Tumble dryers – be them freestanding tumble dryers or not – are absolute lifesavers over the colder months. They save you space in your home while helping you keep on top of your laundry routine, and purchasing a freestanding tumble dryer versus an integrated tumble dryer gives you the flexibility to install the appliance wherever you have the space. Plus they are cheaper too.
Even though tumble dryers are the most expensive home appliance to run at 4p per cycle, or £40.24 per year according to appliance breakdown provider Domestic & General, tumble dryers aren’t as costly as they used to be due to new and improved innovative technology, and the introduction of energy ratings and smart meters to help monitor your usage.
Best Freestanding Tumble Dryers At A Glance
• Best freestanding tumble dryer for energy efficiency: Samsung Series 5 DV80TA020AX/EU 8kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer – View on Currys
• Best freestanding tumble dryer for features: AEG 8000 TR848A4B Freestanding Heat Pump Tumble Dryer – View on John Lewis
• Best freestanding tumble dryer for allergies: BOSCH Series 4 WTN83203GB 8kg Condenser Tumble Dryer – View on Currys
There are a few factors to consider when buying a new freestanding tumble dryer. So, whether you’re a new homeowner or are upgrading an older model, check out our guide on the best type of tumble dryer for your home. The good news is that there are many energy-efficient tumble dryers under £500. Scroll to the FAQs at the end of this article for more advice on the latest freestanding tumble dryers.
Best Freestanding Tumble Dryers
Best freestanding tumble dryer for energy efficiency
www.currys.co.uk
This Samsung model is excellent if you are looking for a tumble dryer that is energy efficient, as this model boasts an A++ energy rating. The midrange price tag is worth investing in as it uses new heat pump tech that will pay off in the long run and is a more cost-effective way of drying clothes while saving you money on your bills.
The Samsung Series 5 is compatible with the Samsung SmartThings app, which allows you to control the device from anywhere and on your smart device. Plus, this model is quiet, too, at just 65dB. Plus, you also won't have to stress about when to take care of your dryer, as the fluff filter will let you know when it needs to be cleaned.
Customer review: "This is very quiet and easy to use. It has many different drying cycles, so you can choose the appropriate one for your clothes. Clothes are warm when the cycle is complete, not hot, which makes it easier to handle them. There is an interior light too. Easy to clean the fluff from the filter and the heat pump, both of which are at the front of the machine."
Pros
- There is a pause function
- Three different drying temperatures,
- Energy efficiency and very quiet
Cons
- Programmes are quite long (up to three hours)
Type: | Heat Pump |
Dimensions: | H85 x W60 x D60cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 14 |
Energy Rating: | A++ |
Noise Level: | 65 dB |
Warranty: | 10-year parts warranty |
- Compatible with Samsung SmartThings app
- Easy to access fluff filter for cleaning
- Energy efficient with impressive A++ rating
Best freestanding tumble dryer for features
www.johnlewis.com
The AEG 8000 TR848A4B Freestanding Heat Pump Tumble Dryer simplifies life with MixDry technology, eliminating the need for separate loads. Anti-Crease tech aids ironing, while sensors save time, energy and money. SensiDry and Heat Pump Venting enhance efficiency, and the digital display and low noise level add convenience to the experience. Save up to 50 per cent in energy costs with this superb premium tumble dryer.
Customer review: "I have had lots of tumble dryers over the years and this one seemed eyewateringly expensive however it's a brilliant machine and I am so pleased with it. I would recommend it as it does all it claims to do with flying colours."
