Which format suits your needs?

If your space is particularly narrow

A top-loading washing machine takes up less width, provided you can open the lid without obstruction. Que Choisir Ensemble generally puts the width of top-loading models at between 40 and 46 cm. Also check the available clearance above the model you’re considering.

If there’s limited space in front of the machine

Consider slim or compact front-loaders, then measure how much space the door takes up when open. LG product specifications distinguish between the depth of the appliance and the space it occupies with the door open, so a small stated depth alone doesn’t guarantee easy access to your laundry.

If you want to stack your washer and dryer

A stacked washer-dryer can free up floor space if you have enough height. Bosch Électroménager advises checking that the washing machine and tumble dryer models can be stacked. You should also confirm which kit is designed for that specific pair of appliances.

Which measurements should guide your choice?

First, identify the dimension that’s most likely to make installation difficult: the width of the recess, the depth needed with the door open, or the available height. Then compare the installation drawings for models that meet that requirement, remembering to allow for connections too.

Constraint What to check Consumers affected
Width and top-loading access Measure the usable width of the recess and the clearance needed to open the lid. When the recess is narrow, I want to be able to install the machine without losing access to my laundry. Around 25% of consumers would prioritise this width constraint.
Depth and door clearance Compare the model’s overall depth with the space needed in front when its door is open. If there’s limited space in front of the washing machine, I still need to be able to open the door and load my laundry. For around 31% of consumers, this usable depth would be their main concern.
Front-loading machine under a worktop Check the full dimensions and the installation instructions for the exact model if it’s going under a worktop. In a fitted kitchen, I’m looking for a front-loader that remains accessible under the worktop and has a capacity suited to my laundry. Around 19% of consumers would put this type of installation first.
Washer-dryer stack Confirm that the two models and the kit are compatible, then measure the total height available. To save floor space, I’d prefer to stack the tumble dryer if the chosen appliances allow it. Around 25% of consumers would prioritise this option.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Measuring the recess but not the door clearance

    The depth of the machine with the door closed doesn’t tell you how much space you’ll need to load your laundry. For some models, LG’s published dimensions distinguish between the depth of the body and the depth with the door open.

    Check both measurements for the model you’ve chosen, as well as the space that will remain in front of the machine and the room needed for connections.

  • Putting a top-loader under a fixed worktop

    A top-loader’s narrow width won’t help if you can’t open the lid. And because it loads from the top, you can’t place a tumble dryer directly above it.

    Before choosing this format, check there’s enough clearance above the machine to open the lid fully.

  • Assuming two appliances of the same width can be stacked

    Matching widths don’t prove that two appliances are compatible for stacking. Bosch Électroménager says both models must be suitable for stacking and lists several different stacking kits.

    Check the exact model numbers for both appliances and the kit in the manuals. Before installation, also follow the instructions for levelling and alignment.

  • Comparing dimensions alone

    Two models that fit the same recess may have different durability ratings. In France, according to the ministry responsible for ecological transition, the durability rating has replaced the repairability rating for washing machines since 8 April 2025. It covers factors including reliability and repairability.

    Once you’ve confirmed the dimensions and installation requirements, compare the durability rating out of 10 and its breakdown. It won’t tell you how far the door swings open or whether the machine is compatible with a stacking kit.

Brands to consider

Bosch

Worth considering if you’re planning a washer-dryer stack and can identify the exact models of both appliances.

  • Bosch Électroménager provides stacking instructions and lists several stacking kit model numbers.
  • The availability of a Bosch kit doesn’t mean all Bosch washing machines and tumble dryers can be paired. Check the compatibility information and manuals for the models you’ve chosen.

Electrolux

Worth considering if top-loading access is a good solution for a particularly narrow space.

  • Electrolux lists dimensions of 400 × 890 × 600 mm and a capacity of 6 kg for its top-loading EWY51223CB model.
  • These specifications apply to the EWY51223CB, not all Electrolux models. Compare the dimensions and connections for the model you’re considering with your available space.

LG

Worth considering when the depth of a front-loader and the clearance needed for its door are important factors.

  • LG specifications for models such as the F72SJ62WH and F854M20WR give dimensions for each appliance, helping you measure your space before installation.
  • Don’t assume the depth or door clearance listed for one LG model applies to another. Use the installation drawing for the model you’ve chosen.

Washing machines to consider on Joybuy

These two 8 kg washing machines are worth considering for a limited space. Before choosing either one, compare their installation dimensions and loading access with the space available in your room.

White Dreame DRWASHS8KG S washing machine, 8 kg

Dreame DRWASHS8KG S, white 8 kg washing machine

If space is limited in depth, compare the installation dimensions of this model with your recess. It has a stated capacity of 8 kg. Also check loading access and allow room for the connections.

View on Joybuy
Dark grey CHiQ JW85883G front-loading washing machine, 8 kg

CHiQ JW85883G, dark grey 8 kg front-loading washing machine

This front-loader could be a good choice if there’s clear space in front of the machine. It has a stated capacity of 8 kg. Check the full dimensions and door clearance before planning its installation.

View on Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

Is the width of the recess enough to choose a washing machine?

No. You should also measure the height, overall depth, loading clearance and space needed for connections. For a front-loader, check the open-door dimensions for the exact model. LG’s specifications show that this measurement may be listed separately from the depth of the machine body.

Can I use any kit to stack a tumble dryer?

Don’t assume a kit will fit all appliances of the same width. Bosch Électroménager advises checking that both models are suitable for stacking and offers kits with different model numbers. Make sure you choose the one designed for your washing machine and tumble dryer.

What should I check before having a washing machine delivered to a small room?

Check the appliance dimensions, the route to its final position, the space needed for loading and the connections required. Electrolux recommends checking the dimensions of the new appliance and the existing connections before installation.

What is the durability rating for washing machines in France?

It helps you compare factors including reliability and repairability between models that already fit your installation. According to the ministry responsible for ecological transition, the durability rating has replaced the repairability rating for washing machines in France since 8 April 2025. It doesn’t confirm an appliance’s dimensions or its compatibility with a stacking kit.