In a studio flat, choose a washing machine based on the dimension that’s really limiting your space: a slim front-loader mainly reduces depth, a top-loader mainly reduces width, while a mini washing machine is better suited to small, occasional loads. UFC-Que Choisir generally recommends a capacity of 5 to 7 kg for one person or a couple. Before ordering, also check how the appliance opens, the delivery route and whether you can connect it up.
If you have around 60 cm of width and the door can open without obstructing the walkway, a slim front-loader can help when depth is the main issue. You’ll still need to check the model’s depth, including its connections.
If width is the main obstacle, a top-loader may fit better. Make sure there’s room to open the lid and that the machine’s depth won’t encroach on your walkway.
A mini washing machine can handle small loads if it’s not possible to install a standard appliance. However, it won’t be as suitable for washing bulky items or a large basket of laundry.
Best if: depth is limiting the walkway, and you have enough width and room to open the door.
Bear in mind: a shallower machine won’t be any narrower. A smaller capacity may mean more wash cycles, depending on your laundry needs.
Best if: you’re short on width and can keep the top clear for loading laundry.
Bear in mind: the lid rules out some spaces beneath a worktop, and you’ll also need to measure the depth.
Consider one if: you can’t install a standard appliance and mainly need to wash small loads.
Bear in mind: the small drum limits the size of items you can wash; filling, draining and spinning vary by model.
| Factor | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Size and clearance | Measure the alcove, space for hoses and room for the door or lid to open. Also check the route from the entrance. | If the passage is already narrow, I need to be able to get the appliance in and still move around once it’s installed. Around 42% of consumers rank space requirements as their top priority. |
| Usable capacity | Compare the capacity in kg with how often you do your washing, and check the load limits for the programmes you’ll use. | If I’m regularly washing laundry for one or two people, I want a drum that avoids running lots of cycles. Capacity is the top priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Installation and delivery | Check the instructions for the water supply, drainage and power supply. Confirm access and what the installation service covers. | Before choosing a format, I need to know whether the appliance can be delivered, connected and used in the space I have in mind. This is the top priority for around 25% of consumers. |
An appliance may fit in the space but block the walkway when its door is open. A top-loader needs clearance above it, too, and you’ll also need to consider the hoses and delivery route.
Draw a scaled sketch of the space and the route from the entrance, marking how the appliance opens and where the connections are.
A drum that’s too small can mean more wash cycles. The nominal capacity may not match the maximum load for every programme.
For one or two people, use UFC-Que Choisir’s 5 to 7 kg recommendation as a guide, then consider your fabrics, how often you wash and the load limits in the instructions.
UFC-Que Choisir describes mini washing machines as occasional-use appliances for small loads; they can struggle with bulky items.
Check the capacity, spin function, filling and drainage for the model you’re considering, and think about how you’ll wash any items that won’t fit.
Bulky fabrics may need to be washed another way.
An accessible space may still need electrical checks or additional connections. Electrolux’s pre-installation guide explains that its installers do not carry out plumbing, electrical or carpentry work.
Check your existing installation before buying, and ask the retailer exactly what delivery and installation include.
If width is a concern, the TW 6522 FRESHCARE FR top-loader offers a useful point of comparison.
Beko offers front-loading washing machines with reduced depth for spaces where the appliance would otherwise stick out too far.
Candy’s slim washing machine range lets you compare different capacities across its models.
The T01 Plus is worth considering for small loads if you can’t install a standard washing machine.
This top-loader is worth considering if width is your main constraint and you can keep the lid clear. Measure the available depth, too, before choosing.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a top-loading machine and can keep the lid clear.
Listed with a 6 kg capacity, 1 400 tr/min spin speed, Inverter motor, Wi-Fi and 17 programmes. Check the full dimensions and the clearance needed in your chosen space.
It depends on which dimension you’re short of: according to UFC-Que Choisir, a slim front-loader mainly reduces depth, while a top-loader mainly reduces width. Also measure the space needed to open the door or lid, so you don’t block the walkway.
UFC-Que Choisir says a capacity of 5 to 7 kg is generally enough for one person or a couple. Adjust this guide to suit your washing habits and check the load limit for your usual programmes, which may be lower than the nominal capacity.
Yes, provided the location and electrical installation meet the relevant requirements. Promotelec notes, in particular, that the appliance must be earthed, protected by a 30 mA residual current device and positioned beyond zone 2. If you’re unsure which zone applies near your bath or shower, ask someone to check the position.
Check that the appliance can get through the access points and reach its intended location, and make sure the necessary connections are ready. Ask the retailer exactly what the service covers: Electrolux’s pre-installation guide explains that its installers do not carry out plumbing, electrical or carpentry work.