If the space is very narrow
A top-loader is worth considering when width is the main obstacle. The National Consumer Institute highlights the benefits of this format in narrow spaces; however, you’ll need enough room to open the lid fully.
Which configuration is right for you?
If there’s not enough depth
A slim front-loader can take up less room in the space, provided there’s enough width for a standard front-loader. As Que Choisir points out, the space saving is in depth: you’ll still need room to open the door and load the laundry.
If you want to keep a worktop
A front-loader designed for under-counter installation lets you use the surface above the appliance, provided the space, connections and front access are suitable. Bosch, for example, offers models with a removable top; installation must follow the instructions for the specific model.
What should you check before buying?
The National Consumer Institute and Que Choisir distinguish between two constraints that are often confused: a top-loader mainly takes up less width, while a slim front-loader mainly takes up less depth. An under-counter appliance meets a different need, but you’ll still need practical access to its door.
Top-loading
Best if: the space is too narrow for a front-loader and there’s room to access the top.
Bear in mind: the lid needs room to open; a fixed worktop above the appliance would prevent you from loading it.
Slim front-loader
Best if: there’s enough width for a front-loader, but its projection would obstruct the walkway.
Bear in mind: reduced depth doesn’t remove the need for space to open the door.
Under-counter front-loader
Best if: you want to keep a worktop and the space can accommodate a compatible front-loader.
Bear in mind: it takes up more width than a narrow top-loader, and you’ll need to keep the door accessible.
| Factor | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Available width | Measure the space at its narrowest point and compare it with the exact dimensions of the model, allowing for the clearance needed to install it. | If my washing machine has to fit between two units, the width determines which format I can use. It would be the top priority for around 40% of consumers. |
| Depth and door clearance | Check how much space the appliance takes up with the rear connections in place, then allow for the space in front when the door is open. | If the washing machine opens onto a walkway, I want to be able to move around and take out the laundry without blocking the room. Around 30% of consumers would put this clearance first. |
| Worktop and capacity | Check the dimensions of the space, whether the specific model is approved for under-counter installation, and whether its usable capacity suits your usual laundry loads. | If I want to keep a work surface above the machine, I also need a drum that suits my household’s laundry. This would be the main priority for around 30% of consumers. |
Layout mistakes to avoid
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Assuming a slim model is narrow in every dimension
A slim front-loader has a shallower body, but is generally still as wide as a standard front-loader. According to Que Choisir, the compact front-loaders in question remain around 60 cm wide, so the word ‘slim’ alone doesn’t mean the appliance will fit in a narrow space.
Measure the width, depth with connections and door-opening area separately for the model you’re considering.
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Forgetting the space needed to open a top-loader’s lid
A narrow appliance may fit in the space but still be difficult to use if a shelf or fixed worktop stops the lid from opening.
Measure the clearance above the machine and check the model’s opening diagram before planning any storage.
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Reducing capacity just to save space
Que Choisir points out that a drum that’s too small may mean running more cycles. So consider capacity alongside the appliance’s dimensions, not as an afterthought.
Start with the amount of laundry you have and how often you wash, then compare the capacities of the formats that will actually fit the space.
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Treating a bathroom like any other alcove
In a room with a shower or bath, being close to water brings additional requirements for positioning and electrical protection. Promotelec specifies requirements relating to the location, earthing and residual-current protection.
Before ordering, ask a professional to check the location and circuit if the installation needs to be created or altered.
Brands to consider by format
AEG
Worth considering when width is the main constraint.
- According to AEG France, the LTR6G6120A top-loader measures 903 × 397 × 599 mm (H × W × D) and has a capacity of 6 kg.
- As a top-loader, it needs to remain accessible from above; this freestanding model isn’t suitable for an under-counter installation.
Electrolux
Worth considering if depth is more limited than width.
- Electrolux France lists the slim front-loader EW6S1064NA as 411 mm deep, with a capacity of 6 kg.
- These specifications apply to this model only: also allow for the connections and the space needed to open the door.
Bosch
A range worth considering if an under-counter front-loader suits the room’s layout.
- Bosch Home Appliances France lists the WUU28T18FR as measuring 845 × 598 × 590 mm (H × W × D), with a capacity of 8 kg.
- This model needs a space that can accommodate its width and depth. For under-counter installation, follow Bosch’s requirements and use any components specified for the model in question.
Related products on Joybuy
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Can you install a washing machine in a bathroom?
Yes, provided its location and electrical supply meet the requirements for the room. For a bathroom with a shower or bath, Promotelec says the appliance must be positioned outside zones 0, 1 and 2, as well as the concealed zone; it must also be earthed, and its circuit protected by a 30 mA residual-current device. Have the specific setup checked if you’re creating or altering the installation.
Can you put a top-loading washing machine under a worktop?
Not under a fixed worktop that would stop the lid opening and prevent access to the drum. If you want to keep a work surface above the machine, consider a front-loader specifically designed for under-counter installation and follow its installation instructions.
How do you choose the capacity of a narrow washing machine?
Choose a capacity that suits your usual laundry loads from among the models that fit the space. The narrow AEG LTR6G6120A and Electrolux EW6S1064NA models are both listed by their manufacturers as 6 kg, but that figure doesn’t apply to every programme: check the load limits in the instructions for the model you choose.
Can a durability rating help you choose between two formats?
It can provide an extra point of comparison between models whose dimensions and capacity already suit your needs. The National Consumer Institute says this rating takes into account factors including robustness, reliability and ease of maintenance; don’t assume an appliance is durable just because it has a compact format.