Things to Consider When Buying an RV Washer and Dryer Combo
Laundry Load Capacity
This is easily one of the more important qualities to consider when buying a washer and dryer combo for your recreational vehicle. However, the different types approach this in a couple of different ways.
For the single loading combos, the drum laundry capacity for washing and drying will be the same though different models might require smaller loads of clothes for drying since wet clothes weigh more.
This process can be a bit tricky when washing and drying as after you wash your clothes, you might have to remove some from the laundry before drying a load, depending on how large of a load of clothes you washed.
Then, once the smaller dry laundry load finishes, you still need to dry the wet, washed clothes you removed. For example, a combo with a single drum and washing/drying capacities of 10 lbs and 8lbs respectively will require you to remove 2 lbs of wet clothes before drying.
Then, you will still need to dry those 2 lbs of wet laundry once the first drying load finishes. Dual top-down combos do not suffer this potential issue.
On the other hand, dual top-down combos also generally have smaller capacities for washing and much smaller capacities for drying.
Available Space
As with every appliance on an RV, the amount of space it takes up is another important factor. Thankfully, RV washer and dryer combos do a pretty good job of conserving space without necessarily sacrificing too much on quality.
Weight might also be an issue for an RV, especially if you tend to push your towing weight to the maximum. However, the weight of a washer and dryer combo generally matters more for installation than anything else.
Of the two types, the dual top-down models are generally smaller and lighter weight than the single models. The difference in size is often less than a couple of inches for any given dimension, but this difference can still determine whether it fits or not.
However, the weight difference between the two types is more pronounced with single drum models weighing significantly more than dual top-down models. That said, single drum models are also much better to dry your clothes with, and use a heated drying method rather than just spin-drying.
Noise Level
While not necessarily the most critical factor to consider, the relatively small space of a recreational vehicle still warrants a quieter operation than a house. With nowhere to go, a loud RV washer and dryer combo can make it difficult to talk or sleep when in use.
Thankfully, most RV dryer washer combo’s are relatively quiet, with even the powerful motors humming at a conversation level. For the dual top-down models, the motor is not quite as powerful, which ultimately translates to a quieter function.
For the single drum models, the superior products include sound-dampening materials and various engineering designs to reduce noise. While most washer and dryer combos are reasonably quiet, the less reliable ones are more liable to develop issues further down the line, which can translate to increased noise levels.
Vent vs. Ventless
Depending on which type of combo you choose, this may not even be much of an issue. The dual top-down RV washer and dryer combo models do not use heated drying and do not require any venting.
While that might technically make them “ventless” dryers, that is not what this distinction generally refers to. Instead, the difference between vented and ventless dryers comes down to whether the dryer uses a condenser or not.
Ventless dryers use condensers to heat the air used for drying, which is better for efficiency as well as environmental concerns. On top of that, ventless dryers also make controlling the temperature of your RV a bit easier as well since they use less ambient air.
On the other hand, ventless dryers take a good bit longer to dry your clothes than vented ones. However, ventless is still a superior option for recreational vehicles since you do not need to install a vent as well.
RV Washer and Dryer Combo FAQ:
Q: How do I know how much water and detergent to add?
The combo’s instruction manual should tell you how much water and detergent to add. Some combos use a pump to add water with the more advanced options, even including a water level sensor.
Keep in mind, some of the combos provide different detergent and water levels depending on the size of the load.
Q: Can I run both the wash and spin cycle at the same time?
The depends on the RV washer and dryer combo in question, though most options ostensibly say that you can. However, in practice, some of the less reliable options should not use both the wash and spin cycle simultaneously as this tends to throw off the balance of the machine.
On top of that, some of the more expensive combos only feature a single stainless steel drum, which eliminates that option.
Q: How do I power an RV washer and dryer combo?
A standard 120V electrical outlet powers most RV washer dryer combos. The only thing you might need to consider is the amperage of the draw and how well your RV’s electrical system can handle that. Though, this should not be much of an issue for most types of RV.
Q: How does a washer and dryer combo work?
For the dual top-down models, the motor provides a spin cycle for both washing and drying, which means there are no heated drying options. For single loading combos, you first must wash the clothes and then dry them afterward, similar to a standard RV washer or dryer.
Q: How do I use an RV washer and dryer combo?
For the single loading combos, you will use them much in the same way you would larger, more traditional washers and dryers. The dual top-down models require a bit more consideration in how large of a load you wash or dry. On top of that, the top-down loaders will also require you to air dry the clothes a bit after the drying spin cycle.