Pros
- Customised drying for delicates
- MixDry no sorting laundry
- Hygiene cycle removes 99.9% bacteria
- ProSense+ adjusts time and energy
Cons
- Not many reviews
Type: | Heat pump |
Dimensions: | H85 x W59.6 x D63.8cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 12 |
Energy Rating: | A+++ |
Noise Level: | 65dB |
Warranty: | 5 year guarantee |
- Absolutecare® no shrinkage guaranteed
- Woolmark approved
- SensiDry® dries effectively at lower temperatures
- ProTex soft drum
Best freestanding tumble dryer for allergies
www.currys.co.uk
The BOSCH Series 4 WTN83203GB 8kg Condenser Tumble Dryer features an AutoDry sensor to prevent over-drying, ensuring garments reach optimal dryness to prevent damage. The Sensitive Drying System preserves garment quality, while Super Quick 40' drying handles small loads swiftly. The machine operates quietly, maintains quilt shapes, and adjusts cycles for delicate fabrics.
Customer review: "It’s a fantastic tumble dryer and I’m very pleased with it. It’s so quiet. It measures the amount of moisture in the drum and adjusts the drying time to suit so you aren’t wasting electricity. It’s a very clever appliance."
Pros
- Anti-allergy program removes bacteria and other allergens
- Quick 40 minutes drying
- Sensitive drying system
- Fast drying
Cons
- Not the most energy-efficient
Type: | Condenser |
Dimensions: | H84.2 x W59.8 x D61.3cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 10 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 65dB |
Warranty: | 2 year guarantee |
- Use the Quick Dry program for small loads
- Sensor drying to save you time and energy
Best 10kg freestanding tumble dryer
www.currys.co.uk
The CANDY CSE C10DF NFC 10kg Condenser Tumble Dryer offers smart drying with NFC technology and the Candy Simply Fi app. Sensor Dry technology ensures optimal dryness with four levels to choose from, and a 24-hour delay timer accommodates busy schedules. The large 10kg capacity handles family-sized loads efficiently.
Customer review: "5/5"
Pros
- App-compatible
- Large capacity
- Energy efficient
Cons
- Not many customer reviews
Type: | Condenser |
Dimensions: | H85 x W65 x D62cm |
Capacity: | 10kg |
Programmes: | 14 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 68dB |
Warranty: | 1-year labour, 10-year parts |
- Sensor drying saves time and energy
- Manage your machine on the Candy Simply Fi app
Best 8kg freestanding heat pump tumble dryer
www.currys.co.uk
The SHARP KD-NHB8S6GW3-EN 8kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer offers a quick and efficient laundry with a powerful heat pump and sensor drying technology. Anti-crease protection, two-way tumbling, and express modes enhance convenience, while a lit drum ensures no items are left behind during unloading.
Customer review: "Excellent choice, very happy with this dryer."
Pros
- Save energy
- Powerful heat pump drying
- Bubble Drum prevents clothes from sticking to the drum
- Less creasing with two-way tumbling
Cons
- Energy efficient rating is pre-2021
Type: | Heat pump |
Dimensions: | H84.5 x W 64.1 x D63.8cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | A+++ |
Noise Level: | 65dB |
Warranty: | 2 year guarantee |
- Woolmark-approved Wool program
- Express Mode 45 and Shirts 30 for fast-drying
- Sensor drying to save you time and energy
- Use the quick dry program for small loads
Best freestanding tumble dryer for less creases
www.currys.co.uk
The BEKO Pro B5T4923IG 9kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer features sensor drying programs that prevent over-drying, saving time and money. The automatic anti-creasing function separates clothes to prevent wrinkles. Additional benefits include IronFinish, heat pump technology, and an interior light for thorough unloading checks.
Customer review: "Definitely cheaper to run than previous condenser dryer. Drying time starts high but corrects itself with the sensor dry and is as quick as previous dryer."
Pros
- Save energy with the eco-cycle
- Anti-creasing function
- Interior light
- Efficient heat pump dryer
Cons
- Some cycles are long
Type: | Heat pump |
Dimensions: | H84.6 x W65 x D83cm |
Capacity: | 9kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | A++ |
Noise Level: | 64dB |
Warranty: | 1 year parts, 10 years labour |
- Sensor drying saves time and energy
- IronFinish removes creases from clothes
- Interior drum light
- Reversible doors
Best freestanding tumble dryer in different designs
The freestanding tumble dryer offers excellent value for money. Pricing under £350, the Hotpoint H3 D81WB has great features and programmes such as easy iron, a delicate and sports cycle, a convenient temperature boost with a hygiene option to remove 99.9 per cent bacteria plus a 20-minute, quick cycle if when you are in a hurry.
