Dryers with steam function can help freshen clothes and reduce wrinkles, but the feature is not included on every model in this roundup. My best overall pick is the GE 7.8 cu. ft. Smart Front Load Gas Dryer, which pairs steam with a sanitize option and a useful-capacity drum. The BLACK+DECKER 8.0 cu. ft. Electric Dryer is a standout for shoppers seeking an electric steam model, while the LG top-load pair suits buyers who want a coordinated washer and dryer with Steam Dry. The main tradeoffs are paying for steam versus choosing a simpler dryer, and matching gas or electric power to your laundry room. Read on for the full breakdown and the factors that matter before you choose.
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Key Takeaways
- Only three of the six listed options explicitly include steam. The GE, BLACK+DECKER, and LG pair are the relevant picks if steam is a must-have; the Kenmore dryers listed here do not specify a steam function.
- The GE is the strongest all-around steam choice on paper because its gas format, 7.8 cu. ft. capacity, smart features, steam, and sanitize function combine more laundry needs than the other standalone steam dryer options.
- The BLACK+DECKER is the clearest standalone electric steam alternative at 8.0 cu. ft.; shoppers should still confirm its dimensions, installation needs, and steam-water setup before ordering.
- The LG option is a washer-and-dryer pair, not a standalone dryer. It makes more sense for a full laundry replacement than for someone who only needs a new dryer.
- The Kenmore models are alternatives for buyers who do not require steam. They vary by capacity and fuel type, so deciding on gas versus electric and drum size matters more than the steam feature for those choices.
| dryers with steam function | Capacity | Drying cycles | Type | Color |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GE 7.8 cu.ft. Smart Front Load | 7.8 cubic feet | 9 | Front-load gas dryer | Carbon Graphite |
| LG Matte Black Mega Capacity T | — | 13 | — | — |
| Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Front Load | 7.0 cubic feet | 10 | Front-load electric dryer | White |
| Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Front Load | 8.0 cubic feet | 12 | Front-load gas dryer | Metallic Silver |
| BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Elect | 8.0 cu. ft. | — | Front-load electric dryer | — |
| Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Front Load | 8.0 cu. ft. | 12 | — | Metallic Silver |
More Details on Our Top Picks
GE 7.8 cu.ft. Smart Front Load Gas Dryer in Carbon Graphite with Steam and Sanitize GFD65GSPVDS
I’d put the GE GFD65GSPVDS near the top for buyers who want steam features aimed at both wrinkle care and hygiene. Its steam and sanitize cycles give it a broader care focus than the Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. electric dryer, which has sensor drying and wrinkle prevention but no listed steam function. The GE’s 7.8 cu. ft. capacity also leaves room for family-sized loads, while its aluminized steel drum is built for regular use. Smart connectivity adds remote features, though those may depend on compatible devices. The tradeoff is a sizeable gas appliance: at 32 inches deep, it needs careful space planning, especially with the door open. I’d choose it over a basic sensor-dry model for steam and sanitize options, but not if the laundry area cannot accommodate its footprint.
Pros:- Steam and sanitize cycles address wrinkle care and hygiene needs.
- 7.8 cu. ft. capacity accommodates large household loads.
- Aluminized steel drum offers a durable drying surface.
- Smart connectivity adds remote features.
Cons:- Its 32-inch depth and 54.5-inch maximum depth with the door open require substantial clearance.
- Gas operation requires an appropriate gas connection and installation.
- Some smart features may require compatible devices.
Best for: Households seeking a large-capacity gas dryer with steam wrinkle care, a sanitize cycle, and smart connectivity.
Not ideal for: Buyers with a shallow laundry alcove, no suitable gas hookup, or no interest in connected features and sanitize cycles.
- Capacity:7.8 cubic feet
- Type:Front-load gas dryer
- Color:Carbon Graphite
- Drying cycles:9
- Drum material:Aluminized steel
- Voltage:120 volts
- Dimensions:32 in. D × 28 in. W × 39.75 in. H
- Maximum depth with door open:54.5 inches
Our verdict“Choose the GE if you want a roomy gas dryer with both steam and sanitize cycles and have space for its deep cabinet.”
