In a small bathroom, choose a top-loading washing machine if width is limited but the lid can open freely. A compact front-loader may be a better fit if its depth or height suits the alcove and the door can still be used. If the space, plumbing or electrical installation won’t accommodate a suitable machine, using a laundrette means you won’t need to install one at home, but you’ll have to make repeated trips and payments.
If there’s room above the machine but not much width, compare a top-loader’s dimensions with your available space and check that its lid opens fully. UFC-Que Choisir notes that dimensions and the type of opening are among the things to consider before buying.
If you can use a front-opening machine but depth or height is limited, check the dimensions of the exact model and allow enough room for its door when open. Electrolux France, Candy France and Haier France show examples of slim or mini front-loading washing machines in different sizes.
If you don’t know whether the space has suitable plumbing or an appropriate electrical layout, have it checked before choosing a machine. A laundrette may be another option if your home isn’t suitable for installation. Promotelec explains the conditions to consider in a bathroom.
Start with the constraint that will determine whether installation is possible: width, depth or height, then plumbing, capacity and running costs.
| Consideration | What to check | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Width and top opening | Measure the width of the space and check there’s enough clear height for the lid to open fully. | If width is my main limitation, I want to keep the walkway clear without the lid getting in the way; around 33% of consumers prioritise a narrow machine. |
| Depth, height and front-loader door | Check the exact model’s dimensions, space for the hoses and how much room is left when the door is open. | If the alcove is shallow or low, I’m looking for a machine that fits without making the door impractical to use; around 27% of consumers prioritise depth or height. |
| Plumbing and electrical safety | Check that the water inlet and drain match the model’s instructions. If you’re unsure, have the bathroom’s electrical installation checked. | If I can’t confirm the plumbing or electrical position, I want to know whether home installation is possible before ordering; around 27% of consumers prioritise whether installation is feasible. |
| Capacity and running costs | Compare the capacity with your usual loads and, for relevant appliances, compare consumption figures on the same basis. Also check the prices at a convenient laundrette. | To choose between washing smaller loads at home and making trips to a laundrette, I compare my needs with the recurring costs; around 13% of consumers are most concerned about capacity and running costs. |
The lid may hit a shelf, and the machine’s depth and plumbing connections also take up space.
Measure the space and check that the lid can open fully before comparing models.
The stated depth of a slim front-loader may not include the space needed behind the machine for hoses or the clearance needed for the door.
Check the installation diagram and make sure the walkway remains usable when the door is open.
If the plumbing connections or door don’t fit in the space, you may need to change the layout.
The position of the water inlet, drain and electrical installation must suit the actual bathroom layout. Promotelec sets out the requirements for positioning, earthing and circuit protection.
Check the model’s instructions and have any uncertain installation inspected before buying. If it isn’t suitable, compare laundrette options too.
Depending on your home, plumbing or electrical changes may be needed.
The cost of each option depends on how you use it. A home appliance involves installation and running costs, while a laundrette means repeated payments and trips.
Estimate how many loads you usually do, then compare the machine’s costs and consumption with the prices and options at a laundrette you can actually use.
These brands show a range of documented sizes and features. Their inclusion here doesn’t mean every model will suit your space.
An example of a top-loader to compare if width is a constraint.
Two formats let you consider different constraints: a top-loader and a slim front-loader.
The Mini ProWash 700 CW50-BP12307U1-S is an example of a mini front-loader for an alcove where height matters.
The Mini Drum HW50-BP12307U1-S is another mini front-loader to consider for a low alcove.
This selection features compact portable appliances for small loads. Their capacities and features don’t mean they can replace a family-sized washing machine. Check the installation and usage requirements before choosing one.
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For small items in a compact space, rather than bulky loads.
Advertised maximum capacity: 0.8 kg. The title lists 4.5 L, 260 W, a spin basket, a 1 to 10-minute wash cycle, a 3-minute spin cycle and IPX4.
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An option for small items if you’re looking for a portable, foldable appliance.
The title lists 10 L, 2, 5 or 10-minute wash modes, a 40 W motor and a speed of 320 RPM. The product information describes it as semi-automatic, not a tumble dryer, and intended for small items rather than bulky clothing.
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For washing small items such as underwear, socks or baby clothes.
The title lists a power rating of 260 W, a capacity of 1.19 gal and a spin basket. The claim that blue light sanitises clothes is not treated as an established result.
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For small loads where a foldable portable appliance is needed.
The title lists a capacity of 12 L, three wash modes and a spin basket.
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For small loads when you need washing and drying in one compact appliance.
The stated capacities are 1 kg for washing and 0.5 kg for drying; the product information describes it as suitable for small loads.
Yes, provided the location and electrical installation are suitable; floor space isn’t the only consideration. Promotelec specifies, among other things, earthing, 30 mA residual-current protection and a position beyond zone 2. The organisation says that a washing machine must not be installed in zones 0, 1 or 2, even with this protection. If you’re unsure about the layout, have the zones and your installation checked.
No. Promotelec says the assessment must take account of the cupboard doors being open and the space around the appliance. If, even after this assessment, any part of the cupboard remains in zone 2, it can’t house the washing machine. Have the actual layout checked rather than relying on the cupboard’s depth alone.
Locate the water supply tap and drain, then compare their positions with the instructions for your chosen model. For the hose covered in its guidance, Electrolux Support describes a connection to a threaded 3/4-inch cold-water tap. This detail doesn’t automatically apply to every washing machine. Also check the instructions for the permitted height and route of the drain hose.
Compare the figures on the European energy label on a like-for-like basis, including energy in kWh per 100 cycles and water per cycle. The European Commission also lists noise information on the label. These figures don’t replace checking that the capacity suits your usual loads.
For goods sold by a business to a consumer, the legal guarantee of conformity applies through the seller. The Ministry of the Economy explains that incorrect installation may be covered if installation was the seller’s responsibility or was carried out under their responsibility. Distinguish this guarantee from an optional commercial warranty, and check the delivery and installation terms before buying.