Quick answer: how long a washer dryer takes depends on the programme, the load and how dry you want the clothes. For the standard eco 40-60 wash, UK rules cap the time at full load at 137 minutes plus 10.2 minutes per kg of rated capacity, and never more than 4 hours. Drying then adds more time on top. The exact figure for any model is on its energy label: the left side shows how long the complete wash-and-dry cycle takes, and the right side shows the wash-only time. Browse our washer dryers to compare models.
Where to find a washer dryer's cycle time
Every washer dryer sold in the UK carries an energy label with two cycle durations. The left side gives the duration of the complete cycle (wash and dry) at its rated capacity, and the right side gives the duration of the washing cycle at its rated washing capacity. These are the most reliable like-for-like times you can compare between models. Our washer dryer energy label guide explains every other figure on the label.
How long does the wash part take?
The wash part of the rated wash-and-dry cycle is the eco 40-60 programme. Under the ecodesign rules for washing machines and washer dryers (Regulation 2019/2023, as retained in UK law), its duration must stay within a time limit that depends on the rated washing capacity. At full rated capacity the limit is 137 minutes plus 10.2 minutes per kg, with a maximum of 240 minutes. At half and quarter loads the limit is 120 minutes plus 6 minutes per kg, with a maximum of 180 minutes.
Worked out for common sizes, the maximum eco 40-60 times are:
| Rated washing capacity | Maximum at full load | Maximum at half or quarter load |
|---|---|---|
| 7kg | 3 hours 28 minutes | 2 hours 42 minutes |
| 8kg | 3 hours 39 minutes | 2 hours 48 minutes |
| 9kg | 3 hours 49 minutes | 2 hours 54 minutes |
| 10kg | 3 hours 59 minutes | 3 hours |
| 11kg or more | 4 hours | 3 hours |
These are legal upper limits, not typical times. Many machines finish sooner, so check the label for the actual figure.
How long does the drying part take?
Drying time is less predictable, because it depends on how much water is left after the spin, the fabric and how full the drum is. The rated wash-and-dry cycle must dry cotton laundry to "cupboard dry", and its total time is the left-side duration on the label. A few things make a real difference:
- Spin-drying class: a better class (A is best) leaves less water in the clothes, so there is less to dry. Our spin speed guide explains how rpm affects this.
- Load size: the wash-and-dry capacity is usually lower than the wash capacity. Drying more than that in one go tends to take longer and can leave clothes damp, so split large loads.
- Dryness level: "iron dry" settings finish earlier than "cupboard dry" or "extra dry" where a machine offers them.
- Fabric mix: heavy cottons and towels hold more water than synthetics, so mixed loads may need longer.
Why do eco programmes take longer?
Eco programmes usually save energy by washing at a lower temperature for longer, which is why they can run for several hours. Quick programmes finish sooner but usually use more energy per kg and suit smaller, lightly soiled loads. Our guide to washing machine cycles explains when each one makes sense.
Is a washer dryer slower than separate machines?
A washer dryer washes and dries in one drum, so you can't start the next wash while one load is drying. With a separate washing machine and tumble dryer you can run both at once, which helps if you do several loads in a row. If you dry most loads, a separate heat pump tumble dryer may suit you better. Our washer dryer vs separate machines guide weighs up space, cost and convenience.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a washer dryer take to wash and dry?
It varies by model, programme and load. The energy label shows the exact duration of the complete wash-and-dry cycle on its left side, at the machine's rated wash-and-dry capacity, so use that figure to compare models.
What is the maximum time for an eco 40-60 wash?
At full rated capacity, UK ecodesign rules limit the eco 40-60 programme to 137 minutes plus 10.2 minutes per kg, with a maximum of 4 hours. At half or quarter load the limit is 120 minutes plus 6 minutes per kg, with a maximum of 3 hours.
Why is my washer dryer taking so long to dry?
Common reasons are a load bigger than the drying capacity, a low spin speed that leaves clothes wetter, heavy fabrics such as towels, or a high dryness setting. Drying a smaller load and using a faster spin usually helps.
Can I wash and dry a full load in one go?
Only up to the wash-and-dry capacity shown on the left side of the energy label, which is usually lower than the wash capacity. For a bigger load, wash it, then dry it in two batches.
Ready to compare cycle times side by side? See our washer dryers.