LG Matte Black Mega Capacity Top Load Washer and Dryer Pair with TurboWash, WiFi, Steam Dry, Sensor Dry
This LG top-load washer and dryer pair is the lineup’s clearest choice for buyers who want connected laundry controls as part of a matched set. On the dryer side, Steam Dry and Sensor Dry offer wrinkle reduction and help tailor drying to the load; WiFi adds remote control and maintenance alerts. Compared with the GE GFD65GSPVDS, the LG is presented as a washer-and-dryer pair rather than a standalone gas dryer, so it suits a full laundry-room refresh. Its listed 7.3 cu. ft. dryer capacity is generous, though smaller than the 8.0 cu. ft. BLACK+DECKER and Kenmore gas dryer options. The extra connectivity is useful only if you want app-based features and have WiFi. I’d skip this set if you need only a dryer or prefer straightforward, appliance-only controls.
Pros:- Steam Dry helps reduce wrinkles and odors.
- Sensor Dry adjusts drying to the load.
- WiFi supports remote control and maintenance alerts.
- The set pairs a 7.3 cu. ft. dryer with a top-load washer.
Cons:- The dryer capacity is below the 8.0 cu. ft. options in this roundup.
- WiFi is needed to use its full connected feature set.
- Its washer-and-dryer pairing is less suitable for buyers replacing only a dryer.
Best for: Buyers replacing both machines who want a top-load washer-and-dryer set with app controls, steam drying, and sensor drying.
Not ideal for: Shoppers seeking a standalone dryer, the largest listed capacity, or a setup that does not rely on WiFi for smart functions.
- Dryer capacity:7.3 cubic feet
- Configuration:Top-load washer and dryer pair
- Drying cycles:13
- Washing cycles:13
- Dryer features:Steam Function, Sensor Dry, EasyUnload
- Connectivity:SmartThinQ WiFi
- Washer feature:TurboWash Technology
- Finish:Matte Black
Our verdict“Pick the LG pair if you’re replacing both appliances and value connected controls more than maximum dryer capacity.”
Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Front Load Electric Dryer – White
The Kenmore 2669162 is the sensible pick for someone who values sensor drying and straightforward fabric care more than steam. It has 10 drying cycles, six options, and sensors intended to prevent over-drying; those features can help protect everyday clothing without requiring a more feature-heavy machine. But this roundup is about dryers with steam, and this Kenmore has no steam function listed. That puts it behind the GE GFD65GSPVDS and Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. gas model for buyers who specifically want steam to reduce wrinkles or odors. Its 7.0 cu. ft. capacity is still suitable for bedding and household fabrics, although it is smaller than those alternatives. I’d consider it when steam is optional and an electric front-load dryer with sensor controls better fits the laundry setup.
Pros:- Sensor drying helps limit over-drying.
- Ten cycles and six options provide flexibility for different fabrics.
- 7.0 cu. ft. capacity accommodates bedding and household laundry.
- LED touch controls support clear cycle selection.
Cons:- No steam function is listed, so it misses the roundup’s main feature.
- Its capacity is smaller than the 7.8 cu. ft. GE and 8.0 cu. ft. alternatives.
- Noise-level details are not provided.
Best for: Buyers who want an electric front-load dryer with sensor drying and multiple cycles, but do not need steam.
Not ideal for: Shoppers who specifically want a steam cycle for wrinkle or odor care, or need the largest capacity for bulky loads.
- Model number:2669162
- Capacity:7.0 cubic feet
- Type:Front-load electric dryer
- Drying cycles:10
- Options:6
- Drying feature:Sensor drying
- Energy-saving feature:Yes
- Color:White
Our verdict“Choose this Kenmore only if sensor-based electric drying matters more to you than having steam.”
Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Front Load Gas Dryer – Metallic Silver
For buyers who want steam in a high-capacity gas dryer, this Kenmore combines an 8.0 cu. ft. drum with Accela Steam and a choice of 12 cycles. The steam feature is described as helping reduce wrinkles, static, and odors, while Smart Sensor Drying is designed to prevent over-drying. Compared with the GE GFD65GSPVDS, this model offers slightly more capacity and more listed drying cycles, while the GE adds a sanitize cycle and smart connectivity. That makes the Kenmore a stronger fit for bulky loads and varied fabric care, but less clearly suited to buyers prioritizing sanitation or connected controls. Its LED touch controls may take more learning than a basic interface, and steam adds another feature to maintain. I’d favor it for large bedding loads, provided gas service is available.
