When depth is limited
If the appliance would stick out into the walkway, consider a slim front-loader. According to Que Choisir, this format is generally close to 60 cm wide, so you’ll also need enough space to open the door.
Who are these formats suitable for?
When width is limited
A top-loader may be a good fit for a narrow bathroom where width is an issue. Just make sure there’s enough room to open the lid fully.
When there’s space under a worktop
A standard front-loader is worth considering if it fits in the alcove and you can still access the door. Capacity can then help guide your choice, without overlooking the space the machine takes up.
What should you check before choosing?
Slim front-loader
Consider it: when depth is your main constraint.
Bear in mind: it’s still generally close to 60 cm wide, and you’ll need room in front to open the door. Que Choisir puts the usual capacity at between 4 and 6 kg.
Narrow top-loader
Consider it: when width is limited but the top of the machine will remain accessible.
Bear in mind: a fixed worktop above the machine would prevent you from opening the lid.
Standard front-loader
Consider it: if the under-worktop alcove and the space in front of the door are suitable, particularly if capacity is a priority.
Bear in mind: check the depth of each model, as it may be greater than that of a slim machine.
| What to consider | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Size and clearance | Measure the available width, height and depth, then check how much space the appliance can take up without obstructing movement around the room. Compare these measurements with the exact dimensions of the model. | If the appliance sticks out into the walkway, I want to leave enough room to get around it; around 42% of consumers put the space it takes up at the top of their list. |
| Opening and loading | Check how far the door opens in front of a front-loader, or how much clearance there is above a top-loader, using the model’s installation diagram. | A machine that fits in the alcove isn’t right for me if I can’t open and load it easily; access is the priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Everyday capacity | Match the capacity in kg to the amount of laundry you usually have and any bulky items you need to wash. Que Choisir suggests 5 to 7 kg for one or two people. | I’d rather not have to do extra loads for my everyday laundry, as long as the machine fits in the room; around 25% of consumers put capacity first. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Checking only the alcove dimensions
A slim machine may fit the available depth but leave too little room to open the door. A narrow top-loader, meanwhile, could be blocked by a worktop.
Check where the appliance will sit and how it will open, then consult the installation diagram for the model you’re considering.
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Choosing a mini washing machine as your main appliance
Que Choisir describes 2 to 3 kg models as back-up options. Their small capacity can make it difficult to wash bulky items.
For everyday laundry, start by comparing the capacity of a slim or top-loading model with the size of your usual loads.
A machine with too little capacity may mean more wash cycles or trips to the launderette for certain items.
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Choosing a capacity without considering the space available
A larger drum won’t help if the appliance gets in the way or your usual loads aren’t a suitable size for it.
Start with the amount of laundry you have, then consider only capacities that will fit the space available.
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Using the energy label to judge short-cycle performance
Consumption figures for the Eco 40-60 programme don’t tell you everything about all the other programmes. The European Commission links efficiency and water-use requirements to this programme.
Compare the figures on the energy label, then check the model’s product details for the programmes you plan to use.
Brands to consider in these formats
Electrolux
Two Electrolux models give you a useful comparison of the dimensions of a slim and a standard front-loader.
- According to Electrolux France, the slim EW6S3626BM has a 6 kg capacity and a depth of 411 mm.
- Electrolux France lists the standard front-loader EW2F7814FA as having an 8 kg capacity and a depth of 568 mm. These dimensions apply to this model, not every front-loader in the range.
Whirlpool
The TDLR6253BFR is an example of a narrow top-loading washing machine.
- Whirlpool France lists this model’s dimensions as 40 × 90 × 60 cm.
- This model is marked as no longer in the catalogue. Its dimensions are a guide, not an indication that it’s available.
AEG
The LTR8C7331A is an example of a top-loader with a stated capacity of 7 kg.
- AEG France lists this model’s dimensions as 903 × 397 × 599 mm.
- You’ll need clear access above the machine to open the lid. These specifications don’t apply to every AEG model.
A top-loader to consider on Joybuy
This top-loading model is an option if you’re considering a narrow top-loader. Take a look if width is your main constraint and you can leave the lid unobstructed. Check its full dimensions before deciding whether it’s right for your room.
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Candy TCA464TM4-S ProWash 500, 6 kg top-loading washing machine
Worth considering if width is a priority, as long as there’s enough clear space to open the lid.
The model name indicates a 6 kg capacity, a maximum spin speed of 1,400 rpm, a B energy rating, Wi-Fi connectivity and 17 programmes. Check its dimensions and installation diagram against the space you have available.
Frequently asked questions
What should I measure before buying a washing machine for a studio flat?
Measure the alcove and the space you’ll need to use the machine. Allow for the door to open and for access in front of a front-loader, or for the lid to open above a top-loader. The model’s installation diagram will help you check the exact set-up.
What capacity should one person or a couple choose?
Que Choisir suggests 5 to 7 kg for one or two people. Choose according to how often you do laundry and whether you need to wash bulky items, while making sure the appliance won’t obstruct the room.
Can you install a top-loader under a worktop?
Not if the worktop prevents you from opening the lid. For an under-worktop installation, consider a front-loader designed for this set-up and check the instructions for the exact model.
Is the energy label enough to compare short cycles?
No. Figures for the Eco 40-60 programme don’t necessarily tell you about other cycles. Use the label to compare the information it provides, then check the model’s product details for the short programmes you’re interested in.