If you have enough height, a stacked setup lets you keep two separate appliances, provided you check the appliance and stacking kit model numbers and place the washing machine level on a solid floor. If you only have room for one appliance, a washer-dryer avoids stacking. However, UFC-Que Choisir points out that its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity, and drying generally takes longer than with a separate tumble dryer.
Stacking can free up floor space in a utility room or bathroom. You’ll need a compatible pair of front-loading appliances, a stable base and enough room to reach the controls and access the appliances for maintenance.
It’s worth considering two separate appliances if a washer-dryer’s drying capacity would slow down your laundry routine. UFC-Que Choisir says a washer-dryer can dry less laundry than it can wash; with a stacked setup, you’ll still need to make sure the appliances and kit are compatible.
Before choosing a stacked setup, check that you can reach the tumble dryer’s control panel and open its door. A sliding shelf can provide a handy surface, but it won’t solve problems with awkward height or an incompatible kit.
Consider this if: you have enough height to keep a separate washing machine and tumble dryer for regular loads.
The trade-off: the tumble dryer will be raised, and you should only stack the appliances using a kit confirmed as compatible.
Consider this if: there isn’t enough space for two appliances.
The trade-off: according to UFC-Que Choisir, drying capacity is lower than washing capacity, and drying generally takes longer than with a separate tumble dryer.
| Priority | What to check | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Stacking kit compatibility | Check that both appliances are front-loading, and look up their exact model numbers and dimensions in the manual or the kit’s compatibility tool. A depth within the stated range doesn’t, on its own, confirm that the appliances are compatible. | I want to be sure my washing machine, tumble dryer and kit are designed to work together. |
| Stability | UFC-Que Choisir says the washing machine should stand on a flat, rigid and solid floor, with the tumble dryer on top. Make sure the washing machine is level and follow the fitting instructions for the compatible kit. | The stack must stay stable during the spin cycle, without the tumble dryer shifting. |
| Access and clearance | Measure the total height, door openings and access to the controls, filter and water tank. Leave the clearances specified in the manuals for connections and ventilation. | I need to be able to load the laundry and maintain the appliances, even in a narrow room. |
| Amount of laundry to dry | With a washer-dryer, compare the washing and drying capacities separately against your usual loads. UFC-Que Choisir says drying generally takes longer than with a separate tumble dryer. | If I wash a full load, I want to know how much of it I’ll be able to dry afterwards. |
Two front-loading appliances of a similar size aren’t automatically approved for stacking together. Bosch and Electrolux both ask you to check that their kits are compatible with the specific appliance models.
Note down the full model numbers, then check the documentation or ask the manufacturer to confirm which kit is designed for that combination.
UFC-Que Choisir recommends a flat, rigid and solid floor, as an unstable base can cause excessive vibration. A tightly fitted alcove can also make connections difficult to access.
Measure the space, level the washing machine and leave the clearances specified in the manuals.
According to UFC-Que Choisir, a washer-dryer has a lower drying capacity than washing capacity. You may therefore need to split a washed load before drying it.
Check the stated drying capacity against your usual loads before choosing a washer-dryer.
In a bathroom, the position of electrical equipment in relation to the shower or bath matters.
If a socket or circuit needs to be installed or moved, ask a qualified professional to check the location and power supply before installation.
A useful option to consider if you have a Bosch appliance pair and can check the model numbers against the kit.
A useful option to consider if you have front-loading Electrolux appliances whose model numbers and depth can be checked.
A useful option to consider if you’re looking at a kit with a strap and shelf for your appliances.
These appliances combine washing and drying in one machine. They’re an alternative to a stack of two appliances, not a pair to stack together. Compare their drying capacity and check they’ll fit in your room.
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Worth considering if you want to wash and dry with one appliance rather than stack two machines.
Stated capacities: 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. Compare the amount of laundry you need to dry with your usual loads, and check the space required for the door, connections and ventilation.
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This model combines both functions if there isn’t room for a stack of two appliances.
Stated capacities: 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. A full wash load is therefore larger than the stated drying capacity. Check the door clearance and installation requirements too.
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Consider this if you have room for a washer-dryer but not for two stacked machines.
Stated capacities: 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. Check the overall dimensions in the product details, then make sure your space has the required clearances.
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This washer-dryer is designed for very small loads rather than a household’s regular laundry.
Stated capacities: 1 kg for washing and 0.5 kg for drying. Check its overall dimensions and the required installation clearances before deciding where to put it.
No. Check the exact model numbers of both appliances and confirm that the kit is compatible with them; similar dimensions aren’t enough. Bosch specifically asks you to check that its kit is suitable for your tumble dryer, while Electrolux recommends checking compatibility using the PNC number.
The washing machine should stay on the floor, with the tumble dryer on top. UFC-Que Choisir also recommends a flat, rigid and solid floor, and making sure the machine at the base is level.
No. It gives you a handy surface, but it doesn’t confirm that the appliance models are compatible or meet the fitting requirements. First, check that the kit you’ve chosen is compatible with your pair of appliances.
Check the position of the electrical installation in relation to the shower or bath, along with the dimensions and clearances specified in the manuals. If you need to install or move a socket or circuit, ask a qualified professional to check your plans.
A washer-dryer is worth considering if you can only fit one appliance. Compare its drying capacity with your usual loads: UFC-Que Choisir says it’s lower than the washing capacity, and drying generally takes longer than with a separate tumble dryer.