If you don't have a utility room, the best integrated tumble dryer may be the only solution to have your laundry. After all, washing machines and tumble dryers are not the most aesthetically pleasing, therefore, out-of-sight and out-of-mind is one way to deal with them. What's behind cupboard doors stays hidden, and that's a blessed relief if you prefer a minimalist environment. Integrated tumble dryers are not cheap, in fact, on the whole, they are more expensive compared to their freestanding counterpart. However, you do benefit from retaining sleek surfaces and quite likely upgrading your existing machine to a more energy-efficient appliance.
No more drying clothes on the clothes rack - it's time to take a look at the best tumble dryers that won't send your smart meter into overdrive. And you want to cut down on the ironing too? The good news is that many of these newer appliances have drying programmes that result in crease-free clothing. Alongside this, the best features to look for in your new tumble dryer include sensor drying, timer delay, and smart connectivity. Plus, a budget-friendly dryer wouldn't be a bad idea, also.
Best Integrated Tumble Dryers At A Glance:
• Best integrated tumble dryer for energy efficiency: BEKO Pro DTIKP71131W Integrated 7kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer - Buy now on Currys
• Best integrated tumble dryer for connectivity: Hoover H-DRY 300 BATDH7A1TCE Integrated Heat Pump Tumble Dryer - Buy now on John Lewis
• Best integrated tumble dryer for ease of use: Baumatic BBTDH7A1TE Integrated 7Kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer - Buy now on AO.com
• Best value integrated tumble dryer: Candy BCTD H7A1TEB-80 Integrated Heat Pump Tumble Dryer - Buy now on Amazon UK
Sensor technology stops the machine when no more moisture is detected. This is a great energy-saving feature, and it protects your clothes from over-drying. Some appliances connect to Wi-Fi for additional programs, updates and settings. A delay timer is super handy for setting the machine to come on later in the day, for example, overnight. People on an Economy 7 tariff will benefit from this feature. However, don't leave wet items in the drum for too long, as a mustiness will develop.
Additional features that begin to make certain models stand out include self-cleaning, anti-allergy and energy efficiency. In truth, there are not a lot of choices when it comes to integrated tumble dryers. Integrated appliances are smaller and more compact than freestanding machines, so not ideal for large households. There isn't a great deal of difference between the machines either; generally, the major brands offer appliances that have a 7kg capacity. This equates to a load of 35 T-shirts.
Best Integrated Tumble Dryer
Let's take a quick spin through the best integrated tumble dryers.
Best integrated tumble dryer for energy efficiency
www.currys.co.uk
This BEKO Pro DTIKP71131W Integrated 7kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer ticks a lot of boxes, as it has heat pump technology to save on your energy bills and a load of programs to make your life a little easier, including clever sensors that work out the perfect drying time for your clothes. Be aware you will need to get a professional fitter to fit your integrated tumble dryer. Currys offer an installation service at extra cost.
Customer review: "Dries faster and better than my old vented model. Sensor drying is a real boon."
Pros
- Easy to use
- Range of drying programmes
Cons
- Slow
Best integrated tumble dryer for connectivity
www.johnlewis.com
Hoover is a reputable name when it comes to vacuum cleaners, and with tumble dryers, this Hoover H-Dry 300 BATDH7A1TCE is no different. This model boasts the impressive claim that it can save 40 per cent of energy compared to using a standard condensing dryer. Additionally, the sensitive drying technology means your clothes are gently tumbled while warm currents of air stop them from sticking to the side of the drum (preserving the quality of your clothes). There are 16 different programmes to choose from and the machine features wi-fi connectivity so you can control it from your phone.
Customer review: "Found there is a very limited choice for integrated dryers - all appear to now be more expensive heat pump versions. Not quite as effective as previous condenser dryer but much better than some of the other reviews would suggest. Haven't had any issues with condensation. Overall a decent dryer."
Pros
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Specialist Hygiene program
Cons
- Customers have reported issues with condensation
Best integrated tumble dryer for ease of use
ao.com
If you're looking for an integrated tumble dryer that uses less energy, this Baumatic BBTDH7A1TE Integrated Heat Pump Tumble Dryer is a great option with a mid-range price tag. But you know, investing in a heat pump tumble dryer will pay off in the long run as it is a more cost-effective way of drying clothes, saving you money on your bills in the long run. Additionally, ease of use stands out with its user-friendly dial operation.
Customer review: "It’s cheap to run, but takes twice as long as a vented dryer, so need a lot of patience. Easy to empty the door water catcher and the fluff catcher. Lots of settings like the rapid setting - either 30/45/60 mins. Got an integrated model and it fits perfect under the counter top, fairly quiet running."
Pros
- Low energy consumption
- Easy to use
Cons
- Takes a long time
Best value integrated tumble dryer
Twice as efficient as a standard condenser dryer, this Candy BCTD H7A1TEB-80 Integrated Heat Pump Tumble Dryer reuses hot air to dry your clothes efficiently. It boasts all the features of the newest tumble dryers, including wi-fi, sensor dry and delay start timer. In addition, it features an "Easy Case" in-door container that makes it very clear when you need to empty the water container. In terms of price, this is currently a fantastic deal from Amazon. Additionally, there is an option to have the appliance delivered and installed and your old machine taken away.
Customer review: "I used this tumble dryer for three loads yesterday, and all washing came out dry and ready for the wardrobe. The water reservoir could not be easier to empty as its inside the door. My only criticism is, why does it need a dozen different options for different materials etc. all that is required is a run time dial and two different temperature options, but that's modern over complication I suppose."
