A very narrow space
If you have around 40 to 46 cm of width, consider top-loading models. UFC-Que Choisir gives this width range for top-loading washing machines; you’ll also need enough room to open the lid.
Who are these formats for?
Limited depth
If there’s enough width for a front-loader but the machine would stick out too far into the room, compare shallow or compact models. Leave room in front of the door and choose a capacity that suits your laundry loads.
A cabinet already designed for a washing machine
An integrated model is worth considering if the cabinet space and door are compatible. The machine’s external dimensions alone won’t confirm that the fixings and connections will fit.
What should you check before choosing?
First, measure the space in all three dimensions. Then compare the loading style, capacity and installation requirements of the models that will fit.
| What to consider | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions and opening space | Measure the width, depth and height. A top-loader opens upwards; a front-loader needs space in front of the door. Check the instructions for the space needed for the hoses, too. | Is my space particularly narrow, shallow or limited in height? A top-loader that’s 40 cm wide isn’t necessarily shallow: according to Electrolux France, the Electrolux EW6T4127AS is 400 mm wide and 600 mm deep. |
| Capacity | Compare the rated capacity with the loads you usually wash; don’t judge it by the machine’s external dimensions. Candy France lists a capacity of 5 kg for its compact CW50-BP12307U1-S and 8 kg for the front-loading GD 48S5-S. | Will a small drum be enough for my usual laundry, or do I need to wash larger loads? |
| Noise | For each model you’re considering, compare the spin noise level in dB and the noise class shown on its label. Follow the instructions for levelling the machine, too. | If the machine will be near a bedroom or living area, spin-cycle noise is an important factor in my choice. |
| Installation | Check the instructions for clearance, connections and any requirements for fitting the machine under a worktop or inside a cabinet. If you’re installing it in a bathroom, ask a qualified professional to check the electrical installation at the chosen location. | I want to be able to open, connect and use the machine where I plan to install it, without blocking the way through the room. |
| Long-term use | Compare the water and energy figures for each model’s Eco 40-60 programme. For the household washing machines covered by the rules in France, the decree of 5 April 2024 published on Légifrance sets out the durability index requirements. Check the rating for the model. | The machine needs to fit my space, but I’d also like to compare its usage and durability information before choosing. |
Common space-planning mistakes to avoid
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Relying on the listed dimensions alone
The door or lid needs room to open, and the hoses need space too. So, even if a machine fits into the space, it may still be difficult to load or connect.
Measure the space and access routes, then compare them with the installation diagram for the exact model.
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Assuming a top-loader is shallow
The Electrolux EW6T4127AS and Whirlpool TDLR 62667 FR top-loaders are 40 cm wide but 60 cm deep, according to their manufacturers. They’re designed for narrow spaces, but aren’t necessarily suitable if you have limited depth.
Compare the width, depth, height and space needed to open the machine separately before choosing this format.
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Planning to install a washing machine in a bathroom without checking the setup
The machine’s dimensions won’t tell you whether the location and the room’s electrical circuit are suitable.
Before buying and installing the machine, ask a qualified professional to check the location, electrical installation and connections.
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Confusing freestanding and integrated models
An integrated model needs a compatible cabinet space, cabinet door and fixings. Having a similar external height to another machine doesn’t mean the two are interchangeable.
Measure the cabinet and check the installation requirements in the instructions for the model you’re considering.
A few models from well-known brands
Candy
Candy France’s range includes a compact freestanding model, a shallower front-loader and an integrated model.
- The CW50-BP12307U1-S measures 510 × 488 × 700 mm, while the GD 48S5-S measures 595 × 533 × 850 mm, in width × depth × height, according to Candy France.
- The right format also depends on the capacity you need: Candy France lists capacities of 5 kg and 8 kg respectively for these two models.
Electrolux
The EW6T4127AS top-loader is an option to consider when width is limited.
- Electrolux France lists the EW6T4127AS as 400 mm wide, with a capacity of 7 kg.
- It’s 600 mm deep, and you’ll also need to leave room above the machine to open the lid.
Bosch
The WGE02406FR front-loader is a useful comparison if your space can accommodate dimensions close to a standard size.
- Bosch Electroménager France lists its dimensions as 848 × 598 × 588 mm in height × width × depth, with a capacity of 7 kg.
- Its width of 598 mm makes it unsuitable for a space limited to around 40 to 46 cm.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool France’s range includes the TDLR 62667 FR top-loader and the BI WMWG 8146 FR integrated front-loader.
- The TDLR 62667 FR is 40 cm wide, according to Whirlpool France.
- This top-loader is also 60 cm deep and 90 cm high. If you’re considering an integrated model, check that your cabinet is compatible.
A front-loading washing machine on Joybuy
This front-loader is suited to a space that can accommodate this loading style. If you’re choosing a machine for a small utility room or bathroom, check its dimensions and installation requirements in the instructions before making your decision.
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Electrolux EW6FI4805AW, 8 kg, 1,400 rpm
This front-loading washing machine could be a good choice if there’s enough space to open the door. The product title lists a capacity of 8 kg and a spin speed of 1,400 rpm. Check the instructions for clearance, connections and any requirements for installation under a worktop.
Frequently asked questions
What should I measure before choosing between a top-loader and a front-loader?
Measure the width, depth and height of the space, then check there’s room to open the machine: above for a top-loader, or in front for a front-loader. Check the model’s instructions for clearance and connections, too.
Does a top-loading washing machine always take up less space?
No. Its main advantage is its narrower width. UFC-Que Choisir gives a width range of 40 to 46 cm for top-loaders, but the Electrolux EW6T4127AS and Whirlpool TDLR 62667 FR models are both 60 cm deep, according to their manufacturers.
Can an integrated washing machine simply replace a freestanding one under a worktop?
Not without checking the cabinet and the exact model. Compare the space dimensions, cabinet-door fixings, access to connections and installation instructions. Similar external dimensions don’t prove that the machines are interchangeable.
How does the durability index help you choose?
It gives you another model-specific point of comparison, alongside dimensions and capacity. In France, the decree of 5 April 2024 published on Légifrance sets out the criteria and scoring for this index for the household washing machines it covers. Check the rating for the model you’re considering.