8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (2024)

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (1)

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When it comes to garment care, the newest washing machines seem to get all the attention, but a great clothes dryer is an equally important part of the laundry equation.

A good dryer will take the moisture out of your clothing without damaging fabrics or using too much energy. While they may seem like simple appliances, many of today's dryers incorporate the latest energy-saving technologies and smart laundry features, like artificial intelligence. They can come vented or ventless, can steam and sanitize, include heat pumps to save energy, connect to Wi-Fi and more.

Over the years, we've tested hundreds of clothes dryers in the Good Housekeeping Institute Home Care and Cleaning Lab alongside their front-loading washing machine and top-loading washing machine counterparts. When we test dryers, we evaluate them for how quickly and thoroughly they dry small, medium and extra-large loads of clothing, and we measure what temperatures the fabrics reach on a variety of cycles. We also factor in any special features, ease-of-use, drum capacity and more. We also use them in our GH Cleaning Lab when we test laundry detergents, detergent sheets, stain removers and more.

GH LAB TIP: Before you buy, measure the space where your new dryer will go as well as the width of any doorways and stairwells it will need to pass through, keeping in mind allowances to open and close doors both in your space and on the appliance.

1

Best Overall Dryer

GE Appliances 7.8 Cu. Ft. Smart Gas Dryer

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (8)

Pros
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (9)Innovative smart features
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (10)Large capacity drum
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (11)Easy to sync dryer with matching washer
Cons
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (12)Some smart features won't work without the matching washer

When we tested this GE in our Cleaning Lab, it quickly and thoroughly dried even our largest test loads of clothing, towels and bedding without making them scratchy or stiff. We found it easy to load, unload and program, and it was able to handle a wide variety of items including the bed pillows our Textiles Lab team was testing at the same time. There are also a lot of nice extras, like cycles designed to steam out wrinkles, reduce static, sanitize with heat, dry small loads in as little as 23 minutes and more.

A mobile app allows you to control it from anywhere or check on the status of a load. It can even be linked to the matching front-loading washer, so once you connect them, the dryer automatically selects the correct cycle for the load that's coming its way. (Features like this won't work if you have a different washer model.) During Lab tests, using this feature proved to be no trouble at all. When we ran a normal load in the washer, the dryer automatically selected the normal dry cycle when it was done. All we had to do was load and press start.

Size28" (w) x 32" (d) x 39.75" (h)
Capacity7.8 cu. ft.
PowerGas
StackableYes
Warranty1 year
Requires ventingYes
Energy Star certifiedYes

2

Best Value Dryer

Amana 6.5 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (13)

Pros
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (14)Exceptional value
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (15)Settings are straightforward
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (16)Large lint filter
Cons
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (17)Only available in white
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (18)A bit wider than other dryers

This machine proves you don't need fancy extras or smart features to get good drying results. The Amana has basic knob controls instead of electronic touchpads and only comes in white. But you will find both timed cycles and automatic cycles that monitor when the load is dry and three heat settings (low, high and no heat). In our tests, we found it does the job just as well as some more expensive models and at a budget-friendly price.

Some cycles were a bit longer or hotter than other dryers we tested, but temperatures held steady, and we didn't observe any fabric damage. It has the option to keep the drum tumbling when the cycle is over to prevent wrinkles from setting in, and we found the large lint filter was easy to clean.

The 6.5-cubic-foot capacity inner drum is slightly smaller than other "full-size" models — but you likely won't notice a difference unless large, bulky loads are common in your household. That said, at 29 inches, it is slightly wider than most other dryers. Don't expect extras like a drum light or end-of-cycle signal.

Size29" (w) x 27.75" (d) x 44" (h)
Capacity 6.5 cu. ft.
PowerElectric
StackableNo
Warranty1 year
Requires venting Yes
Energy Star certifiedNo

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Pros
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (20)Wide door opening with easy-to-grab handle
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (21)Simple controls
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (22)Connects to Wi-Fi for more features
Cons
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (23)Not stackable

Programming some dryers can get complicated, but the simple controls and easy-to-read displays on this GE model mean it doesn't have to be. All the buttons on its flat, sleek control panel are clearly labeled, and the cycle knob is easy to adjust too. Its 7.4-cubic-foot-capacity drum is roomy, and its wide door and external handle make it a cinch to load and unload.

We loved using this dryer so much that we kept it in our Cleaning Lab to dry all of the big loads from testing washing machines and laundry detergents. Our test kitchens also made good use of it for the aprons and dish towels they launder.

GE’s tangle-free results always impress us, and its speedy delicates cycle (at under 30 minutes) is a real time-saver. Our model came with a rack for drying shoes, sweaters, hats and anything that you prefer not to have tumbled. A rack isn't standard, however, but it can usually be purchased separately. Keep in mind that this dryer is not stackable.