Pros:- 8.0 cu. ft. capacity gives bulky items and bedding extra room.
- Accela Steam targets wrinkles, static, and odors.
- Twelve cycles and eight options allow varied fabric care.
- Smart Sensor Drying helps prevent over-drying.
Cons:- Gas operation requires a compatible connection and installation.
- LED touch controls may feel complex to buyers who prefer simpler panels.
- The steam system may add maintenance needs.
Best for: Households with a gas hookup that often dry bulky bedding and want steam for wrinkle, static, and odor reduction.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a sanitize cycle, want smart connectivity, prefer simpler controls, or have no gas connection.
- Capacity:8.0 cubic feet
- Type:Front-load gas dryer
- Drying cycles:12
- Options:8
- Steam technology:Accela Steam
- Drying technology:Smart Sensor Drying
- Controls:LED touch controls
- Color:Metallic Silver
Our verdict“Choose this Kenmore for large loads and steam care if you have gas service and do not need the GE’s listed sanitize and smart features.”
BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Electric Front Load Dryer with Steam, BFLD80ME
The BLACK+DECKER BFLD80ME stands out for combining an 8.0 cu. ft. capacity and steam in an electric front-load format. That makes it a compelling alternative to the similarly roomy Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. gas dryer for buyers who need an electric model rather than gas; the Kenmore, however, explicitly lists Accela Steam benefits for wrinkles, static, and odors, while this BLACK+DECKER description emphasizes its cycle range and sensor drying. Its 12 cycles, LED display, and reversible door make daily operation and placement more adaptable. The tradeoff is a 240V connection and professional installation, so it is not a plug-in replacement. The supplied data also notes mixed durability satisfaction, which gives me reason to weigh build concerns against the capacity and flexible door placement before choosing it.
Pros:- 8.0 cu. ft. capacity accommodates large loads.
- Steam function and sensor drying support more tailored laundry care.
- Reversible door helps adapt the dryer to the room layout.
- Twelve cycles and a digital LED display offer cycle variety and clear controls.
Cons:- Requires a 240V connection and professional installation.
- The supplied product information notes mixed satisfaction with durability.
- Steam benefits are less specifically described than the Kenmore gas model’s wrinkle, static, and odor claims.
Best for: Households seeking a roomy electric dryer with steam, sensor drying, and a reversible door for a flexible laundry-room layout.
Not ideal for: Buyers without a suitable 240V setup, those who want a gas dryer, or shoppers prioritizing a well-established durability track record.
- Capacity:8.0 cu. ft.
- Type:Front-load electric dryer
- Voltage:240V
- Cycle selections:12
- Features:Steam, sensor dry
- Drum material:Aluminum steel
- Dimensions:33.8 in. D × 27 in. W × 39.8 in. H
- Door:Reversible
Our verdict“Pick the BLACK+DECKER if you want 8.0 cu. ft. electric capacity, steam, and a reversible door and can accommodate professional 240V installation.”
Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Front Load Electric Dryer – Metallic Silver
The 8.0 cu. ft. capacity makes this Kenmore a sensible pick for households that regularly dry bedding, bulky items, or several days of laundry at once. Its Accela Steam function is designed to ease wrinkles, static, and odors, while Smart Sensor Drying helps avoid extending cycles after clothes are dry. Compared with the Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Front Load Electric Dryer, the added capacity gives larger loads more room, but buyers should weigh that against their available laundry space. The 12 cycles and 8 options provide fabric-care flexibility, though the control panel may take some learning. This model offers a strong balance of steam care and capacity, but it is an electric dryer, so it is not a fit for homes set up only for gas.
Pros:- 8.0 cu. ft. capacity accommodates bulky items and larger loads.
- Accela Steam helps reduce wrinkles, static, and odors.
- Smart sensors help prevent over-drying.
- ENERGY STAR certification and energy-saving features support efficient operation.
Cons:- The control panel may feel complex for buyers who prefer simple settings.
- Its larger capacity may be unnecessary for small households or tight laundry spaces.
Best for: Households that frequently dry bulky bedding or larger laundry loads and want steam care in an electric dryer.
Not ideal for: People with limited laundry-room space or homes configured only for a gas dryer; its generous capacity may be more than smaller households need.
