Dryers are a vital part of laundry day and their size determines the load capacity they can handle. If you are looking at purchasing a new machine – no matter if you need a small space–friendly unit, large model, matching washer and dryer set, top-, or front-loader – you must take into account its dimensions to ensure compatibility with the intended location. Here we will take a closer look at the various dryer sizes and help you pick the best one for your needs.

Dryer Sizes

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Purchasing a new dryer requires careful thought since dryer sizes vary across the different types (such as standard, stackable, and large-capacity models). For this reason, knowing the different dimensions will help you determine whether or not the machine will fit in your specific laundry area and handle your family's washing needs.

Tip!

Choosing the correct dryer size is imperative to a safe installation – especially when it comes to ventilation. Read How to Measure & Prepare for the Installation of a New Washing Machine or Dryer for guidance on getting the appropriate dimensions you'll need.

Dryer Capacities

The drum capacity of a dryer is measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.) and directly affects the amount of laundry per load. It is in your best interest to select the one that can handle your entire household's laundry, rather than picking a smaller model based on the cost alone.

Up to 3.9 cu. ft.: Most compact dryers hold around 3.5 cu. ft. of washing while many ventless models have between a 1 to 3 cu. ft. capacity (about half the size of a standard dryer). Both of them are ideal for smaller laundry areas since their footprints are designed to save space. They should be able to hold around five or so towels and service a single person or a couple.

4.0–7.9 cu. ft.: Standard aka medium capacity dryers range between 4.5 and 4.9 cu. ft, while many all-in-one dryers hold around 4 cu. ft. Stackable dryers tend to have around 7 to 8 cu. ft. of capacity (compact options can go as low as 4 cu. ft.). This size range can dry around 11 towels per load and service families with between three to four members.

8.0 cu. ft. & Greater: These are the larger models that can handle between 15 to 20 towels in one load or up to around 25 lbs. of laundry (a standard holds 16 lbs.). If you have a large family of five or more members, this is the best dryer size for you. Additionally, commercial dryers can have a drum capacity of up to 10.6 cu. ft. in order to manage massive volumes of laundry (think of hotels and catering businesses).

Tip!

To discover more about the different types of dryers, read our Dryer Buying Guide: Gas vs. Electric Dryers, Dryer Types, & More.

Overall Dryer Depths

Apart from the capacity, dryer sizes can also be measured using the depth (the dimensions from front to back). Starting with a minimum of 5" of space between the wall and the back of the appliance for ventilation, you can then add the dryer depth to find out how far out your dryer will extend.

18" – 25": These smaller models are better suited to shallow laundry areas – closets in particular are often outfitted with dryers within this range. Compact dryers usually measure between 22" and 25" deep while all-in-one dryers are about 22" – 30" in depth.

26" – 33": If you have more space available and require a larger dryer capacity, these are better suited to you. Dryers in this size range are most commonly standard front-loaders (between 30" and 35" deep), standard top-loaders (between 27" and 28". deep), and large capacity dryers (between 30" to 35" deep).

Overall Dryer Width

Measure from the left side to the right to find the dryer's width. You will need a minimum of 5" on either side of the dryer (and 1" of clearance between a side-by-side washer and dryer set) for the safest installation.

23" – 24" Dryers: These dimensions are better suited to smaller rooms or narrow areas. Compact dryers usually measure around 24" wide, while all-in-one models typically range between 23" and 27" wide.

27" – 28" Dryers: Larger laundry rooms and utility spaces can accommodate these dryer sizes. Most standard front-loaders range between 27" to 29" wide and require a door clearance of around 20" to easily unload laundry. Standard top-loaders are around 27" wide and require a 2' top clearance for easy opening and closing of the lid. Additionally, stackable dryers come in at around 24" to 28" wide and large capacity dryers around 27" to 30" wide.

So if you are making a purchase, you can now ensure you pick the correct dryer sizes for your space and laundry needs.

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