV. These machines usually use significant amounts of power and water. In addition, they aren’t designed for the hardships of RV life.
Machines designed for RV use are compact and meant for small spaces. They are power and water conscious. In addition, they often have features to help them withstand being jostled on the road. RV machines usually have stainless steel drums to help the machines last longer.
If you’ve decided to install laundry machines in your RV, you’ll want to consider what features you need. Do you need to wash bedding items, or do you just need to wash a few items? How many people are in your family, and how often do you currently do laundry? Are you content with a simple, cold wash, or do you love having all the options?
Load Capacity
Load capacity refers to how much a machine can wash or dry in one load. A machine with a bigger load capacity will take up more space and may require more water and electricity. However, a larger load capacity means that you can wash more items at once.
Let’s look at home machines so that we can properly compare load capacity. A top-loading home washing machine can take about 12 pounds of laundry, whereas a standard front-load home washing machine can handle 15-18 pounds of laundry. An extra-large home washing machine can accommodate 20 to 22 pounds.
How Much Do Clothes Weigh?
It’s pretty hard to imagine how load capacity translates to real-life laundry. A bath towel weighs about 1.5 pounds. A pair of jeans also weighs about 1.5 pounds. A standard bed sheet weighs about 1.3 pounds. A sweatshirt weighs about 1 pound, and a shirt weighs less than 0.5 pounds.
If your machine can handle 10 pounds of laundry, you could wash three towels, two pairs of jeans, and five shirts.
If your machine can handle 15 pounds of laundry, you could wash your sheets as well as a few additional clothing items. A machine that can wash 15 pounds will have a similar capacity to your home machine.
Machine Controls
Some machines feature a variety of controls, such as a deep clean, extra rinse, or extra-large load setting. In addition, some machines have controls for delicate clothes or baby clothes.
Other machines feature fewer controls. If you are just looking for the simplest design, choose a machine with fewer controls. However, if you live in your RV full-time and want maximum control over each load of laundry, consider buying a more advanced machine.
Some machines also have Wi-Fi-enabled features so you can check on your laundry from an app.
Winterization
Some machines come with a “winterization” feature. If you live in a cold climate where freezing temperatures are possible, you will likely winterize your RV to prevent damage from frozen and busted pipes. A winterization setting will help you put the right amount of anti-freeze in and will circulate it. Without a specific setting, you’ll have to closely monitor the machine to make sure it circulates the anti-freeze without continuing to the spin cycle.
Which Size is Best for Small, Average, or Large RVs?
First, check the dimensions of the space you have available for your laundry combo. You’ll be limited to buying machines that fit your space. Hopefully, you can build in a bit of fudge factor for easy installation. For example, if you are trying to fit a 24-inch-wide machine into a 24-inch space, you’ll have a tough time installing it. Fitting a 24-inch-wide machine into a 27-inch space will give you that extra bit of wiggle room for easier installation.
Best Machine for a Small RV
A portable machine is probably the best choice for a very small RV or camper. A portable machine doesn’t need to be permanently installed, so it can be stored anywhere. A portable machine also uses less power and water than installed machines.
The smallest portable machine on our list, The Costway Mini, is just 14 inches wide, 13.5 inches deep, and 20 inches tall. Most portable machines cost between $100 and $300, so they are very budget-friendly. In addition, these portable machines use less power and less water. A portable machine might use around 300 watts and just a few gallons of water.
If you don’t have space to permanently install a machine, or just use your RV occasionally, a portable machine is the way to go.
Best Machine for an Average RV
Stackable machines offer separate devices for washing and drying. This can make doing laundry more efficient while reducing mold and mildew issues. Stackable machines are more expensive but are popular in larger RVs.
Best Machine for a Large RV
If you have a large RV, you’ll be less worried about finding space for your laundry machines. It might have even come with a space for one from the factory. Either a combo machine or a stackable machine is a good choice. A washer dryer combo is less than 24 inches wide and about 33 inches tall. An RV washer dryer stackable unit is usually less than 24 inches wide and 60 inches tall when the machines are stacked.
A stackable machine is the most expensive and power-needy RV laundry option. The machines often cost around $2000 and use over 1500 watts of power.
Energy Efficiency
You might have power capacity or water limitations in your RV. Regardless, many RV owners want to have the most energy-efficient items. If your RV is set up for 30-amp service, check out machines that use less power. If your RV is set up for twin 30 amp or 50-amp service, you will have more options.
Power Use and Wattage
Different washing machines and dryers have different power needs. For example, one of the simplest machines on our list uses just 300 watts, whereas the beefier machines use 1300 watts. If you are using solar power, you’ll want to carefully consider your machines’ power consumption.
