This article is about the home appliance manufacturer. For the separated professional appliance manufacturer, see Electrolux Professional
Logo and wordmark (1961–2015)Electrolux AB (Swedish: [ɛˈlɛ̂kːtrʊˌlɵks, ɛlɛktrʊˈlɵks]) is a Swedish multinational home appliance manufacturer, headquartered in Stockholm.[4] It is consistently ranked the world's second largest appliance maker by units sold, after Whirlpool.[5]
Electrolux products sell under a variety of brand names (including its own), and are primarily major appliances and vacuum cleaners intended for home consumer use.[6] Electrolux has a primary listing on the Stockholm Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the OMX Stockholm 30 index.
History
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The Autoluxlamp, a kerosene lamp manufactured by Lux and used in railway stations around the world in the early 20th centuryThe company originates from a merger of two companies—Lux AB and Svenska Elektron AB, the former an established manufacturer and the latter a younger company founded by a former vacuum salesman who had also been an employee of the former firm.[7] The origins of Electrolux are closely tied to the vacuum, but today it also makes major appliances.
Electrolux made an initial public offering on the London Stock Exchange in 1928 (it was delisted in 2010)[8] and another on the Stockholm Stock Exchange in 1930.[9][10]
As of 2010 its shares trade on the NASDAQ OMX Nordic Market and over-the-counter.[11] Electrolux is an OMX Nordic 40 constituent stock.
Sales company to major manufacturer
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In 1919, a Svenska Elektron AB acquisition,[7] Elektromekaniska AB, became Elektrolux[12] (the spelling was changed to Electrolux in 1957).[13] It initially sold Lux branded vacuum cleaners in several European countries.[12]
In 1923, the company acquired AB Arctic and subsequently added absorption refrigerators to its product line.[14][9] Other appliances soon followed, including washing machines in 1951,[15] dishwashers in 1959,[15] and food service equipment in 1962.[16]
Mergers and acquisitions
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The company has often and regularly expanded through mergers and acquisitions.
While Electrolux had bought several companies before the 1960s, that decade saw the beginnings of a new wave of M&A activity. The company bought ElektroHelios, Norwegian Elektra, Danish Atlas, Finnish Slev, and Flymo, et al., in the nine years from 1960 to 1969.[16] It sold its American subsidiary to Consolidated Foods and exited the American market in 1968, only returning in 1974 when Electrolux acquired Eureka-Williams from National Union, one of the oldest names in the vacuum cleaner industry. Electrolux sold its vacuum cleaners using the Eureka brand name in North America until 2004.[17]
This style of growth continued through the 1990s, seeing Electrolux purchase scores[18] of companies including, for a time, Husqvarna.[18][19]
Hans Werthén [sv], President and later chairman of the board, led the strategic core of an increasingly decentralized Electrolux—and was instrumental to its rapid growth.
While attempts to cut costs, centralise administration, and wring out economies of scale from Electrolux's operations were made in the 1960s and 1970s[16][18] with the focus so firmly on growth,[18] further company-wide restructuring efforts only began in the late 1990s.[20]
2000 to present
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In North America, the Electrolux name was long used by vacuum cleaner manufacturer Aerus LLC, originally established to sell Swedish Electrolux products. In 2000, Aerus transferred trademark rights back to the Electrolux Group, and ceased using the Electrolux name in 2004.[21]
Conversely, Electrolux-made vacuums carried the Eureka brand name, which Electrolux continued to use while also selling Electrolux branded vacuums after 2000. Electrolux USA customer service maintains a database of Electrolux made vacuums and provides a link to Aerus's website for the convenience of owners of Electrolux branded Aerus vacuums.[22]
Keith McLoughlin took over as president and CEO on January 1, 2011, and became the company's first non Swedish chief executive.
