12 Best Clothes Dryers in Australia (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the best clothes dryer in Australia? With a multitude of choices available, finding the perfect machine can be challenging. But fret not; our guide details the top 13 standout dryers in Australia and their ideal use cases and features to help you decide.

Our Top Picks

Pressed for time? Here are the top three standout models:

Bosch Serie 8 Heat Pump Dryer

Best heat pump dryer with an 8-star energy rating, 9 kg capacity, 14 dry programs, AntiVibration side walls, and a big LED screen.

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Samsung Heat Pump Dryer

Best energy-efficient dryer with a 9-star energy rating, 8 kg capacity, 14 dry programs, and integrated AI technology sensors.

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Solt Vented Dryer

Best dryer for compact spaces with a 2-star energy rating, 4.5 kg capacity, 3 dry programs, and a pet hair removal feature.

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Top 13 Clothes Dryers for Australians

After extensive research, product evaluation, and reviewing user feedback, here is our in-depth evaluation and review of the top clothing dryers available to Australians.

1. Bosch Serie 8 Heat Pump Dryer

Best Heat Pump Dryer

The Bosch Serie 8 Heat Pump Dryer is a trusted brand with an 8-star energy rating. It has AntiVibration side walls that reduce noise and make it more stable when spinning. It also doesn't use steam or hot air to dry clothes, making it ideal for living in flats or small homes.

The dryer has a large 9 kg capacity to dry more clothes at once, saving energy by reducing the need for multiple cycles. It uses 152 kWh of energy per year if you use it once a week with the cotton program, cupboard dry+, or drying level 2. It also has a big LED screen showing the progress of the drying cycle and a light inside the drum to find small items like socks.

You can select from 14 different drying settings when using the Bosch Serie 8 Heat Pump Dryer. These include pre-set modes for cotton wear, shirts and blouses, towels, and even delicates, to name a few.

On the downside, the heat pump dryer does not have a reversible tumble dry feature. This becomes a problem with bigger household items like king-size bedding sheets, which dry much better using the reversible dry method. Sometimes, this leaves large fabrics still a little damp.

Pros

• Quiet drying
• Outstanding energy efficiency rating
• Spacious drum helping to reduce garment creasing
• Suitable for bigger families
• Wide range of drying settings

Cons

• Pricey
• Standard design aesthetic
• No reversible tumble-drying

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2. Samsung 8kg Heat Pump Dryer

Best Energy Efficient Dryer

The Samsung 8kg Heat Pump Dryer has 14 different drying cycles, which are AI integrated and recognise your use patterns to help optimise your future drying cycles. It has a high energy rating of 9 to save you time and money in the long run. The dryer has low noise levels, excellent reliability, and good customer care support. However, like the Bosch dryer, it has a significant price tag.

The Samsung AI dryer safeguards your clothes against heat damage with its nine integrated sensors, constantly monitoring humidity levels and adjusting drying time accordingly. The machine also does a great job at drying clothes wrinkle-free, so they are usually ready to wear right after a cycle.

We found concerns regarding variable drying times during our research. The duration it takes to dry your clothes completely fluctuates depending on the size of your laundry load, and if you fill the dryer up to its maximum capacity and run a standard cycle, you're unlikely to get an evenly dried result. This may be a point to ponder if your preference leans towards a 'wash and wear' approach with your laundry routine.

Pros

• Excellent 9-star energy rating
• Suitable for large families
• Integrated sensors to protect clothing
• Built-in LED light
• Stylish, minimalist design

Cons

• Pricey
• Drying times vary from load to load

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3. Electrolux 9kg Heat Pump Dryer

Best for Crease-Free, Gentle Drying

The Electrolux 9kg Heat Pump dryer includes a time manager function to help users customise drying time on each load. It has the reverse tumbling dry feature, significantly reducing creasing after drying. Even more important, the clothes dryer also has a dedicated GentleCare drum action and a 3D Sense heat pump system for delicate fabrics and gentle drying.

