The Best Clothes Dryers

HOW TO CHOOSE = When shopping for the best clothes dryers, look for models with moisture sensors. These dry more accurately than thermostat sensors, thereby saving energy and reducing wear and tear on your clothes.

A drying rack receives more compliments from owners than any other option. It prevents the items hung on the rack from tumbling – found useful for delicate undergarments.

Among the best clothes dryers, the larger models with greater space and airflow produce fewer wrinkles and faster drying times. Look for 7 cubic foot drums or larger.

Many models have reversible tumbling sequences which help untangle clothes and accelerate drying time. Keep in mind that the size of the load has to be appropriate.

Unless you want to stack your washer and dryer, or you are getting a good discount for buying a set, the only reason to buy a matched set is aesthetics.

If stacking, you’ll need a front-loading washer and a stacking kit. Before buying a gas or electric dryer, check the specifications, and make sure you have the needed outlet and wiring in your home.

THE REVIEW = The Best Standard Dryer is the LG DLE2516W Electric. This dryer scored well for reliability and customer satisfaction in surveys. It has a 7 cubic foot capacity, a sensor to keep clothes from over-drying, and a no-heat cycle that continues to tumble after drying in order to prevent wrinkles from settling in.

Five settings provide plenty of options for drying just about any garment. The list price for this model is $725.

Other top performers include:

Best Standard Gas Dryer = LG DLG2526W @ $800.

Best Basic Electric Dryer = GE Profile DPSE810EGWT @ about $600.

The gas version = GE Profile DPSE810GGWT @ $680.

Best Steam Dryers = Kenmore Elite Oasis ST68092(electric) @ $1,100. 78092 (gas) @ $1,180.

Best price found in Apr., ’10 = For Kenmore, go to Sears. The other models had the lowest pries at Number1Appliance.com, with PC Richard & Son coming in close behind. I recommend that you shop them both to see who is cheaper this month.

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