The Best RV Washer Dryers Reviews
Splendide WD2100XC White Vented Combo RV Washer/Dryer
Best Performing RV Washer Dryer Combo
- Max Spin: 1200 RPM; Cycle: 10 wash/3 dry
- Max Wash Capacity: 15 lbs.; Max Dry Capacity: 11 lbs.
- Super-silent technology
- Built-tough for RV and Marine use
- Dimensions: 33-1/8″ Height x 23-1/2″ Width x 22-5/8″ Depth
With the largest combination of washing and drying capacities at 15 lbs and 11 lbs, respectively, it is hard to deny that the Splendide presents one of the best options for full-time RV owners. Even better than that, the spin dryer’s motor generates 1200 RPMs, which is good for the second-best on our list.
This makes perfect sense when you consider that Splendide is the most experienced company on our list. On top of that, it is also one of the few companies we reviewed, which specializes in the space-saving RV washer and dryer products.
This focus shows up once again with the inclusion of Super-silent technology thanks to sound-absorbing materials and a tri-phase motor that leaves the Splendide as quiet as the average conversation.
The only issue with this washer and dryer combo is that it weighs more than most and is larger than most of the others we reviewed too. This product is also one of the more expensive that we reviewed as well.
PROs
- Has a wash/dry capacity of 15 lbs/11 lbs
- Spins at 1200 rpm
- Has 3/10 dry and wash cycles
- Has Super-silent technology
CONs
- Is a more expensive RV washer dryer
- Is a larger washer dryer
Giantex Portable Mini Compact Washing Machine & Dryer
- 【This Product Is Not for Sale in California】: This is our portable mini compact twin tub washing machine which is easy for you to operate. Saving so much time that you don’t have to go to a laundry mat or wash things by hand in the tub.
- 【Large Capacity】: Washing tube: place clothing in the wash tub section, rated washing capacity: 11 lbs. Run the rinse cycle for the desired minutes, Rated spinner dryer capacity: 6.6 lbs (half of the washing capacity, you may spin twice).
- 【Relief Yourself From Hand Washing】: This washing machine washer timer for 15 min and the spin timer to 5 minutes per load, you could choice the suitable time when washing. Much more freedom and options as opposed to standard washing machines that have preprogrammed settings.
- 【Space Saving Design】: Ideal for small loads and delicate. Light weight and easily moveable. Also the wash motor is powerful. 300w washing power & 110w spinner power will help you powerful use the item.
- 【Compact Twin Tub Washing Design 】: Convenient For Home Use. Have a filter net on the side of the washing barrel, which can easily filter when washing, and you could easily pull it off when cleaning the tube. Have a cover plate when you use the spin tube, can easily put above the cloths and avoid the high speed throw away. Easy assemble is required with all hardware packed in the package.
For the type of RV washer dryer combo it is, the Giantex offers one of the larger laundry capacities that we came across at 11 lbs. The washer dryer combo also provides a decent amount of power to the two motors at 300 W for the washer and 110 W for the dryer.
Giantex may not be one of the more experienced companies on our list, but they are organized for online retail, which helps keep their prices low. While Giantex may not specialize in washer dryer combos or compact products specifically, they do at least focus on general home goods.
Another great thing about the Giantex is how easy it is to use with only a couple of knobs and a few different settings to worry about. This washer dryer combo is also reasonably lightweight and compact with no dimension larger than 30” or 30 lbs.
On the other hand, the dryer capacity of 6.6 lbs is a bit on the smaller side, though it is still not the smallest on our list.
PROs
- Is a less expensive washer dryer
- Has a load capacity of 11 lbs
- Is easier to use
- Is more compact
CONs
- Has a smaller dry capacity
- Not the most reliable
KUPPET Compact Twin Tub Portable Mini Washer Dryer
Largest Capacity RV Washer and Dryer Combo
- ▲【Large Capacity】New! Feature the twin tub dual function design can save your precious time by washing and spinning dry loads at the same time. Total capacity:26lbs(washer:18lbs,spin cycle:8lbs), for doing light to medium laundry loads. You can wash the clothes of the whole family at the same time!
- ▲【Built-in Drain Pump】Built-in drain pump drains dirty water by more longer drainage tube from washer. Drainage tube dimensions: 56.3″, more easier, suitable for most family. Easy storage and space saving design.