- Capacity:8.0 cu. ft.
- Drying cycles:12
- Options:8
- Steam technology:Accela Steam
- Drying technology:Smart Sensor Drying
- Energy certification:ENERGY STAR certified
- Color:Metallic Silver
- Model number:2682273
Our verdict“Choose this Kenmore if you want steam-assisted wrinkle care and room for bulky loads in an electric dryer.”
How We Picked
I compared these six listings on the factors that change the buying decision: whether steam is explicitly included, dryer capacity, gas or electric compatibility, whether the listing is for a standalone dryer or a pair, and the additional functions named. I gave the highest rank to options that match the steam-focused intent while offering a practical fit for more laundry setups. Models without a stated steam function were ranked below the steam-equipped picks rather than being presented as equivalent alternatives.
The lineup includes limited specification detail, so I did not infer cycle performance, maintenance needs, or installation requirements that are not provided. The GE leads for its combination of steam, sanitize, smart functions, and gas operation; BLACK+DECKER follows as a larger-capacity electric steam option. The LG pair has a distinct role for full-set buyers, while the Kenmore dryers serve as non-steam choices for shoppers prioritizing a particular fuel type, capacity, or finish. Check each current product listing and the manufacturer’s installation information before purchase.
| dryers with steam function | Type | Color |
|---|---|---|
| GE 7.8 cu.ft. Smart Front Load | Front-load gas dryer | Carbon Graphite |
| LG Matte Black Mega Capacity T | — | — |
| Kenmore 7.0 cu. ft. Front Load | Front-load electric dryer | White |
| Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Front Load | Front-load gas dryer | Metallic Silver |
| BLACK+DECKER 8.0 Cu. Ft. Elect | Front-load electric dryer | — |
| Kenmore 8.0 cu. ft. Front Load | — | Metallic Silver |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Dryers With Steam Function
Before choosing among dryers with steam function, separate the feature you want from the dryer format your home can support. These broader checks can prevent paying for a cycle you rarely use or buying a dryer that does not suit your hookups.
Decide Whether Steam Is a Must-Have
Steam can be useful for refreshing lightly worn items and easing wrinkles, but it does not replace washing clothes that are dirty or stained. Think about your routine: frequent use for shirts or garments between washes makes steam more valuable than occasional use for bedding. Check which steam cycles the specific model offers, since the word “steam” alone does not tell you what fabrics or load sizes a cycle supports. Also confirm whether the dryer needs a water connection or uses another method to supply moisture. If steam is only a bonus, a simpler dryer may be a better fit than paying for an extra feature you seldom use.
Match Gas or Electric to Your Laundry Room
Fuel type is a practical constraint, not a minor preference. A gas dryer needs a compatible gas line and electrical connection, while an electric model needs the appropriate outlet and circuit for its specifications. Do not assume that a gas hookup can be added easily or that an existing outlet suits every electric dryer. Check the appliance’s installation guide and your laundry-room connections before comparing features. If you are replacing a dryer, confirm the old unit’s fuel type rather than relying on appearance or memory. Installation changes can affect the total effort and cost of a purchase even when the dryer itself seems like the right match.
Choose Capacity Around Your Largest Regular Loads
Capacity matters most when the drum has room for bulky items to tumble freely. A larger listed capacity may help with comforters or family-sized loads, but it cannot compensate for a cramped closet, narrow doorway, or unsuitable vent route. Measure the available space, including clearance for the door and connections, before treating a bigger drum as an automatic upgrade. Consider whether your washer’s typical load size matches the dryer; a mismatch can leave you splitting loads or waiting for a cycle to finish. For occasional bulky laundry, nearby laundromat access or a different washing routine may matter more than buying the largest dryer available.
Read the Product Format Carefully
A product listing may describe a standalone dryer or a washer-and-dryer pair, and those are different buying decisions. A pair can be convenient when both machines need replacement, but it is unnecessary if the washer you own still works well. Check whether the listed capacity and features apply to the dryer specifically rather than to the set as a whole. Confirm the exact model numbers and what is included in the purchase, since product titles can combine details from multiple appliances. This check is especially useful when comparing a coordinated set with standalone dryers that have different fuel types and capacities.
