A top load dryer is an essential household appliance that ensures your laundry dries quickly, efficiently, and safely. While front load dryers are often praised for their energy efficiency, top load dryers remain popular due to their simplicity, ergonomic design, and user-friendly features.
In 2025, top load dryers come equipped with advanced technology, including moisture sensors, steam functions, energy-saving modes, and smart connectivity. Whether you live in a small apartment, a family home, or require a high-capacity dryer for heavy laundry loads, there is a top load dryer to meet your needs.
This guide covers the best top load dryers of 2025, their features, pros and cons, and practical advice for selecting the ideal appliance.
What Is a Top Load Dryer?
A top load dryer features a door on the top of the appliance, allowing users to load and unload clothes easily without bending. These dryers are often paired with top load washers, but they can also function as standalone units.
Key Features of Top Load Dryers
- Sensor Dry: Automatically adjusts drying time to prevent over-drying and fabric damage.
- Multiple Heat Settings: Provides flexibility for different types of fabrics.
- Steam Functions: Reduces wrinkles, sanitizes fabrics, and refreshes clothing.
- Energy Efficiency: Modern top load dryers are designed to consume less electricity.
- Smart Connectivity: Some models allow remote monitoring and control via apps.
Advantages of Top Load Dryers
- Ergonomic Design: Easy to load and unload laundry without bending.
- Large Capacity: Ideal for bulky items like bedding, towels, and blankets.
- Faster Drying: Efficient airflow and heating systems reduce drying time.
- Durable Performance: Typically long-lasting with fewer maintenance issues.
- Ease of Use: Simple controls with straightforward cycles for everyday use.
Types of Top Load Dryers
1. Electric Dryers
- Most common type for residential use
- Easy to install in standard homes
- Provides consistent heat and multiple settings
2. Gas Dryers
- Faster drying and more energy-efficient
- Requires a gas line for operation
- Preferred by households with frequent laundry needs
3. Steam Dryers
- Uses steam to reduce wrinkles and odors
- Sanitizes clothes and freshens fabrics
- Works well in combination with steam washers
Best Top Load Dryers of 2025
1. LG DLEX8600BE 7.4 cu. ft. Smart Electric Dryer
Overview: Premium electric dryer with advanced features for large households.
Key Features:
- 7.4 cu. ft. capacity for heavy loads
- Sensor Dry and SteamSanitary™ options
- Wi-Fi enabled for remote monitoring
- Multiple drying cycles for all fabric types
Pros:
- Large capacity suitable for families
- Smart features allow convenient monitoring
- Efficient drying with minimal energy use
Cons:
- Premium price
- Requires sufficient space due to large size
Ideal For: Families and tech-savvy users seeking smart, high-capacity dryers
2. Samsung DVE50R8500V 7.5 cu. ft. Electric Dryer
Overview: High-performance dryer with energy efficiency and advanced steam functions.
Key Features:
- 7.5 cu. ft. drum
- Sensor Dry and Steam Sanitize+
- Multiple heat levels and cycle options
- Durable stainless steel drum
Pros:
- Efficient drying and energy-saving technology
- Excellent steam options for wrinkle reduction
- Large capacity for heavy laundry
Cons:
- Slightly complex control panel
- Professional installation recommended
Ideal For: Households with frequent laundry and large loads
3. Whirlpool WED4815EW 7.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer
Overview: Budget-friendly top load dryer with essential features.
Key Features:
- 7.0 cu. ft. drum
- Sensor Dry technology
- Multiple drying cycles
- Simple controls and reliable performance
Pros:
- Affordable and efficient
- Easy to use and maintain
- Suitable for small to medium households
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- Moderate capacity for larger families
Ideal For: Budget-conscious users seeking reliable drying performance
4. GE GTD84ECSNWS 7.2 cu. ft. Top Load Dryer
Overview: Mid-range dryer combining energy efficiency with modern features.
Key Features:
- 7.2 cu. ft. capacity
- Sensor Dry for optimal moisture control
- Multiple heat settings for delicate to heavy fabrics
- Durable drum construction
Pros:
- Reliable performance with energy efficiency
- User-friendly interface
- Suitable for medium to large households
Cons:
- Mid-range price
- Slightly larger footprint
Ideal For: Households looking for a balance between price, features, and capacity
5. Maytag MEDB955FW 7.3 cu. ft. Top Load Dryer
Overview: Durable dryer with advanced drying technology and commercial-grade components.
Key Features:
- 7.3 cu. ft. high-capacity drum
- Sensor Dry and Steam cycles
- Advanced moisture sensing for optimal drying
- Sturdy commercial-grade drum
Pros:
- Long-lasting durability
- Large capacity and versatile cycles
- Effective drying for heavy loads
Cons:
- Higher price range
- Requires proper ventilation for optimal performance
Ideal For: Families needing reliable, heavy-duty drying for frequent laundry
Key Considerations When Buying a Top Load Dryer
- Capacity: Choose based on household size and laundry frequency.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for Energy Star-certified models to save electricity.
- Heat Source: Electric dryers are easy to install, gas dryers are faster and more efficient.
- Cycle Options: Delicate, heavy-duty, and steam cycles enhance versatility.
- Noise Levels: Consider models with quiet operation for homes near living spaces.
- Space Requirements: Ensure your laundry area accommodates dryer dimensions.
- Price and Warranty: Balance features with budget and check manufacturer warranty.
Tips for Using and Maintaining Top Load Dryers
- Load Evenly: Prevent unbalanced drying and reduce noise.
- Clean Lint Trap: After each cycle to maintain efficiency and prevent fire hazards.
- Check Vents Regularly: Clean dryer vents to maintain airflow and efficiency.
- Use Correct Heat Settings: Avoid damaging delicate fabrics.
- Use Steam Options: Refresh clothes, reduce wrinkles, and sanitize fabrics.
- Avoid Overloading: Maintain airflow and effective drying performance.
Advantages of Top Load Dryers
- Ergonomic design for easy loading and unloading
- Large capacity suitable for families and bulky laundry
- Faster drying cycles for convenience
- Durable and reliable over long-term use
- Advanced options for energy efficiency and fabric care
Disadvantages
- Slightly larger footprint than front load dryers
- Premium models can be expensive
- Less suitable for stacking in small laundry spaces
- Some models may consume more electricity than front load dryers
Conclusion
Top load dryers remain a practical and efficient choice for households of all sizes in 2025. With advanced features like Sensor Dry, steam cycles, and smart connectivity, modern top load dryers combine convenience, energy efficiency, and performance.
Brands such as LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, GE, and Maytag offer high-quality dryers suitable for various needs, from small apartments to large family homes. When selecting a dryer, consider capacity, energy efficiency, heat source, cycle options, space requirements, and budget.
Investing in a reliable top-load dryer ensures fast, efficient, and safe drying, making laundry less of a chore and more of a convenience.
FAQs
1. What is the best capacity for a top load dryer?
7.0–7.5 cu. ft. is ideal for families; smaller households can opt for 5.0–6.5 cu. ft.
2. Are top load dryers more durable than front load dryers?
Generally, top load dryers are simpler to maintain and long-lasting with fewer mechanical issues.
3. Can I install a gas dryer at home?
Yes, but it requires a proper gas line installation and professional setup.
4. How often should I clean the lint trap?
After every cycle to maintain efficiency and prevent fire hazards.
5. Are steam dryers worth it?
Yes, they reduce wrinkles, sanitize fabrics, and refresh clothes, providing additional convenience and care.