The best tumble dryers - for fresh clothes in a flash
Buying large domestic appliances is always tricky, and tumble dryers are no different. With prices starting at around £300, you will want to ensure you get the best tumble dryer available, and you'll have to consider a whole raft of features and brands before making a decision. Hopefully, this review will help you make the right choice.
What are the benefits of a tumble dryer? In warm summer months, a clothes line may be all you need to keep your clothes fresh and fragrant after a wash. But with Britain's unpredictable weather a dryer may be just the thing you need for making sure large wash loads are quickly and efficiently readied for use. If you have little space for hanging up clothes they can also be a godsend. You could opt for a washer-dryer, which will save space, but if you want the best performance, specialist machines will do a better job.
There are three main types of tumble dryer. Currys PC World's Senior Category Development Manager Lauren Hartshorn takes us through them:
Heat-pump operated tumble dryer: "This is the most eco-friendly option as it uses special technology to dry the clothes. It will also help to save money on electricity bills." This "special technology" uses hot air to withdraw moisture from the clothes which evaporates into a tank. According to Expert Reviews you can save up to 50pc annually on energy bills with one, though it's estimated to take 11 years to equal the cost of a cheaper dryer.
Vented tumble dryer: "This is generally the most affordable of the main three types, as it expels warm air through a window hose or an external vent," says Hartshorn. But a vented tumble dryer needs to be placed against a wall or window to expel the air. Most come with a venting kit, though you may need to get the machine installed by a builder.
Condenser tumble dryer: "These are often considered middle range in terms of affordability; with no externally-vented hose requirements, consumers can enjoy the freedom of installing the machine in a well-ventilated room wherever they choose. It's worth noting though that this type of tumble dryer does require a container beneath the machine to be regularly emptied." This is because the vapour within the dryer forms water droplets which are collected in a collection tank, and you'll have to empty it by hand. They are more expensive than vented tumble dryers, but easier to install and more versatile in where they can stand.
Most tumble dryers are either operated via sensors or timers. Apart from the cheapest models, your machine is likely to have sensors that are programmed to read the amount of moisture left in the clothes. When they're dry, it'll cleverly switch off. Conversely, timed machines will continue until time's up, which can be a while after the clothes are ready, and can potentially damage them.
Most clothes can be tumble dried, but you should always check the label beforehand. Fabrics that generally shouldn't be include most wool, rubber, fine delicate knits, acrylic, spandex, and Lycra. Pure cotton towels can even keep softer for longer with the help of a tumble dryer.
There are many other features to look out for when making the decision:
Programming: The best tumble dryers have a few heat settings, for example for cottons, synthetics or delicates, helping you keep your clothes in the best nick for longer.
Drum size: Large capacities are more energy efficient because they'll dry clothes in less time. Most range from 7kg to 9kg.
Child locks: To prevent children messing around with the machine.
Delay start: Have your cycle begin at the best time for you.
Reversible doors: Change the direction in which your door opens to better suit your location.
LED warning and programming lights: The first will tell you when you need to empty a water container or replace a filter. The second helps you keep track of drying.
Energy efficiency: These days, machines are given ratings from A to G, with A+++ the most efficient. Newer appliances tend to be better, but it depends on how long a cycle takes and how often you use your machine as well.
Integrated vs freestanding: Integrated tumble dryers can fit within your cupboards, thus remaining hidden. Freestanding ones are not built-in, which means they'll be in full view, but they can come with greater capacity.
With all this in mind, here are some of the best tumble dryers on the market right now, starting with our favourite.
1. Miele TSJ663 WP WiFi-enabled Heat Pump Tumble Dryer
There's no denying it comes at a hefty cost, but if you can afford it, then going with trusted German brand Miele will get you a top appliance. For such a significant outlay you'll be expecting a raft of excellent features, and the Miele TSJ663 certainly delivers.
As a heat-pump operated tumble dryer, it's one of the most energy-efficient options around - it's got an A+++ rating. The useful EcoDry technology stops the machine from clogging or wasting energy, making the process as efficient as possible.
But what of the actual drying performance? It's sensor-operated, knowing exactly when to switch off when your clothes dries, and the Steam Finish function means crease reduction is up there with the best. The machine even calculates the mineral content of your water to choose the perfect drying time - very clever. Plus, you can infuse your clothes with a specialty scent, thanks to the FragranceDos² feature.
Drum capacity is 9kg, so it'll be fine for larger families. If you're often rushed off your feet at home, you'll be pleased to know that you can control and monitor the tumble dryer from an app, using WiFi on your phone or tablet.
Overall, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better tumble dryer, but will have to weigh up the initial cost against how much you could save through energy consumption.
2. Siemens Avantgarde WT7XH940GB condenser heat pump tumble dryer
Another top-of-the-range tumble dryer is the Siemens WT7XH940GB , which comes stashed with all the latest technology. There is an app allowing you to control the appliance from your smartphone (either iOS or Android), so you can control the tumble dryer from anywhere.
