Start by considering the space you can actually use. A top-loading washing machine can work when width is limited, provided there’s room to open the lid. A compact front-loading model may be a better fit if depth is the issue, as long as there’s enough space in front to open the door. A washer-dryer combines washing and drying in one appliance, but check its drying capacity separately, along with the duration and energy and water consumption of a complete cycle.
If you’re short on width, a top-loading washing machine is worth considering, provided you can lift the lid. If depth is more of an issue, look at compact front-loading models and allow space to open the door. The French National Consumer Institute distinguishes between these two loading types.
A washer-dryer means you don’t need to set aside space for a second appliance. However, check its drying load capacity and the figures for a complete cycle. UFC-Que Choisir points out that drying capacity is lower than washing capacity.
A top-loading machine gives you access to the drum from above. You’ll still need enough clearance above the machine to open the lid fully.
In a small home, the deciding factor could be the space needed to open the appliance, whether you need to dry your laundry, or the size of your usual loads.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Size and access | Measure the alcove and the space needed in front of the door or above the lid. Check the installation dimensions of the model you’re considering. | If the machine fits in the alcove but blocks the way when it’s open, it won’t work in my home. Around 42% of consumers prioritise size and access. |
| Integrated drying | Compare washing and drying capacities, then check the duration, water and energy figures for a wash-and-dry cycle. | Without space for a separate tumble dryer, I need to be able to dry my laundry in the same appliance. Integrated drying is the top priority for around 25% of consumers. |
| Everyday capacity | Compare the washing capacity with your usual loads. For a washer-dryer, check the drying capacity too. | If I do regular or large loads, saving space shouldn’t mean settling for a capacity that doesn’t suit my needs. Around 33% of consumers prioritise capacity and washing frequency. |
A front-loading model may fit in its space but still get in the way when you load it or walk past with the door open. LG gives an open-door depth of 1,100 mm at 90° for its F964V52IRSA; this measurement applies to this model only.
Mark out the area needed to open the door or lid, then check the measurements in the manual for the appliance you choose.
The maximum washing load isn’t necessarily the same as the maximum drying load. For example, the LG F964V52IRSA is listed with a 9 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity.
If you plan to dry your laundry regularly, base your choice on both capacities.
The French range includes both a narrow top-loading model and a compact front-loader, making it worth exploring if space is limited.
Its front-loading models may suit people considering a stacked tumble dryer, if there’s enough height available.
The LG F964V52IRSA front-loading washer-dryer is an example of an appliance that combines both functions.
These appliances suit two of the options discussed here: combining washing and drying in a washer-dryer, or choosing a front-loading washing machine when integrated drying isn’t a priority. In either case, check the installation dimensions before choosing an appliance for a small room.
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Worth considering if you want to wash and dry in one appliance rather than make room for two machines. The product name lists a 10 kg washing capacity, a 6 kg drying capacity and 27 wash programmes. So, a maximum washing load isn’t the same as a maximum drying load. Check the installation dimensions, as well as the duration and consumption figures for a wash-and-dry cycle to suit your needs.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a front-loading washing machine and don’t need integrated drying. The product name lists an 8 kg capacity, 16 programmes and a spin speed of up to 1,400 rpm. Before choosing it for a shallow alcove, check its full dimensions, connections and the space needed to open the door.
Measure the available width, height and depth, then compare them with the installation dimensions of the model you’ve chosen. Allow space to open the door or lid too: LG lists a depth of 1,100 mm with the door open at 90° for its F964V52IRSA.
Not necessarily: its drying capacity may be lower than its washing capacity. LG lists the F964V52IRSA with a 9 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. So, a load washed at up to 9 kg would need to be reduced before drying, to stay within the stated limit.
First, compare their figures for equivalent wash cycles. If you plan to use the washer-dryer for drying too, check the figures for the complete wash-and-dry cycle, including water, energy and duration, rather than comparing them with washing alone.
No. Bosch recommends confirming that both models are suitable for stacking and using a compatible stacking kit. Check their manuals: similar-looking appliances or dimensions aren’t enough to confirm they’re compatible.
For the domestic washing machines and washer-dryers covered, the European Commission says that an A to G scale has applied since 1 March 2021. The label shows figures defined for the relevant programmes. Compare the same types of cycle and consider how you’ll actually use the drying function.