Detergent and Materials
Check to ensure that the machine you are buying works with your preferred laundry detergent. For example, some machines take only powdered detergent. Some have the capacity to handle either powdered or liquid detergent. Most machines have a separate drawer for detergent. If you want to use laundry pods, check to make sure that the owner’s manual allows them. Some machines don’t have the capacity to handle laundry pods.
Preventing Mold and Mildew
RV life can come with annoying side effects such as mold and mildew. Washer dryer combos can have mold issues if they aren’t allowed to dry completely. A ventless dryer that uses condensation drying power may have more mold concerns than a vented machine that uses outside air.
Combos with separate drums for washing and drying often have fewer mold and mildew issues. Washing machines can get moldy if water residue stays behind after the wash cycle. You can leave the washer door open after using it to make sure it completely drys.
Noise Factors
Some washers and dryers are quite noisy. The noise and vibration may be more apparent in a small space than in a larger home. Portable machines can be quite noisy on their spin cycle, especially if the load is unbalanced. If the noise level is important, seek out a machine that offers quieter spins.
Weight
Another consideration for RV owners is weight. If you have a small travel trailer or you tow your rig, you won’t want to change the balance of your rig by installing a 200-pound machine way in the back.
RV Washer Dryer Combo Ventless or Vented
A vented machine uses the air in the room to dry clothes and requires a hole for the exhaust vent. RV owners will have to carefully consider the location of a vented machine and choose where to cut the exhaust vent.
A vented machine is more efficient at drying clothes. Your dry cycle will be short and you’ll use less power if you choose a vented machine.
A non-vented or ventless machine heats the air inside the drum to dry clothes. The moisture from your clothes is stored in a pan that will need to be emptied.
A ventless machine can take a lot of time to dry clothes and therefore uses more electricity. However, a ventless machine doesn’t require cutting a hole for a vent.
Types of RV Washer and Dryer Combos
RV owners can choose from several different types of machines. Portable machines are best for those who don’t want to permanently install a machine. An RV washer and dryer stackable unit takes advantage of vertical space and offers separate drums for washing and drying. A combo machine washes and drys clothes all in one drum, which is a great option for those looking for a space-saving installed machine.
Portable Machines
A portable machine can be stored wherever you have space for it and brought out just when you need it. These machines are low-tech countertop models. You’ll have to fill the washing machine with water, and you might have to manually control the gravity drain.
You might have to start another cycle to rinse the clothes before switching the laundered clothes to the spin side of the machine. Some machines switch from washing to rinsing automatically.
The spin side usually drys clothes about 90%, and then you’ll want to hang dry your clothes.
A portable machine is fast and efficient. It won’t use much water or power. However, it does require more active monitoring. Portable machines are usually the cheapest option, and you should be able to buy one for between $100 and $200.
Stackable RV Washer and Dryer
A stackable machine is a great way to get two separate machines while taking advantage of vertical space. These machines are front-loading and easy to manage. Stackable machines require permanent installation. You’ll have to hook them up to electricity, water, and a drain system.
Washer Dryer Combo for RV
A combo machine washes and drys clothes in one drum. This means that you’ll set your machine up to wash and dry, and then the machine will handle both functions. In addition, the one-drum functionality is a great space saver.
Combo machines can be less time-efficient if you are managing multiple loads at once since you can’t wash the second load while drying the first load. However, if you like to set your machine up and walk off for a hike, you can come back to clean and dry laundry.
How To Use a Washer-Dryer Combo in Your RV
RV Washer and Dryer Pricing
Pricing can be a crucial factor in determining which item to buy. A portable machine with limited options starts at around $100. Stackable machines are often around $1500 for a pair. Combo machines are also pricey, and usually cost around $1500.
Top Brands
If you are buying a home machine, you might gravitate towards known brands such as GE, LG, or Maytag. The RV machine world is a little more confusing with dozens of lesser-known brands.
Giantex
Giantex sells home and outdoor equipment and is a top brand for simple, portable machines. Most Giantex machines don’t require installation and offer simple functionality. Its washer and dryer combos are used in RVs, apartments, and dorm rooms.
Splendide
Splendide focuses on making machines for RV and marine use. They are experts at making compact, efficient machines. Splendide sells combo machines as well as stackable machines.
Equator
Equator offers several options for RV owners. Equator offers eco-friendly machines and offers both combo and stackable options.
RV Washer and Dryer FAQs
A washer dryer combo is a great choice for an average RV. Several brands offer washer dryer combo choices. A washer dryer combo takes up minimal space but must be permanently installed. The average washer dryer combo is about 23.5 inches wide, 23 inches deep, and 33 inches tall.
A washer dryer combo usually costs around $1500 and uses about 1300 watts. A washer dryer combo is the most popular RV option.
Water usage is another issue. Most machines use about 10 gallons per cycle, so be sure you have water availability before running your machine.