Room for one appliance on the floor
A washer-dryer lets you wash and dry in the same space. Check that it fits, allowing for the door to open and the connections, then compare its drying capacity with your usual loads.
Which setup is right for you?
The number of available spaces isn’t the only factor: height, depth and the amount of laundry you need to dry matter too.
Wash and dry loads without transferring them
A continuous cycle saves you moving laundry to another appliance, but the load must stay within the washer-dryer’s capacity. UFC-Que Choisir points out that a washer-dryer’s drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity.
Limited floor space, but enough headroom
A stacked setup can fit a washing machine and a separate tumble dryer into the same floor space. It’s only an option if the models, their depths and the stacking kit are confirmed as compatible by the manufacturer.
What should you check before choosing?
First check what your space can accommodate, then compare the amount of laundry you need to dry with the details of the programme you’ll actually use.
Washer-dryer
Worth considering: if you can install only one appliance and want to wash and dry without transferring your laundry.
Bear in mind: the combined load is limited by the drying capacity, and you’ll need to check the duration and water and electricity consumption of a complete cycle.
Two appliances stacked
Worth considering: if there’s enough headroom to stack the two models using a kit confirmed as compatible.
Allow for: an installation that follows the manufacturers’ instructions, and transferring laundry between the appliances.
Two appliances side by side
Worth considering: if you have space for both, particularly if you want to wash and dry different loads at the same time.
Allow for: more floor space and transferring laundry after washing.
| Criteria | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Load to dry | Compare the washing and wash-and-dry capacities in kg. For a continuous cycle, go by the drying limit rather than the washing capacity alone. | I want to dry my usual load without having to take out damp laundry after washing. |
| Duration and consumption | Check the duration, electricity and water use for the wash-and-dry cycle, along with the load size and programme. Compare like-for-like cycles, rather than a complete cycle with a wash-only programme. | If I regularly run both stages one after the other, I need to know how long the appliance will be in use and the figures for that type of use. |
| Dimensions | Measure the width, height and depth, then allow for the door to open and the clearances specified in the manual for connections and installation. | My space needs to fit the installed appliance, not just its front dimensions. |
| Stacking | Check the model numbers of both appliances, the permitted depths and the kit recommended by the manufacturer. Also check the fixing and stability instructions. | I have enough headroom, but I don’t want to assume two appliances can be stacked just because they’re a similar width. |
What mistakes should you avoid?
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Going by washing capacity alone
A washer-dryer may be able to wash more laundry than it can dry in the same cycle. If your load exceeds the drying limit, you’ll need to reduce it or dry it in batches.
Compare your usual load with the wash-and-dry capacity, which is separate from the wash-only capacity.
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Comparing a wash-only programme with a complete cycle
The class and figures for a wash-only programme don’t tell you the duration or consumption of a programme that washes and then dries. UFC-Que Choisir measures these stages separately in its test procedure.
For each model you’re considering, check the wash-and-dry figures and compare them using the same programme and load size.
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Measuring the width only
If the appliance is too deep, it may not fit in an alcove or the door may not open properly, even if the front fits between the units.
Measure the space and delivery access, then compare them with the appliance’s full dimensions and the clearances specified in its manual.
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Stacking two appliances without checking the kit
Stacking requirements vary between appliances. Electrolux and Bosch, for example, specify depth limits for some of their kits; the availability of a kit doesn’t mean any two appliances are compatible.
Confirm that the kit is suitable for the exact model numbers of both machines, and follow the manufacturer’s fixing and installation instructions.
Which models offer useful points of comparison?
These manufacturer models illustrate the information worth comparing; they’re not a brand ranking or an indication of availability on Joybuy.
Bosch
Bosch lists the WNG24402FR washer-dryer as having a 9 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg wash-and-dry capacity.
- The two separate capacities help you judge whether a load can stay in the drum for a complete cycle.
- For a stacked setup with separate appliances, you’ll need to check that a Bosch kit is compatible with the models in question.
Electrolux
Electrolux lists its YW7IW1064DV washer-dryer as having a 10.5 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity.
- The difference between the two capacities makes it clear which limit to use for a load that’s washed and then dried.
- Electrolux stacking kits are designed for specific compatible appliances; check the model numbers and the PNC required for your chosen kit.
LG
LG includes the F964V50WRS and F964X71WSTA washer-dryers in its range, both with a 9 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity.
- For the F964V50WRS, LG publishes separate figures for washing alone and for the wash-and-dry cycle.
- Don’t assume one model’s duration and consumption figures apply to the other; check the information for the exact model.
Samsung
Samsung lists the WD10HG6U34BEU3 washer-dryer as having a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity.
- These capacities show the difference between the washing load and the load the dryer can handle.
- To choose a model for combined use, check the wash-and-dry figures for the exact model rather than relying on the washing specifications alone.
Washer-dryers available from Joybuy
These options combine washing and drying in one appliance. They’re worth considering if your home can’t accommodate two machines; focus on the amount of laundry you actually dry and the dimensions of the model you choose.
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Samsung WD11DG6B85BEU3 — 11 kg washing, 6 kg drying
For both functions in one space, this model offers an 11 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. If you want to run both stages without removing laundry, stick to the 6 kg limit. Also check the dimensions and installation instructions in the manual.
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Samsung WD10HG6U34BEU3 — 10 kg washing, 6 kg drying
This washer-dryer combines a 10 kg washing capacity with a 6 kg drying capacity. Compare the latter with your usual loads, then check the complete-cycle figures and the manual to make sure it’s suitable for your installation.
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White Roborock Zeo One — 10 kg washing, 6 kg drying
This two-in-one model has a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. Before relying on a cycle that runs without intervention, check that your load is within the drying limit. Also check the dimensions and the combined-cycle figures for the model.
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White Roborock Zeo Lite — 10 kg washing, 6 kg drying
For washing and drying in one appliance, the Zeo Lite offers a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. Its product details mention automatic dosing and the LintClear system; check the dimensions, installation instructions and wash-and-dry cycle figures separately.
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Dark grey CHiQ JW85882HG — 8 kg washing, 5 kg drying
With an 8 kg washing capacity and a 5 kg drying capacity, this model’s continuous cycle needs to be sized according to the load you want to dry. If you’re considering it for a narrow alcove, make sure you confirm its exact dimensions: the measurements in its title and description don’t match.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wash 9 or 10.5 kg and dry it all in the same cycle?
Not if the load exceeds the model’s drying capacity. Bosch, for example, lists the WNG24402FR as having a 9 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg wash-and-dry capacity; Electrolux lists the YW7IW1064DV as having a 10.5 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. For loads over 6 kg, you’ll need to remove some laundry or dry it in batches.
Which figures should I compare for energy and water use?
Compare wash-only programmes with wash-only programmes, and wash-and-dry cycles with the same type of cycle on another model. Check the load size and programme that go with the electricity, water and duration figures: wash-only figures don’t describe a complete cycle.
Does a so-called universal stacking kit let you stack any two appliances?
No. Compatibility needs to be confirmed for both model numbers and the specific kit. Electrolux states that its STA8GW4 kit is for front-loading appliances 47 to 60 cm deep, while Bosch requires a washing machine more than 55 cm deep for its 00717525 kit. These dimensions don’t replace checking which models are approved for use.
What should I check before installing an appliance in a bathroom?
Check the space and electrical installation before choosing an appliance. Promotelec highlights the importance of earthing and 30 mA RCD protection for a washing machine installed in a shower room or bathroom. If you’re unsure about your installation, have it checked by a qualified professional.