With a 7-star energy rating, the dryer offers significant energy efficiency. And in tune with modern technology, it comes with a mobile application and WIFI connectivity. You can track each laundry cycle, stop/start the machine, and check how much time is left on each load.

The Heat Pump dryer has 14 dry programs catering to various household fabrics, including a mixed fabric option. The 9 kg drum is also sizable for most families that have to do laundry a few times a week. The appliance delivers practical benefits and considerable energy savings while handling your garments with the utmost care.

Pros

• Impressive energy rating
• Capable of drying delicate fabrics without the risk of shrinkage
• GentleCare process helps protect your clothing
• Does not overheat clothing
• Wifi connectivity and app compatible

Cons

• Premium price point
• Not ideal for small living spaces

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4. Haier 8kg Heat Pump Dryer

Best for a Higher Range of Programs

The Haier 8kg Pump Dryer dries your clothes fully at lower temperatures to make total use of its 8-star energy efficiency rating. The dryer has AI sensing technology that measures the weight of your laundry and applies the optimal level of heat during the drying cycle. It also uses reverse tumbling to ensure that your clothes are thoroughly yet gently dried and protected from wrinkles.

Equipped with WiFi compatibility, the Haier pump dryer can be operated through the Haier mobile app, giving you control from anywhere. It is also fast and stable, with a consistent and reliable output each run. If you have hygiene concerns, the high-temperature Sanitise dry option minimises dust mites and kills more than 99.9% of bacteria. For extra convenience, the appliance can be plumbed into your existing water waste drain, so you won’t worry about emptying the water tank after each use.

The Haier 8kg Pump Dryer features Hybrid Boost technology. This feature allows you to choose between a time-saving, higher-temperature drying cycle and a more energy-efficient, lower-temperature cycle that runs for a longer duration. The Express 30 cycle and the Eco and Speed Up options will help you customise your drying process to your needs.

Pros

• Excellent energy rating
• Ideal for larger households
• WiFi compatibility
• Hybrid Boost and AI technology

Cons

• Relatively pricey

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5. ASKO 8kg Condenser Dryer

Best for Ease of Use and Convenience

The ASKO 8kg Condenser Dryer is durable and practical. Its drum circulates air in a way to execute consistent and gentle drying, irrespective of the load size. While it has no app controls, the dryer features a Delay Start function, which lets you schedule a drying cycle in advance, offering the flexibility to fit into your lifestyle. It also has a SensiDry system, which accurately calculates the required drying time, leading to substantial time and energy savings.

ASKO's 2-star energy rating can not compete with its counterparts. You may argue that the machine's user-friendly design and functionality make up for it, but that's not really true, as the convenience does not save you money. On the bright side, you get a built-in auto drain function for extra convenience and an Auto Synthetic program for your shirts and blouses. Both features save you time for the more productive tasks on your to-do list.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Chic and modern design
• Convenient dry programs
• Leaves clothes dry and soft

Cons

• Significantly lower energy rating
• Too heavy for wall mounting

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6. Mistral 7kg Tumble Dryer

Best Budget Dryer

The Mistral 7kg Tumble Dryer is a budget-friendly dryer with a drying capacity of 7kg. It has 15 drying programs to dry most household fabrics with little to no hassle and a large, integrated filter that works diligently to separate any residual dust or debris from your clothing during the drying process.

Like the ASKO 8kg Condenser Dryer, the Mistral Tumble Dryer has a delay timer, to schedule their drying times to suit your routines. The dryer is also easy to use and reliable. While we have seen user reports of variable results with fluctuating load sizes, consistent loads yield gentle and even drying.

The appliance has a simple and functional design with a neat, clean finish, a front-facing door, and a program selection dial located conveniently on the top right. Unassuming yet effective, this tumble dryer won't hurt your pocket and will reliably perform its task.

