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The washing machine consumes large amounts of water and energy, so the key to selecting the right one is to purchase the most energy efficient model that suits your lifestyle and space. When we speak about lifestyle, we think about how often we actually use these appliances and what we use them for. In this case, what clothes or items we actually wash.

A stainless-steel tub is useful if you wash often. Those who wash less frequently will probably do fine with porcelain-coated steel or high-grade plastic. For those with limited space, there are stacking washer-dryer units in either full-size or apartment-size capacities. Another important thing is that you must get a dryer that matches your washer's capacity.

Think about what you will use them for. You'll need a washer with different specialty cycles and a second rinse if you often wash a variety of fabrics and levels of dirtiness. Multiple water-level settings will ensure the most efficient wash for loads of different sizes. You might also like to consider a washer with the ability to raise water temperature, which can be useful for cleaning laundry faster and more efficiently. 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. These models are less energy-efficient, even though they are cheaper initially.

Front-load washers are recommended for its energy efficiency, and indeed it has been steadily growing in popularity because of this feature. This type uses from one-third to one-half the amount of water of a top loader, which means that much less heating. Agitators also spin faster on front-load models, so you won't have to spend that much time drying them. They are usually more expensive than top-load washing machines, however, and you may need to buy special detergent for some models.

When selecting a dryer, the capacity you choose should go together with your washing machine's capacity. For example, if you have a washing machine with a 3.5 cubic foot capacity, you will need a 7-cubic-foot dryer. You can always buy a stacking model that can fit in a closet if space is a problem.

Dryers are powered by either gas or electricity, with gas being a bit more expensive to purchase but the most economical and efficient in the long run. Dryers must have at least one option for an automatic drying cycle, although the better models now have moisture sensors which allow to machine to shut down once the moisture level of the laundry 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.