When you buy a washing machine and dryer, the most important features you have to consider nowadays are energy efficiency, and whether the appliance you buy suits your lifestyle and the space you have available. In terms of lifestyle, think about how often you use the washer and what you wash.

Now, if you use your washer and dryer often, it's best if you buy one with a stainless-steel tub. Those who wash less frequently will probably do fine with porcelain-coated steel or high-grade plastic. If you don't have much space for a large washer, you can get a stacking washer/dryer machine. This comes in either full-size or apartment-size capacities. Another important thing is that you must get a dryer that matches your washer's capacity.

Think about what you will use them for. If your wash includes a variety of fabrics and levels of dirtiness, a washer with specialty cycles like delicate and extra soak, plus a second rinse, will be valuable. Multiple water-level settings will ensure the most efficient wash for loads of different sizes. Some machines can boost water temperature to sanitize a load. Other items to consider are automatic temperature regulators; a must in cold climates, they ensure that wash water comes in at a constant temperature for the setting.

The two common types of washing machines are top-load models and front-load washers. Top-load washers allow the user to put in and retrieve laundry from the machine without bending over. These models must be set side-by-side with the dryer. While these machines cost less initially, they are also less energy-efficient in the long run.

Front-load washers are recommended for its energy efficiency, and indeed it has been steadily growing in popularity because of this feature. These models use only up to one-half of the water that is usually needed for a top-load machine. This also means less time and energy used for heating. And, because it spins faster, clothes come out needing less time in the dryer. Although they save on energy costs, front loaders are more expensive at purchase; some require a special detergent.

When selecting a dryer, always remember that the capacity you choose should match that of your washer's. A washer with a 3.5-cubic-foot capacity, for example, requires a 7-cubic-foot dryer capacity. You can always buy a stacking model that can fit in a closet if space is a problem.

Dryers are powered by either gas or electricity. Gas models are typically more expensive to purchase, but it will prove to be more energy efficient and economical in the long run. Dryers must have at least one option for an automatic drying cycle, although the better models now have moisture sensors which allow to machine to shut down once the moisture level of the laundry drops below a certain point. Other nice features include a cool-down cycle, which keeps the clothes wrinkle-free, and a damp-dry cycle that allows garments to be prepared for ironing.