Pros

• User-friendly operation
• A wide range of drying programs
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Lacks advanced features
• Not WiFi-compatible

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7. Euromaid 7kg Condenser Dryer

Best Value Condenser Dryer

The Euromaid Condenser Dryer is a simple-to-use and efficient laundry device. You can choose the cycle and settings you require by simply turning the twist dial. For heavier cotton clothing like towels and bathrobes, use the cotton extra dry or specialty cycles like jeans, which are made especially for denim items. The dryer also includes indicator lights that signal when the filter requires cleaning or the water tank needs emptying.

With 15 drying programs, an intuitive control, and helpful features like a kid lock and a delayed start time, the condenser dryer works just fine. It also offers an Express 14 setting and a Freshen Up program that brings your favourite garments and linen to life. Euromaid has user-friendly push buttons and a practical anti-crease function that significantly reduces wrinkles and tangles.

That said, it's important to consider potential inconveniences before committing. The first is the dryer's water tank placement at the bottom of the unit, which makes emptying it cumbersome. It's a minor trade-off, but it's worth taking into account when choosing the right dryer for your needs. There's also the 2-star energy rating, which is below average for a condenser dryer.

Pros

• Self-cleaning
• Easy to use
• A good amount of drying programs

Cons

• Low energy rating
• Inconvenient water tank placement

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8. Esatto 7kg Vented Dryer

Best Vented Dryer on the Market

With a 7kg capacity and simple features, this vented drier from Esatto is ideal for small to medium-sized families and households. The reversible panel adds another level of convenience for those who choose to wall-mount their dryers, and the electronic controls make it simple to choose a setting that works for your washing.

The Anti-crease mode ensures your clothing is ready for the closet immediately, adding to your lifestyle convenience. For those preferring a floor setup, the dryer can comfortably reside alongside your washing machine, or, for more compact spaces, it can be neatly stacked atop a compatible front-loading washer.

The price of this dryer is what really sets it apart from most on the market. It is affordable yet reliable and will get the job done. If you’re having trouble finding consistency in results, try using similar amounts of laundry loads each time to let the machine work to its potential. Customers commend the machine's ease of use and durability, providing exceptional value for money.

Pros

• Affordable price
• User-friendly controls
• Adequate drying capacity for medium-sized families

Cons

• Low energy rating
• Limited range of drying programs

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9. Solt 4.5kg Vented Dryer

Best for Compact Spaces

The Solt 4.5kg vented drier is ideal for households of one or two. For individuals on a tight budget, a vented dryer is one of the most economical options. However, while the upfront costs may be modest, the running costs can add up over time. During installation, the appliance requires external ducting to direct moist air outside via a hose to operate effectively. Alternatively, keeping the appliance in a well-ventilated room is a viable option.

With a stainless steel drum, adjustable levelling legs, and a resilient exterior finish, the Solt dryer is durable. It has three drying programs and a lint and pet hair removal feature that leaves your clothes looking crisp and new. There's also the memory setting to recall and use your preferred drying cycles, which saves time in the long run. On the downside, it may not be the best option for the most delicate with more sensitive fabrics.

Pros

• Extremely affordable
• Perfectly sized for compact spaces
• Quick drying due to its compact size

Cons

• Small capacity
• Not very energy-efficient
• Limited program options

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10. Westinghouse 5.5kg Vented Dryer

Best for Smaller Households

Westinghouse's affordable 5.5 kg vented dryer could be a perfect match if you're in a smaller household or apartment. Plus, it offers a wall-mounting option for those with limited laundry room space. The dryer is effective at drying your clothes and has an anti-tangle reverse tumble action, ensuring more drying and care for your garments. You also get a stainless steel drum, sensor drying technology, and a generously sized door.

Notably, Westinghouse's sensor dry technology is designed to detect residual moisture in fabrics and automatically stops the drying cycle once your clothes are perfectly dry. There's also a reverse tumbling action that leaves your clothes soft and virtually crease-free and an auto cool-down feature, making it a safe addition to homes that may lack space or optimal ventilation.

