For a low space, first choose an integrated washing machine that fits the unit, or a freestanding model whose manufacturer expressly allows the top panel to be removed. Measure the space and allow room to open the door, connect the machine and remove it later; compare these measurements with the documentation for the exact model. Removing the top panel may require additional protection, and it does not make every freestanding washing machine suitable for installation under a worktop.
Before comparing capacities, you’ll need to find a machine that fits beneath your existing worktop. Whirlpool and Candy models are listed at 81.5 cm and 82 cm respectively, but you’ll still need to check their full dimensions against your space.
You don’t need a furniture door, but you’re considering installing your machine under a worktop. Check that the manufacturer allows the top panel to be removed from the exact model you’ve chosen, and follow any specified protection requirements. Bosch documents these conditions for some models.
You want to conceal the washing machine behind a furniture door. Choose a model designed for integration, and also check the unit, hinges and connections, as well as whether you’ll be able to remove the machine for maintenance.
Consider this if: your unit is designed for an integrated appliance and the model’s stated height leaves enough room for installation.
Bear in mind: the furniture door, hinges and access for maintenance all add requirements specific to the unit.
Consider this if: the exact model is designed to work under a worktop without its top panel, and its height in this configuration suits your space.
Bear in mind: removing the top panel does not turn it into an integrated appliance, and you may need the protection specified by the manufacturer.
Consider this: speak to a professional if no documented model can be installed, connected and removed within the available space.
Bear in mind: this means changing the layout rather than removing a part that was not designed to come off.
| What to consider | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Height beneath the worktop | Measure the height at the lowest point and compare it with the height of the model in the installation configuration permitted by the manufacturer, with or without the top panel. | If the machine won’t fit beneath the existing worktop, its other features won’t affect my choice; around 36% of consumers put this height restriction first. |
| Access and maintenance | Check the depth, door clearance, hose routing and whether the machine can be removed as described in its instructions. | I want to load the washing and reach the connections without trapping the machine in its space; access is the main priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Integration with the unit | Check the intended installation type, then make sure the furniture door and hinges are compatible if you want to conceal the appliance. | In a fitted kitchen, I want a furniture door rather than an appliance simply slid under the worktop; around 21% of consumers put this integration first. |
| How you’ll use it after installation | Once you’ve confirmed the installation is suitable, compare usable capacity, spin performance, noise and the water and energy figures on the label. | When several machines fit the space, I want to choose between those that meet my laundry needs; for around 14% of consumers, these usage features then become the priority. |
A machine listed at 84.5 cm won’t fit in an 82 cm space just because its top panel looks removable.
Compare the height for the installation configuration expressly permitted in the product details and instructions for the exact model.
For the Bosch WUU28T6MFR, the technical specification calls for a moisture-protection cover plate when installing the machine without its top panel.
Check what protection is required for your model and follow its installation instructions. Don’t assume the same procedure applies to another model.
This installation may require a suitable protective cover and fitting.
Enough height does not guarantee that the door will open, that you can reach the connections or that you’ll be able to remove the appliance later.
Measure the unit, the space in front of the machine and the route for the hoses separately, then check the model’s installation instructions.
A larger capacity won’t make up for a poor fit. ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that suits your household’s needs and checking the energy label to compare appliances.
First rule out models that can’t be installed correctly; then compare the features of the models that do fit.
Bosch’s French range of washing machines with removable top panels is worth exploring if you want to keep a freestanding appliance.
The integrated BI WMWG 8146 FR is worth considering when height is particularly limited.
The BC4S485M4D8-S is worth a look if you want both an integrated appliance and a drying function.
The EW8F3814BI is an integrated model worth considering for a fitted kitchen.
Integrated ranges and freestanding models designed for installation under a worktop are intended for different types of fit.
Not with its height of 84.5 cm. You could consider a shorter model or one that is expressly approved for use without its top panel, provided you check the dimensions and all installation instructions for the model you choose.
Only if the manufacturer allows this for the exact model. Bosch lists the WUU28T6MFR as 82 cm high without its cover and specifies a moisture-protection cover plate when it is installed in this configuration.
The door needs room to open and you need to be able to reach the laundry, even if the machine itself fits in the space. The open-door depth listed for the Bosch WUU28T6MFR and Siemens WU14UT1MFR is 106.3 cm; check the measurement for the model you choose.
Compare the capacity that suits your household, spin performance, noise and the consumption figures on the energy label. ADEME recommends checking this label; for a washer-dryer, also look at the figures for the combined cycle separately.