Powered by either electricity or gas, most dryers these days offer moisture sensors that stop the machine before your favorite T-shirt shrinks into something only your kid’s teddy bear could wear. If you set your sights higher, you’ll discover options like a warning light that tells you it’s time to clean the lint retainer.

Speed Drying

What it is: Also known as express dry, it’s a cycle that dries a small load of clothing in less than 30 minutes.
Makes life easier because: You’re late for school drop-off and your jeans are sitting in the washer, drenched.
On second thought: Depending on what else is in the dryer, you can usually just use a combination of auto-dry and a high heat level.
Who needs it most: Last-minute types who need all the help they can get.

Drum Light

What it is: A light that lets you see into the recesses of the drum.
Makes life easier because: You won’t be crying over orphaned socks.
On second thought: A drum light is typically available on high-end models only. Stuck with a lower-end version? Keep a flashlight nearby.
Who needs it most: Consumers who’ve already decided to buy a top-of-the-line dryer.

Drying Rack

What it is: A large plastic shelf that hangs over the drum and keeps delicate or clunky items out of circulation.
Makes life easier because: You won’t have to listen to gym shoes banging around.
On second thought: You can’t dry the rest of the load at the same time as you use the drying rack.
Who needs it most: Families with a lot of items that could be damaged by tumbling.