J.S.
I don't have any advice for you on brands, but I wanted to let you know we have a stackable washer/dryer set that came in our townhouse when we bought it, and it's worked better than I thought it would. I haven't actually measured them, but they both seem to be the same size as the standard units I've used before and they've held up over years of being used every couple of days. They're big enough that I'm able to wash a queen size comforter and sheet set together without a problem. I'll bet if you ask at Sears or some place with a dedicated appliance section they'll be able to tell you which brands are more heavy-duty and will be the best with your husband's work clothes.