Even the 3.1 cubic foot model will wash more than will go in any dryer with similar outside dimensions. Depends on how many people you're washing for, I guess, and how much drying space you have (dryer and/or clotheslines).

I do leave the door and the detergent tray open when I'm not using it. That's no different from a top-loader, but with a front-loader the door could be in the way if it's in a hall or doorway.