Between work, family and actually having some fun once in a while, finding time to do laundry can be tricky. To get the job done right, you need the right machines. Whether you're upgrading your old washer and dryer or shopping for a washer and dryer for the first time, be sure you have all the facts first. From washer and dryer types, to various functions and features, there's a lot out there so follow this complete shopping guide for washers and dryers. Washer types: Washers come in a lot of shapes and sizes. Be sure to pick the right washer type for your home and budget.

• Conventional washers: A conventional washing machine is your typical washing machine - you load clothes from the top and it usually uses about 40 gallons of water per load. A general rule is that conventional washers don't save much energy.
• Energy Star washers: Energy star washing machines are often front load washers, but there are some top load models. These washing machines are built to cut back on energy use - they use about 35% less energy than regular washing machines.
• High efficiency washers: High efficiency washers cut back on energy and water usage. In addition to being good for the environment, high efficiency washers get your clothes cleaner. If you're serious about water and energy conservation (and saving money in the long run) this type of washer is for you.
• Front load washer: Front load washers are just how they sound. The clothes go in front, instead of the traditional top loading washers. Why opt for a front load washer? They typically use less water and energy than top load washers. If you wash a lot of delicates, you might consider a front load washer since they cause less wear and tear. Front load washers work by tumbling clothes in water instead of using an agitator (as top load washers do), making front load washing machines are easier on your clothes. They are also stackable with your dryer if you're tight on space. The down side? These washers tend to be more expensive than top load washers.
• Top load washer: You're probably familiar with this style of washer - you load the laundry in the top and the washer cleans your clothes by circulating them with an agitator. Many homeowners prefer this model because it's easy to load and unload. Top load washers are also less expensive than front load washers and are available in Energy Star and high efficiency models.

Washer cycles: Whether you're single or having a growing family will definitely affect your laundry schedule, so shop for your washer accordingly. Invest in a washing machine with the functions you need - and forget about the ones you don't.

• Normal: This is your everyday washer cycle for average sized loads with typically clothing - think cottons T shirts and jeans. This option is a standard for all washing machines, but if you wash a lot of delicate fabrics, large loads, or other special items, you should shop for a washer with more bells and whistles.
• Delicates/hand-wash: The delicate cycle simulates hand-washing for specialty products. This cycle is slower and more gentle than the normal cycle, soaking clothes more than agitating them. If you wash a lot of silk items, for example, be sure to shop for a washer with a delicate option.
• Extra soak: Worried a normal cycle might not cut it for your dirtiest laundry? The extra soak option gets clothes extra clean by soaking them for longer. So if dirt and grass stains from baseball season are a constant woe, extra soak could be your life saver.
• Express wash: Do you find yourself always scrambling to get your laundry done before that big day at work (or big night out on the town)? Express wash cycles let you cut down on your laundry time by washing clothes in faster cycles.
• Bulk wash: Towels and sheets and jeans oh my! If you find that you're washer is always stuffed, shop for a washing machine with a bulk wash option. Bulk wash cycles are made for your heaviest loads.

Washer features: So you know what type of washer you're shopping for, you have an idea of what cycles are most important to you, but what about the other available washer features? There's a lot out there to consider, so don't forget about these details.

• Wash tub materials: the insides of your washing machine matter. Porcelain or stainless steel generally hold up the best. Your other option is plastic, will likely experience some wear and tear.
• Delay start: With the delay start option, your washer works around your schedule. If you're on the go 24/7, this option can save you the hassle of worrying about your laundry cycles.
• Automatic Temperature Control (ATC): The temperature of the water in your washing machine contributes to quality of your clothes. Too hot, and your bright colors will start to fade, but too cold and the detergent wont dissolve and clean properly. With ATC, you get the right temperature each time.
• Automatic Dispensers: With the automatic dispenser feature, you literally load your laundry hit and your job is done. Detergent and bleach are added at the right times in the right amounts after you hit start.

Shopping for the right washer: The right washer depends on a lot of factors. Check out these three profiles to help you make the right decision on your next washer.