This dryer is Wi-Fi-enabled for monitoring, linking with a matching washer and downloading specialty cycles via a smartphone.

Size27" (w) x 31" (d) x 46" (h)
Capacity7.4 cu. ft.
PowerGas
StackableNo
Warranty1 year
Requires ventingYes
Energy Star certifiedYes

4

Best Smart Dryer

GE Profile 7.3-cu ft Smart Electric Dryer with Fabric Refresh

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (24)

Pros
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (25)Large capacity
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (26)Offers a 90-minute dry setting
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (27)Can dispense fabric refresher or wrinkle reducer into the load
Cons
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (28)Filter is small
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (29)Door is plastic

We liked this GE Profile series dryer so much, both the matching top-loading washer and this dryer earned a spot in our Best Cleaning and Organizing Awards. We found it very easy to use, and we appreciate its large 7.3-cubic-foot capacity. It's a breeze to load and unload, and the quick cycles dry items thoroughly. This app-enabled dryer matches and links to its Alexa voice-enabled washer partner and automatically selects the best dry cycle for the washed load.

We like that the dryer offers timed dry settings up to 90 minutes, rather than the usual 60 minutes like other dryers. We also found the display which clearly shows the status of the cycle and time remaining very helpful for drying bulky things like comforters and down coats.

One unique feature is a chamber in the door that holds and dispenses GH Seal star Febreze FABRIC Refresher or Downy Wrinkle Releaser into the load for additional freshness. And speaking of the door, it's made of plastic, which wasn't what we expected to see on a dryer of this caliber. The filter is also on the small side.

Size27" (w) x 31" (d) x 43.875" (h)
Capacity7.3 cu. ft.
Power Electric
StackableNo
Warranty1 year
Requires ventingYes
Energy Star certifiedYes

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5

Best Dryer for Big Families

LG Electronics Signature 9.0 cu. ft. Gas Dryer

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (30)

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Pros
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (31)Supersized capacity
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (32)Easy to load and unload
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (33)Wi-Fi connectivity
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (34)Alerts you when the vent needs cleaning
Cons
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (35)A bit wider than other dryers
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (36)Expensive

Large families, rejoice! This mega-capacity machine is the ultimate choice for those with a lot of laundry to do. Its elevated and angled drum make loading and unloading less strenuous for your back, and small items in the rear of the drum are no longer out of reach — something we very much appreciated when we tested a previous model of this same machine. Here, the control panel is integrated into the door for a sleek look and easy access. The top of the machine has a mini storage compartment to hold sock clips, pins or any little items you want to keep handy but out of sight.

With 14 drying programs including SteamFresh and Jumbo Dry and 14 more optional settings like Custom Program and Energy Saver at your fingertips, the cycle combinations are virtually unlimited — exactly what we would hope for at this price point. LG's LoDecibel Quiet Operation for reducing noise, de-wrinkling, steam and sanitizing settings round out the high-end features of this top-of-the-line dryer. And it's Wi-Fi-enabled for diagnostics, troubleshooting and downloading updated cycles. It also alerts you when the vent needs cleaning.

Just make sure to measure carefully if you are bringing this dryer into your home, since it's a bit wider than many others.

Size29" (w) x 33 2/5"(d) x 41" (h)
Capacity9.0 cu. ft.
PowerGas
StackableNo
Warranty1 year
Requires ventingYes
Energy Star certifiedNo

6

Best Washer and Dryer Combo

GE Profile UltraFast Combo Washer & Dryer

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (37)

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (38)

Pros
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (39)Great cleaning and moisture removal
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (40)Controls are easy to use
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (41)Can be started remotely
Cons
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (42)Normal wash cycle is a bit aggressive
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (43)Slower than a traditional dryer

If you don't have space for two separate machines or if you just don't like handling wet laundry, a washer dryer combo can be a great choice. This GE Profile cleans clothes as well as it dries them, and it can wash and dry a medium load of laundry in just two hours. You can do your washing and drying separately, or let the machine handle both back to back.

The machine comes preloaded with programs for 11 different cycles and other options like timed drying and dewrinkling. Additional cycles can be loaded onto the machine through GE's SmartHQ App. The app also allows you to track the progress of your cycle, or even start the machine remotely.

This model fared well in our Lab tests, effectively drying our overly-wet test loads faster than the other washer-dryer unit we evaluated. We found the washer to be high-performing as well, effectively removing over 90% of tough soils we applied to our stain swatches. The normal wash cycle was a bit harsher on our swatches than some other machines we tested, though we don't think it's likely to result in damaged clothing.

