People with a very narrow space
If width is the main issue for your washing machine, a top-loading model is worth measuring up. Whirlpool lists its ZEN TDLRBX 6252BS FR/N as 40 cm wide; you’ll need to arrange drying separately.
Who are these options suitable for?
Households with room for just one floor-standing appliance
A washer-dryer lets you wash and dry in sequence without needing space for a second appliance. However, Que Choisir points out that its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity, so a full wash load may need to be split into two drying loads.
People who can install a tumble dryer without an external vent
If you have space for a separate appliance or a stacked pair, a condenser tumble dryer can complement your washing machine without an external vent. Check the appliances’ dimensions and installation requirements before choosing this set-up.
How do the options compare?
When washing and drying in a small home, start with the space you actually have. A narrow alcove, the option to stack appliances or room for just one appliance on the floor will each point you towards a different solution.
Top-loading washing machine with separate drying
Consider this if: width is your main constraint and you can dry your laundry elsewhere.
Bear in mind: the washing machine won’t dry your laundry, and you’ll need enough clearance above it to open the lid.
Front-loading washing machine with a stacked tumble dryer
Consider this if: you have enough height for two appliances that their instruction manuals say can be stacked.
Bear in mind: the stack takes up the same floor space as the washing machine alone, and requires compatible stacking accessories and sufficient clearance.
Washer-dryer
Consider this if: you can fit just one appliance and your usual loads are within its drying capacity.
Bear in mind: the drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity, so compare the duration and energy and water consumption of full cycles.
| Criterion | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space required | Measure the overall width and depth, then check that the door or lid can open and that you can leave the specified clearances. | If the alcove is narrow, my first priority is making sure the machine fits without blocking access; around 36% of consumers would put space requirements first. |
| Drying without an external vent | Check whether you have a vent before considering a vented model. If not, compare condenser tumble dryers by their energy label and programme duration. | Without an external vent, I want to be able to dry laundry while keeping an eye on electricity use; nearly 29% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| One appliance | Compare the washing and drying capacities, then check the duration and energy and water consumption of the full cycle for the model you’re considering. | If I only have room for one appliance on the floor, I’d rather combine washing and drying, even if that means adjusting my loads; around 21% of consumers would prioritise an all-in-one appliance. |
| Drying capacity | Compare the drying capacity with your usual laundry loads and check how long the relevant programme takes, rather than looking only at the washing capacity. | For large, regular loads, I want to avoid splitting them into multiple drying loads; around 14% of consumers would prioritise capacity and turnaround time. |
What should you avoid before installation?
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Choosing a washer-dryer based only on its washing capacity
Que Choisir highlights that the drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity. If you fill the machine to its maximum washing capacity, you may need to remove some laundry before drying.
Compare both capacities, which are listed separately in kilograms. If you want to run the programmes one after the other, size your load according to the drying capacity.
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Measuring only the depth of the casing
Under a worktop or between two units, connections, protruding parts and the door opening can make the space unusable.
Measure the usable space, then check the appliance’s overall depth and the clearances specified in the manual for the model you’ve chosen.
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Planning for a vented tumble dryer without a suitable outlet
According to Que Choisir, this type of appliance needs either an opening to the outside or access to a ventilation duct.
Make sure this is possible before choosing a vented model. If it isn’t, consider a condenser tumble dryer that suits the space available.
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Forgetting the maintenance involved in drying
A lint-filled filter or blocked condenser makes it harder to keep the appliance in good condition. Electrolux says a blocked condenser can increase electricity consumption and damage the tumble dryer.
Plan to clean the filter after every cycle and follow the model’s instructions for inspecting and maintaining the condenser.
Brands to consider, depending on the appliance you need
Whirlpool
Worth considering if a narrow washing machine is more important than having drying built in.
- Whirlpool lists the ZEN TDLRBX 6252BS FR/N as 40 cm wide, with a washing capacity of 6 kg.
- This model only washes, so you’ll need a separate way to dry your laundry.
LG
Worth considering if you’re looking for a front-loading washer-dryer and have limited depth.
- LG lists the F852SV50WRS as having an 8.5 kg washing capacity and a 5 kg drying capacity. Its depth is 475 mm excluding protruding parts and 535 mm overall.
- Its drying capacity is still lower than its washing capacity. For this model, also compare the full-cycle figures and check how much installation space you’ll need.
Electrolux
Worth considering when comparing the features of a heat pump washer-dryer.
- Electrolux lists the EW9W1166RB as having a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity.
- Even with this heat pump model, a full washing load exceeds the stated drying capacity.
Tumble dryers to pair with a washing machine
These tumble dryers are for households choosing two separate appliances. Consider them if you already have a washing machine or plan to make room for one, and can also confirm there’s enough space for drying. They aren’t a replacement for a washer-dryer.
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Hotpoint CHD84MWBSEE heat pump tumble dryer
Worth considering if you want to dry laundry in an appliance separate from your washing machine, provided it’s suitable for your home.
Stated capacity: 8 kg; energy class C.
Check the model’s manual for its dimensions, required clearances and whether it can be stacked.
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Electrolux EDH1018CD GentleCare condenser tumble dryer
Worth considering for separate drying without an external vent, alongside a washing machine.
Stated capacity: 8 kg.
Before deciding where to put it, check the clearances and whether it can be stacked, as set out in the manual.
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Comfee CD08EHP05W-HR heat pump tumble dryer
Worth considering if you can set aside a space for drying that’s separate from your washing machine.
Stated capacity: 8 kg; energy class D.
Before choosing this model for a small space, check its dimensions, required clearances and whether it can be stacked.
Frequently asked questions
Can you install a vented tumble dryer without an external outlet?
No. You need either an opening to the outside or access to a ventilation duct. Que Choisir explains that a vented tumble dryer requires one of these. If your room doesn’t have either, consider a condenser model instead.
Can a washer-dryer dry a full washing load?
Not if the washing load is larger than its drying capacity. You’ll need to remove some laundry or dry it in multiple loads. For example, LG lists the F852SV50WRS as having an 8.5 kg washing capacity but a 5 kg drying capacity.
What should you measure before fitting a washer-dryer under a worktop?
Measure the usable width, height and depth, then check the appliance’s overall depth, whether its door can open and the clearances specified in its manual. Que Choisir particularly highlights the importance of checking depth under a worktop or between two units.
How can you compare a washer-dryer’s energy and water use?
For each model, compare the figures for a full wash-and-dry cycle with those for washing alone, taking into account the stated programme and load. Cycle duration and water use matter too if you plan to dry laundry in the appliance regularly.
What maintenance does a tumble dryer need?
Clean the lint filter after every cycle and follow your model’s manual for the condenser, if it has one that needs maintenance. Electrolux says a blocked condenser can increase electricity consumption and damage the appliance.