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The washing machine consumes large amounts of water and energy, so make the wise decision and purchase the most energy efficient model for 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 garments we actually wash.

Now, when you want to use your washer and dryer often, it's best if you buy one with a stainless-steel tub. If you wash less frequently, only on weekends, for example, you can get by pretty well with a porcelain-coated or plastic tub. There are stacked washer-dryer units in apartment-size or full-size for those with limited space. Remember also that the size of your washer should match your dryer'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. Other items to consider are automatic temperature regulators; a must in cold climates, they ensure that wash water comes in at a constant temperature for the setting.

The two common types of washing machines are top-load models and front-load washers. Top-load washers allow the user to put in and retrieve laundry from the machine without bending over. These models must be set side-by-side with the dryer. These models are less energy-efficient, even though they are cheaper initially.

The front-load machine is gaining in popularity because of its energy efficiency. These models use only up to one-half of the water that is usually needed for a top-load machine. This also means less time and energy used for heating. Agitators also spin faster on front-load models, so you won't have to spend that much time drying them. Although they save on energy costs, front loaders cost more at purchase; you might have to buy a special detergent.

When selecting a dryer, always remember that the capacity you choose should match that of your washer's. For example, if you have a washing machine with a 3.5 cubic foot capacity, you will need a 7-cubic-foot dryer. 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. 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 options include a cool-down cycle that keeps garments from wrinkling, a damp-dry cycle that prepares clothes for ironing.