Choose a stack if your room has enough height and the models of front-loading washing machine, front-loading tumble dryer and stacking kit are compatible. If there isn’t room for two appliances, a washer-dryer avoids stacking them. Check its drying capacity separately from its washing capacity: a full wash load may not be able to dry in one go.
A stack saves floor space while keeping washing and drying separate. Also measure the height, door clearance and access to the controls and filter. UFC-Que Choisir notes that these can be difficult to reach once the appliances are stacked.
With two separate appliances, you can choose capacities to suit the loads you need to handle. UFC-Que Choisir recommends taking the washing machine’s capacity into account when choosing a tumble dryer. The appliances and stacking kit must also be compatible if you plan to stack them.
A washer-dryer combines both functions without taking up the space needed for a stack. Compare its washing and drying capacities, as well as the figures for a complete cycle. UFC-Que Choisir notes that most models tested involve drying compromises and use water during the drying cycle.
Choose this if: you have enough height and access to install two front-loading appliances with a compatible stacking kit.
The trade-off: the tumble dryer’s controls and maintenance points will be higher up, while servicing the washing machine may require the stack to be dismantled.
Choose this if: there isn’t room for two appliances, even if they’re stacked.
The trade-off: UFC-Que Choisir found that, in its test, two-in-one appliances did not match the drying performance of a separate tumble dryer.
| Priority | What to check | My needs |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility and stability | For a stack, check the models approved for use with the kit, the actual dimensions and the weight limits in the manuals. UFC-Que Choisir says both appliances must be front-loading and a similar size, with the tumble dryer on top. | I want to save floor space without assuming that two appliances of the same width can be stacked. |
| Everyday access | Measure the height of the controls, door clearance and access to the filter. Also check how much space you’ll need to reach the connections and maintain the appliances. | I need to be able to load laundry and reach the tumble dryer’s filter once the stack is installed. |
| Drying and capacity | Compare the tumble dryer’s capacity with the washing machine’s. For a washer-dryer, check both capacities separately and read the figures for a complete cycle. UFC-Que Choisir notes that a vented tumble dryer needs an external outlet or duct. | If I wash large loads, I want to know how much laundry will fit in one drying cycle and which drying type is right for my room. |
| Installation in a bathroom | If you’re unsure whether the location and electrical circuit are suitable, have them checked before installation. Promotelec highlights requirements around positioning, earthing and residual-current protection for a washing machine in a bathroom. | If it’s going in a bathroom, I want to confirm the location is suitable before ordering the appliances. |
Similar widths don’t guarantee compatibility. Bosch says to check the exact tumble dryer model for its WTZ2741C kit. Electrolux specifies a depth range of 52 to 67 cm for its E1WYHSK2 kit, designed for its front-loading appliances.
Note down the full model numbers and dimensions of both appliances, then check the manuals and kit compatibility before you buy.
If they aren’t compatible, you may need a different kit or to change your planned appliance pairing.
A stack may fit in an alcove but leave the controls too high or make it difficult to open the doors and maintain the tumble dryer.
Before deciding where to put it, measure the height up to the control panel, the space in front of the doors and access to the filter.
A washer-dryer’s washing and drying capacities can differ. For example, Electrolux lists 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying on its EW9W1166RA.
Compare both capacities for the model you’re considering, then check its energy and water consumption and the length of its wash-and-dry cycle.
If the wash load exceeds the drying capacity, you’ll need to remove some laundry or dry it over several cycles.
Promotelec highlights specific requirements for the location of a washing machine and its electrical supply in a bathroom.
If you have any concerns about the location or circuit, ask a professional to assess the installation before you buy or fit the appliance. Don’t alter the electrical installation yourself.
An option for stacking two front-loading Electrolux appliances, provided the E1WYHSK2 kit is suitable for their model numbers and depths.
For a Bosch pair, look for the kit listed as compatible with the exact model number of your tumble dryer.
The Wpro SKP101 is worth considering for a pair of standard-size 60 × 60 cm appliances.
These three appliances combine washing and drying in a single machine. They’re worth considering if two stacked appliances won’t fit in your laundry area.
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A single appliance that combines washing and drying, instead of installing a stack. It has a stated capacity of 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so you may need to reduce a full wash load before drying it.
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A single-appliance option if a stack isn’t practical. It has a stated capacity of 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. Before choosing, also compare the model’s energy and water consumption and the length of its wash-and-dry cycle.
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This model combines washing and drying without a stacking kit. Its product name lists a capacity of 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, as well as the LintClear automatic filter-cleaning system. Check the dimensions and cycle details to make sure they suit your space and needs.
No. In a stack, the tumble dryer goes on top of the washing machine. UFC-Que Choisir points out that a washing machine is heavier during operation and vibrates during the spin cycle, so it shouldn’t be installed above another appliance.
No. For example, Whirlpool lists the Wpro SKP101 for standard-size 60 × 60 cm appliances, while other kits have their own depth or compatibility requirements. Check the manuals, dimensions and exact model numbers of both appliances before choosing a kit.
A heat pump condenser tumble dryer is worth comparing. UFC-Que Choisir says this type uses less electricity than traditional condenser or vented models. Also compare the capacity and programme times of the model you choose. A vented appliance needs an external outlet or duct.
Not necessarily. Check both capacities on the specifications for the exact model. For example, the Electrolux EW9W1166RA is listed as 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying, so a full-capacity wash load would need to be reduced to dry in one go.
Before installation, confirm that the location and electrical circuit are suitable. Promotelec highlights the position of the washing machine, earthing and residual-current protection in bathrooms. If the circuit needs to be installed or altered, use a qualified professional.