- ▲【Timer Control & Powerful Performance】Separate timer control for wash and spin operations. Wash timer for 15 min and spin timer for 5 minutes per load, this unit features a 1300RPM powerful motor with a max frequency of 60Hz. Save your time and wash more clean!
- ▲【Easy Operation】 Simple design of the operation panel, wash timing, wash options, drain options, and spin timing, more easier to use. Allows you to simply put in your load of clothes, fill with water, set the timer and start washing, completely suitable for everywhere!
- ▲【Washing Capacity & Specifications】Total capacity:26 lbs(washer:18 lbs, spin cycle:8 lbs). Overall dimensions: 27.4* 16.1* 31.9 inches. Power supply: 110v/60hz, Total power: 420w(wash:280w/dry:140w). Easy operation design and easily movable.
The KUPPET washer dryer combo tops our list with the largest washing capacity at 18 lbs but also offers a respectable drying capacity of 8 pounds. Combined, these two capacities tie our list for the largest total capacities that we reviewed and has many other list-leading qualities as well.
Like some of the other companies we reviewed, KUPPET does not have much experience nor a large online presence. However, the company focuses on a wide range of home goods, including many made for compact spaces.
One of the more impressive qualities of the KUPPET is its motor, which spins at 1300 rpm and includes both a drain up and down function. This powerful motor is necessary as the KUPPET also provides one of the longest inlet hoses we found at almost 5’ long, allowing you to set it up in different spaces.
While all of these specs are great, the KUPPET drops the ball in its reliability and durability department due to larger capacities and power ratings than the chassis can handle.
PROs
- Has a wash and dry load capacity of 18 lbs/8 lbs
- Spins at 1300 RPM
- Is easier to use
- Has a longer inlet hose
CONs
- Is not the strongest
- Not the most durable
XtremepowerUS Compact Washer Spin Dryer
Best Camping RV Washer and Dryer
- Washer Capacity: 8.8Lbs, 1.25 cubic feet
- Spin Dry Capacity: 5.5Lbs, 0.25 cubic feet
- Washer Power: 300W
- Spinning Dryer Power: 135W
- Overall size: 28″x14″x25″
Noted for taking standard designs and improving on them, the XtremepowerUS washer dryer combo keeps the compact profile and simple design interface common for this product type.
XtremepowerUS got its reputation for making solid, budget-friendly power management products but used that success to branch out into a wide range of different markets. These days, the company makes pretty much every general consumer good but still offers better quality than most other cheap manufacturers.
For example, the XtremepowerUS washer dryer combo is one of the few of this design that works just as well when using both the washing and drying functions simultaneously. Even better, this traditional design is further reinforced with an IPX4 waterproof rating.
However, this is one of the more expensive of the “cheap” washer dryer combos that we reviewed.
PROs
- Has a better simultaneous function
- Is more compact
- Is easy to use
- Is IPX4 waterproof
CONs
- Is a more expensive washer dryer
- Small loads only – wash and dry load capacity
Equator 24” Compact All-in-One Combo Washer-Dryer
Best RV Washer Dryer Combo
- Brought to you by Equator Advanced Appliances pioneer in Combo Washer Dryers since 1991. Winner of Global Innovation Award, Tec Home Brilliance Award, ADEX Platinum Award for Design Excellence and Twice VIP Award for High efficiency washers.
- Dual venting fans for faster drying
- Easy to use color coded control panel
The Equator ties our list for the largest total capacity but splits those capacities much more evenly at 13 lbs apiece. On top of that, it also sports a powerful motor that spins at a second-best 1200 RPMs while providing remarkable or unique qualities on its own.
Equator is also the second-most experienced company we reviewed with over 20 years behind its name. While the company may not specialize exclusively in washer dryer combos, they do focus on compact appliances for an apartment or RV.
By far, one of the better qualities of the Equator is the fact that it only runs at 60 dB, making it as quiet as your normal conversation. Even better, this is also the only heated dryer on our list that converts from a vented function to a condensed as needed.
You pay a good bit more, and it is larger than most of the other products we reviewed. However, the Equator also comes with plenty of settings that include a winterized option.
PROs
- Has a dry & wash capacity of 13 lbs
- Spins at 1200 rpm
- Has 3/8 dry/wash cycles
- Has convertible drying
CONs
- Is a more expensive washer dryer
- Is a larger washer dryer
ThinkGizmos TG23 Portable Washer Dryer
Best Portable RV Washer and Dryer
- AWESOME CLEANING: Latest portable washing machine with spin dryer. The strong and durable Portable Washing Machines features two tubs 1 for washing and 1 for spinning. It has a capacity of 3.6kg wash and 2kg spin.
