To free up floor space, choose a front-loading washing machine and tumble dryer whose exact model numbers are compatible with your chosen stacking kit. Then check the dimensions, weight limits and fitting instructions in the manuals. UFC-Que Choisir also highlights the importance of a stable floor; in a bathroom, the location and electrical installation need to be assessed separately.
If you want two appliances but don’t have room for them side by side, first check that the models and stacking kit can be used together. UFC-Que Choisir recommends checking the dimensions, stability and weight limits in the manuals.
Available space alone doesn’t determine whether the installation is suitable: you also need to check where the appliances will go and the electrical supply. Promotelec sets out requirements for earthing, circuit protection and the position of a washing machine in a bathroom.
If you use the controls often or handle laundry at height, measure the stack once installed and check that you can reach everything, open the doors and access the parts that need maintenance. A pull-out shelf can make handling laundry easier, as long as it’s compatible and there’s enough clearance in front of the appliances.
Worth considering: if you want to keep a separate washing machine and tumble dryer but fit them into the same floor space, and can reach the controls at height.
Bear in mind: depending on the height and layout, the controls and tumble dryer may be less convenient to access and maintain.
Worth considering: when the kit manual confirms compatibility with the exact model numbers of both appliances.
Bear in mind: approved dimensions and fitting methods vary between kits; a shelf also needs sufficient clearance.
Worth considering: if the manufacturer specifically lists both appliances and the kit as compatible.
Bear in mind: choosing the same brand doesn’t guarantee that every range or variant will be compatible.
| Consideration | What to check | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility and stability | Compare the model numbers and dimensions of both appliances and the kit, along with the weight limits stated in the manuals. | If I want to free up floor space, I first need to make sure my appliances can be stacked without going against the manufacturers’ instructions. Around 39% of consumers prioritise compatibility and stability. |
| Safe positioning | Check that the floor is stable and, in a bathroom, check the location and electrical installation. | If the stack is going in my bathroom, I want to know that the floor and connections are suitable before choosing my appliances. Around 23% of consumers prioritise safe positioning. |
| Access and ease of use | Measure the height, check access to the controls and door openings, and allow enough room for a shelf. | If I’ll often be transferring laundry or using the controls, I want to be able to reach them and keep the space in front of the stack clear. Around 23% of consumers prioritise everyday access. |
| Running costs and maintenance | Compare energy labels and cycle times, and check you can access the filter and reservoir once the tumble dryer is raised. | When comparing tumble dryers for regular use, I want to consider energy consumption and make sure maintenance will be straightforward. Around 15% of consumers prioritise running costs and maintenance. |
UFC-Que Choisir notes a general trade-off: heat pump tumble dryers use less electricity, while conventional condenser models generally have shorter cycles. Compare the models and their energy labels based on the way you plan to use them.
Manufacturers match certain kits with specific model numbers and may list exclusions. So, choosing appliances from the same brand isn’t enough to confirm that they’re compatible.
Note down the full model numbers of the washing machine, tumble dryer and kit, then check them against the manuals or the manufacturer’s compatibility checker.
Depth ranges and fitting methods vary between kits. A general label doesn’t confirm that every combination of appliances will work.
Check the approved depth range, the appliances listed and the fitting instructions for your exact pair.
The height of the tumble dryer may make the controls or parts that need maintenance difficult to reach. The way the doors open could also make it harder to transfer laundry.
Measure the assembled stack and the clearance around the appliances, then check that you can reach the controls and open the doors.
Bosch offers stacking kits for certain appliance combinations. Check compatibility using the E-Nr model number.
You can check compatibility for certain kits using the appliances’ PNC numbers.
Samsung lists specific appliance combinations for certain stacking kits.
LG presents the DSTWH kit with a pull-out shelf and a list of compatible products.
Wpro describes the SKN101 as suitable for several brands and standard or slim washing machines.
These products are stacking solutions for placing a tumble dryer on top of a washing machine. Check that each kit is compatible with your models before buying.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a kit with a shelf to make handling laundry easier. Check the tumble dryer manual to make sure its weight is within the kit’s limit, and check the strap tension regularly.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a stacking frame with an automatic tensioning strap. Check the frame’s stated weight capacity and inspect the strap regularly.
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Worth considering for a stacking project involving washing and drying. Before choosing this solution, check that the manual confirms its intended use, compatibility with your appliances and installation requirements.
No. A stated size range doesn’t confirm compatibility with the exact model numbers or the appliances’ weight limits. Note down the full model numbers and check the kit manual, as well as the manuals for the washing machine and tumble dryer.
It depends on the location and the electrical installation. For a washing machine in a bathroom, Promotelec specifies earthing, 30 mA residual-current protection and installation beyond zone 2. Have your specific plans assessed: these requirements alone don’t confirm that the tumble dryer’s position or connections are suitable.
Simply installing appliances is different from work that alters the property or affects communal areas. In France, Article 7 of the law of 6 July 1989 requires a tenant to obtain the landlord’s written consent before making alterations to the rented property or its equipment. Article 25 of the law of 10 July 1965 covers, among other things, permission for work affecting communal areas or the external appearance of a building in co-ownership. Check the details of your project.
Make sure you can access the tumble dryer’s filter and reservoir once it’s installed at height, then compare the energy labels of the models you’re considering. UFC-Que Choisir notes a general trade-off: heat pump models use less electricity, while conventional condenser models generally dry clothes more quickly. Also allow for the cost of the kit and, if needed, installation.