Households short on floor space
You have room for one front-loading appliance, but not two side by side. Stacking lets you use two separate appliances, provided you check the available height and make sure the kit is compatible with both models.
Who are these configurations for?
Households keeping one of their appliances
If you’re adding a tumble dryer to an existing washing machine, or replacing just one appliance in a pair, check the model numbers, dimensions and fitting requirements before choosing a kit. Matching brands alone don’t guarantee compatibility.
Small homes without enough height for a stack
If the room’s height or layout makes stacking impossible, a washer-dryer combines both functions in one appliance. Compare its washing and drying capacities to see whether it can dry your laundry in one go.
What should you consider when choosing?
Two appliances stacked together
Consider this if: you want to keep washing and drying separate without using two floor spaces, and have enough height.
Bear in mind: the appliances and stacking kit must be compatible, and the washing machine must be stable on the floor.
Washer-dryer
Consider this if: you only have room for one appliance or there isn’t enough height for a stack.
Bear in mind: you may need to remove some of a washed load before drying it, depending on the model’s capacities.
Compact washing machine and another way to dry
Consider this if: the available depth rules out the appliances you’re considering and you have another way to dry your laundry.
Bear in mind: a compact size doesn’t mean a tumble dryer can be stacked on top. You’ll need to check this for the exact models.
| Criteria | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Stacking compatibility | Note down both appliance model numbers and check with the manufacturer which kit is suitable for the pair, including the required depths and any excluded series. | If I want to stack two appliances, I need to confirm that they’re compatible as a pair, rather than relying on their width alone. This is the top priority for around 42% of consumers considering this option. |
| Space and installation | Measure the total height available and check the manuals for clearances and connections. Also check that the floor is stable and, in a bathroom, that the electrical installation is suitable. | In a narrow room or near a shower, I want to know whether the appliances can be installed without compromising stability or electrical safety. Around 33% of consumers put this practical consideration at the heart of their decision. |
| Loads to be dried | Compare the washing and drying capacities separately in kg against your usual loads, especially for a washer-dryer. | I want to dry my usual loads without always having to remove some of the laundry after washing. For around 25% of consumers, drying capacity is their main concern. |
Mistakes to avoid
-
Choosing two appliances based on width alone, then looking for a kit
Similar widths don’t guarantee compatible depths or that the appliances are designed to be secured together. Bosch and Electrolux recommend checking the appliance model numbers.
Choose your pair first, then consult the manufacturer’s documentation to find a kit that matches the exact models. Use the E-Nr or PNC where applicable.
-
Stacking the appliances without a kit
Miele says the washing machine must remain on the floor so its vibrations can be stabilised there, with the tumble dryer on top. The retaining system is an important part of the setup to check.
Level the washing machine and follow the instructions for a compatible kit rather than improvising a way to secure the appliances.
-
Confusing washing capacity with drying capacity
A washer-dryer may have different washing and drying capacities. Bosch, for example, lists a model with an 8 kg washing capacity and a 5 kg drying capacity.
Compare both figures in kg and plan what to do if your washed load is larger than the drying capacity.
You may need to remove some of the laundry or dry it over several cycles.
-
Choosing a bathroom location without checking how close it is to water
Promotelec notes that the zones around a shower or bath determine which electrical equipment can be installed. A screen doesn’t necessarily change these zones.
Check where the appliance would sit in relation to the shower or bath. If you need confirmation that the installation meets the requirements, ask a qualified professional to assess it.
Brands and accessories to consider
Bosch
Bosch offers front-loading appliances, washer-dryers and stacking kits. You can check accessory compatibility using the E-Nr.
- Checking the model number helps you find a kit for the appliances you’re considering.
- You’ll need to confirm compatibility for the exact pair, and the appliances must still be aligned and level.
Electrolux
Electrolux offers several kits for front-loading appliances, including versions with a shelf. You can check compatibility using the PNC.
- The stated depth ranges help you distinguish between the kits: 47 to 60 cm for the STA8GW4 and 52 to 67 cm for the E1WYHSK2, according to Electrolux.
- These ranges don’t remove the need to confirm which kit is suitable for your chosen pair of models.
Miele
Miele offers WTV stacking kits designed for specific washing machine and tumble dryer series.
- Miele lists the WTV 512 as suitable for White Edition T1 tumble dryers.
- Miele states that WTZH and WTW washing machines aren’t compatible with this kit.
Whirlpool / Wpro
Whirlpool lists the Wpro SKS101 kit for standard-size washing machines and tumble dryers.
- Whirlpool states that it’s compatible with standard 60 × 60 cm appliances, whatever the brand.
- This doesn’t confirm that it’s right for a particular pair or for appliances with unusual dimensions. Check the manuals before choosing it.
Washer-dryers available on Joybuy
These appliances combine washing and drying in one machine. Consider them if your room can’t accommodate a stack or you’d rather use just one space. Compare both capacities, and check the dimensions and installation requirements for the model you choose.
Image unavailable
Samsung WD11DG6B85BEU3, 11 kg washing and 6 kg drying capacity
A single appliance for both washing and drying. It has a stated washing capacity of 11 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg, so a full wash load is larger than the load it can dry. Check the manual for installation requirements at your chosen location.
Image unavailable
Samsung WD10HG6U34BEU3, 10 kg washing and 6 kg drying capacity
Combines both functions without needing a pair of appliances to stack. This model has a stated washing capacity of 10 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg, so compare the latter with your usual loads. Also check the installation requirements in the manual.
Image unavailable
Roborock Zeo Lite Gray, 10 kg washing and 6 kg drying capacity
Wash and dry with a single appliance. Its stated capacities are 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. The product title also mentions 27 wash programmes and app control. Check the dimensions and installation requirements before choosing this model for your room.
Image unavailable
Roborock Marshmallow Zeo Mini White, 1 kg washing and 0,5 kg drying capacity
Worth considering for very small loads rather than a household’s everyday laundry. Its stated capacities are 1 kg for washing and 0,5 kg for drying. Check its dimensions and installation requirements before deciding where to put it.
Frequently asked questions
Can you stack any front-loading appliances?
No. You need a stacking kit that’s compatible with the exact models of your washing machine and tumble dryer. Bosch and Electrolux recommend checking the appliance identifier; compatible depths and excluded series can vary by kit.
Which appliance goes at the bottom of a stack?
The washing machine goes on the floor, with the tumble dryer on top. Miele says the washing machine’s vibrations need to be stabilised on the floor. It must also be levelled in accordance with the relevant instructions.
Can you install a stack in a bathroom?
It depends on where it will go and the room’s electrical installation. Promotelec says the zones around a shower or bath determine which electrical equipment can be installed. Have the precise setup assessed if the stack is going near a water source or if the installation needs to be changed.
Does a universal kit mean you don’t need to check both models?
No. The word “universal” doesn’t replace checking that the appliances are compatible as a pair and meet the fitting requirements. Whirlpool lists the Wpro SKS101 for standard 60 × 60 cm appliances. Check the dimensions and manuals for the models you want to use together.