Choose a design based on the measurement that actually restricts movement: a top-loading washing machine can solve a width problem, while a shallow front-loader takes up less room in front. A front-loader may fit under a worktop if its instructions allow the proposed installation. Either way, remember to measure the space needed for connections and to open the lid or door.
The available walkway, depth and presence of a worktop can all affect which machine is right for you.
If the space is narrow from side to side, start by looking at top-loading models. Whirlpool France, for example, lists a model that is 40 cm wide. However, check its depth too, as well as the space needed to lift the lid.
If you have room for a machine around 60 cm wide but it must not stick out into the walkway, consider shallow front-loaders. Remember to allow space for the hoses behind the machine and for the door to open in front.
A front-loader may fit beneath a worktop, provided you check the space available and the model’s instructions. A top-loader needs clear space above it.
First identify which measurement is restricting the installation, then check access to the laundry, connections and a capacity that suits your washing loads.
Consider it: when width is limited and the lid can open freely.
The trade-off: a narrower design is not necessarily shallower, and a fixed worktop above it is not an option.
Consider it: if there’s room for a front-loader width-wise, but a standard-depth model would obstruct the walkway.
The trade-off: you’ll still need to leave space in front of the machine to open the door.
Consider it: if the space is wide enough and the machine’s instructions allow the proposed installation.
The trade-off: a suitable height alone does not guarantee enough room for connections, access to the cable or the door to open.
| Priority | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Width and access | Measure the usable width of the space and the delivery route. For comparison, Whirlpool France lists the top-loading TDLR 62667 FR as 40 cm wide, while BUT lists the front-loading Candy CS41272DE/1-S as 60 cm wide. | If my route is narrow from side to side, I’ll choose a machine whose body I can actually get through and install. |
| Installed depth | Compare the stated depth with the available space beneath the worktop or along the walkway, then check the room needed for hoses and connections. BUT lists the Candy CS41272DE/1-S body as 45 cm deep, but that measurement alone doesn’t show how much space it needs once connected. | I want to be able to walk in front of the machine without it sticking too far into the room. |
| Opening and access | Leave clear space above a top-loader’s lid or in front of a front-loader’s door. For an under-worktop installation, check the instructions and access to the cable; the Electrolux EW5F4712CP instructions state that the cable must remain accessible after installation. | Loading the laundry should be easy, without having to move furniture or regularly block the walkway. |
| Capacity and energy label | Choose a capacity in kg that suits your usual loads. ADEME also recommends checking the energy label to compare factors such as water and energy use, spin performance and noise. | I want a capacity that suits my laundry, without ruling out a design that can actually fit in the utility room. |
| Installation and connections | Check the instructions for the exact model to confirm its installation requirements, connections and setup. If you’re installing it in a bathroom, have the location and electrical installation checked before arranging the installation. | I want the connections to remain accessible and the machine to be suitable for the space where I plan to install it. |
According to Whirlpool France, the top-loading TDLR 62667 FR is 40 cm wide but 60 cm deep. By contrast, the front-loading Candy CS41272DE/1-S listed by BUT is 45 cm deep and 60 cm wide.
Measure the dimension that’s obstructing the walkway, then mark out the machine’s footprint, including space for the door or lid to open and for the connections.
The lid needs to lift so you can access the drum. A worktop or low shelf above the machine could stop you using it.
Keep the space above it clear, or consider a front-loader whose instructions allow the installation you have in mind.
A machine that just fits into an alcove may leave too little room for the hoses, plug or access to the connections.
Check the installation instructions for the exact model and measure the space with the connections in mind.
Promotelec highlights the importance of earthing, circuit protection and the machine’s position in a bathroom. Choosing a particular design doesn’t resolve these installation requirements.
Ask a qualified professional to check the location and electrical circuit, then follow the instructions for connecting and setting up the machine.
These models illustrate different dimensions, but the brand alone can’t tell you whether a machine will fit your space.
The TDLR 62667 FR is an example of a top-loading washing machine. Whirlpool France lists it as 40 cm wide, 90 cm high and 60 cm deep, with a 6 kg capacity.
BUT lists the 7 kg EW5F4712CP front-loader as 59.6 cm wide, 84.7 cm high and 55 cm deep.
The CS41272DE/1-S listed by BUT is an example of a shallow front-loader. Its product details give a depth of 45 cm, a width of 60 cm and a capacity of 7 kg.
This top-loading model is worth considering if width is limiting your choice and the space above the machine is clear. Measure the available depth too before you decide.
Image unavailable
A top-loading machine is worth considering when width is your main constraint, provided there’s room to open the lid. The product title gives a capacity of 6 kg and a spin speed of 1,400 rpm. Before you buy, check the instructions for this variant to confirm its dimensions, required clearances and space for the connections.
No. It mainly helps when width is the issue, and you’ll need to keep the space above it clear. Whirlpool France lists the TDLR 62667 FR as 40 cm wide but 60 cm deep. If depth is what’s obstructing the walkway, consider a shallow front-loader instead.
No. A suitable height isn’t enough: check the instructions for the exact model to confirm the permitted installation, clearances, hose routing and door opening. The Electrolux EW5F4712CP instructions, for example, state that its power cable must remain accessible after installation.
Measure the usable width, height and depth of the space, then check the route to the room. Allow space for connections and to open the door or lid too: the body dimensions alone don’t tell you how much room you’ll need to use the machine.
Have the location and electrical circuit checked before deciding where to install it. Promotelec highlights the importance of earthing, 30 mA RCD protection and the appliance’s position in relation to the bathroom zones. A qualified professional can assess your setup.
Choose a capacity in kg that suits your usual loads, then check the energy label. ADEME recommends comparing information such as water and energy use, spin performance and noise. Don’t assume that a more compact design will necessarily use less.