Like the Miele, this machine has an impressive A+++ energy rating and uses heat pump technology, which means you'll save money on running costs despite the initial expenditure.
The machine itself is very high performing, with excellent sensor drying and a host of useful settings, including for towels, mixed fabrics, lingerie and more. We particularly appreciate the Wool/Shoe Basket, which is securely hooked inside the machine and does not rotate with the drum; instead, warm air is distributed gently over the basket, meaning a thick woolly jumper can be dry within two hours.
It doesn't take long to dry your clothes, as there is a 40-minute drying programme. The machine is even self-cleaning, with the condenser automatically cleaned many times during its cycle. With a 9kg capacity, this dryer is perfect for larger families or frequent use.
3. Bosch WTW85231GB 8KG heat pump tumble dryer
£649, Argos
This Bosch tumble dryer is half the cost of the Miele but will still provide excellent, and energy-efficient, results. It's on the more affordable end of the heat-pump operated models.
As another German-designed appliance, there are several functions that'll help you get the best drying experience. Programme-wise, there are several: sportswear, shirts, cottons, delicates, even a wool-drying setting. An integrated condenser helps to improve its drying function and there is also an anti-crease feature, due to the SensitiveDrying System.
With an A++ energy efficiency rating, this machine is very green and cost-effective. Plus, you can have peace of mind with its two-year guarantee.
Buy now
4. Samsung DV90M5000QW/EU heat pump tumble dryer
If you're after a bigger device - perhaps for a larger family or getting through bigger batches of washed clothes, then this Samsung tumble dryer, with its 9kg capacity, is a good bet. Despite the increased capacity, it's only marginally bulkier than the Miele.
As with most modern dryers, its eco credentials are top notch, as the excellent sensors will detect exactly when to stop. There are a remarkable 14 programmes for all sorts of loads to give you the most accurate and relevant dry possible.
A useful feature is the Samsung Smart Home connectivity, which is compatible with both Android and iOS. This means you can check your load, delay its termination or pause the cycle from your phone. All in all, a sleek, high-performing and high-tech appliance.
5. Zanussi ZDC8203WZ condenser tumble dryer
Condenser tumble dryers are a step up in price from vented, and they are more versatile - thanks to the water vapour collection tank, it doesn't need ventilation space behind it. You can set it up anywhere, though it's best to do so in a well-ventilated room.
This Zanussi model is a good mid-range option. Its energy consumption rating of B means it's not as economical as some higher-end models. It's fairly loud, too. There aren't as many functions as the pricier dryers, but there are still many of the most important ones, including sensor drying, and a handy Easy Iron programme that minimises wrinkling.
One of the best aspects to the Zanussi ZDC8203WZ, however, is the over-sized door, which speeds up loading and unloading, particularly for bigger items.
6. BEKO DTBC8001W 8 kg condenser tumble dryer
Another good option in the more affordable bracket is this Beko condenser tumble dryer. It has a generous capacity of 8kg, performs remarkably well, and is cheaper than many condenser tumble dryers.
With excellent sensor drying, the machine will know exactly when to stop a cycle, saving you energy and time. With an energy efficiency grading of B, however, it is not as energy efficient as some of the top-rated products.
Anti-crease technology is included, which will reduce your ironing for the weekend, and there are several spin cycles available, too - cottons (with varying levels of dryness - from cupbpard dry to iron dry), jeans, baby clothes and more. The Beko DTBC8001W is a tumble dryer that performs well above its price.
7. Indesit IS41V vented compact tumble dryer
This simple machine is perfect for those who don't have a lot of space in their kitchen to fit a tumble dryer. At just 67cm tall and 49cm wide, this machine is two-thirds of the size of a a regular tumble dryer, so can slot into tighter spaces.
This machine doesn't have all of the fancy extras, such as a heat pump, final cool tumble or drying sensors. However, there is a reverse action feature that stops your clothes from ending up tangled in a ball.
The device is a decent size, too, with a 4kg capacity - particularly ideal for single tenants, couples or young families. Overall, this simple machine does the job.
8. Hotpoint TVHM80CP freestanding vented tumble dryer
Vented tumble dryers are generally the most affordable, and this is one of the best options you'll find under £200. Going for the vented option means you will be missing out on certain features and your eco credentials will diminish (this appliance only has a C energy efficiency rating). It's also a tad noisier than some.
But if you don't want to fork out hundreds on a tumble dryer, this option from traditional American brand Hotpoint is worth considering. Firstly, it has a very stripped-back, classic design, and as a freestanding tumble dryer this means it won't look out of place in most houses.
Most importantly, how effective is it at drying? It does a very good job, making your clothes bone dry in around 120 minutes. If simplicity is what you're after, it'll do the trick, but it does mean you'll miss out on useful functions like anti-creasing, delaying the start and quick drying.
