After moving or a change in household size, measure the available space and choose a capacity that suits your usual loads. A top-loading washing machine is best if width is limited, while a slimline front-loader takes up less depth. Consider a standard front-loader if the space and amount of laundry make it a good fit. If you plan to stack a tumble dryer on top, check that both appliances are compatible with the stacking kit you intend to use.
If space is tight, check the difference between the available width and depth. A top-loader needs enough clearance above it to open the lid, while even a shallow front-loader needs room in front for the door to open.
A change in household size can affect the size of your regular loads. Choose a capacity that suits your laundry routine rather than simply going for the biggest drum you can fit.
If you plan to put a tumble dryer on top of your washing machine, check the model numbers of both appliances and the stacking kit before choosing a machine.
Start by measuring the space and considering your usual loads. Then look at installation options and the features of each model.
| What to consider | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Measure the width, depth and height, then allow for the door or lid to open and for connections. The French National Consumer Institute gives a width of 40–45 cm for top-loaders; according to Electrolux, its slimline models mainly reduce depth. | I’m short on width: a top-loader could work if the lid can open freely. If depth is the issue, I’ll compare shallow front-loaders instead. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated capacity in kilograms with the dry laundry you wash regularly and any larger loads you often need to do. ADEME says that 7 kg is enough most of the time, but this isn’t a rule for every household. | The amount of laundry I do has changed: I’m looking for a drum that suits my regular loads, without needing extra cycles or choosing a large capacity I’ll rarely use. |
| Stacking | Check the available height and the exact compatibility of the washing machine, tumble dryer and stacking kit. For example, the Bosch WTZ2741X kit requires a washing machine with a depth of more than 55 cm. | I’m considering a stacked set-up: having a front-loader isn’t enough to tell me whether the two appliances can be stacked. |
| Everyday use | Compare the energy label for the exact model, including the stated energy consumption, eco-cycle duration and noise level. Independent tests of the model can also help you assess washing, rinsing and spinning performance. | I’ve already found a suitable size and capacity. Now I want to compare the appliances based on their features, rather than assuming performance from the kilograms or revolutions per minute alone. |
A top-loader can solve a lack of width, but still needs space above it. A slimline front-loader takes up less depth, but you’ll still need room to open the door.
Measure the width, depth and height of the space, allow for the required clearance and connections, and check the delivery route before comparing models.
A drum that’s too small may mean more cycles, while a large drum isn’t necessarily right for frequent small loads.
Estimate the amount of dry laundry you usually wash and how often you do larger loads. ADEME’s 7 kg guideline doesn’t replace this check.
Whether appliances can be stacked depends on their model numbers and the kit. Some kits require a minimum depth or aren’t compatible with certain models.
Check the compatibility details and exclusions for both appliances and the kit before planning a stacked set-up.
Capacity and spin speed alone don’t tell you how well a model washes or rinses, how long its cycles take or how noisy it is.
Once you’ve checked the installation space and capacity, compare the energy label with any independent tests available for the exact model.
These models give you examples of different formats and capacities to compare. Check each model individually, as a brand name alone can’t guarantee it will fit your space.
The WAN2827TFR front-loader is one option to compare with your available space. Bosch also offers stacking kits, but compatibility depends on the model numbers.
The EW8T3632AA and EW6S1064NA show two different ways to make the most of limited space: save on width with a top-loader or on depth with a slimline front-loader.
Whirlpool’s range of front-loaders can help you compare capacities if the amount of laundry your household does has changed.
These front-loaders include models with different capacities and depths to compare after a move. For each one, check the product details against your measurements and laundry routine.
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Worth considering if depth is limited and your regular loads call for an 8 kg capacity. The stated width is 595 mm. Also measure the clearance in front of the door and allow space for the connections.
If you’re considering a stacked set-up, check that this model is compatible with your tumble dryer and chosen kit.
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Compare this 8 kg front-loader with your usual loads and the measurements of your space. Allow room for the door to open and for the connections, then check the energy label for the exact model to compare consumption.
For a stacked installation, check the compatibility of both appliances and the kit separately.
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The stated 9 kg capacity is worth considering if your household’s regular loads have increased. The stated depth is 66 cm. Also check the space needed for connections and to open the door.
Don’t assume it can be stacked just because of its capacity: check which models are compatible with the kit you’re considering.
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Consider this model if depth is your main concern: the product details give a depth of 450 mm, but also a width of 600 mm. Check the door clearance and connections before deciding whether it will fit.
Stacking requires a separate compatibility check for the washing machine, tumble dryer and kit.
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If your usual loads suit an 8 kg capacity, pay particular attention to the installation space: the stated dimensions are 90 × 62,6 × 64 cm. Allow extra room in front of the door and for the connections.
To compare how it performs against other models, check the energy label for the exact model. If you’re planning a stacked set-up, also check which models are compatible.
No. It’s best suited to spaces where width is limited, and you’ll need enough clearance above it to open the lid. The French National Consumer Institute gives a width of 40–45 cm for top-loaders. If depth is more of a concern, compare the dimensions of a slimline front-loader and remember to allow space for the door to open.
Start with the amount of dry laundry you wash regularly and how often you do laundry. ADEME says that 7 kg is enough most of the time, but you should still consider your usual loads and the dimensions of the model.
No. Check that both model numbers are compatible with the stacking kit. For example, Bosch specifies a washing machine depth of more than 55 cm for its WTZ2741X kit and advises checking compatibility by model.
Compare the labels for the exact models, including the energy class, kWh per 100 cycles, litres of water per cycle, eco-cycle duration and noise level. The energy label can help you choose between models, but it doesn’t replace checking the capacity and installation space.