If you only have space for one appliance on the floor, a washer-dryer lets you wash and dry your clothes without installing a stacked pair. However, you’ll need to adjust your loads to suit its drying capacity, which is lower than its washing capacity, according to UFC-Que Choisir. If you have enough headroom, stacking two appliances is another option, but only after checking the model numbers, manuals and compatible stacking kit. The tumble dryer must go on top of the washing machine.
A washer-dryer combines both functions without taking up space for a second appliance. However, if you want to replace your indoor clothes airer, you’ll need to allow for smaller drying loads than washing loads, as UFC-Que Choisir points out.
A sufficiently tall alcove can accommodate two stacked appliances. Before opting for this setup, check the appliance model numbers and dimensions, the stacking kit and the limits specified in the manuals.
If your tumble dryer will be used regularly, compare its capacity, programme times and the energy label’s consumption information. Also check how the condensed water will be collected or drained away.
Start by measuring the space available, then compare the drying capacity with your usual loads and check that the installation requirements suit the room.
Consider this if: you only have floor space for one appliance and want to get rid of the clothes airer.
The trade-off: according to UFC-Que Choisir, its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity. This means a full wash load may need to be split across several drying cycles.
Consider this if: you have enough height for a stacked pair and both model numbers are approved for use with a suitable kit.
The trade-off: you’ll need to check compatibility and stability. The controls on the tumble dryer above must also be within easy reach.
Consider this if: you have another spot on the floor and don’t need to stack the appliances.
The trade-off: it takes up extra floor space and won’t wash your clothes. The type of tumble dryer will also determine the connections you need.
| Criteria | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Space required | Measure the available width, depth and height. Make sure there’s room to open the doors, reach the controls and access the connections. | I want to reclaim the space taken up by the clothes airer without blocking the way or access to the appliance. |
| Drying load capacity | Compare the washing and drying capacities of a washer-dryer separately. For two appliances, check that the tumble dryer’s capacity suits the loads you wash. | If I wash a large load, I want to know how much of it will fit in the next drying cycle. |
| Programme time and energy use | Compare the figures for the programmes you plan to use, particularly the wash-and-dry cycle on a washer-dryer or the eco programme on a tumble dryer. Consider the programme time as well as the energy use shown. | I use the dryer often, so a long cycle could affect how I organise my day. |
| Installation | For a stacked pair, check both manuals, the model numbers approved for the kit, the dimensions and the floor. UFC-Que Choisir states that stacked appliances should be front-loading and similar in size, with the tumble dryer on top. | I’ll only choose a stacked pair if it can be installed securely in the space available. |
| Airflow and condensation | According to UFC-Que Choisir, a vented tumble dryer needs an opening or duct to the outside. For a condenser model, check how to manage the water tank and whether direct drainage is compatible. | My room may not have an external air vent, so I need to choose an appliance that suits the connections available. |
Drying capacity is lower than washing capacity, UFC-Que Choisir points out. So a full-capacity wash load may need to be split before drying.
Compare the two capacities in kilograms for the model you’re considering and plan your cycles around its drying capacity.
A similar width doesn’t confirm that the depth is suitable, that the kit is compatible or that the stack will be stable. An unsecured stack could shift or fall.
Note down the exact model numbers, check the manuals and kit requirements, then check the floor and dimensions. Place the tumble dryer on top of the washing machine.
This type of appliance needs an opening or duct to the outside, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
If the room doesn’t have a suitable outlet, consider a condenser model instead and check how you’ll manage the water it collects.
The stated requirements for a kit apply to specific model numbers. They don’t automatically make every appliance from a brand compatible.
An option to consider when building a stacked pair from appliances whose compatibility can be checked by model number.
Worth considering if you’re looking at an Electrolux stacked pair or want to drain condensation from a compatible tumble dryer.
An option to consider if you’re looking for a kit for appliances with standard dimensions.
This selection includes four washer-dryers for a single floor space, plus a separate heat pump tumble dryer for a home with another suitable spot. It isn’t a pair of appliances confirmed as suitable for stacking.
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Combines washing and drying in one appliance. Its stated capacities are 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so you’ll need to split a full wash load before drying it. Measure the space and check the connections required.
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This washer-dryer takes up the space of a single appliance. It has a stated capacity of 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, as well as 27 wash programmes and automatic dosing. Check the appliance dimensions and cycle times to make sure they suit your needs.
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A combined option if you only have room for one appliance on the floor. With a stated washing capacity of 10 kg and drying capacity of 6 kg, you shouldn’t assume that a full wash load can be dried in one go. Check the space required and the wash-and-dry cycle details before choosing.
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This model combines washing and drying in one appliance, with a stated washing capacity of 10 kg and drying capacity of 6 kg. Its name mentions Zeo-Cycle, LintClear and automatic dosing. Plan your loads around the drying capacity and check how much installation space you’ll need.
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Worth considering if you have space for a separate tumble dryer. This model has a stated capacity of 8 kg and doesn’t replace a washing machine. Check its dimensions, programme times and how to manage condensation in your room.
No. Matching widths alone aren’t enough to confirm compatibility. For example, Electrolux France states that its E4YHMKP2 kit is suitable for appliances 54 to 60 cm deep, while Bosch asks you to check that the WTZ2741C kit is compatible with your appliance. Check the exact model numbers, both manuals and the kit requirements before buying.
It depends on the type. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a vented model needs an opening or duct to the outside. A condenser model doesn’t need this duct, but you’ll need to manage the collected water and follow the installation instructions.
Yes, if the tumble dryer supports direct drainage and there’s a suitable drain point nearby. Electrolux France says its E2YH01 kit can drain water into a sink or nearby pipe. Check that it’s compatible with your exact appliance model.
Compare information for similar programmes and loads: energy use, capacity and the duration of the programme in question, as well as noise level and condensation efficiency if these matter in your room. Gifam says a new energy label has applied to tumble dryers since 1 July 2025. Check which version of the label you’re looking at before comparing the classes shown.