Pros

• Affordable
• Compact size tailored for smaller households
• Impressive range of programs considering price and size
• Good safety features

Cons

• Design is relatively basic

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11. Fisher & Paykel 7kg Sensor Vented Dryer

Best Vented for Medium-Sized Households

This Fisher & Paykel 7 kg vented dryer efficiently dries your clothes while also giving them the finest care. Its auto-sensing technology gauges the moisture content within the drum, automatically halting the cycle once your garments reach their optimum dryness. This proactive approach forestalls any damage related to under or over-drying while also managing energy consumption judiciously.

The dryer comes equipped with five fabric care cycles, including 'Freshen,' 'Heavy,' and 'Delicate,' tailor-made to cater to your diverse laundry needs. The SmartTouch controls are intuitively designed, making selecting features and fine-tuning settings straightforward.

The robust door, fitted with die-cast metal hinges, swings open to a full 180 degrees. This feature simplifies the task of loading and unloading your laundry. Additionally, the dryer includes wall mounts and a reversible control panel, providing the flexibility to mount it on the wall if necessary.

Pros

• Competitive price
• Ideal for medium-sized households
• User-friendly operation
• Compact size can easily fit anywhere in your home

Cons

• Basic design features
• Lacks cutting-edge features

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12. Beko 8kg Heat Pump Dryer

Best for Innovative Drying

The Beko 8kg Heat Pump Dryer is an 8-star energy rating dryer with an intelligent ProSmart Inverter Motor designed to prolong the dryer's lifespan and optimise energy efficiency. This ProSmart Motor is efficient, durable, and has low noise levels during operation. Thus, you can run it off-peak times, such as during the night, without waking the entire household.

The dryer is also gentle on delicate fabrics, particularly wool, which is often challenging to wash and dry. Along with this, Beko’s EcoGentle technology ensures your clothes retain their vibrant colours after each drying cycle, leaving them looking fresh and new. Another highlight is its dual filter, which effectively removes any extra dirt, sand, and dust from your clothes.

Beko's Auto Anti-Crease feature makes ironing easy by eliminating unwanted creases from your clothes. If you have young children at home, the Baby Protect Program can your child's clothes, removing any dirt or germs. For quick drying needs, opt for the RapiDry feature; your garments will be ready in about 23 minutes.

Pros

• Excellent energy rating
• Gentle on a variety of fabrics
• Solid and durable construction

Cons

• Drying times vary

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Types of Clothes Dryers

There are four main types of dryers available on the market.

#1. Vented Dryers

Vented dryers, the more prevalent variety, ingeniously draw in the room's ambient, dry air and heat it using either an electric or gas element. The air, now warm, circulates through the clothing in the drum, effectively drawing out moisture. Vented dryers are normally less expensive than their ventless equivalents, but installation costs may increase because an exterior vent or duct needs to be constructed.

#2. Vent-less Dryers

Alternatively, we have ventless dryers, also known as condenser dryers. These clever machines extract moisture from the clothes without necessitating an external vent or duct. Instead, the collected moisture is condensed and deposited into a tray or reservoir, which requires periodic manual emptying. Although they are normally more expensive than vented dryers, ventless dryers are perfect for apartments or residences where venting is not an option. They might also dry garments more slowly and increase the temperature and humidity in the room.

#3. Heat Pump Condenser Dryers

Heat pump condenser dryers use advanced heat pump technology to efficiently dry your laundry. Unlike traditional vented or condenser dryers, heat pump condenser dryers recycle and reuse the hot air generated during the drying process, resulting in significant energy savings.