Pros
- Easy to empty the water reservoir
- Energy-efficient drying
- Currently, a very good deal
Cons
- Noisy
Best integrated tumble dryer for self-cleaning
www.currys.co.uk
Looking to replace your existing machine and want a tumble dryer that's smarter and cheaper to run? The MONTPELLIER MIHP75 Integrated Heat Pump Tumble Dryer could be right up your street with its memory button feature that allows you to store your most used settings. Additionally, this appliance boasts 15 drying programs, sensor drying and a self-cleaning program. With a great energy rating and positive reviews about it being quiet, effective and easy to use, it's ideal for doing a late-night load.
Customer review: "No integrated vented dryers were available anywhere. Reading the reviews, this was voted best, even though it was expensive for a dryer. I have been pleasantly surprised how well it dries. It isn't the quietest but I can live with that. The water emptying container in the door is genius."
Pros
- Uses less electricity than a conventional dryer
- Easy to empty the water tank
Cons
- Some reviews have commented that it's noisy
Best integrated tumble dryer for delay start
If space really is at a premium, then a washer dryer could be the answer. More so, an integrated appliance will slot in seamlessly. Not only does this CANDY CBD485D1E Integrated Washer Dryer, 8kg, have an 8kg capacity, but it also solves the issue of leaving wet clothes in the tumble dryer while you wait for the cheaper off-peak tariff rate. With the delay start timer, you can program the washing and drying in one appliance and take full advantage of its quick wash programmes and sensor dry functionality.
Customer review: "Washing machine/tumble dryer - fantastic value in sale."
Pros
- Best use of delay start feature
- Larger capacity
Cons
- Some reviews have commented that it's noisy
Our Verdict: Best Integrated Tumble Dryer
As the heart of the home, the kitchen is one of the more difficult rooms to keep organised and therefore functional. But there's no need to get your sheets in a twist if you opt for integrated appliances. If you want to make light work of your laundry, go for the BEKO Pro DTIKP71131W Integrated 7kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer.
Quite simply, it (inconspicuously) stands out for its reasonable price, range of next-level features and energy efficiency. The emphasis is on making laundry less creased and easy to separate so the machine self-cools before you unload it and collects fluff in a filter so it's super easy to clean. These thoughtful little benefits, in addition to sensor drying, a delay timer and a superb energy rating, sets this integrated tumble dryer apart from the rest. Say goodbye to your iron.
FAQs
Why Should I Choose Integrated Appliances?
According to premium fitted furniture brand Neville Johnson, you can transform your home into a clutter-free haven with built-in units. Bespoke fitted units hide appliances and unsightly wires, whilst keeping your space looking sleek, whatever your lifestyle. Cari Bateman, Furniture Designer at Neville Johnson says: “Embedding clever storage solutions into your fitted furniture is a key element homeowners should be doing this year."
So, maximise your kitchen's potential, and with many of us working from home, it's worth doing now our domestic space is now a hybrid place to live, relax and focus. Additionally, integrated units can add value to your property as they are a bespoke and visually pleasing asset.
However, limited capacity is just one of the disadvantages of integrated tumble dryers. Additionally, because they work on a heat pump system, they take longer to complete the drying cycle. Warm air recirculates and collects moisture in a tank. The tank needs to be emptied at the end of each drying cycle. Unfortunately, some customers have reported that their tumble dryer caused condensation to build up inside the cupboard.
What Are The Different Types Of Tumble Dryers?
There are three different systems on which tumble dryers can be based, each with its own pros and cons.
Vented tumble dryers are the cheapest but may not be suitable for all homes. This is because it needs to be placed next to an external wall and a pipe extending from the machine through the wall, so steam can be vented outside.
A heat pump dryer takes longer to dry clothes, but it's economical to run as it operates at a lower temperature. It also means that your laundry goes through less wear and tear when it's tumbled. Hot air is circulated around the drum, absorbing moisture from the laundry. The moist air passes through an evaporator, which removes the water content and is stored in a container. The remaining air is recirculated and used to further dry the clothes.
A condenser dryer can dry clothes quickly, and because it doesn't need to be vented, it can be positioned anywhere. Just be sure to stand your tumble dryer in a well-ventilated space, as it needs a supply of cool air in order to function. A condenser dryer operates at a maximum temperature of 75 degrees. Because drying cycles are shorter than heat pump dryers, they may look like an attractive option but be aware that a condenser dryer consumes a lot more energy.
How Much Does It Cost To Use Your Tumble Dryer?
Under the Energy Price Guarantee, the average price per kWh of electricity is 34p. The average tumble dryer uses roughly 4.5 kWh per cycle. This means that the average use per cycle of a tumble dryer will cost you between one to two pounds. It also depends on what type of tumble dryer you have, with a heat pump tumble dryer working out as less cost per cycle.
What Is The New Energy Rating On Large Appliances?
The energy class efficiency rating should be one of the first things you look for when buying a tumble dryer. The energy rating scale changed in 2020, and appliances previously A++ are now classified as D or E, and A+ is F or G rated. This varies from product to product, along with product type and brand (who have yet to switch to the new scale). If you find yourselves confused, here is an easy guide to help you.
Look out for tumble dryers with an energy rating of C or above, these will be some of the most energy-efficient models, and while they may cost more to purchase compared to budget tumble dryers, they can definitely save you money in the long term.
How Do I Maintain My Tumble Dryer?
Keeping your tumble dryer well-maintained is essential for optimum performance. It's more efficient to wait until you have a full maximum load to dry, as each cycle will use the same amount of energy.
Also, be sure to clean the door filter after every use. The bottom condenser filter needs cleaning at least every month. Some appliances have a handy light that notifies you when the condenser needs emptying.
Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for A Modern Kitchen, specialising in kitchen appliances. When she's not testing coffee machines, she flexes her creative flair as an artist.