People living in a studio or a narrow flat
If space is limited in width or depth, compare the footprint of a compact washing machine, a top-loading model and a washer-dryer. Remember to allow room to load the laundry and access the connections, too.
Who are these configurations for?
Households with a tall alcove
A stacked set can bring a washing machine and a separate tumble dryer together without needing two side-by-side spaces. Check that the models and stacking kit are compatible, and that the space is stable, before choosing this solution.
People fitting out a small bathroom
Available space alone doesn’t mean an installation is suitable. Have the electrical position checked and make sure the water supply, waste outlet and power supply remain accessible.
What should you check before choosing?
First, identify the dimension that limits your installation, then compare each configuration with the amount of laundry you have and how much you need to dry.
| Consideration | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Depth and door clearance | Measure the installed appliance depth, space for the connections and clearance for the door to open. Candy lists compact washing machines with depths of 33 to 46 cm, depending on the model, so check the specifications for the model you choose. | I want to keep a clear walkway in front of the machine while still being able to open the door and reach the pipes. |
| Width and access from above | Compare the available width with the space needed to lift the lid. The TW 621CS Sense Wash FR listed by Whirlpool France is 40 cm wide and has a stated capacity of 6 kg. | My alcove is narrow, but I can keep the space above the washing machine clear each time I do the laundry. |
| Washing capacity | Compare the stated capacities with the laundry that builds up between washes. Que Choisir notes that a drum that’s too small can mean having to do more loads. | I want to wash my usual amount of laundry without choosing a capacity based only on the size of the room. |
| Drying option | For a washer-dryer, check the washing and drying capacities separately, along with programme durations and the combined-cycle label. For a stacked set, check the specifications of the separate tumble dryer. | If I only have room for one appliance, a washer-dryer appeals to me. If there’s enough height, I could also consider stacking two appliances. |
| Stacking | Check the exact model numbers for both appliances and the kit in their installation documents, along with the dimensions and floor support. Bosch states that some of its kits require a washing machine with a depth greater than 55 cm. For the model concerned, its manual requires the tumble dryer manufacturer’s kit. | I’ll only choose a stacked set if the manufacturer confirms that the specific appliances and kit are compatible. |
| Position and connections | Check that the water supply, waste outlet and power supply meet the requirements in the manual. In a bathroom, have a qualified professional check the location and its electrical protection. | I want to install the machine in the intended spot without blocking access to the connections or overlooking electrical safety. |
What mistakes should you avoid?
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Relying on the appliance dimensions alone
A machine may fit into an alcove but still block the way when its door is open or its pipes are connected.
Measure the width, depth and height, then allow for the door to open and access to the connections before comparing product specifications.
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Choosing the smallest drum because the room is small
Que Choisir warns that a capacity that’s too low can mean having to run more wash cycles.
Instead, think about how much laundry builds up between washes and choose a capacity that suits your needs.
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Stacking two appliances because they’re the same width
Similar dimensions don’t confirm that the models or the kit are compatible. The Bosch manual cited for a specific model only allows stacking with the tumble dryer manufacturer’s kit.
Check all three model numbers in the manufacturers’ documents and make sure the space has a stable base.
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Confusing washing information with combined-cycle information
For a washer-dryer, check the combined-cycle label separately. For example, Candy gives the combined cycle on the EWY 485SG8-S a D rating; this information doesn’t apply to other models.
Compare the washing, drying and combined-cycle information for the model you’re considering.
Which brands should you consider for each configuration?
Candy
Worth considering for its shallow washing machines and washer-dryer ranges.
- Candy lists compact models with depths of 33 to 46 cm, with capacities varying by model.
- Its EWY 485SG8-S measures 595 × 533 × 850 mm and has a D rating for the combined cycle. Check the dimensions, drying capacity and label for each specific model.
Whirlpool
Worth considering when width is limited but there’s still room to access a top-loading machine.
- Whirlpool France lists top-loading washing machines with capacities of 6 to 7 kg. The TW 621CS Sense Wash FR is listed as 40 cm wide, with a capacity of 6 kg.
- You’ll need to be able to open the lid, so check the clearance above the appliance.
Bosch
Check its manuals and kits when planning a stacked washing machine and tumble dryer setup.
- Bosch provides information on kit compatibility; some kits are designed for washing machines with a depth greater than 55 cm.
- Owning two Bosch appliances doesn’t automatically mean they can be stacked. Check the exact model numbers and the specified kit.
Washer-dryers to consider on Joybuy
These two appliances combine washing and drying in one machine, making them worth considering if you only have room for one appliance. Compare their washing and drying capacities, then check their installed dimensions before choosing.
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Samsung WD10HG6U34BEU3, 10 kg / 6 kg washer-dryer
This washer-dryer lets you wash and dry your laundry in one space, with stated capacities of 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. Before choosing it, check the clearance needed for the door and connections, as well as the combined-cycle label.
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CHiQ JW85882HG, 8 kg / 5 kg washer-dryer
This model combines washing and drying in one appliance, with stated capacities of 8 kg and 5 kg respectively. Before measuring the space, confirm its exact dimensions: the stated width and overall dimensions don’t match. Also check the door clearance, connections and combined-cycle label.
Frequently asked questions
Is a compact washing machine always suitable for a small room?
No. It’s mainly designed for spaces with limited depth. Also check the door clearance, connections and capacity you need for your laundry. Que Choisir points out that a drum that’s too small can mean having to run more wash cycles.
Can you put a tumble dryer on a washing machine of the same width?
Matching widths aren’t enough. Check that the exact models are compatible and use the kit specified by the tumble dryer manufacturer. Bosch notes that some of its kits require a washing machine with a depth greater than 55 cm.
Can a washer-dryer replace two stacked appliances?
It lets you wash and dry your laundry in one space, if this setup suits your needs. However, compare its drying capacity, which differs from its washing capacity, as well as programme durations and the combined-cycle label for the model you choose.
What should you check before installing a washing machine in a small bathroom?
Have a qualified professional check the location and its electrical protection, then check that the water supply and waste outlet are accessible. The model’s manual will also set out its connection requirements. Having enough room in the bathroom isn’t, on its own, enough to confirm that the installation is suitable.