The dryer pulls in air from the surrounding environment and passes it through a heat pump. The heat pump extracts moisture from the air, which is then condensed and collected in a reservoir or drained away. The dry air is reheated and circulated back into the drum to continue drying the clothes. This recycling of air and energy makes heat pump condenser dryers highly energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

#4. Gas Clothes Dryers

Gas clothes dryers use natural gas or propane as a fuel source to generate heat for drying laundry. They operate similarly to electric dryers but use a gas burner to produce the necessary heat instead of electric heating elements. Thus, it's important to consider gas supply availability and ensure proper installation and maintenance for safe use.

One of the main advantages of gas clothes dryers is their faster drying time compared to electric dryers. Gas burners can produce higher heat levels, allowing for more efficient and quicker drying cycles. This can be particularly beneficial for households with larger laundry loads or those requiring fast drying times.

Air Drying vs. Using a Clothes Dryer

The choice between air drying and using a clothes dryer depends on various factors and personal preferences. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages.

Air Drying

Here are the benefits of air drying your clothes:

• Environmentally friendly: Air drying is the more eco-friendly option as it doesn't consume electricity.
• Cost savings: Since air drying doesn't require any energy usage, it can help reduce utility bills.
• Gentle on fabrics: Air drying is a gentle method that minimizes the risk of shrinking or damaging delicate fabrics.
• Sunlight benefits: Hanging clothes outdoors can provide the added benefit of sun exposure, which can naturally help remove odors and disinfect garments.

Using a Clothes Dryer

Here are some benefits of using a clothes dryer:

• Time efficiency: Clothes dryers can significantly speed up the drying process, especially for larger loads or during unfavorable weather conditions.
• Convenience: Dryers offer convenience as you can set the desired drying time and leave the clothes to dry without supervision.
• Softness and reduced wrinkles: Dryers with fabric care features can leave clothes feeling softer and with fewer wrinkles.
• All-weather solution: Clothes dryers are not dependent on weather conditions, making them a reliable option in areas with frequent rain or high humidity.

The better option depends on your individual circumstances, including time constraints, fabric care needs, environmental concerns, and personal preferences. You may prefer the freshness and energy-saving aspect of air drying or appreciate the convenience and efficiency of using a clothes dryer. Still, you can combine both methods for different garments and situations.

How to Choose the Best Dryer

When shopping for a clothes dryer, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key things to look for:

1. Load capacity: Choose a dryer that has the capacity to handle the size of loads you typically wash. A dryer capacity of less than 5kg is ideal for 1-2 persons, whereas a capacity between 5 to 7 kg is efficient for 3-4 persons. If you're shopping for a household of more than 4 persons, consider a dryer capacity of 7 kg or more.
2. Energy efficiency: Look for a dryer with an Energy Star rating, which means it uses less energy and can save you money on your utility bills. To save more, choose the clothes dryer with more stars.
3. Drying options: Consider a dryer with multiple drying options, such as sensor drying, steam drying, or wrinkle prevention, to better meet your specific needs.
4. Noise level: Check the noise level of the dryer before purchasing, especially if you have an open floor plan or plan to put it near living spaces.
5. Durability: Invest in a dryer that is built to last, with solid construction and quality components.
6. Brand and customer reviews: Do your research and read customer reviews to ensure you are buying a reputable brand with good customer service.
7. Price: Set a budget and find a dryer that meets your needs and is within your price range. Remember, the cheapest option may not always be the best value in the long run.
8. Added features: Think about the features that are crucial to you, including steam cycles, wrinkle avoidance, sensor drying, and programmable settings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions on using and maintaining dryers in Australia.

Say Goodbye to Damp Laundry

Investing in a top-quality dryer is a decision that, when made thoughtfully, should provide you with years of reliable service. And while choosing a dryer may not be the easiest task you do, paying good attention to detail here will provide convenience and value for money.

Remember, your ideal pick may vary based on budget, living space functionality, and usage. Since no straight answer applies to everyone, be sure to know exactly what you’re looking for before making the transaction. For the best budget dryer, get the Mistral 7kg Tumble Dryer. And for the best high-end dryer, choose the Bosch Serie 8 Heat Pump Dryer.