How Do Costco's Washers And Dryers Stack Up Against Other Big Box Stores?

Is your washing machine leaking, vibrating out of place, or making loud noises that can't go unnoticed? Are loads of laundry staying damp for hours, no matter what heat setting you use on your dryer? Do you have your appliance repair person on speed dial? There are a surprising number of ways you're destroying your washer and dryer without even noticing. From forgetting to empty pockets to routinely overstuffing the machines with enormous loads of heavy items, it's all too easy to shorten the average washer or dryer's lifespan of 10 to 13 years. Even if you're meticulous about running balanced loads, you'll eventually be in the market to replace your laundry room appliances. 

Laundry is one of the most time-consuming and expensive chores, involving the upfront appliance cost as well as ongoing detergent, water, and energy expenses. Once you start your search for a new washer or dryer, you'll quickly find a large selection of machines available, with a wide variety of features, price points, and warranty details. It's easy to get overwhelmed by all the options, especially if you find yourself needing to replace a washer that's suddenly splashing bubbles all over the floor or a dryer that starts making a burning smell. And it can be tricky to tell if you're getting a great deal at a membership club or home improvement superstore — or if it's a total wash. So, just how do Costco's washers and dryers stack up against other big box stores?

Costco carries most major washer and dryer brands, including LE, Samsung, Whirlpool, and GE models. They sell front- and top-loading washers, gas and electric dryers, stackable models, and combination washer/dryer sets, and most are Energy Star certified. Before you buy a new appliance, though, it's wise to price shop online.

You'll quickly notice that Costco only sells large appliances to members. A membership entitles you to free delivery and installation, removal and disposal of your old appliances in most areas, an extended two-year warranty, and any additional parts that are required to complete installation for select products. One of Costco's bestselling sets is the Samsung Large Capacity Smart Front Load Washer with Super Speed Wash and Smart Electric Dryer with Stacking Kit. At a bundle price of just $1,333, purchasing from the warehouse chain offers tremendous savings over shopping at Lowe's or Home Depot, where the same set costs over $2,000. 

Costco's Gold Star Membership starts at $65 annually, but the savings more than pay for it. It sells over 300 washers and dryers that have received a four-star rating or higher from satisfied customers. But rest assured that on the rare occasion when things don't work out, the company accepts returns within 90 days of receiving the appliance.

Both Home Depot and Lowe's also carry a wide range of washer and dryer options. To avoid the mistakes everyone makes when buying new models, make sure you carefully consider the amount of laundry you do each week and select appliances with adequate capacity. And don't forget to accurately measure the available space in your home, including halls and doorways you may need to navigate during delivery.

Delivery is one of the areas where other big box stores present a challenge. Unlike Costco, Home Depot and Lowe's only offer limited installation and haul-away services. Lowe's offers free installation when you purchase an electric washer and dryer, but haul away of your old appliances must be purchased separately. Gas dryers from Lowe's always require separately purchased installation, but you need to check with your local store as not every location offers this service. Home Depot offers more installation options and has an excellent selection of how-to videos that explain exactly what you need to do in order to prepare for success. 

In either event, even if installation is included with a big box purchase, additional fees for haul away and disposal of your old appliances will apply. Necessary extras like electric cords, dryer ducts, and other appliance hookup accessories will also need to be purchased separately, which can add cost and hassle to your washer and dryer purchasing experience. All of this is simplified with Costco's all-inclusive installation services.