In a narrow kitchen, choose a top-loader if width is limited and its lid can open freely. A slimline front-loader may be a better choice if depth is limited, provided you leave enough room in front. A standard front-loader is also an option if the appliance, its open door and the connections still leave a usable walkway. Check these details for the specific model before ordering.
If the machine needs to fit between two units or next to a walkway, start by looking at top-loaders. The French National Consumer Institute gives a typical width of 40 to 45 cm for this style. However, you’ll need enough clearance to raise the lid fully and access the laundry.
If you have around 60 cm of width but want to minimise how far the machine sticks out, consider slimline front-loaders. Electrolux describes its slim models as generally 33 to 45 cm deep. You’ll still need to allow for the open door and enough room to load the laundry.
A standard front-loader may suit you if there’s enough room for its width and depth, as well as access in front of the machine. Choose its capacity to suit your laundry needs: ADEME says a 7 kg drum is enough for most households, although this is only a guide and doesn’t replace an assessment of your household’s needs.
After moving, first check that you can open and load the machine without blocking the walkway. Then measure the depth required once the connections are in place, before comparing capacity and features.
Consider it: when width is your main constraint and there’s nothing above the machine.
Bear in mind: the upward-opening lid usually means this style can’t go under a worktop.
Consider it: when depth is limited but you have around 60 cm of width available.
Bear in mind: front loading still requires space in front of the door.
Consider it: when there’s enough room for the machine and access in front, so you can choose a capacity to suit your household’s needs.
Bear in mind: its dimensions and open door may take up more space in a narrow walkway.
| Criterion | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Access and clearance | Measure the space needed to open the lid or door, load the laundry and keep the walkway clear. | If I often walk through the kitchen, I want to access the drum without blocking the way. Around 42% of consumers would prioritise ease of access. |
| Space taken up in depth | Compare the appliance’s depth with the space actually available, allowing for connections and the requirements in its instruction manual. | With a shallow worktop, I want to avoid the machine sticking out into the room. Around 33% of consumers would put minimising this overhang first. |
| Capacity and ease of use | Choose a capacity to suit your household’s laundry; check the energy label for consumption, spin performance and noise levels. | If the machine is near a living area, I want a capacity that suits my laundry and a noise level I’m comfortable with. Around 25% of consumers would prioritise these practical features. |
A narrow top-loader may be difficult to use beneath a wall unit; a slimline front-loader may block the walkway when its door is open.
Measure the space for the machine and for loading, then compare these measurements with the dimensions and guidance for your chosen model.
The stated appliance depth alone doesn’t tell you how much room to allow for connections, skirting boards and the clearances required by the manufacturer.
Check the full installation space, including the hoses, and follow the requirements for your chosen model.
A larger capacity won’t solve a space problem if it exceeds your household’s usual needs.
Estimate how much laundry you have, then compare capacity, noise, spin performance and energy consumption. ADEME gives 7 kg as a guide that’s enough for most households.
A machine that fits in the space isn’t necessarily compatible with the electrical supply and water connections. Promotelec lists washing machines among appliances that need a dedicated circuit.
Check the socket, water supply and waste outlet at the planned location. If you’re unsure about the installation, ask a qualified professional to check it.
Electrical or plumbing work may be needed before installation.
A useful brand to compare when looking for a top-loader for a narrow space.
A brand with both top-loaders and slimline front-loaders, making it useful for comparing limited width with limited depth.
A useful brand to compare when looking for a front-loader with a reduced appliance depth.
A useful brand to compare if you’re considering a standard front-loader and have room for a deeper machine with front access.
No. It’s mainly suited to spaces where width is limited, provided there’s room to open the lid above the machine. The French National Consumer Institute gives a typical width of 40 to 45 cm for this style, but a worktop or wall unit may stop you from using it.
Not necessarily. A slimline front-loader is less deep, but its door and the space needed for loading still take up room in front. Electrolux describes its slim models as generally 60 cm wide. Also measure the available walkway with the door open.
Choose a capacity based on the amount of laundry your household produces, not just the size of the room. ADEME says a 7 kg washing machine is enough for most households. Also consider any bulky items you need to wash.
Make sure there’s enough room to load the machine and that the water connections, waste outlet and electrical supply are suitable. Promotelec lists washing machines among appliances that need a dedicated circuit. If you’re unsure, ask a qualified professional to check the installation.