Who is this advice for?

Tenant with a narrow alcove

You need to get the washing machine into a tight space and position it, while keeping the connections accessible and leaving enough room to open it.

Someone planning to fit a front-loader under a worktop

You need to compare the clearance beneath the worktop with the available depth and the manufacturer’s instructions. A freestanding front-loader is not necessarily designed for this type of installation.

Household considering a washer-dryer stack

You’d like to free up floor space, provided there’s enough height and you’ve confirmed that the washing machine, tumble dryer and stacking kit are compatible.

What should you check before buying?

When choosing an appliance for a small home, first check that it can be connected and positioned securely. Then identify the dimension that actually limits your options: the available width, depth or height.

What to consider What to check Who this matters to
Connections and stability Check that there’s access to a suitable socket, water supply and waste outlet, and that the floor is level and stable. If the connections aren’t compliant, ask a qualified technician to carry out the work. I want to use the machine in my new home without it being cramped against the connections or sitting on an unstable floor. Around 34% of consumers would make installation suitability their top priority.
Dimensions and opening clearance Measure the usable width, height and depth, including skirting boards and pipes. Also allow room to open the door or lid, and leave the clearance specified for the model. If the alcove is narrow, I need to choose based on the dimension that actually restricts access or use. Around 33% of consumers would prioritise the machine’s footprint.
Noise and vibration Compare the stated noise level during the spin cycle and make sure all four feet can sit securely on a stable floor, without touching any furniture. If the machine is near my living space, I want to minimise vibration and consider how noisy it is during the spin cycle. Nearly 20% of consumers would make this their top criterion.
Under-worktop or stacked installation For an under-worktop installation, check the model’s instructions. For a stack, check the model numbers of both appliances and make sure the kit is compatible. I want to use the space under a worktop or put a tumble dryer on top without assuming the appliances are compatible. Around 13% of consumers would prioritise this type of layout.

Installation mistakes to avoid

  • Measuring only the width of the alcove

    A top-loader may be narrow without being shallow, while a shallow front-loader won’t necessarily solve a lack of width. The machine also needs room to open and be connected.

    Measure the space in all three dimensions and check the skirting boards, pipes, access to the connections and the opening clearance specified in the instructions.

  • Relying on carpet to absorb vibration

    A soft surface is no substitute for a stable floor and may prevent the appliance from sitting securely.

    Choose a level, stable floor that can support the machine, then adjust the feet so they all sit firmly on the floor.

  • Assuming a stacking kit will fit every appliance

    Compatibility depends on the model numbers and dimensions. For one of its kits, Electrolux specifies a depth range of 47 to 60 cm for front-loading appliances and requires a check using the PNC number. These conditions don’t apply to every kit.

    Before planning a stack, check the full model numbers of the washing machine and tumble dryer against the kit documentation.

    An incompatible kit can delay installation and mean you need to buy different equipment.

  • Assuming an installation service covers all the work

    Installing and connecting an appliance doesn’t mean that non-compliant electrical or plumbing connections will be brought up to standard.

    Check what the service includes, particularly delivery to an upper floor, installation, connection and commissioning. If the connections aren’t compliant, contact a qualified technician.

Brands to consider for different layouts

Bosch

Worth comparing if you’re looking at freestanding front-loaders or models designed for under-worktop installation.

  • Bosch offers models with removable tops and publishes dimensions for specific models, making it easier to check whether one will fit an alcove.
  • Only remove the top if the instructions for your chosen model specifically allow this type of installation.

Whirlpool

Worth considering if limited width means a top-loader could be a good option.

  • Whirlpool lists the TW 6522 FRESHCARE FR as 40 cm wide, 90 cm high and 60 cm deep.
  • These dimensions apply to this model only. Top-loading doesn’t, by itself, reduce the depth required.

Beko

Worth exploring if you’re looking for a front-loader and depth is the limiting factor.

  • Beko offers a range of washing machines with a depth of 45 cm, designed for smaller spaces.
  • Check the exact dimensions, capacity and space needed for connections for each model.

Electrolux

Worth considering if you’re planning a washer-dryer stack with a kit suited to the appliances you choose.

  • For one of its kits, Electrolux specifies compatibility with front-loading appliances 47 to 60 cm deep and requires a check using the PNC number.
  • This compatibility information applies to that kit only; it doesn’t confirm that other models or appliance combinations will work.

Joybuy products related to this choice

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I connect a washing machine myself when I move in?

Yes, for a standard connection, provided the space and connections are suitable and you follow the appliance instructions. Check the socket, water supply, waste outlet and floor stability. According to Que Choisir, non-compliant electrical or plumbing connections should be dealt with by a qualified technician.

How much space should I leave around a washing machine?

Que Choisir recommends leaving at least 0.5 cm between the machine and other furniture. You’ll also need to allow room to open it, accommodate the pipes and access the connections, following the model’s instructions and taking the layout of the room into account.

Can I put a washing machine in a bathroom?

It depends on the exact position and the electrical installation, particularly if the machine is near a bath or shower. If you’re unsure whether the connections are compliant, have the setup checked before choosing a machine.

Can I put any tumble dryer on top of a washing machine?

No. Check that both appliances and the stacking kit are explicitly compatible with their exact model numbers. The permitted depth and required checks vary by kit. For example, Electrolux requires a PNC number check for the kit described here.

Does a commercial warranty replace the statutory warranty?

No. In France, the Ministry of the Economy distinguishes between a commercial warranty and the statutory warranty of conformity, which applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a business to a private individual. Compare any additional cover on offer, but don’t treat a commercial warranty as a replacement for your statutory rights.