First, choose a washing machine to suit the dimension that’s actually limiting your installation: a top-loader if you’re short on width, a slimline front-loader if depth is the issue, or a front-loader that fits beneath a worktop or in a stacked setup. Measure the access route, door clearance and connections too, then check that the capacity suits your usual loads. For a stacked setup, make sure the appliances are compatible and use a suitable stacking kit.
If the recess or access route won’t accommodate a front-loader around 60 cm wide, a top-loader could be an option. Que Choisir puts the width of these appliances at between 40 and 46 cm; just make sure there’s enough room to open the lid.
If there’s enough width for a front-loader but it would stick out too far into the room, a slimline front-loader is worth considering. Que Choisir gives a depth of 33 to 45 cm for this format, while reminding shoppers to allow space in front of the door.
A front-loader lets you access your laundry beneath a worktop. For a stacked setup, check the model numbers of both appliances, their installation requirements and whether they’re compatible with the stacking kit. Bosch recommends confirming that the models can be stacked.
First, identify the dimension or installation requirement that limits your options, then check that your chosen model’s capacity and access requirements suit your usual laundry loads.
| Criteria | What to check | Who should consider this? |
|---|---|---|
| Width and top access | Measure the available width and check that a top-loader’s lid can open fully. | If the recess is too narrow for a front-loader, I’m mainly looking for an appliance that will fit without making it difficult to load. Around 36% of consumers prioritise this width constraint. |
| Depth and front access | Compare the overall depth given in the instructions with the clearance needed in front of the door. | If the washing machine might stick out into the walkway, I’d opt for a shallower model while still leaving room to load the laundry. Around 29% of consumers share this priority. |
| Washing capacity | Match the capacity in kg to your usual loads and check the energy label for water and energy use, spin performance and noise. | If my usual washing includes larger loads, I don’t want to choose a drum that’s too small just to save space. Capacity comes first for around 21% of consumers. |
| Under a worktop or in a stack | Check the front-loader’s installation dimensions. For a stacked setup, confirm that both appliances and the kit are compatible. | If I need to save floor space or fit the appliance beneath a worktop, the installation requirements determine which format will work. Around 14% of consumers make this their priority. |
An appliance might fit in the space but still be difficult to load or maintain. Que Choisir recommends leaving at least 0,5 cm between the machine and the surrounding units; check the instructions for the required clearance for your specific model.
Also measure the delivery route, the space needed to open the door or lid, and the room taken up by the connections. Then compare everything with the installation diagram.
The main space saving is in width: AEG’s product details for the top-loading LTR8C7331A give a width of 397 mm, but a depth of 599 mm.
If the main issue is how far the appliance sticks out into the room, compare the full dimensions of slimline front-loaders instead, and check there’s enough room to access the door.
Que Choisir describes mini washing machines with a capacity of 2 to 3 kg as supplementary appliances. Their limited capacity may mean running more cycles for everyday laundry.
Before settling on a compact format, compare the stated capacity in kg with your usual loads.
Running more cycles also takes more time.
Two front-loaders aren’t automatically suitable for stacking. Bosch advises checking that the appliances are compatible, using a suitable kit and aligning the appliances.
Make a note of the full model numbers and check the instructions and kit compatibility before planning this type of installation.
An example of a slimline front-loader for installations where depth is limited.
Top-loading models to consider when width is the main obstacle.
A top-loader to consider if you need a narrow appliance with a capacity of 7 kg.
Installation guidance to consult when planning to stack two appliances.
This model may be worth considering if depth is a factor in your installation, provided you check its full dimensions and loading access against the space available.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if depth is a constraint and a capacity of 8 kg suits your laundry needs. Check the full dimensions, loading type, clearances and connections in the instructions. For a stacked setup, also confirm that the appliances and kit are compatible.
Measure the recess, the delivery route and the space needed to open and load the appliance. Also check access to the connections and the clearances specified in the instructions. Que Choisir recommends leaving at least 0,5 cm between the machine and surrounding units, but this doesn’t replace the manufacturer’s guidance.
No. A top-loader is mainly suited to spaces where width is limited, provided there’s room to open the lid. If depth is the issue, or the appliance needs to fit beneath a fixed worktop, consider a front-loader whose dimensions and door clearance suit the room.
No. A stacked installation requires a stacking kit that’s suitable for the appliances. Bosch recommends confirming that both models can be stacked, aligning them and securing the kit in accordance with the instructions.
Check the cupboard layout and the electrical safety zones around the bath or shower before deciding where to install it. Before choosing an appliance or changing the electrical installation, ask a qualified professional to assess the plans on site.
Choose a capacity that suits your usual loads rather than simply opting for the smallest drum available. Que Choisir generally puts slimline front-loaders at between 4 and 6 kg. Compare this range with your everyday laundry, and check the energy label for water and energy use, spin performance and noise, as recommended by ADEME.