Space-saving washer-dryers

With improved performance

Bubble actions

The only thing worse than stains on washed laundry is finding them baked into freshly-dried clothes. Fortunately, this 8kg wash/6kg dryer uses a bubblefilled pre-soak to loosen muck. Plus there’s a 59-minute wash and dry for smaller loads.

THE BEST BIT The inverter motor isn’t just reliable, it’s quieter, too, so is a great choice for an open-plan kitchen. Washer-dryers are thought of as being less reliable than having a separate washing machine and tumble dryer, but performance is improving.

The latest models offer speedy cycles, smart features, greater eco-friendliness, and of course free up precious space in your kitchen or utility room

One-hour wonder

Need gym kit cleaned but time’s not on your side? This A-rated 9kg/6kg model has a Wash&wear programme that takes 1kg of laundry from soiled to sparkling in just 60 minutes. The 28-minute Daily Quick wash can handle a full load of washing, too.

THE BEST BIT Aquafusion technology stops wasted detergent from going down the drain, reusing it for sparkling clean clothes.

Low noise

7000 SERIES INTEGRATED, £749, AEG This 8kg/4kg machine generates 46db as it washes, making it quiet enough to be built into an openplan kitchen. It also automatically adjusts temperature settings and drum movements to suit the load, so you will be saving energy and wear and tear on your clothes.

THE BEST BIT Its steam function can either quickly refresh clothes without a full cycle or help smooth out creases for less ironing.

Pause and add

Forgotten socks don’t have to wait for the next load – just press pause and pop them in to this 9kg/6kg A-rated model. Plus, it’s not just laundry you can add, it’s programmes, too – Wi-fi connectivity means you can bolt on cycles, such as wool, baby care and cold wash.

THE BEST BIT Save water with the Eco Dry option, which uses air by itself to dry the load.

Smart options

Whether you’re washing and drying to save time or energy, the Varioperfect feature on this A-rated 10kg/6kg model can adapt with one tap to make your programme run faster or more efficiently.

THE BEST BIT Autodry removes as much moisture from your load as you want: choose iron dry, dry to away or extra dry.