In August 2011, Electrolux acquired from Sigdo Koppers the Chilean appliance manufacturer CTI obtaining several brands with the purchase including: Fensa, Gafa, Mademsa and Somela.[23]
On February 6, 2017, Electrolux announced that it had agreed to acquire Anova Applied Electronics, Inc.,[24] the U.S.-based provider of the Anova Precision Cooker.[25][26]
On March 23, 2020, Electrolux completed the spin-off of its professional division, which the separated company incorporated as Electrolux Professional AB.[27]
In September 2023, it was announced Electrolux has sold its refrigerator manufacturing facility in Nyíregyháza to the Malmö-headquartered heat pump systems and technology company, Qvantum for €38 million.[28]
Notable products
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Electrolux Assistent, 1940Brands
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An Electrolux canister vacuum cleanerElectrolux sells under a wide variety of brand names worldwide. Most of them were acquired through mergers and acquisitions and only do business in a single country or geographic area. The following is an incomplete list.
Americas
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Europe
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Oceania
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Middle East
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citation needed
]Note: This list does not include brands such as Kenmore, IKEA and John Lewis, which may sell Electrolux produced appliances but are not owned by or affiliated with Electrolux, as Electrolux acts as an OEM for these brands.
Slogan
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The company's international slogan is "Shape living for the better". In the past it was "Thinking of you".[60]
In the 1960s the company successfully marketed vacuums in the United Kingdom with the slogan "Nothing sucks like an Electrolux".[61] In the United States, it was frequently assumed that using this slogan was a brand blunder. In fact, the informal American meaning of the word sucks was already well known at the time in the United Kingdom, and the company hoped the slogan, with its possible double entendre, would gain attention.[62]
In Indonesia, the Electrolux previous slogan was "Kalau saja semua seawet Electrolux" (English: If only all are as durable as Electrolux).[citation needed]
See also
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References
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While clothes dryers are typically sold with accompanying washers, there’s no rule saying you have to buy them that way. For those of us with laundry machines hidden away in garages or basements, a matching pair isn't that important. You can just pick your favorite of each.
Over the years, hundreds of dryers have passed through our labs, and we test them from every angle. The chief concern: Can the dryer get clothes dry in a timely manner without damaging them? Next, we test extra features like steam or smart connectivity. Finally, we analyze the fit and finish. The very best dryers have sturdy doors, drum lights, and easy-to-read buttons.
We looked over the data of every dryer we've tested and found the best of the best. Among those, the Electrolux ELFE7637AT (available at Best Buy for $899.99) tops our list with excellent performance and a number of features that make laundry day easier.
Credit: Reviewed / Beckett Dubay
Best Overall
The Electrolux ELFE7637AT excels at just about everything.
On our drying tests, its Normal cycle shined by completely drying our test load of laundry in just 90 minutes. Its Bulky and Delicates cycles were also able to remove a great deal of water in a relatively short amount of time. While its quick cycle didn't have the highest performance of the bunch, as a blazingly-fast 15-minute cycle, it still has its uses apart from raw water removal.
It isn't just impressive performance: This dryer also comes packed with some incredibly useful features. The steam features also help put it over the top, allowing for dewrinkling and static reduction modes as well as quick refreshes. Its predictive drying helps the machine make better cycle time estimates and can reduce wear and tear damage from over-drying. And it manages to do all this while still keeping its energy consumption low enough to garner an Energy Star certification.
While this dryer is on the more expensive side, you're paying a premium price for a premium product. This Electrolux dryer is one of the best we've had come through our labs.
Read our full review of the Electrolux ELFE7637AT dryer
Fast, effective cycles
Steam features
Quick cycle doesn't get out much water
Credit: Reviewed / Kyle Hamilton
The Maytag MED7230HW dryer features a hamper door, which opens from top to bottom. This makes loading easier and you won't have to stoop.
Best Large Capacity
If you’re looking for a dryer to get through a lot of laundry quickly, the Maytag MED7230HW is one of the best bets out there.