It also excelled at spinning out excess moisture at the end of its wash cycle, meaning that the dryer won't have to work as hard. The drying time is a bit longer than with a conventional dryer, but we think it's a small price to pay for the convenience of a combo unit.

Size28" (w) x 32" (d) x 47" (h)
Capacity4.8 cu. ft.
Fuel typeElectric
StackableNo
Warranty1 year: full parts and labor; 5 yearrs: heat pump system; 10 years: motor
Requires ventingNo
Energy Star certifiedYes

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7

Best Clothes Dryer for Pet Owners

Speed Queen 7 Cu. Ft. Electric Dryer

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (44)

Pros
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (45)Removes pet hair
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (46)Reversible door
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (47)Steam setting to help reduce wrinkles
Cons
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (48)Not stackable

A previous Good Housekeeping Cleaning Award winner, this innovative Speed Queen dryer does something that few other dryers do: removes stubborn pet hair from dry, unwashed clothing. Picking off pet hair before washing clothing is a necessary but tedious task, but this Speed Queen DR7 has a built-in cycle designed to do just that.

The 10-minute Pet Hair Remover cycle removes and collects fur in the lint filter before they are washed. Our tester with a shedding puppy found this feature extremely helpful and effective, and we think the idea of a dryer that can actually help the washer work better is genius. It even worked on the fibers we use to simulate pet hair in our Cleaning Lab tests.

Beyond that, it's a great dryer. The 7-cubic-foot-capacity dryer has a steam function that helps reduce wrinkles and eight preset cycles including heavy duty, quick dry and a special cycle to dry pet items, like beds and toys. We found it easy to load and program, and its reversible door and interior light increased visibility within the drum, however it is not stackable.

While we didn't measure the noise level of this unit, several online reviewers said the machine is remarkably quiet. It's also backed by a generous seven-year full warranty.

Size26 7/8" (w) x 28" (d) x 42 3/4" (h)
Capacity7 cu. ft.
PowerElectric
StackableNo
Warranty 7 years
Requires ventingYes
Energy Star certifiedYes

8

Best Space-Saving Dryer

Miele 4.2 Cu. Ft. Heat Pump Dryer

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (49)

Pros
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (50)Small footprint with large capacity
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (51)Doesn't require outside venting
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (52)Plugs into a standard 120-V outlet
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (53)Has a heat pump for efficient drying
Cons
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (54)May not handle especially large loads
  • 8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (55)Pricey

With a width of 23.5 inches and a depth of 25.31 inches, this machine is perfect for installation in small, awkward or out-of-the-way spaces or in a second laundry location. But don't let this dryer's compact footprint fool you. Inside, it has a larger-than-expected 4.02-cubic-foot-capacity drum and works without the need for outside venting.

It may be pricey, but the Miele is energy-efficient — thanks to its heat pump technology — and gentle on clothing. It doesn’t skimp on cycles, offering wrinkle-fighting steam and other special settings for wool and silk, table linens and drapes, denim and more. If you can't easily connect it to a drain in your location, all you do is empty the drawer as it collects condensation. It also plugs into a standard 120-V outlet.

Its drum reverses and alternates tumbling directions throughout the cycle to keep clothing from tangling and creasing, and we found the Miele speedier than other ventless dryers we’ve tested. Though it may not work well with especially large loads.

There's even a spot to pop in a special Miele FragranceDos capsule to give laundry a fresh scent. Once connected to your Wi-Fi network and the mobile app, you can remotely see how it's working and access other performance data right on your smartphone.

Size23.5"n(w) x 25 3/8" (d) x 33 1/2" (h)
Capacity4.0 cu. ft.
Fuel typeElectric
StackableYes
Warranty2 years
Requires venting No
Energy Star certifiedYes

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How we test clothes dryers

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When we test dryers in our Cleaning Lab, we install each one in a climatology chamber on a special platform balance. Here, we maintain the same temperature, humidity and venting conditions for each model and use the balance to help us precisely determine when the wet load is back to its dry starting weight.

We look at all the features each machine offers, plus drum capacity, total footprint, ease of use — and, of course, performance. Based on industry-standard AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers) protocols, we attach temperature strips to the fabrics in the load to help us find the dryers that dry fabrics quickly without excessive fabric-damaging heat. We evaluate cycles from timed dry and normal to delicate and casual to see how well they dry clothes, bedding, towels and more.

Drying time isn't the only thing we evaluate. We also assess how well the machines remove wrinkles using fabric-grading standards we've adopted from the textile industry. We also note any tangling or twisting of clothing that is observed. Then we confirm that specialty cycles like steam and refresh work as expected.

