Washing machines consume large amounts of water and energy, so make the wise decision and purchase the most energy efficient model that is appropriate for your lifestyle and space. In terms of lifestyle, think about how often you use the washer and what you wash.

If you wash often, you will get the best performance from a stainless-steel tub. If you wash less frequently, you can get by pretty well with a porcelain-coated or plastic tub. You can get a stacking washer-dryer unit if you don't have much space. Another important thing is that you must get a dryer that matches your washer's capacity.

Think about what you will use them for. If you frequently wash different types of fabrics with varying levels of dirtiness, you need a washer that offers specialty cycles, as well as a second rinse option. You need multiple water-level settings to get efficient washing for different load sizes. Some machines can boost water temperature to sanitize a load. Automatic temperature regulators are a must in cold climates, so that water comes into the machine at a constant temperature, depending on the setting.

The two common types of washing machines are top-load models and front-load washers. Top-load washers allow you to access the wash tub without bending. These models have to be placed beside a dryer, however. While these machines cost less initially, they are also less energy-efficient in the long run.

More people are now buying front-load washers because of its energy efficiency. They only need around one-third to one-half the amount of water of a top loader, which means that much less heating. And, because it spins faster, clothes come out needing less time in the dryer. Although they save on energy costs, front loaders cost more at purchase; some require a special detergent.

When selecting a dryer, the capacity you choose should go together with your washing machine's capacity. A washer with a 3.5-cubic-foot capacity, for example, requires a 7-cubic-foot dryer capacity. If space is a problem, consider a stack washer-dryer model that can fit in a closet.

Dryers are powered by either gas or electricity, with gas being a bit more costly to buy but the most economical and efficient in the long run. By law, dryers must have at least one automatic-drying cycle, but the best dryers include moisture sensors, which automatically shut down the machine whenever the moisture level in the drum drops below a certain point. Other nice features include a cool-down cycle, which keeps the clothes wrinkle-free, and a damp-dry cycle that allows garments to be prepared for ironing.