This appropriately-priced mid-range option has all the features you want and some you didn’t know you needed. It boasts simple controls and a solid drying performance. Its drying performance is especially strong for its price point, on most cycles. Its Regular cycle finished faster than the average—64 minutes vs. 71—and got our test load of laundry 100% dry each time.
You'll also love its smart features, which include notifications when you need to adjust a load to ensure proper drying. Nobody likes finding out their comforter or sheets balled up and insulated a bunch of damp laundry from drying properly. As far as standard smart features, the MED7230HW can notify you when a cycle is done, offers a remote start, and sends diagnostics and repair info when something goes wrong.
Read our full review of the Maytag MED7230HW dryer
Solid drying
Good smart features
Hamper door for easier loading
None that we could find
Credit: Reviewed / Beckett Dubay
Best Compact Ventless
The Beko HPD24414W is one of the best heat pump dryers we've tested to date.
This compact ventless unit is perfect for smaller spaces or apartments that lack a proper water inlet or exhaust vent, and can easily stack with its paired dryer or fit into a closet to save space.
Like most compact dryers, this Beko does have long cycle times, but as long as you don't mind a wait this tiny dryer can offer some outsized performance. While all its cycles performed well, its Bulky cycle especially impressed with its ability to get a comforter completely dry. And it does all this using a small fraction of the electricity a standard dryer would need.
If you can accommodate a full-size dryer, you should go that route instead, but if you can't, the Beko HPD24414W should be at the top of your shopping list.
Read our full review of the Beko HPD24414W compact dryer
Excellent efficiency
Ample effective dry cycles
Compact
App may display misleading cycle timing
Controls may be too low for some people
Credit: Reviewed / Michael Elderbee
Best Design
The LG DLEX6700B is a contemporary future-forward machine, with a feature set that’s well balanced for a wide range of needs, and a chic design that will fit into even the most stylish of homes.
With solid cycle performance and the user interface to get the most out of them, the LG DLEX6700B has more than enough cycles for most people’s needs. It can also handle more than enough clothes, with a 7.4-cubic-foot drum.
The dryer uses smart connectivity to link with its paired washer for increased efficiency—and this it does an excellent job at. Energy Star rated itself, the DLEX’s paired washer is actually Energy Star Most Efficient certified.
We think that the DLEX6700B’s smart features could do a little more, but otherwise this efficient, powerful and sleek machine is a great pick.
Read our full review of the LG DLEX6700B dryer
Lots of cycle options
Steam mode
Well designed
Efficient
Higher cost than competitors
Credit: Reviewed / Beckett Dubay
Best For Pet Owners
If you have pets, the Maytag Pet Pro MED6500MBK is definitely worth a look. Between its fast cycle times and huge drum, this is one dryer that's capable of churning through pet blankets without breaking a sweat.
Where this dryer shines is when it's working in tandem with its matching washer, the Maytag MVW6500MBK, as they can coordinate to rid your laundry of pet hair.
Read our full review of the Maytag Pet Pro MED6500MBK dryer
Fast, effective cycles
High capacity
Steam features
The lint trap is so large it's unwieldy
Pet Pro features only shine with paired washer
The Maytag MED6630HC dryer is the perfect combination of looks, usability, speed, and power. This Maytag dryer has a sleek, futuristic look that would do any laundry room proud.
With its large central dial and streamlined control panel, it’s easy to select the cycle that’s right for your wet laundry load. If you’re looking for steam options, this dryer has two: Steam Refresh and Wrinkle Prevent.
The MED6630HC manages to dry your clothes quickly will without raising the temperature to the point where you’d have to worry about heat damage (typically 150°F or above). Even better, the test loads in the Normal and Delicates cycles came out 100% dry. For a dryer that gets your clothes dry the first time, with no muss or fuss, check out the Maytag MED6630HC.
Read our full review of the Maytag MED6630HC dryer
Features the Extra Power button
Comes in a Metallic Slate finish
Lint trap is not well-aligned
The Maytag MED6230HW is a good dryer at a good price—there's not a whole lot to dislike about it.
