In a studio flat, choose your washing machine based on the space available for the appliance and for its door or lid to open. A slim front-loader is best when depth is limited, while a top-loader may suit a space where width or clearance in front of the machine is an issue. UFC-Que Choisir gives 5 to 7 kg as a guide for one or two people; a 2 to 3 kg mini washing machine is better suited to occasional use. Before you buy, also check that the space has suitable plumbing connections and an appropriate electrical supply.
If this will be your main washing machine, weigh up how much space it takes up against the size of your usual loads. UFC-Que Choisir generally recommends a capacity of 5 to 7 kg for one or two people. Also measure the space needed to open the door or lid.
Before choosing a style, locate the water inlet, waste outlet and socket. In a bathroom, have the position and electrical protection checked if you’re unsure they meet the requirements. Promotelec specifies, in particular, earthing, 30 mA residual-current protection and installation outside Zone 2.
A mini washing machine can handle small loads if there’s no room to install a standard machine. However, UFC-Que Choisir describes these appliances as 2 to 3 kg machines for occasional use, which are not well suited to bulky items.
Start by measuring the space and checking the connections. Then compare the capacity and features of the models that can actually be installed there.
| What to consider | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the delivery route. UFC-Que Choisir describes slim front-loaders as around 33 to 45 cm deep but close to 60 cm wide, while top-loaders are around 40 cm wide. Check the dimensions of the specific model and make sure there’s room to open the door or lid. | I want to be able to move around and access the drum: if depth is limited, I’ll look at a slim front-loader; if width or clearance in front of the appliance is an issue, I’ll consider a top-loader. If it’s going under a fixed worktop, there must be room to open a front-loader. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated capacity in kilograms with the size of your usual loads, and check the capacity of the programme you’ll use. UFC-Que Choisir gives 5 to 7 kg as a guide for one or two people; its mini washing machines for occasional use are described as having a 2 to 3 kg capacity. | For my main machine, I want to wash my usual loads without running several cycles. If I often wash sheets or towels, I’ll check they fit the programmes I plan to use. |
| Noise and use | Check the label for the exact model and compare its spin noise, kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle and Eco 40-60 programme duration. UFC-Que Choisir’s testing also looks at washing, rinsing, spinning and ease of use. | If the machine is near my bed or living area, spin noise matters particularly. I’ll also check cycle times and energy and water use before choosing between two machines that fit the space. |
| Installation | Locate the water inlet, waste outlet and a socket on a suitable circuit. Promotelec advises against using an extension block for a washing machine. In bathrooms, it sets out requirements for earthing, 30 mA residual-current protection and positioning outside Zone 2. | I want to know before delivery whether the machine can be connected where I plan to put it. If I’m unsure about the connections or electrical setup, I’ll have them checked before ordering. |
A front-loader may fit in its space but still not have enough room for the door to open. A top-loader, meanwhile, needs clear space above the lid.
Also measure the delivery route and the clearance in front of or above the appliance, then compare your measurements with the specifications for the exact model.
A machine with too little capacity may mean running several cycles. UFC-Que Choisir describes 2 to 3 kg mini washing machines as appliances for occasional use, which are not well suited to bulky items.
If it’s your main machine for one or two people, first look at capacities that suit your space and usual loads before considering a mini washing machine.
A machine that fits in a kitchen or bathroom can’t necessarily be connected to the existing fittings. Electrolux says its installation service connects appliances to existing, prepared fittings and does not carry out plumbing, electrical or carpentry work.
Locate and measure the connections, check what the installation service includes, and have any questionable electrical setup checked before delivery.
If the space isn’t ready, you may need to arrange additional work separately.
These models are useful examples of different formats. You’ll still need to check the dimensions and installation requirements for each one.
The Electrolux EW6T4613HA is worth considering if you’re looking for a top-loader.
The AEG LTR8C7331A is an example of a top-loader to consider in a narrow space.
The Whirlpool TDLR6253BFR is another top-loader worth comparing for a narrow space.
The Daewoo DWD-CV801CG MINI is an example of a wall-mounted mini washing machine to consider when floor space is limited.
This front-loading washing machine may suit a household looking for a capacity above the 5 to 7 kg guide for one or two people. If you live in a studio flat, only consider it after confirming its dimensions, the space needed for the door to open and whether its 9 kg capacity suits your usual laundry loads.
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Its stated 9 kg capacity may suit you if your usual loads call for a larger drum than the 5 to 7 kg guide for one or two people. The product details list 1,400 rpm, a BLDC motor and a 530 mm drum. Before planning to install it in a small home, confirm the width and depth using a dimensioned plan: the dimensions given for this model are inconsistent. Also allow enough clearance to open the door, and check the spin noise for the exact model.
UFC-Que Choisir generally recommends 5 to 7 kg for one or two people. Adjust this guide to the size and frequency of your laundry loads, then check the capacity of the programme you’ll use, particularly if you often wash sheets or towels.
Yes, provided the space and electrical supply are suitable. Promotelec says the appliance must be earthed, protected by a 30 mA residual-current device and installed outside Zone 2. If you’re unsure about the setup, have a professional check it before buying.
No. Promotelec recommends plugging it directly into a wall socket connected to a dedicated circuit, rather than using an extension block. If you’re unsure what the existing socket is connected to, have the circuit checked.
Check that there’s a suitable water inlet for the model, a waste outlet, enough room for the hoses and an appropriate socket. Electrolux says its front-loading and top-loading washing machines are designed for cold water, and that its installation service requires the appliance to be less than 1.2 m from both the water inlet and waste outlet. Confirm the requirements for the specific model and installation service you choose.