First, measure the available height, width and depth, allowing for the hoses, door opening and access for maintenance. Choose an integrated washing machine if you want a kitchen door on the front. If you want a freestanding front-loader under the worktop, check that the manufacturer approves this installation and, where necessary, removal of the top panel for the exact model. A slim top-loader may suit a narrow space, but it won’t necessarily fit beneath a low worktop.
The height beneath the worktop determines which models are worth considering, but it isn’t enough to confirm that they’ll fit. For example, Siemens lists a height of 84.5 cm for its featured under-worktop range. Compare the dimensions and installation diagram for your chosen model with the available space.
An integrated washing machine may suit your plans if its installation diagram allows for your cabinet and the required door fittings. Also check how you’ll access the appliance once it’s installed.
A top-loader may be worth considering for a narrow space. According to Whirlpool, the TDLR6261BFR is 40 cm wide, but its 90 cm height and top-opening lid mean it won’t automatically suit a low worktop.
Consider this if: you want the appliance hidden behind a kitchen door designed for it.
Bear in mind: the cabinet, door fixings and plinth must match the model’s installation diagram.
Consider this if: you’re happy for the appliance to be visible and the specific model is explicitly approved for installation under a worktop.
Bear in mind: you can’t assume the top panel can be removed or that an accessory can be used just from looking at the appliance.
Consider this if: width is your main constraint and there’s enough clearance above for the lid to open.
Bear in mind: a narrow width won’t solve the problem of limited height beneath the worktop or the need to open the lid.
| Consideration | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Actual space required | Measure the space’s height, width and depth, then compare them with the installation diagram, allowing for the hoses and door opening. | In a low space, I want to install the appliance without trapping the hoses or blocking the door; around 42% of consumers say dimensions are their main concern. |
| Type of installation | Check whether the specific model is integrated or approved for installation under a worktop, and whether it needs door fixings or other accessories. | I want to keep a continuous run of kitchen cabinetry rather than leave the appliance visible; this is the top priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Connections and maintenance | Locate the tap, waste outlet and socket. Check the instructions to make sure they remain accessible, and have the project assessed if the electrical circuit needs to be changed. | If I need to work on the water supply or remove the machine, I don’t want to dismantle the whole kitchen; access to connections and for maintenance is a priority for around 25% of consumers. |
A machine may fit under the worktop but leave too little room for the connections or to open the door. The Bosch WNA144V0FR instructions, for example, require a space 60 cm wide and specify that the hoses and power cord must not be trapped.
Measure the space in all three dimensions, map out the connections and compare everything with the installation diagram for the exact model.
An ordinary front-loader isn’t necessarily designed to operate under a worktop after this modification. Bosch describes a removable top panel for a dedicated range, but that doesn’t apply to every Bosch model.
Check the instructions for the version on sale and confirm the installation requirements before considering removing the top panel.
Some installations require a compatible under-worktop cover plate. For example, Miele specifies that its UBS-W/T/G cover plate is only for the series it lists.
According to Whirlpool, the TDLR6261BFR is 40 cm wide but 90 cm tall. As a top-loader, it also needs enough clearance for the lid to open.
If your worktop is low, measure the available height before considering a slim appliance; instead, look at models with documented under-worktop installation.
Even if the appliance fits, a water supply, waste outlet or socket that’s difficult to reach can make future maintenance more complicated.
Plan for practical access and check the installation instructions. If an electrical circuit needs to be installed or modified, have the work assessed by a qualified person.
Worth considering if you’re looking at a model specifically listed in its under-worktop range with a removable top panel.
Worth considering if you’re comparing a freestanding under-worktop model with a fully integrated one.
Worth considering when your kitchen door requires an appliance specifically designed for integrated installation.
Worth considering if your space is particularly narrow and allows for a top-loading appliance to open.
Also measure the internal width and depth of the space, then check the connections, door opening and access for maintenance. Check the clearances specified in the instructions for the exact model. The Bosch WNA144V0FR instructions, for example, require a space 60 cm wide and warn against trapping the hoses or power cord.
No. Only remove it if the manufacturer allows this for the specific model and installation. Bosch describes a removable top panel for its dedicated range; Miele limits its UBS-W/T/G under-worktop cover plate to the series it lists.
Yes. Remove the transit bolts before using the appliance for the first time, following the instructions. Electrolux says to remove them during installation and recommends keeping them in case you move house.
In France, have the project assessed by a qualified person before any work begins. For a washing machine circuit covered by NF C 15-100, Legrand specifies a dedicated circuit, a maximum 20 A circuit breaker, conductors of at least 2.5 mm² and Type A residual current protection.