In terms of its core performance, the MED6230HW was able to finish cycles quickly and effectively. We only ran into a minor issue on Bulky Items, which didn't have the most effective spin cycle: Clothes were damper than average afterwards.
In addition to excellent cleaning power, we love this dryer's design. Its hamper-style door, which can open either from top to bottom or left to right, can make loading and unloading a lot easier. This, coupled with its smart features and remote start, help make this one of the easier-to-use dryers we've reviewed, though it isn't explicitly ADA compliant.
The MED6230HW also has some great extra features, like wrinkle control, which keeps clothes tumbling after a cycle to prevent creasing.
Read our full review of the Maytag MED6230HW dryer
Very efficient Regular cycle
Fast cycles
Great accessibility features
Disappointing Bulky cycle
If you're in the market for a ventless dryer, the Bosch 500 Series WTW87NH1UC is one of the best out there.
Even when comparing it against full-size dryers the WTW87NH1UC has good test results. Its cycles are a bit slower, its drum is on the small side, and its spin cycles don't get out the most water, but it still holds its own as an above-average dryer. Compared to other ventless models, it's a rockstar.
In all, this is an eco-friendly alternative to a traditional vented dryer that's perfect for smaller spaces. Because this technology is on the expensive side, however, we reserve our heartiest recommendations for those specifically looking for a ventless dryer. For everyone else, the above built-in models are likely a better value.
Read our full review of the Bosch WTW87NH1UC dryer
Energy efficient
Tons of installation options
Dries clothes
Takes forever
Complex controls
Needs draining
Though expensive, the Whirlpool WED9620HC has excellent test results and provides a smooth user experience. Just about every cycle we is able to get laundry completely dry in faster-than-average times—in some cases significantly faster than average. Add Whirlpool's smart appliance suite and you have quite a formidable dryer on your hands.
The only real downside we could find are minor: Some cycle combinations can be lengthy—the "Regular + Normal" settings took two hours to finish— and the onboard controls can be unresponsive.
Assuming it falls into your budget, the Whirlpool WED9620HC is a great pick for its power and aesthetics, but budget-minded buyers can find better values elsewhere on this list.
Read our full review of the Whirlpool WED9620HC dryer
Most cycles are fast and get laundry 100% dry
Door-mounted touchscreen controls
Intuitive App
Need to bend over to read control panel
If money is no object, and you're specifically looking for a compact ventless dryer, the Miele TXR860WP Eco & Steam dryer is an excellent option.
Compact ventless dryers are a lot smaller than built-in models, which can be either a boon or a burden, depending on your laundry room. They're also much more expensive than vented models, so typically you should get a full-size, built-in model if you can accommodate one.
For those that can't, the Miele TXR860WP Eco & Steam dryer provides a higher-end user experience than most other compact ventless dryers we've tested, proving itself capable of competing with full-size models. Its drying performance was better than most built-in models, and its cycle times were surprisingly fast as well. Its steam features really helped it clear away stubborn stains and can help sanitize items as well. We also liked its specialized cycle settings and low maximum temperature, both of which can help mitigate wear and tear damage on your laundry.
This model is simple to install, and its smaller size makes it easy to move from room to room. Those shopping for a compact ventless dryer should definitely check out the TXR860WP Eco & Steam dryer.
Read our full review of the Miele TXR860WP Eco & Steam Dryer
Easy installation
Plugs into 120V outlet
Ventless
Have to manually empty water condensation
Hi there! We're Reviewed's appliance testing team. We've spent many years testing major appliances including washers, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, vacuum cleaners, and robot vacuum cleaners.
We have plenty of experience testing these products in the lab, but we've also used them like normal people would in the course of their daily lives, which means that we have a great sense of what appliances are bargains at their price points, and which appliances have genuinely useful extra features (as opposed to the kitchen-sink approach to features).
