If depth is limited, consider a slimline washing machine. If width or front access is the issue, a top-loading model may be a better fit. If you also need to dry your laundry, a washer-dryer combines both functions in one appliance, but its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. A stacked pair keeps the appliances separate, provided you have enough height and confirm they’re compatible with the stacking kit.
When every centimetre counts, compare the appliance’s dimensions with the available space, then check its capacity against the size of your usual loads. A smaller drum is only useful if it saves space without making you run too many cycles.
You’ll need to be able to get through once the door or lid is open. A top-loading model is worth considering if front access is limited, while a slimline model is better suited to a lack of depth. Also check how much room you’ll need to load the laundry and access the appliance.
Your choice depends as much on your laundry routine as on the space available. Compare a washer-dryer’s drying capacity with the option of stacking two compatible appliances, then check the duration of the programmes you plan to use.
First identify which dimension or access point is preventing installation, then check the capacity and the space needed for drying.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Depth | Measure the overall depth, the space needed to open the door and the clearance in front of the machine. Que Choisir describes slimline washing machines around 33 to 45 cm deep, but check the exact dimensions of the model you’re considering. | I’m short on depth, but I still need to be able to open the door and move around the room. |
| Width and access | Compare the width of the space with that of a top-loading model, and allow enough clearance above the lid. Also check that you can reach the controls. | The space in front of the machine is narrow, or I can’t leave enough room to open a front-loading door. |
| Capacity | Match the washing capacity to your usual loads, especially bulky items. For a washer-dryer, check the washing and drying capacities separately: Que Choisir points out that the drying capacity is lower. | I want to avoid running extra loads without choosing a drum that’s too large for my needs. |
| Drying | If there’s room for just one appliance, check the load capacity, programme duration and energy use of the drying programme on the model you’re considering. Que Choisir’s tests highlight differences between washer-dryers and separate tumble dryers. | I need to dry my laundry, but a long cycle or a load that needs splitting could disrupt my routine. |
| Stacking | Check the available height, the model numbers of both appliances and the kit’s compatibility in their manuals. Que Choisir says stacking is for front-loading appliances of similar dimensions, with the tumble dryer placed on top of the washing machine. | I have enough height for two appliances and want to keep their controls and maintenance access within reach. |
| Location | Allow for the clearances and access specified in the manuals. Check that the location has a water supply, a drain and a suitable power socket; Que Choisir recommends checking these points before installing a washing machine. | The machine needs to be practical to use in the room, not just fit into the alcove. |
A compact appliance may mean splitting your laundry across more cycles if its capacity doesn’t suit your household’s usual loads.
Estimate the size of your regular loads, including bedding and towels, before comparing capacity and dimensions.
Que Choisir says the drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity. You may therefore need to remove some laundry before drying.
Compare the two capacities of the exact model, then check the duration and energy use of the programmes you plan to use.
Similar dimensions don’t confirm that a stacking kit is compatible. A stacked pair also requires suitable front-loading appliances and a stable support.
Note down the exact model numbers, check the manuals for both appliances and the kit, then make sure the tumble dryer can be placed on top of the washing machine.
A machine may fit in the space but still get in the way when you open the door, load laundry or access it for maintenance.
Mark the clearances specified in the manual on your plan, along with access to the water supply, drain and power socket. If the installation doesn’t seem suitable, ask a qualified professional to assess it.
These ranges offer examples of formats and accessories to compare. Always check the specifications for the exact model you’re considering.
Beko France features washing machines that are 45 cm deep, as well as top-loading models. These are two different options depending on whether depth or width is the main constraint.
LG France offers washer-dryers, including one model listed with a 9 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity.
Bosch Home Appliances France offers stacking kits chosen to suit specific appliance models, for anyone planning to stack a washing machine and tumble dryer.
These models let you compare a top-loading washing machine with washer-dryers for situations where washing and drying need to fit into a single appliance.
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A top-loading design is worth considering if opening a front-loading door would block the way. The model name lists a 6 kg capacity and a 1400 RPM spin speed. Check the clearance above the lid and make sure the capacity suits your usual loads. A top-loading washing machine can’t be used as the base of a standard stacked pair.
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This model combines washing and drying when there’s no room for a second appliance. Its listed capacities are 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so any load going through both stages must stay within the drying limit. Compare its dimensions with your available space, then check the duration and energy use of the programme you plan to use.
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This washer-dryer is an option if you need to fit both functions into a single space. The model name lists an 11 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity, so plan a suitable load if you’re running both stages in sequence. Also check the overall dimensions and the duration of a complete cycle against your laundry routine.
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This combined design lets you wash and dry your laundry in a single space. The model is listed with a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. Stick to the drying limit if you want to avoid removing laundry between stages. Before choosing it for a specific alcove, check its overall dimensions and the details of its drying cycles.
Measure the available width, height and depth, then allow enough clearance to open the door or lid, load the laundry and access the appliance. Compare your measurements with the model’s overall dimensions and manual. Also check the water supply, drain and power supply at the chosen location.
Not if the load is larger than its drying capacity. Que Choisir says this is lower than the washing capacity, so check both figures for the model and remove some laundry before drying if needed. Also check the length of a complete programme if you need to run several loads in a row.
Not in a standard stacked configuration. Que Choisir’s recommendations apply to two front-loading appliances of similar dimensions that are compatible according to their manuals. The tumble dryer goes on top of the washing machine, using a kit designed for the models in question.
No. Similar dimensions don’t prove that the appliances and stacking kit are compatible. Check the exact model numbers in the manuals and the kit manufacturer’s guidance, then make sure the space is stable and both appliances remain accessible.