- COMPACT AND LIGHTWEIGHT: The compact and lightweight design of the Portable Washing Machine makes this ideal for places where space is limited such as for camping or in a caravan. It does not require plumbing and only requires access to water and a drain area.
- WASH & SPIN TIMER: The wash cycle can run up to 15 minutes on either a soft or normal wash and the spin cycle can run up to 5 minutes which means the clothes can be washed for the time required.
- EASY TO USE: Simple to use simply add clothes, water and detergent and set the machine to wash. Once done give it a spin to try out and rinse through. Now includes a FREE added Lint Filter which when placed in the wash section will float on the water collecting any debris (string, lint etc).
- ALL PARTS INCLUDED: Everything needed for the machine to work is included (except water and detergent). Includes in the box is the Washing Machine, Water Fill Hose, Lint Filter and fully translated manual (Languages: English, French, German, Italian and Spanish).
The ThinkGizmo is another washer dryer combo with the dual-top loading design that does not worry as much about reliability or durability as some of its competitors. While you pay a bit more than the cheapest options on our list, it is also still far less expensive than the most expensive ones too.
ThinkGizmo started as an RC toy company but grew to such prominence that they eventually branched out into a variety of home consumer goods. While sticking to the cheaper end of the spectrum, ThinkGizmo still offers solid quality.
As is common with the top-down approach, the ThinkGizmo is easy to operate with three knobs that each feature easy to read settings. It is also one of the more compact and lightweight washer dryer combos on our list as well.
The main downside to this is that the washer only has an 8 lb capacity while the dryer has a 4.4 lb capacity making it one of the smallest capacities we found.
PROs
- Is a less expensive washer dryer
- More reliable than some
- Is easy to operate
- Is more compact
CONs
- Has a smaller dry/wash capacity
- Does not have a water pump
SUPER DEAL Portable Washer Dryer
Best Budget RV Washer Dryer Combo
- Watch video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-c4QJqxpN4 ★ Twin Tub Design – With the Twin Tub dual function design, this washing machine can save your precious time by washing and spinning dry loads at the same time. You can move clothes directly from the washer to the spinner – or run both sides together to finish your laundry.
- ★ Powerful Performance – The portable washer machine features a 1300RPM powerful motor with a max frequency of 60Hz, rotary controls for wash timer and a water efficient design. Washer: 8 lbs., Spin Cycle: 5 lbs. Watch your clothes get clean with a translucent tub container window.
- ★ Time/Space-Saving – Washer control timer runs for up to 15 minutes while the spin cycle timer runs for up to 5 minutes each load. Feel free to choose any time to wash. Easy to move and transport to anywhere, lightweight and space-saving design allows it easily fit in a bathroom or closet, ideal for camping trips, dormitories, or anywhere with limited space.
- ★ Simplest yet most effective – Put the clothes in – fill with water – set time – hit start button – Go and sip your coffee – Take it out. Simply enjoy clean laundry and fragrance of laundry detergent! Wait… Did I mention our washer, that with large wave pulsates and new water flow, will not only produced less twisting of the clothing but also better cleaning and washing effect ? Features a drainage tube which allows you to easily drain out dirty water.
- ★ Considerable design & Energy saving – Plastic body ensures this machine will never be rust eaten. Always quiet, neat and clean. Small size with low power consumption can save much energy. Warm Note: Feel free to contact seller if you have any product issue, we will respond within 24hrs and help you solve it.
The SUPER DEAL is one of the few dual top-down models we found with a powerful enough motor to provide plenty of RPMs for its spin cycle at 1300. Aside from our list-leading spin cycle speed, this machine also the least expensive washer dryer combo that we reviewed.
It is fair to note that SUPER DEAL is one of the least experienced companies on our list and borrows entirely from other designs. On top of that, the company specializes in online retail but makes a wide assortment of different products with little or no focus.
That said, the almost entirely plastic construction means that you do not have to worry about the SUPER DEAL rusting or corroding. This machine also one of the more portable RV washer and dryer combos in terms of profile and weight.
Unfortunately, the SUPER DEALS suffers from some of the reliability issues that other mostly plastic products do.
PROs
- Is a less expensive washer dryer
- Spins at 1300 rpm
- Is easy to operate
- Is more compact
CONs
- Has a smaller wash and dry capacity
- Not the most reliable
Last update on 2020-07-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API