Stack two appliances only if their model numbers and the stacking kit are compatible, the washing machine provides a stable base and the tumble dryer’s controls remain within easy reach. If you only have room for one appliance, compare the washing and drying capacities of a washer-dryer. If you have another space available, a separate tumble dryer means you won’t need to create a stack. In a bathroom, have the location and electrical supply checked before making your choice.
If you want to keep a separate washing machine and tumble dryer without giving them two floor spaces, check that the models are compatible with the kit, that the base is stable and that you can reach the controls when they’re stacked.
A washer-dryer combines both functions in one appliance. Compare its drying capacity with your usual loads, as it may be lower than its washing capacity.
Before choosing a stack or a single appliance, have the proposed location, connections and electrical safety checked, particularly near a bath or shower.
First, work out how many spaces you actually have available. Then check the requirements of the option you’re considering.
Consider this if: you want to keep two separate appliances while using just one floor space.
Bear in mind: you’ll need a kit that’s compatible with the exact model numbers, a stable base and controls you can reach when the appliances are stacked.
Consider this if: you can only fit one large appliance.
Bear in mind: if the washing and drying capacities differ, you may need to reduce the load before drying.
Consider this if: you have another space available or a compatible stack won’t work in your room.
Bear in mind: you’ll need space and connections for two appliances, even if you don’t stack them.
| What to consider | What to check | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Stack compatibility | Check that both appliances are front-loading and measure their dimensions. Then confirm that the kit is compatible with their exact model numbers. Bosch, for example, specifies a washing machine depth of over 55 cm for its WTZ2741X kit; Electrolux lists a depth range of 47 to 60 cm for the STA8GW4. | I want to save floor space without assuming that two appliances of a similar width can be stacked. |
| Stability and access | Choose a flat, solid floor and put the tumble dryer on top of the washing machine. Measure the height of the controls, check that the doors can open and allow access for maintenance. | The appliances need to be easy to load and use in a narrow room. |
| Drying capacity | Check the washing and drying capacities separately, along with the load limit for the programme you plan to use. For example, Whirlpool lists 8 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying for the EFFWDB864349BVFR. | If I choose a single appliance, I want to know whether it can dry my usual load without me having to remove some of the laundry. |
| Space and connections | Measure the space and check the clearances specified in the manuals. According to Que Choisir Ensemble, a condenser tumble dryer can be installed without an external air exhaust connection. | I need to be able to fit the appliances and access their connections, even without an external air outlet. |
| Bathroom installation | Have the appliance’s position in relation to the shower or bath checked. Promotelec notes that a washing machine installed in a bathroom needs an earthed connection and 30 mA RCD protection. | Before ordering, I want to know whether the planned location allows for a suitable electrical installation. |
Requirements vary depending on the kit and the appliance models. An appliance that looks like the right size may not be suitable for the intended setup.
Note down the model numbers of both appliances, then check the kit manual for the permitted depths, any exclusions and the fixing method.
The washing machine must form the base of the stack. Its spin cycle also makes the stability of the whole setup important.
Place it on a flat, solid floor, adjust its feet as instructed in the manual, and only put a tumble dryer above it using a compatible solution.
A washer-dryer may have a lower maximum load for drying. If you wash a larger load, you’ll need to split it before drying.
Compare the drying capacity of the model and the programme you plan to use with your usual laundry load.
A condenser tumble dryer doesn’t need an external air outlet, but you’ll still need to allow for its dimensions, clearances, connections and access to the appliances.
Measure the entire space, check the manuals for the models you’re considering and have the electrical installation checked if the laundry area is in a bathroom.
These examples from manufacturers’ product information show what to check. They don’t guarantee that any other pair of appliances will be compatible.
Bosch lists which appliance models are compatible with its stacking kits.
Electrolux gives a depth range for its STA8GW4 kit, designed for front-loading appliances.
Whirlpool’s washer-dryer product information lets you compare the two capacities of a single appliance.
These options include washer-dryers for a single space and separate tumble dryers. Don’t assume that any tumble dryer featured here can be stacked on a washing machine without checking the model numbers and kit.
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This model combines washing and drying in one appliance, making it an option for a single space. Its product title lists a 10 kg washing capacity and a 6 kg drying capacity. Compare the latter with your usual loads, then check the dimensions and the clearances needed for installation.
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This model combines both functions in one appliance. The product title lists a 10 kg washing capacity, a 6 kg drying capacity and 27 wash programmes with app control. Check the load limits for the programmes you’re interested in, as well as the space needed for installation.
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Worth considering for very small loads rather than a household’s everyday laundry. The product title lists a 1 kg washing capacity and a 0.5 kg drying capacity. Check that these limits and the appliance’s dimensions suit how you plan to use it and where you intend to put it.
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This separate tumble dryer needs its own space and doesn’t replace a washing machine. Its stated capacity is 8 kg; check its dimensions and the clearances required. If you want to stack it, first check that the appliances and kit are compatible.
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This 8 kg model dries laundry in a separate appliance, so you’ll also need space for a washing machine. Check its dimensions and the clearances specified in the manual. If you plan to stack the appliances, check separately which models are compatible and which kit you’ll need.
No. Que Choisir Ensemble says both appliances need to be front-loading and a similar size. You’ll then need to check that the kit is suitable for their exact model numbers. Permitted depths and exclusions can vary by manufacturer and kit.
Not in the type of stack described here: the washing machine sits on the floor, with the tumble dryer above it. Use a flat, solid base and follow the fixing instructions for a compatible kit.
Before installation, have the position in relation to the bath or shower and the electrical supply checked. Promotelec notes that a washing machine in a bathroom needs an earthed connection and circuit protection with a 30 mA RCD.
No. According to Que Choisir Ensemble, a condenser tumble dryer can be installed without an external air exhaust connection. Even so, check the manual for the required clearances and other installation requirements.
Not necessarily: check the drying capacity separately. For example, Whirlpool lists 8 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying for the EFFWDB864349BVFR. Compare the load limit for the programme you choose with the amount of laundry you usually wash.