If I may make one prediction as we roll through CES 2026, it’s that washer-dryer combos are the future of laundry. For those who’ve been burned by the hybrid machines, which have historically taken hours to dry a single load of laundry, LG delivered a bold answer this week.
LG’s new Signature washer-dryer ventless combo machine, unveiled at the mega tech show in Vegas, can complete a full 10-pound load of laundry — wash and dry — in about 90 minutes. The brand managed to shave a full 30 minutes off its prior full cycle time — an impressive feat and one that bodes well for the future of combo laundry systems.
The previous version of LG’s washer-dryer (pictured here) takes upwards of 2 hours for a cycle. The new model cuts the time down to 90 minutes.
LG’s combo laundry machines were already the best in class
I’ve been using LG’s last-gen combo machine for two years now. I’m rarely doing laundry for more than two people, but I’ve had nothing but good experiences with the unit — so much so that I’ve enthusiastically included it on our list of the best washing machines.
Sure, it takes longer to get a load bone dry than a standalone dryer — a full cycle takes about two hours, sometimes longer — but for me, the convenience of not having to switch laundry over between washing and drying is worth the extended cycle time. There are also the advantages of the machine taking up less space and not needing a vent.
AI features make LG’s machines more efficientÂ
LG combo laundry machines feature an AI wash cycle that adjusts water usage and drying time based on load size,
LG’s Signature Series washer-dryers have AI load detection (a feature I use almost exclusively.) Using a built-in scale, the machine senses how large or small a load you’re washing and adjusts the water usage and drying time accordingly. It also has smart detergent and fabric softener dispensers, so you’ll only ever use just enough and never too much.
The fully digital control system can be managed from a mobile device via LG’s ThinkQ smart home app and ecosystem.
The sleek digital interface is a signature of LG’s appliances.Â
These ventless machines are also gentler on fabrics, as they employ dry-air drying instead of heated drying, unlike standard machines. That fast-moving dry air more closely mimics natural outdoor drying so clothes are less prone to damage during the average cycle and, theoretically, last longer.
Pricing and availability
Pricing and launch date for LG’s washer-dryer combo were not made available, but reps tell me it will be early in 2026. The previous model retails for north of $2,000. I expect this model to launch with a tag closer to $3,000.
Source: CNET
