Washers & Dryers – Selection & Installation

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Washer and Dryer Selection

We approach the selection of washers and dryers from the perspective of Universal Design and aging in place. In this context, the best washer and dryer arrangement for seniors (or anyone else, for that matter) is front-loading, side-by-side on a pedestal.

• Related post: Laundry Room

Having the washer and dryer units front-loading makes it easy to see the contents and easy to move the laundry in and out of the units. They are the only truly accessible machines and minimize arm and back strain.

Controls should be easy to read and located on the front of the unit’s washer/dryer units. Controls at the back of the machine are hard to see and reach.

The washer/dryer units should be on 12 – 15 inch pedestals. This is to avoid stooping and back strain. These pedestals sometimes come built-in with the units. But, If not, provide cabinet drawers below the units instead. At least provide a platform. You can put utility baskets underneath.

You can get separate pedestals with drawers on Amazon. Scroll down below.

• Related post: Aging in Place

Washers and Dryers on Amazon

Some washer-dryers come in a stacked configuration, one on top of the other. This is a bad arrangement ergonomically.

Washer Dryer Combo Units

Unless space is at a premium, we do not recommend the washer and dryer combo unit. This is because the dryer function of the combo is sub-optimal. It can only dry about half the load that comes out of the washing cycle. So it takes twice as long to dry your clothes than the standalone dryer.

Pedestals on Amazon

Washing Machine Pedestal

Recommendations for Laundry Rooms

• Locate the laundry room near the master bedroom
• Lower than normal upper cabinets
• Pull-down shelving
• Laundry chute in the case of a multi-level home
• Pull-down shelving in upper cabinets.
• Roll-out trays and lazy susans in base cabinetry.
• Counter space for folding and sorting
• Open knee space under the counter work areas
• Easy pull hardware for cabinet doors.
• Laundry Room Utility Sink: this should be wall-mounted or with roll-under space. The faucet should be lever-operated, touchless, or foot operated. And we always remind you to install a scald-prevention device on your water heater.
• Pull-down ironing board