Compare the Steam Feature With the Rest of the Cycle Package
Steam should not be the only feature you compare. Look for the cycle options you will actually use, such as sensor-based drying or a sanitize cycle, and verify the manufacturer’s description of their intended use. Sensor drying can be more relevant to everyday laundry than a specialty cycle if you often dry mixed fabrics or want to avoid unnecessary heat exposure. Smart controls may add convenience, but they should not outweigh fit, fuel compatibility, or a feature set that matches your routine. Compare the full control and cycle details in the current specifications; this roundup’s listings do not establish every cycle or operating detail.
Plan for Upkeep and Installation Before Buying
Dryers need regular lint-filter care, and vented models also depend on a clear exhaust path. Steam-capable models may have additional water-supply or maintenance instructions, so check the manual for the specific unit instead of assuming all steam dryers work the same way. Measure doorways, stairs, and the final installation space to avoid delivery problems. Ask whether the installation service handles the connections your home needs, particularly when changing fuel type or replacing a unit in a tight space. A feature-rich dryer is only a good choice if it can be installed and maintained properly in your laundry area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dryers in this roundup explicitly have a steam function?
The listings explicitly identify steam on the GE 7.8 cu. ft. gas dryer, the BLACK+DECKER 8.0 cu. ft. electric dryer, and the LG washer-and-dryer pair’s dryer. The four other Kenmore dryer listings do not state a steam function, so I would not choose them on the assumption that they offer steam. Product names and configurations can change, so confirm the exact model number and current specifications before buying. If steam is a firm requirement, focus your comparison on the three named options.
Can I replace an electric dryer with a gas steam dryer without changing anything?
Not necessarily: a gas dryer needs a compatible gas supply as well as the electrical connection specified by its manufacturer. An electric dryer uses a different power setup, so the existing outlet and wiring may not suit the gas model, and the room may lack a gas line. Confirm the current hookups and installation requirements before ordering. If a change is needed, get advice from a qualified installer and account for the work when choosing between gas and electric options. Keeping the same fuel type is often the simpler replacement route.
Is a washer-and-dryer pair a sensible choice if I only need a dryer?
Usually, a pair is most useful when both appliances need replacing or when you specifically want a coordinated set. The LG listing is a washer-and-dryer pair, so it is not a like-for-like comparison with the standalone GE and BLACK+DECKER dryers. If your washer is in good condition, buying a set may add an appliance you do not need and could complicate installation. Confirm exactly which machines are included and compare their combined dimensions with your laundry space. For a dryer-only replacement, start with standalone models that match your existing hookups.
Will a steam cycle replace washing or ironing?
No. Steam functions are generally intended to refresh or reduce wrinkles on suitable items, not to remove soil and stains as a wash cycle does. They can also reduce, rather than eliminate, the need for ironing, depending on the garment and how it was dried or stored. Check the model’s cycle instructions and garment-care labels before using steam, since not every fabric responds the same way. If your main need is stain removal, a steam dryer is not a substitute for washing. If your goal is fewer wrinkles on lightly worn clothing, the feature may be more useful.
What should I confirm before ordering a steam dryer for a tight laundry space?
Measure the dryer’s width, depth, and height, then check required clearance for the door, vent, water connection, and any hoses or cords. Measure the route into the home as well, including hallways, stairs, and door openings. Steam models can have connection requirements that differ from a basic dryer, so review the installation guide for the exact model. Check vent location and whether the route can be connected without sharp bends or obstruction. Finally, confirm delivery and installation services cover your setup rather than assuming they will handle every modification.
Conclusion
For the best overall steam dryer, I recommend the GE 7.8 cu. ft. gas model for its combination of steam, sanitize, smart features, and useful capacity—provided your home has compatible gas hookups. The best value in a standalone electric steam format is the BLACK+DECKER 8.0 cu. ft. option, especially for buyers who need electric power and want steam; verify its installation details first. The best premium-style choice for a full laundry replacement is the LG pair, since it combines a washer with a dryer featuring Steam Dry, though it is not the right fit for a dryer-only purchase. For beginners who do not need steam, the Kenmore models offer simpler alternatives, with the 7.0 cu. ft. electric dryer suited to buyers prioritizing a smaller stated capacity and the 8.0 cu. ft. options for those seeking more drum space. For a specific hookup need, choose the Kenmore gas or electric model that matches your laundry room—but skip those models if steam is non-negotiable.
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