In a rented studio flat, start by choosing according to the actual constraint: a slimline washing machine is mainly suited to a lack of depth, a top-loading model to limited width and restricted space in front, while a washer-dryer combines washing and drying in one appliance. UFC-Que Choisir also recommends checking the usable capacity and, for a combined appliance, the separate drying load, cycle duration and consumption figures for the complete cycle.
You have limited depth, a narrow bathroom or a compact kitchen. UFC-Que Choisir points out that a slimline model reduces depth, while a top-loading machine reduces width and avoids the space needed in front of a door-mounted drum.
You do modest but regular loads and want to avoid a drum that is too small and forces you to run more cycles. UFC-Que Choisir states that a capacity of 5 to 7 kg is generally suitable for one person or a couple.
You need to decide whether integrated drying is worth the compromises, as ADEME recommends drying laundry in a large, well-ventilated room or one fitted with an extractor fan.
Consider this: if depth is the main constraint and front loading is still possible.
Allow for: space in front of the door and a capacity suited to your usual washing loads.
Consider this: if the room is narrow or there is no space available in front for a door.
Allow for: clear space above the appliance so you can open the lid.
Consider this: if one space needs to handle both washing and drying.
Allow for: a lower drying load than washing load, and compare complete-cycle times and consumption figures.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Space required | Measure the width, depth, height and access to the connections. Also check the door-opening direction and the space needed in front of a front-loading machine or above a top-loading model. | I want the appliance to leave a usable passage and not block access to cupboards or the bathroom. |
| Washing capacity | Check the capacity in kg of dry laundry for the cotton or eco 40-60 programme. For one person or a couple, UFC-Que Choisir generally places the requirement between 5 and 7 kg. | I do regular washes, but I do not want to run multiple cycles for bedding, towels or heavier fabrics. |
| Integrated drying | Compare the washing and drying capacities separately. Check the energy label for the duration, water use, energy consumption and noise levels of both the washing cycle and the complete wash-and-dry cycle. | I would rather avoid having an airer in the living space, while accepting that I may need to reduce the load before drying. |
| Ventilation and spin cycle | Check the spin-drying efficiency and the ventilation available. ADEME recommends air-drying in a large, well-ventilated room or one with an extractor vent. | If laundry finishes drying inside the property, I want to limit the time it stays damp. |
A drum that is too small can mean running more washes, while an oversized machine that is poorly filled is not suitable for small loads either.
Measure the available space, then choose the capacity according to the number of occupants, how you sort your laundry and any bulky items. UFC-Que Choisir generally indicates 5 to 7 kg for one person or a couple.
Modifications to the property or its equipment require the landlord’s written consent, according to ANIL.
Before drilling, altering a cupboard or installing or moving a connection, ask for written permission. If the connections are already in place, check that they are compatible with the instructions for your chosen model.
Air-drying laundry increases indoor humidity; in a single-room property, ventilation and available space become decisive factors.
Set aside a well-ventilated area or one fitted with an extractor. If this is not possible, also compare the compromises of a washer-dryer and the quality of the spin cycle.
These Joybuy options cover top-loading washing machines and washer-dryers for a studio flat, where available space, usable capacity and drying conditions guide your choice.
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This washer-dryer combines washing and drying when there is no room for two appliances.
Advertised capacities: 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. The model features 27 programmes, Zeo-Cycle drying, app control, LintClear and automatic dosing.
Measure the available space and door clearance, and check the connections and energy label before buying. A 10 kg load may need to be reduced before drying.
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This top-loading washing machine is suitable for a narrow room or a space without enough room in front for a door.
Advertised features: 6 kg capacity, 40,5 cm width, maximum spin speed of 1 400 rpm, spin-drying class B, Inverter motor, Wi-Fi and 17 programmes.
It does not offer integrated drying, so plan for a properly ventilated drying area and check the clearance needed above the appliance.
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This combined appliance lets you wash and dry with a single machine in a home where two appliances will not fit.
Advertised capacities: 10 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. The model features Zeo-Cycle drying, LintClear, automatic dosing and the RR Seafarer algorithm.
Check the dimensions, door-opening direction, connections and energy label. The 6 kg drying capacity is lower than the advertised washing load.
No, not without the landlord’s written consent: ANIL states that modifications to the property or its equipment require this consent. Also check the connection requirements in the model’s instructions before installation.
According to Légifrance, a decent home must in particular have a drinking-water supply with sufficient pressure and flow, a household wastewater outlet fitted with a trap, and an electrical system capable of powering essential everyday domestic appliances. This alone does not confirm that a specific space is suitable for the model you are considering.
Because the drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity, according to UFC-Que Choisir. To run washing and drying consecutively without removing laundry, load the machine from the outset in line with the drying limit specified for the model.
Look at the energy used per 100 cycles, water consumption per cycle, duration and noise, as well as the energy-efficiency class. The European Commission states that, for a washer-dryer, the washing data and complete wash-and-dry cycle data relate to different types of use.
Yes, provided the room is suitable: ADEME recommends a large, well-ventilated room or one fitted with an extractor vent. Air-drying laundry significantly increases indoor humidity.