While we know not everyone reads the owner's manual for the new appliances they purchase, we always recommend that they do. We review manuals for accuracy, clarity and the manufacturer's contact information. When we evaluate ease of use, we analyze each model’s controls for clarity and intuitiveness, and we check how easy the door is to open and close and how easy the interior of the drum is to access.

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Since a dryer's lint filter should be cleaned between every load, we assess how easy it is to remove, clean and replace the filter and if we're able to grab lint trapped deep inside the chamber.

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What to know when buying a clothes dryer

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✔️ Do you want a gas or electric dryer? If you are replacing a dryer you already have, it’s easiest to get the same type based on whatever utility is already in your laundry room. Gas dryers require a gas line hookup, while electric dryers require a 208-240V connection. If you are remodeling and running new lines, you may want to make a switch. Gas dryers are more expensive to purchase up front — by about $100 — but usually cost less to run over time than electric dryers. The good news is most models are available in both gas and electric, so there's no reason to switch unless you really want to.

✔️ Next, think about venting. Many dryers require venting to the outside to safely remove lint, heat and moisture from your home. If you live in an apartment or want to install laundry appliances somewhere outside venting isn’t possible, a ventless model is a great option. Here, the excess water collects in a chamber or drawer that must be emptied into a sink at the end of the cycle. Most ventless or condenser dryers are compact models, but some new larger models can be ventless too.

✔️ Lastly, there's energy efficiency. More and more manufacturers are incorporating heat pumps into dryers. They take the hot moist air from the drum and cool it down to pull out the moisture (which collects in the tray you empty). That same air is reheated and recirculated into the drum to continue drying. This cuts down on wasted energy. When shopping, check the yellow Energy Guide label to get an idea of how much energy a model will use, how much it will cost to run and how it compares to others in the market before you buy.

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Features to consider when buying a dryer

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Virtually every dryer on the market offers standard features like multiple cycle choices, sensors to determine when the load is dry for better fabric care, extended tumbling for preventing wrinkles, reversible doors, lighted interiors, end-of-cycle signals, child locks and time and temperature adjustments. We recommend getting them all. Below, however, are some of the newest features also worth considering on any new dryer you're about to purchase.

  • Steam: Dryers with steam are a bit more complicated to install, but we think it's worth the effort. In order to get steam in a dryer, it needs to tap into the water supply that goes to the washer. It can help the dryer freshen fabrics and remove wrinkles and odors from clothing that are not in need of a full washing. It's also a great way to refresh difficult-to-wash items, like throw pillows and stuffed toys.
  • Wi-Fi connectivity: This may sound frivolous, but appliance apps are becoming more useful. They're moving beyond just monitoring and remotely starting and stopping a cycle. They can help diagnose and troubleshoot maintenance problems, add cycles for special types of clothing like activewear and connect and communicate with the washer. In some cases they can even facilitate updates to your appliance's software directly from the manufacturer.
  • Sanitizing cycles: Killing germs is more important than ever, especially in things like bedding. These cycles use higher heat, steam and longer tumbling to kill 99% of bacteria in fabrics. Look for cycles certified by NSF or another reputable organization to make sure they perform as expected.

More washers and dryers to shop

8 Best Clothes Dryers of 2024 (61)

  • Electric vs. Gas Dryer: Which One Should You Install?
  • Best Stackable Washers and Dryers
  • Best Smart Washers and Dryers
  • Best Washer and Dryer Combos
  • Best Washer and Dryer Sets
  • Best Washing Machines
  • Best Front-Loading Washing Machines
  • Best Top-Loading Washing Machines

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Why trust Good Housekeeping?

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Carolyn Forté has been testing laundry room essentials like clothes dryers, detergents and stain removers for over 40 years in the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Products Lab. And she knows a thing or two about removing wrinkles. In fact, she used her Textiles background to develop the wrinkle removal tests the Cleaning Lab uses when evaluating dryers, steam irons and garment steamers. She often consults with the appliance industry, especially clothes dryer manufacturers, about appliance testing protocols and consumer laundry habits, researches and writes our laundry how-tos and personally tests or oversees all of the testing done for all of the Cleaning Lab's product guides.

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Carolyn Forté

Home Care & Cleaning Lab Executive Director

Carolyn Forté brings more than 40 years of experience as a consumer products expert to her role as executive director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Home Care and Cleaning Lab. Using deep analytical testing and writing expertise in appliances, cleaning, textiles and organizational products, she produces cleaning and home care advice for GH, has authored numerous books and bookazines for the brand and partners with the American Cleaning Institute to co-produce the Discover Cleaning Summits. She holds a bachelor's degree in family and consumer sciences from Queens College, City University of New York.

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