Many RVers are surprised to find out that some recreational vehicles actually come with built-in washer and dryer units, or at least hookups for one! This can be particularly helpful if you don’t want to wash your clothes by hand in the sink, or if you need to wash bulky items such as comforters or sleeping bags that wouldn’t fit into the tub in the bathroom.
Are Washers and Dryers Standard Options in RVs?
Not all recreational vehicles come with a washing machine and dryer, but some do. If you want to buy an RV that has them, be prepared to spend more money.
Although most appliances are standard options in new RVs, having machines that help you clean your clothes can cost up to $1,500 for high-end models. An extra refrigerator or stove could also raise your costs by thousands of dollars.
You can add hookups for a washing machine and dryer if there is room in your RV’s layout. Some trailers don’t come with laundry hookups because they’re typically not considered essential amenities.
Still, it’s nice to know that you won’t have to leave certain household items behind when you hit the road in your RV. Be sure to check out RV dealerships in person so you can see which features they offer. You should always shop around before making any big purchases so you can find an RV with everything you need at a reasonable price!
Washer and Dryer Types in RVs
Depending on the type of RV you’re looking at, you may or may not find washer/dryer options in your mobile home. There are quite a few different types of washer/dryer sets out there that offer different capabilities.
If you’re interested in purchasing an RV with these units already installed, it’s best to double-check its condition. When buying used, there are always risks associated with appliances that sit idle for long periods of time.
For example, mold can start to grow inside if moisture is trapped in any way. Also, look into whether or not they have functioning drain hoses and make sure all electrical components work properly.
Stackable Washer/Dryer
For starters, stackable washers and dryers might be great options for RV owners. This is because stackable units save space in tiny spaces such as an RV. And they are much more compact, which means more space for anything else!
They also take up less energy than traditional washers and dryers. Another plus to stackable machines is that they are easy to install on your own if you’re handy or you can pay someone to do it for you. You can even find models with stainless steel exteriors that match your other appliances perfectly. These units will run you around $1100 for a good model.
Washer/Dryer Combo
Some RV manufacturers offer combo washers/dryers, where they have both a washing machine and dryer inside one box. These are great because they take up less space than separate units. If you’re looking for a combo unit for your RV, here are some things to consider:
If you have more than 5 people in your family or plan on doing lots of laundries while camping, it might be worth it to invest in two separate machines. If you’re just traveling with your partner or spouse and plan on doing laundry every few days while camping, then a combo unit is fine. It all depends on how much laundry you think you’ll be doing during your trip.
A combo unit will typically cost around $800-$1,500 depending on size and features like stainless steel drums or self-cleaning functions.
Portable RV Washer/Dryer
These appliances will save you money as well as time—and they’re affordable enough that anyone can buy them. You’ll no longer be bound by where and when you can do laundry because these machines bring washing and drying capabilities directly into your vehicle.
Portable RV washers and dryers are great for those who are living on the go, especially in an RV or trailer, but also for those who want to travel with less clutter. The portable machines are smaller than traditional ones, but still powerful enough to handle big loads of laundry at once.
They typically come with multiple wash cycles and are fairly easy to use. And, since they’re small, many models can fit inside an RV’s storage compartments or under beds or other furniture in a home. They don’t require installation either; instead, just plug it in and get started! You can get one of these for around $300.
Vented Units
RVs need an exhaust vent with a vented washer and dryer. If you’re looking to set up a washing machine or clothes dryer in your rig, make sure your RV has an exterior vent as they need room air to dry clothes.
The biggest drawback of using a vented washer/dryer is that it is very noisy when operating. That said, vented units are more powerful than non-vented machines and can handle large loads better.
The noise from these machines may be loud enough that it would bother other campers at your site (if you’re staying at a campground), but if not, then it won’t be much of an issue. All things considered, vented models are great options for those who don’t mind sacrificing convenience for power and speed!
Non-Vented Units
A non-vented, or condenser type of washing machine requires very little energy because it uses air inside the drum. Condenser washing machines can also be less expensive than vented models, especially in a camper or RV where you are limited by space.
Some units use an electric heating element to heat up water, while other types use boiling water—the same method used in commercial laundromats. The main drawback of non-vented machines is that they are not as efficient as vented models, which means your clothes will take longer to wash and longer to dry than you would with a vented machine.
If you’re looking for an energy-efficient washing machine for your RV or camper, look for one that uses less than 3 gallons per load. You should also consider how long it takes to wash each load, since you may need to run multiple loads if it takes too long to finish washing one load of laundry.
Different Classes of RVs
There are several types of RV—Class A, Class B, Class C, travel trailers, and fifth wheels. Each type has its own defining characteristics. For example, Class A motorhomes tend to be longer than other types of RVs and offer more amenities inside their living quarters.
In fact, many Class A motorhomes include a separate bedroom from the rest of their living space as well as a bathroom with both a shower and tub. Some even come with built-in washers and dryers! If you’re looking for luxury on your next camping trip, consider renting or buying an RV that falls into this category.
Class A RVs
Many Class A RVs have hookups for washers and dryers. This is especially important if you plan on staying in one location for an extended period of time, as you’ll likely want to do laundry periodically. Some class A motorhomes will come with a built-in washer and dryer set, while others will require that you purchase them separately.
If your RV does not come with a built-in set, then there are many models available for purchase.
Sources: