Anyone with a narrow access route
If width is making installation difficult, a top-loading washing machine is worth considering. Measure the access route to its final position too, and leave enough room above for the lid to open.
Who are these set-ups for?
Anyone with a shallow recess
If there’s enough width for a front-loader but it might protrude into the room, compare the depth of different front-loading models and allow space for the connections.
Anyone who needs to dry laundry indoors
If mechanical drying is part of your routine, you’ll also need to consider how many appliances to have. A stacked set-up requires compatible appliances, while a washer-dryer combines both functions, with the washing and drying capacities needing to be compared separately.
How do you compare different set-ups?
First, work out what’s actually limiting the space: the width, the depth, the room available for two appliances or whether you can only install one. Even a model described as ‘compact’ should be judged on its exact dimensions and capacity.
| Space constraint | What to check | Customers affected |
|---|---|---|
| Limited width | Measure the recess and the delivery access route. For a top-loader, allow room for the lid to open. | When the access route is too narrow for the washing machine I had in mind, I first look for an appliance that can get through and be opened once it’s in place. Around 23% of consumers put this width restriction first. |
| Limited depth | Compare the appliance’s depth with the space needed for hoses, the plug and the door to open. | In a narrow kitchen or bathroom, I don’t want an appliance to encroach on the walkway. Depth is the top priority for around 23% of consumers. |
| Frequent drying | For a stacked set-up, confirm that both appliances and the stacking kit are compatible, and check that the floor is stable and there’s enough height. | If I dry laundry regularly, I want to keep two appliances without having to make room for them side by side. Having two appliances for drying is the top priority for around 31% of consumers. |
| Room for one appliance | For a washer-dryer, compare the washing and drying capacities separately. | When I can only install one appliance, I need to be able to wash and sometimes dry my laundry in it, even if that means splitting a load. Around 23% of consumers prioritise having just one appliance. |
Mistakes to avoid before installation
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Measuring only the visible space
An appliance may fit in the recess but still prevent a door from opening or leave too little room for the connections.
Measure the available width, height and depth, then check how far the door opens and the delivery route into the room.
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Choosing a stacking kit without checking the model numbers
Compatibility depends on the kit and the appliances in question. For example, Bosch specifies that the WTZ27400 kit is intended, among other things, for a standard washing machine with a depth of more than 55 cm. This threshold does not apply to all kits.
Before planning a stacked set-up, check the exact model numbers of the washing machine, tumble dryer and kit in the manufacturer’s documentation.
An unsuitable kit could mean rethinking your planned installation.
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Putting the washing machine on top of the tumble dryer
This isn’t the arrangement described by UFC-Que Choisir for a stacked set-up: a washing machine filled with water and subject to spin-cycle vibrations should be on the bottom.
Only place the tumble dryer on top if the appliances and kit are compatible, and the floor is level and stable.
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Confusing washing capacity with drying capacity
These figures can differ: Electrolux lists a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity for the EW9W1166RA.
Choose based on how much laundry you want to dry in each cycle, not just the washing capacity.
If the wash load exceeds the drying capacity, you’ll need to remove some laundry or run more than one drying cycle.
Brands to consider, model by model
Bosch
The range includes options to consider, from a narrow top-loading washing machine to stacking accessories, provided you check each model number.
- Bosch lists the WOT24257FF top-loader as 40 cm wide, with a 7 kg capacity.
- The WTZ27400 kit has its own compatibility requirements, which don’t apply to every Bosch appliance.
Electrolux
Two models illustrate different options: reducing the depth of a front-loading washing machine or combining washing and drying.
- Electrolux lists the front-loading EW6S3626XA as 411 mm deep, with a 6 kg capacity.
- For the EW9W1166RA washer-dryer, Electrolux lists a 10 kg washing capacity but a 6 kg drying capacity. Choose based on both load sizes.
Whirlpool
The TDLR 62667 FR top-loader is worth considering if a top-opening appliance suits your space.
- Whirlpool lists this model with a 6 kg capacity.
- Check the model’s dimensions and installation requirements before deciding whether it will fit in your space.
Appliances for different space requirements
These Joybuy appliances include washer-dryers that combine washing and drying in one machine, as well as a front-loading washing machine for when drying can be arranged separately. Compare their full dimensions with your available space before choosing.
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Samsung WD11DG6B85BEU3, washer-dryer, 11 kg / 6 kg
Worth considering if you need one appliance for both washing and drying. The listed capacities are 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so you’ll need to reduce a full wash load before drying it. Check the space needed for connections and to open the door.
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Samsung WD10HG6U34BEU3, washer-dryer, 10 kg / 6 kg
Another option if you need one appliance for both washing and drying. The listed capacities are 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so allow for removing some of a full load before drying. Check the clearance needed in your recess.
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Dreame DRWASHS8KG S, washing machine, 8 kg, white
Worth considering for washing if you can arrange drying separately. The listed capacity is 8 kg. Before choosing it for a shallow recess, compare its full dimensions and the space needed for the hoses with your available space.
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Roborock Zeo Lite, washer-dryer, 10 kg / 6 kg
Combines washing and drying when there’s only room for one appliance. The listed capacities are 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. Check whether your usual loads can be dried without splitting them. Measure the space too, and check the dimensions required for installation.
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CHiQ JW85883G, front-loading washing machine, 8 kg, dark grey
For washing, with a separate drying solution if needed. The model name indicates an 8 kg capacity and a spin speed of 1 400 tr/min. Check its full dimensions, including the connections, before choosing it for a space with limited room.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put a tumble dryer on top of a top-loading washing machine?
Not in the stacked arrangement described by UFC-Que Choisir: this uses a tumble dryer above a front-loading washing machine, with a compatible installation. A top-loader needs to remain accessible from above for loading.
Can a so-called universal stacking kit be used with appliances from two different brands?
Don’t assume so. Check the model numbers of both appliances in the kit instructions and the manufacturers’ guidance. For example, Bosch instructions rule out certain combinations of appliances from different manufacturers or with different dimensions if the appropriate kit isn’t used. This guidance applies to the models covered by those instructions.
Can a washer-dryer dry a full wash load?
Compare the two capacities for the specific model: they may not be the same. For example, Electrolux lists a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity for the EW9W1166RA, so a full wash load will need to be reduced or dried in more than one cycle.
What should you check before delivery to a small home?
Measure the access route and the space where the appliance will go, including room for the door to open and for the connections. Before planning the installation, also locate the water inlet, waste outlet and power supply needed for your chosen model.
Should you choose the largest capacity possible?
No. Choose a capacity to suit the amount of laundry you have and how often you wash, as recommended by ADEME. In a small space, also check that the appliance’s dimensions fit and, for a washer-dryer, that its drying capacity meets your needs.