• Family: You have a busy family with kids that are growing. Between soccer matches, PTA meetings and school plays, laundry isn't at the top of your to do list. When you're in the market for a washer, what are the essentials for you? You're going to want a washing machine with the bulk washer feature to manage the endless loads of laundry courtesy of your little ones. Consider the extra soak option, too, to give those extra dirty clothes a little special attention. A top load washer will probably make loading your laundry easier - but opt for a high efficiency model. You're likely running the washer all the time, so you'll save on cash in the long run. What's the last thing to check? Make sure your wash tub is sturdy. Invest in a washer with a stainless steel or porcelain wash tub. These features might add up to a costly appliance, but with the amount you'll be using it, its worth shopping for reliability.
• Retired: Ah. The busy days of endless laundry are over. Time to sit back and relax. Which features should you consider when shopping for your new washer? Save yourself the trouble of hand washing, and shop for a washer with a delicates or gentle cycle. For ultimate convenience, shop for a washer with automatic dispensers. You won't have to worry about adding the right amount of bleach and detergent - your washer will do the work for you.
• Couple: If it's just the two of you, your laundry needs are a lot different than a whole family. If you think there might be additions to your household, go ahead and shop for a washer for a family. Think of it as an investment and you'll be glad you did down the road. Not planning on expanding your family? Then the two of you should shop for a washer with features that cater to a smaller household. If you're living in a condo or a smaller house, shop for a high efficiency front load washer. You'll save on money and space. For the couple that's always on the go, the express wash option is a must. Throw in that blouse or dress shirt and have your laundry done just in time for work. Be sure your washer has a delicates option, too. Chances are you don't have time to hand wash or run to the cleaners every week, so wash your special items with a gentle cycle. What's the last option a couple needs in a washer? Opt for the delay start option so your laundry works around your schedule.

Dryers types: Like washers, dryers come in various styles. Your home and family size can determine which dryer model is appropriate for you.

• Electric dryer: Shopping on a budget? Electric dryers are the less expensive option for drying clothes. Keep in mind you'll need a 240-volt power source for this type of dryer.
• Gas dryer: Shopping for a dryer that will save you cash in the long term? Gas dryers run off natural gas and will lead to lower energy costs. The initial price isn't cheap for these models, though.
• Compact dryer: Is your main concern space? Think about investing in a compact dryer if you don't have a lot of laundry to do and don't want to clutter your home.

Dryer features: Which dryer features are essential to getting your laundry done right? Check out these popular features and decide what you can't live without.

• Damp/Dry Signal: If you want to get your clothes at a certain time, shop for a dryer with a damp/dry signal. It will alert you when your clothes are a certain level of dry, so your laundry is done just the way you like it.
• Wrinkle Guard: Nothing ruins a big day at the office like a wrinkly shirt. Shop for a washer with a anti-wrinkle cycle to ward off wrinkles in your freshly clean clothes.
• Lighted: If your laundry space isn't well lit, it can be difficult to tell what you've got in your dryer. Look for a dryer with a light option to make your life a little easier.
• Automatic Moisture Sensor (AMS): The AMS feature can tell exactly how dry your clothes are. If you want your laundry perfectly dry (or on the damp side), all you have to do a is hit a button and your work is done for you.

Shopping for the right dryer: So now you know what's out there...but what's right for your home? Check out these ideal dryer profiles and shop for what you need.

• Family: Chances are you do laundry a lot if your family is always on the go. Though you also probably try to spend on a budget, consider shopping for a gas dryer. You'll save in cash over the long run and thank yourself later. Other options you're going to want to keep your family laundry manageable are the AMS feature and Damp/Dry signal. You know how frustrating it is when you crack open your dryer to find a week's worth of school clothes is still damp and you have to get the kids to the bus stop in half an hour. With a dryer with AMS and the damp/dry signal, you'll never run into this laundry problem again.
• Retired: The best type of dryer really comes down to what you're comfortable with. If you already have an electric dryer and don't want to splurge on a gas one, opt for the electric. If you're concerned about energy costs, then gas is for you. Want to free up some space? Definitely shop for a compact dryer. While you have some choices there, definitely shop for a dryer with a light option and winkle guard cycle. The light option makes laundry easier and the winkle guard will save you the bother of ironing all your freshly cleaned clothes.
• Couple: Consider your new dryer an investment and opt for a gas dryer. You'll spend now, but end up saving money in the long run. What else is a must? You're definitely going to want to shop for a dryer with AMS and a winkle guard. Between work, meetings, and running your home, you probably don't have time to worry about damp, winkled laundry. Save yourself the trouble and shop for a dryer with these options.

More considerations when shopping for your washer and dryer:

• Noise: Some shoppers might not consider that washers and dryers can be noisy appliances. If your laundry room is near your bedroom or living areas, be sure to shop for washing machines and dryers that wont bother your daily activities.
• Double Options: If you're concerned about how much space your laundry facilities are going to take up, think about buying a dual washer/dryer system. Stackable washers and dryers will free up a lot of space in your laundry room.