This will be a good choice if you are in a household with small children or allergy sufferers. The model comes in three colours, white is the lowest price, and black and chrome are slightly more expensive.
Customer review: "I love this Hotpoint dryer. It matches my washing machine. Easy to use and set up. Low volume and fast dry."
Pros
- Efficient
- Value for money
Cons
- Can be loud
Type: | Condenser |
Dimensions: | 61 x 59.5 x 85cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | B |
Noise Level: | 69 dB |
Warranty: | 10-year parts warranty |
- Hygiene option
- Quick cycle for a quick dry
- Great for allergy sufferers
Best premium freestanding tumble dryer
www.appliancecentre.co.uk
This top-of-the-range Miele tumble dryer uses the latest heat pump technology, which offers an A++ rating to save on your energy bills. All Miele appliances are tested to the equivalent of 20 years’ use, so you know they will last for years to come.
Features settings you won't find on other machines, including anti-crease action, which helps reduce the ironing pile and FragranceDos, which lets you add a scent of your choice to laundry. You can also connect it to your smartphone and devices using the Miele@Mobile app. You can start a programme while you’re out of the house, and it will alert you when it’s done.
Customer review: "The TED265WP is a very impressive dryer; it's not the quickest to warm up, but it does use a fraction of the energy, and if you're doing several loads back to back, it will save you a lot of money on energy costs. The device runs quietly and dries clothes perfectly, and I love the smartphone app to allow you to monitor the process from your phone. Overall a great device."
Pros
- Tested for 20 years of use and sensor technology
- Award-winning
- Energy saving
- App compatible
- Add a fragrance
Cons
- Miele machines are incredibly knowledgeable and will let you know when the filter needs to be cleaned, for example, so it's important to listen when it tells you to do something. If you ignore it, it will affect the machine's performance.
Type: | Heat Pump |
Dimensions: | H85 x W60 x D60cm |
Capacity: | 8kg |
Programmes: | 12 |
Energy Rating: | A++ |
Noise Level: | 66 dB |
Warranty: | 10-year parts warranty and two-year guarantee |
- Connect to your smartphone with Miele app
- Start a load when you're out of the house
- Anti-crease action to reduce ironing
- FragranceDos to add scent to laundry
Best freestanding tumble dryer for small households
www.ebay.co.uk
Ideal for small households and kitchens, this 7kg vented tumble dryer is a great affordable choice if you are looking for something cheap and easy to use. Despite its low price, this tumble dryer offers 15 programmes, a handy LED dryness indicator light, and a child safety feature that is always convenient. Plus, the sensor programmes automatically detect the moisture level in your clothes and stop the cycle accordingly.
Designed with small spaces in mind, this device is space-saving, so it will fit into small kitchens or utility rooms. Although, one thing to consider is that you will need an outlet through to an outside wall to vent outdoors.
Customer review: "Our new Beko tumble dryer is fabulous, the best ever. We were so pleased with the new machine that we bought a condenser style of the same machine for our son and partner. They, too, are pleased with it."
Pros
- Good range of drying programmes
- Compact size
Cons
- The vented operation needs water output
Type: | Vented |
Dimensions: | 85.6 x 59.7 x 58.4cm |
Capacity: | 7kg |
Programmes: | 15 |
Energy Rating: | C |
Noise Level: | 67dB |
Warranty: | 1 year |
- Space-saving
- Affordable choice
- Handy LED dryness indicator light
- Child-safety feature
- Moisture-level detection
OUR VERDICT: Best Tumble Dryer
Our top pick is the SAMSUNG Series 5 DV80TA020AX/EU 8 kg Heat Pump Tumble Dryer. Although this freestanding tumble dryer has a bit of a higher price tag, it is the perfect combination of being cost-effective, having an exceptional energy rating, and convenience met with a sleek, attractive design. The device uses the latest heat pump technology, saving you money, and boasts many programmes to help make your laundry routine easier.