With all this in mind, you can feel confident that when we recommend a product, we're giving it our Reviewed stamp of approval, which means two things: firstly, this appliance performs well, and secondly, this appliance is easy to use. We're always reviewing new products, so stay tuned for our reviews and roundups of the latest products in laundry, refrigerators, dishwashers, and vacuum cleaners.
Every dryer that comes into Reviewed’s labs gets put through the same testing regime, which addresses both performance and user-friendliness.
Performance tests include:
• Drying performance – How much water does each major dryer cycle actually remove from your clothes, and how quickly can it achieve that level of dryness?
• Maximum temperature – We record the maximum temperature in each dryer cycle. Some like it hot, but if dryer temperatures get too hot, it could damage your clothes.
Credit: Reviewed / Timothy Renzi
Most dryers have capacities ranging from 7.3 to 7.5 cubic feet, enough to deal with the laundry that can fit in most washing machines.
The best dryers completely dry your clothes at a temperature that is hot (140°F-150°F), but not too hot (lest your clothes be scorched or damaged), and have short cycle times.
Beyond these performance tests, we also assess the usability of each dryer, based on our experience, both during testing and during more casual use (one perk of working at Reviewed is that there are plenty of laundry machines on the premises!). Our main goal is to discern: How easy is it to actually use this dryer? This involves cumulatively assessing the control panel, the door, the vent, and any smart features.
By combining the performance data with our own observations, we can make solid recommendations for any type of dryer at any price point.
Whether it’s an emergency replacement or you’re just looking to change up your laundry room, there are a few things to consider when purchasing a new dryer.
Before you head to the stores, be sure you know the size constraints of your dryer. We’re not just talking about the available width in your laundry room, although that’s definitely important.
Are the doorways in your home wide enough for a dryer to fit through during delivery? Will narrow or tight staircases present a problem? Take a tape measure and check the doorway width against the dryer’s specs, making sure you have a few inches of clearance.
Most dryers have capacities ranging from 7.3 to 7.5 cubic feet, enough to deal with the laundry that can fit in most washing machines. However, if you have a high-capacity washing machine (5.0 cubic-foot capacity or greater), you’ll need a dryer that can keep up with the bigger laundry loads, typically one with a capacity of 8.0 cubic-feet or greater. Otherwise, your dryer may struggle to dry large laundry loads in a single dryer cycle.
Keep your budget constraints in mind. Dryer prices can run the gamut from $500 to $2,000 or more, but most sit in the $800 to $1,200 range. We have recommendations for some dryers with very low prices, but you can generally find great dryers at any price point. It just takes a little research and figuring out which features and design elements you can live without.
Also, if you can afford to wait, most appliance manufacturers and retailers tend to offer steep discounts around major holidays. Vigilantly searching for deals can save you hundreds of dollars.
How picky are you about your dryer cycles? Do you want to be able to set specific cycle temperatures, drying levels, and cycle duration, or would you prefer to just hit two buttons and start drying? Do you want a cycle just for denim jeans?
Consider how you do laundry on a day-to-day basis. If you prefer a straightforward process, you’ll probably want to buy a lower-tech dryer. Even if extra customization seems appealing, it may not make sense for you to buy a dryer loaded with features you won’t really use.
Are you considering a dryer with steam? Steam is an easy and effective way to reduce wrinkles, remove stale smells, and refresh clothing.
However, if the dryer you’re eyeballing has steam, be sure to find out exactly how the dryer gets the water needed to create that steam. Most dryers will require access to an additional water line, but some dryers have a drawer where you can manually add water. If you don’t have that necessary water hookup, you may pay extra for a feature you can’t actually use.
Based on your laundry room configuration, which way should the dryer door open? If the opening direction doesn’t work in your laundry space, don’t worry, almost all dryers have reversible doors. All you’ll need is a screwdriver and some elbow grease.
It’s such a minor thing, it can be a big frustration when you use your shiny new dryer for the first time and learn you can’t open the door all the way.