To keep two separate appliances in a small utility room, choose a front-loading washing machine and tumble dryer that are approved for stacking, then check that the stacking kit is suitable for that specific pair. The tumble dryer goes on top of the washing machine, on a flat, rigid and sturdy floor. Similar dimensions or a kit labelled ‘universal’ do not remove the need to check the instruction manuals, available space and ventilation. If you cannot install a stack, a washer-dryer takes up less space, but its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity.
Check the model number of the appliance you’re keeping before choosing its replacement and a stacking kit. A similar width or the same brand does not, on its own, confirm that the new combination can be stacked.
Stacking lets you keep a separate washing machine and tumble dryer without placing them side by side. However, you’ll still need to allow for the doors to open, access to the controls and the clearances specified in the instruction manuals.
A washer-dryer takes up the space of just one appliance. However, UFC-Que Choisir points out that its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity, so check whether this limit will suit the size of your laundry loads.
First, check that all three components are compatible — the washing machine, tumble dryer and stacking kit. Then measure the space you can actually use and choose a dryer type that suits the room.
| What matters | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility and stability | Check the exact model numbers of both appliances and confirm the kit is compatible in their instruction manuals or with the manufacturer. Make sure the floor is flat, rigid and sturdy. | If I’m keeping two appliances, I want to be sure the tumble dryer can be secured on top of this washing machine, rather than relying on their width alone. Around 36% of consumers would make compatibility and stability their priority. |
| Space and access | Measure the height of the stack, the depth with the doors open and access to the controls, filter and any water tank. | In a narrow utility room, I need to be able to open the doors and maintain the appliances once the stack is in place; access would be a priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Ventilation and connections | Check the clearances specified in the instruction manuals and the connections available. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a vented tumble dryer needs an external opening or a suitable duct. | Without an outlet to the outside, I need to choose a tumble dryer that suits the installation options in my room. Around 21% of consumers would put ventilation and connections first. |
| One-appliance option | If the stack won’t fit, compare the washing and drying capacities and programme durations of a washer-dryer. | When I can’t install two appliances, I’d rather save space, even if I have to adjust my laundry loads to suit the drying capacity; this would be the main need for around 14% of consumers. |
A similar width isn’t enough: depth, chassis and kit-specific exclusions can all vary. Bosch and Electrolux require you to check the model number for some of their accessories.
Make a note of the exact model numbers of the washing machine and tumble dryer, then confirm the kit is compatible before ordering the complete set.
According to UFC-Que Choisir, the washing machine must be stable and level for a stacked installation.
Make sure the floor is flat, rigid and sturdy, and follow the manufacturers’ instructions for levelling and installation.
A door might not have enough room to open, while the controls, the tumble dryer’s water tank or the washing machine underneath could be difficult to reach.
Before delivery, measure the space needed to open the doors and maintain the appliances, then compare these measurements with the clearances specified in each instruction manual.
UFC-Que Choisir says that a washer-dryer’s drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. So you may need to adjust a full wash load before drying it.
If two appliances won’t fit in the room, compare the capacities and programmes of the model you’re considering with the way you do your laundry.
These examples illustrate different installation requirements; a brand being listed here does not mean that a particular pair of appliances is compatible.
Bosch offers stacking kits, with or without a shelf, for certain appliance pairs in its range.
The brand offers several kits for front-loading appliances, including versions with a shelf or wall anchoring.
Whirlpool describes the Wpro SKS101 kit as suitable for standard-sized appliances from different brands.
LG offers the DSTWH kit with a pull-out shelf and describes stacking options for some of its appliances.
Don’t assume that similar dimensions mean you can stack them without a kit. Check that the models can be stacked and follow the installation instructions: the Electrolux manual cited for the EW8H4823RE tumble dryer requires a kit specified for the appliance in its instructions.
No: ‘universal’ does not mean compatible with every pair. Whirlpool describes the Wpro SKS101 as suitable for standard-sized 60 × 60 cm appliances; also check the instruction manuals for both appliances and the kit’s specific requirements.
It depends on the type of tumble dryer. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a vented model needs an external opening or a suitable duct, unlike a condenser model. In all cases, follow the ventilation requirements and clearances in the instruction manual.
Yes, as long as the intended use and load are within the limits specified for the kit you choose. Bosch sets a maximum load of 16 kg for the WTZ27400 shelf; check the product details or instruction manual for any other model rather than assuming the same limit applies.