FAQs: Best Freestanding Tumble Dryer
What is the difference between a heat pump, vented and condenser tumble dryer?
In this list, you will find the three types of tumble dryers – heat pump, condenser, and vented. These days you will mostly find models that use either a heat pump or a condenser but let's take a look at your three options.
A heat pump-powered dryer is usually found in the latest high-tech models, but with that comes a higher price tag. Heat pumps use hot air to extract water that then evaporates in a tank. As they are the most energy-efficient, they tend to be the most expensive tumble dryers. Also, heat pump dryers tend to leave laundry less creased than condenser and vented dryers.
The condenser tumble dryers operate by condensing the warm air from wet clothes into water, accumulating in a removable reservoir and telling you when the tank is full, so there's no need to worry about any flooding.
Lastly, if you are looking for a dryer on a budget, then a vented tumble dryer would be a good choice for you. However, one thing to consider is that these need a hose or vent to expel the warm air and must be installed via an external wall or window. Vented machines tend to use more energy, so you will need to account for that when it comes to bills - although newer models include drying sensors that make them more efficient.
What are the different sizes?
Realistically, you should consider buying a tumble dryer with the same capacity as your washing machine. The capacity refers to the dry weight of clothes you can fit inside the drum. Tumble dryers range in drum size from 4kg to 9kg. A good way to look at it is that 4-6kg is a good option for a household of two, 7kg suits small homes or families of three, 8kg is ideal for households of four, and 9-10kg is convenient for large households.
The models on this list have between 7-9kg drums. Here is what the capacities look like in your dryer:
7kg: 35 T-shirts or one double duvet**
8kg:** 40 T-shirts or one queen duvet**
10kg:** 50 T-shirts or one winter king duvet
Now that you have more of an idea of what you are looking for, let's take a look at the best freestanding tumble dryers in the UK for every budget, household size and need.
What is better, a freestanding or an integrated tumble dryer?
Freestanding: If you are looking for an option that offers more flexibility or there is the potential that you may move in the future, then a freestanding option is your best bet. They are usually designed with standard dimensions and should fit comfortably under most kitchen worktops.
Integrated: On the other hand, if you are looking for something more sleek and stylish that will seamlessly fit into your kitchen, then integrated machines are designed to be installed within a kitchen unit and hidden behind a door to match your other cupboards and kitchen or utility room décor. Integrated devices tend to be on the pricier side and are slightly smaller than freestanding machines.
Need a solution to a smaller space? We recommend a washer-dryer for your laundry needs.
How much does it cost to use a tumble dryer?
The Energy Saving Trust states that between 1 January and 31 March 2024, the unit cost of electricity is 29p per kilowatt hour (kWh).
Having a smart meter installed is a way of monitoring your household's energy consumption, and you can see the effect of running a particular appliance. The power it takes to run an appliance is measured in watts. For example, the wattage of a tumble dryer can be between 1800 to 5000 watts (or 1.8kW to 5kW).
Whirlpool have compiled a guide on tumble dryer electricity usage, which includes a sum to help you work out how much your tumbler dryer costs to run per cycle.
You can work out how much your appliance costs per use with this equation:
Appliance Power (kW) x Amount of Time Used (p/h) x GBP per kWh (0.29) = Price Per Use
Amount of Time must be in decimals (0.5 is 30mins, 1.5 is 90mins)
For example, one load of washing in a standard 5kW tumble dryer for one hour costs £1.45 (5 x 1 x 0.29 / 100).
Ellen Kinsey was a Senior Health and Wellness Product Writer and has been a part of Bauer Media since 2020. She has left Bauer Media to study Ayurveda in India to expand her knowledge and skills in the health and wellness field, where she plans to continue making journalistic contributions.