If you only have floor space for one appliance and wash smaller loads, a washer-dryer could be a good fit. According to Que Choisir Ensemble, its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. If you have enough vertical space and do laundry frequently, stacking two separate appliances keeps the same floor footprint, as long as you check that the stacking kit and appliances are fully compatible. When choosing a separate tumble dryer, compare the space available, the programmes and energy consumption. Que Choisir Ensemble notes, in particular, that heat pump models use less electricity.
If drying laundry indoors is difficult and you only have room for one appliance on the floor, compare a washer-dryer with a stack of two separate appliances. A stacked setup also needs enough vertical space and a compatible kit.
If you regularly dry large loads, first check the drying capacity, which is separate from the washing capacity on a washer-dryer, according to Que Choisir Ensemble. You could also consider stacking two separate appliances if your space allows.
Floor space isn’t the only thing to consider: check the dimensions, clearance and stability of the installation. In a bathroom, also ask a professional to check the appliance’s position in relation to the shower or bath and the electrical installation.
Start by measuring the space, then check that the drying capacity suits your laundry routine before comparing programmes and maintenance requirements.
| What to consider | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the clearance needed. For a stacked setup, check the model numbers of both appliances and the kit, and make sure the floor is stable. | I only have room for one appliance on the floor: a washer-dryer avoids needing a second machine, while a stacked setup needs enough height and confirmed compatibility. |
| Capacity and laundry routine | Compare washing and drying capacities separately. Check programme times for similar loads and fabrics; Que Choisir Ensemble takes these conditions into account in its testing protocols. | I want to get several loads done in a row, so I need to know how much laundry can actually be dried in one cycle. Que Choisir Ensemble notes that a washer-dryer’s drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. |
| Energy use and maintenance | Compare energy consumption for similar programmes and loads. Que Choisir Ensemble states that a heat pump tumble dryer uses less electricity than a conventional condenser model; also check the maintenance instructions in the manual. | If I dry laundry often, electricity use matters when choosing an appliance. With a washer-dryer, I’ll also check the information about water used during drying. |
| Safe positioning | For a stacked setup, place the tumble dryer above the washing machine using a compatible kit, as advised by Que Choisir Ensemble. In a bathroom, ask a professional to check the electrical requirements for the location. | My appliance will be near a shower or in a narrow space, so I need to confirm that its position, access and fixings are suitable for that exact spot. |
According to Que Choisir Ensemble, a washer-dryer can dry a smaller load than it can wash. So if you fill the machine to its washing capacity, it may not be able to dry all the laundry in one cycle.
Compare the two capacities shown and size the loads you plan to dry according to the model’s drying capacity.
Similar dimensions don’t confirm that a washing machine, tumble dryer and stacking kit will make a suitable combination.
Make a note of the exact model numbers, check the manufacturer’s compatibility information and follow its installation instructions. Que Choisir Ensemble specifies that the tumble dryer should go above the washing machine.
Que Choisir Ensemble says that a heat pump model uses less electricity than a conventional condenser tumble dryer. This alone doesn’t tell you how long a programme takes or how much space you’ll need.
Compare capacity, dimensions, programme times and energy consumption for equivalent programmes and loads.
A tumble dryer may have several parts that need cleaning, in addition to the fluff filter. Que Choisir Ensemble highlights the regular cleaning of the microfilter and condenser on applicable models.
Check the manual for the model to find out which parts you can access and how often they should be cleaned.
These manufacturers offer stacking accessories. Their compatibility information applies to specific models, not every appliance in the brand’s range.
Bosch offers stacking kits for certain combinations of washing machines and tumble dryers.
Electrolux offers kits for certain setups with front-loading appliances.
Miele offers stacking kits for installing certain washing machines and tumble dryers in a vertical setup.
This selection includes washer-dryers for homes with room for just one appliance on the floor, plus a separate heat pump tumble dryer. To install the tumble dryer above a washing machine, check separately that the washing machine and stacking kit are compatible.
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This model combines washing and drying in one appliance if you only have room for one on the floor. It has a stated capacity of 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so base the size of your drying loads on the latter figure. Check the dimensions, clearance and programme information to make sure it suits your space.
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This washer-dryer combines both functions in one appliance for homes with room for just one on the floor. The model title states a capacity of 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, along with Zeo-Cycle and LintClear functions. Before choosing it, check that its dimensions and programmes suit your installation and typical loads.
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The combined design means you don’t need to reserve a second spot on the floor for a tumble dryer. The stated capacities are 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying; the title also mentions Zeo-Cycle, LintClear and automatic dosing. Size your loads according to the drying capacity and check how much room you’ll need for installation.
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This model combines washing and drying in one appliance, with stated capacities of 11 kg and 6 kg respectively. If you wash a full load, you’ll need to reduce it before drying. The model number in the description differs from the one in the title, so check the exact variant, dimensions and specifications before choosing.
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This separate tumble dryer is an option if you’d prefer a dedicated drying appliance rather than a washer-dryer. It has a stated capacity of 8 kg. It needs its own space on the floor unless you’ve confirmed it can be stacked with a compatible washing machine and kit. Check its dimensions and programmes too.
Not if the load exceeds its drying capacity. Que Choisir Ensemble says that drying capacity is lower than washing capacity. To run both cycles in a row without taking any laundry out, stick to the drying limit for the exact model.
A condenser tumble dryer, whether it’s a conventional or heat pump model, doesn’t need an external vent. Que Choisir Ensemble says heat pump models use less electricity; also compare the programmes, dimensions and installation requirements of the models you’re considering.
No. Check with the manufacturer that both model numbers and the kit are compatible. Que Choisir Ensemble specifies that the tumble dryer must go above the washing machine. Also check the installation instructions and make sure the floor is stable.
Make a note of the full model numbers for both appliances, then check them against the kit documentation. Bosch, for example, asks you to use the E-Nr model number to check accessory compatibility, while Electrolux uses the PNC number for applicable appliances. Width or brand alone isn’t enough.
You’ll need to consider the layout, including how close the appliance is to a shower or bath. Promotelec points out that NF C 15-100 defines protection zones in bathrooms. Before planning to install an appliance or stacked setup there, ask a qualified professional to check the position and electrical installation.