Stacking two appliances can work if the floor is stable, the front-loading washer and dryer are compatible in size, and a stacking kit is approved for their exact model numbers. If the room cannot accommodate a safe, accessible stack, consider a washer-dryer and check its drying capacity, which may be lower than its washing capacity. In a bathroom, also ask a professional to assess whether the electrical installation is suitable for the proposed location.
You want to save floor space without giving up a separate washer and dryer. Before choosing a stacked setup, check that the floor is stable, both appliances are front-loading, their dimensions are compatible and the stacking kit is suitable for them.
The new appliance needs to work with the one you’re keeping and with the stacking kit. Matching brands or similar widths aren’t enough: check the full model numbers and any exclusions listed by the manufacturer.
If a stack cannot be installed securely and used comfortably, a washer-dryer is worth considering. Compare its washing capacity with its wash-and-dry capacity to see how much laundry you can actually dry.
Consider this if: you can install two compatible front-loading appliances on a flat, rigid and sturdy floor.
Bear in mind: the dryer controls will be higher up, and installation will require a kit suited to both model numbers.
Consider this if: there’s room for only one appliance, or a stack cannot be kept accessible and stable.
Bear in mind: the drying capacity may be lower than the washing capacity. For example, Bosch lists a 7 kg washing capacity and a 4 kg wash-and-dry capacity for the WKD28543FRB.
To create a compact laundry area, first check whether a stack is practical in your room. The priorities below can then help you choose between different setups and appliances.
| Consideration | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility and stability | Confirm that both appliances are front-loading, check their dimensions and exact model numbers, and make sure the kit is compatible. The floor should be flat, rigid and sturdy. | If I’m replacing an appliance, I want to be sure the new model and kit will work with the one I’m keeping. Around 36% of consumers put compatibility first. |
| Space and access | Measure the available height, check that the controls will be within reach and allow enough clearance to open the doors. | In a narrow alcove, saving space won’t help if I can’t reach the controls or easily take out the laundry. Around 29% of consumers put everyday access first. |
| Drying and room requirements | Compare the specifications of the dryers you’re considering and check that their drying type suits the location and available ventilation or drainage options. | I want a dryer whose energy use and installation requirements suit my room. This is the top priority for around 21% of consumers. |
| Room for one appliance only | Compare the washer-dryer’s dimensions and its washing and wash-and-dry capacities. | If a stack won’t fit or would be difficult to use, I need one appliance to handle both washing and drying. Around 14% of consumers put this space constraint first. |
Similar widths don’t confirm that a particular combination will be held securely by the kit. Bosch and Electrolux advise checking the model numbers of their appliances, and some kits have exclusions.
Find the model numbers on the rating plates, then check both appliances in the instructions or compatibility tool for the kit you’re considering before ordering.
An incompatible combination could mean returning the kit or choosing a different accessory.
A washing machine gets heavier when it contains water and laundry, and it vibrates during the spin cycle. UFC-Que Choisir recommends placing the washing machine on the floor and the dryer above it.
Place the washing machine on a flat, rigid and sturdy floor, then use a suitable kit to secure the dryer on top.
A stack may fit into the available space while leaving the controls hard to reach or too little room to open the doors. A pull-out shelf won’t solve these access problems.
Check the usable height, clearance in front of the doors and position of the controls. If you want a shelf, also check that it’s compatible with the specific model and can support the required weight.
The two capacities can differ: Bosch lists a 7 kg washing capacity and a 4 kg wash-and-dry capacity for the WKD28543FRB.
Choose based on the amount of laundry you want to dry, and check both figures in the specifications for your chosen model.
If the wash load exceeds the drying capacity, splitting it across multiple cycles will take longer.
Worth considering if you want to pair Bosch appliances with a branded kit, or if you’re looking at a washer-dryer.
Worth considering for a stack of front-loading Electrolux appliances, particularly if a pull-out shelf would be useful.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a stacking kit designed for specific Miele ranges.
Worth considering if you’re looking at a kit for standard-sized appliances, particularly when they’re from different brands.
For this setup, use a compatible stacking kit rather than simply placing one appliance on top of the other. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of front-loading appliances with similar dimensions, a stable floor and placing the dryer on top. Also check the instructions for both appliances and make sure the kit is compatible with their model numbers.
No. That description alone doesn’t confirm that a particular combination will work. Whirlpool lists the SKS101 for standard 60 × 60 cm appliances, while guidance from Bosch and Electrolux shows why model numbers, depth and any exclusions matter. Check the kit against the instructions for both appliances.
Whether it’s suitable depends on how close the appliances are to the shower or bath and on the existing electrical installation. Promotelec explains that the electrical safety zones vary according to how close an appliance is to a water source. Ask a professional to assess the exact location before choosing a setup, and don’t make electrical or plumbing changes based solely on your choice of appliances.
Pay particular attention to the wash-and-dry capacity if you want to dry the whole load without splitting it. For example, Bosch lists a 7 kg washing capacity but a 4 kg wash-and-dry capacity for the WKD28543FRB. Compare both figures in the specifications for the appliance you’re considering.