Tumble dryers are a fantastic investment, especially in the winter. In the UK, it feels like our winters are lasting longer and longer each year. Drying your laundry becomes a daunting task. Even if you are lucky enough to have an outdoor space to line dry your laundry, you'll only be able to utilise it for half of the year. Tumble dryers are becoming a staple appliance in the UK with nearly 58% of UK households owning one. Whenever you decide to buy a new appliance, you need to make sure you have the right space for it.

Which tumble dryer is right for me?

The first thing you need to decide is which type of dryer you are going to buy. There are so many different types on the market and it can be confusing at first. The two main types of tumble dryer that are available in the UK are vented and condenser. We have an in depth guide on the differences between vented and condenser tumble dryers. However, the main differences are the way in which they dry your laundry.

white Willow tumble dryer

Vented dryers work by removing moisture from clothes and expelling it through a vent. This vent can be fitted to a hose or an external wall.

Condenser dryers heat your laundry up to a higher temperature up to 70-75℃ and then they converft the hot air into water. The water is then collected inside the appliance and will need to be emptied out regularly.

Which size is best for your space?

Much like washing machines, tumble dryers come in various different sizes. If you only have a smaller space, you may want to opt for a tabletop dryer. However, if you have a larger family and the space in your house you would be better suited to a standard, full size dryer. There are benefits to both types, you just need to work out what you personally need for your home.

Tabletop Dryers

Tabletop dryers are perfect for single households or anyone living in a smaller space. These are ideal for flats and apartments or student accommodation. They are also easy to manoeuvre, so if you don't feel the need to use it as much in the summer, you can store it away. You may also be able to mount your mini tumble dryer to the wall if you don't have as much countertop space. Willow Appliances have a 2.5kg compact vented dryer which is available in three colours. You can choose between black, silver and white. They also have handles at the sides which allow you to easily move the appliance when needed. You can fit around 12 tshirts in a dryer of this size.

If you are looking for something slightly bigger, there is also a 3kg option. Again, these small dryers are available in three colours - black, silver and white. You can fit around 15 tshirts in a dryer of this size.

Tabletop dryers are ideal if you need a few things drying in a hurry.

Willow 7kg black vented dryer

Standard Freestanding Tumble Dryers

If you have plenty of space and need something with a larger capacity, then you may consider a standard freestanding dryer. Standard freestanding dryers are always 60cm wide, 85cm tall and the depth varies between 46cm and 70cm. The depth will depend on the capacity of the drum.

The capacity of the drums can range from 5kg up to 13kg. Willow Appliances offer a 7kg vented tumble dryer which has a depth of 56.5cm which makes it ideal for fitting underneath a kitchen countertop. It also comes in two great colours - black and white so you can choose the best colour to suit your decor. The 7kg capacity is big enough for around 35 tshirts.

Integrated Dryers

If you have enough storage space and you want to keep your kitchen looking sleek and minimalistic, you can opt for an integrated dryer. These are specifically designed to slot into a cupboard sized space in your kitchen and hidden behind a panel that matches your kitchen design. Integrated dryers will be 60cm wide, between 82cm and 85cm tall and will have a depth of between 55cm and 60cm. Should you choose an integrated dryer, you will need to speak to your kitchen fitter about installation.

Where are the best places to put tumble dryers?

The ideal location for your tumble dryer depends on which type you go for. The majority prefer to keep their tumble dryer near their washing machine as it makes doing laundry much easier. However, there are a few things that you will need to consider.

Vented Dryers

If you choose a vented dryer, then you will need to install it in a location that is near to an external wall or a window. This is so that it can be vented easily. If you are going to use an external wall then you will need to install a vent kit in order to pump the moisture outside. This usually involves drilling a hole in the wall, so you will need to make sure you have permission from your landlord if you are renting. Alternatively, you can run a venting hose from the dryer and put it through a window. The downside to this is that cold air will be let into your home during the winter for the duration that the dryer is on.

Condenser Dryers

If you choose a condenser dryer, then you need to be aware that they require cool air to function. Unlike vented dryers, they can be installed almost anywhere in your home as they don't need a hose to remove the moisture. You just need to ensure that they are placed in a well ventilated room with good air circulation. If you can place the dryer near a window that can be opened then this is ideal. However, they can also be placed in any room that is cooler. It is best to keep these tumble dryers out of direct sunlight.

Home Feeling have a great range of tumble dryers available.

The range includes 2.5kg vented dryers, 3kg vented dryers and 7kg freestanding dryers.