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Which tumble dryer is best for me?

Which tumble dryer is best for you? Our dryer buying guide.

How do you choose the best tumble dryer for your home and needs? What's the best clothes dryer? Find out in our buying guide which factors to keep in mind when choosing a new machine.

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What to consider when buying a dryer?

Which dryer should I buy? Which dryer is best?

A dryer makes doing laundry much more convenient. Just wash, dry, fold and done! Whether you opt for a heat pump or condenser dryer, it's entirely up to you. Those wanting to reduce their carbon footprint and lower their energy bill should choose a heat pump model for its high energy efficiency.

A big household might look for the best dryer for a large family, such as our 9 kg machines that can dry a large capacity of laundry at once. If a quick dryer or one that's whisper quiet is a priority, you've got options as well. Read on to find out exactly what to consider when choosing a new dryer.

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1. Condenser vs. heat pump dryer: What's the difference?

Both are ventless machines. Alternatively, a two-in-one washer dryer is a good option for those short on space.

What is a heat pump tumble dryer? How does it work?
This is the most energy efficient option. Instead of warming the air with a heating element, it reheats the circulating air. Although it comes with a slightly higher purchase price, this system consumes significantly less energy, meaning the investment quickly pays for itself.

Technically speaking, this technology is a type of condenser dryer since it collects humidity during the drying process.

What is a condenser dryer? How does a condenser dryer work?
Typically, these machines dry clothes quicker than a heat pump model, but they consume much more energy. Humidity from the drying process collects in a water compartment that must be emptied after each load.

What is a washer dryer?
As the name suggests, these products combine the functions of two appliances in one housing. They're ideal for those who long for a dryer, but lack space for two separate appliances. The washing and drying capacity of these machines is typically lower than that of a standalone dryer.

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2. How much laundry should my dryer hold?

Capacity is measured in the number of kilograms of laundry a machine can dry at once. Our products hold between 7 kg and 9 kg. You can determine the volume you need based on your household size and the type of items you dry. Also, a large load washing machine is best paired with a large load tumble dryer.

Energy label for dryers showing an A++ energy rating.

3. What about a highly energy efficient dryer?

Running a tumble dryer can consume a lot of energy. That's not only bad for the planet, but also for your long-term electricity expenses. If this is a priority for you, bear in mind that heat pump technology is the most energy efficient. In fact, our Series 8 model outperforms the A+++ energy efficiency class by an impressive 10%*. With the other value classes also offering many A-rated and higher machines, you're sure to find a low-consumption dryer that's right for you.

* 10% more efficient (174 kWh/year) than the limit value (194 kWh/year) of the energy efficiency class A+++ according to delegated EU Regulation 392/2012.

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4. A quick dryer: is speed important to me?

If your eye is constantly on the clock, a high-performance machine will get the job done fast, no matter the drying programme. Or better yet, opt for a premium product with Speed Perfect, which cuts drying time signifcantly.

Many of our models also come with our innovative AutoDry feature, which adjusts the programme time, so your clothes come out just as dry as you want. Plus, some washer dryers have a time-saving 60-minute wash & dry programme.

* Comparison of runtime cotton and cotton with Speed Perfect option activated.

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5. Do I want an ultra quiet dryer?

Gernerally speaking, our machines emit less noise than, for example, washing machines. If your unit is placed in the cellar, the noise level is likely of secondary importance. But a quiet appliance makes sense if it's located in or near your living space. An ultra quiet condenser tumble dryer from Bosch emits between 59 and 62 decibels, about the equivalent of low background music.

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6. How do I want to deal with fluff?

While fluff accumulates in every dryer, not every model comes with the same system to filter it and keep the appliance clean.

For ultimate convenience: AutoClean
Models with AutoClean collect the fluff in a compartment instead of in a door filter. The special filter needs to be emptied around every 20 cycles.

For less hassle: Self Cleaning Condenser
A machine with a Self Cleaning Condenser cleans itself during each cycle. For maximum energy efficiency, the door fluff filter should be emptied after every cycle.

For the essentials: fluff filter and bottom filter
Some models come with a door fluff filter that should be emptied after every load you dry. The EasyClean bottom filter needs to be cleaned every 20 cycles.

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7. Which features and programmes do I need?

Drying delicates? Long to skip ironing? Love smart appliances? A host of highlight features and programmes take drying to the next level. Here are four to look out for.

Let the machine decide: Smart Dry selects the right drying programme based on information from your washer. When paired with Home Connect, your appliances communicate even better, so your dryer takes into account the load size and moisture levels.

Fabric-friendly drying: The Sensitive Drying System gently dries laundry so it comes out soft, fluffy and wrinkle-free.

Your ironing assistant: Reduce your ironing pile with the Iron Assist steam treatment that smooths out dry laundry.

All under control: Via the Home Connect app, you can select a programme and start your machine, from wherever you are.

Need help choosing a product? Try the Dryer Finder.

Do you know roughly what you want, but need help choosing? Our Dryer Finder tells you in a few clicks which product is best for you.

How long does a tumble dryer last?

A machine's lifespan depends on a number of factors, including the initial quality of the appliance as well as maintenance and care. High-quality Bosch models with German engineering are made to last for years. External tests and certifications are a testament to our high quality standards. So when you choose Bosch you can be certain to have made a good decision.

What are the tumble dryer dimensions?

The models in our range are 85 x 60 x 60 cm. This is the standard size in many parts of the world. You can stack or put machines side by side without a height differentiation.

Pro tip: High-volume models that can dry more laundry at once have the same external dimensions as those with a lower capacity.

Which tumble dryer is best?

What type of tumble dryer is the best? What's the best tumble dryer? What's the best condenser tumble dryer? What's the best heat pump tumble dryer? No matter what you're looking for, it's natural to want peace of mind about your decision. The best dryer for you is the one that meets your personal needs, such as your household size, type of laundry items and living space. Because our high-quality products are made to last, any changes you anticipate, such as a growing family or impending move, might factor into your decision.

Tumble Dryer reviews: What do our customers think?

clothing like new

had a flood in my home last year all my clothing neededed washimg dried bought mid price brand known lasted 9 months hours to dry this is best ever 20 mins dry some clothes bone dry worth every euro i be buying a bosch washer when other diff brand gives in

Really great dryer!

This dryer is really quiet and has a really good range of programmes to choose from. I find my clothes are perfectly dry without getting damaged

Reverse Tumble

I love my Bosch condensing tumble dryer. It's purring away as I write this review. Only issue is It doesn't seem to do a reverse tumble which is okay most of the time. However bedding gets tangled.
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If you need any help and support that is specific to your Bosch appliance model, your user manual is the best place to find this information.

Bosch Store

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