Homes where width is limited
If the alcove is too narrow for a front-loader measuring around 60 cm, compare top-loading washing machines. Bear in mind that you’ll need enough clearance above the appliance to open the lid fully.
Who are these formats for?
Rooms where depth gets in the way
If you have enough width for a front-loader but want it to take up less space in your kitchen or bathroom, look at slim models. Make sure you also leave enough room in front of the door.
Households that wash often or have large loads
A smaller appliance is only useful if its drum can handle your usual laundry. Compare the stated capacity with the load limits for the programmes you’ll use before choosing a compact format.
Which criteria should you check first?
Measure the space and access routes first, then choose a capacity that suits your washing needs. If neither a top-loader nor a slim model will fit, a mini washing machine could be useful as a supplementary appliance. If space allows, include a standard front-loader in your comparison too.
| Criteria | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Width and top loading | Measure the access route and alcove at their narrowest points. Check the model’s width and make sure there’s enough clearance above the lid to open it fully. | When a front-loader won’t fit between fixed units, I look for a narrow machine that’s still easy to load. Around 33% of consumers would prioritise width and top access. |
| Depth and door clearance | Compare the machine’s total depth once the connections are in place, and allow enough room to open the door. Check the manual if you’re planning to install it under a worktop. | In a small kitchen, I want to keep the walkway clear without giving up on front loading. Depth would be the main concern for around 27% of consumers. |
| Capacity and washing routine | Compare the capacity in kg of dry laundry with your usual loads, then check the limits for the programmes you plan to use. | If I regularly wash for several people or have bulky items to clean, a small drum could mean running more cycles. Around 27% of consumers would put capacity first. |
| Installation and everyday use | Check the connections, stability and access to the filter in the manual. To compare compatible models, also look at the energy label and the stated noise level. | Once I’ve chosen a format, I need to be able to connect, maintain and use the machine without getting in the way. These factors would come first for around 13% of consumers. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Assuming a slim front-loader is narrow in every dimension
A slim model mainly saves depth. According to Que Choisir, it’s generally still close to 60 cm wide, so it won’t solve a width problem.
Identify the dimension that’s actually limiting you, then compare the model’s full measurements with the space available.
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Automatically choosing the smallest drum
If the capacity is too small for your usual loads, you may need to do extra washes. The maximum capacity shown may not apply to every programme.
Think about how often you do the washing and whether you have bulky items, then check the load limits for each programme.
Running more cycles adds to the time you spend doing the washing and can increase water and electricity use.
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Measuring the alcove without considering how you’ll use the machine
An appliance may fit in the space, but its door or lid could be difficult to open, or the hoses and filter could be hard to reach.
Compare the room measurements with the model’s installation diagram, allowing for loading, connections and maintenance.
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Judging energy use or durability by format alone
Two machines that fit the same space can perform differently in everyday use. Their format alone isn’t enough to choose between them.
Once you’ve checked the dimensions and capacity, compare the energy label figures recommended by ADEME and, where available, the model’s durability index.
Brands to compare
Electrolux
The French range includes slim front-loaders worth considering when depth is your main constraint.
- Electrolux France’s product details for the EW6S3624BN state a 6 kg capacity and a depth of 411 mm.
- For this model, as with any front-loader, check its overall dimensions with the connections in place and allow for the space needed in front of the door before planning an under-worktop installation.
AEG
The LTR8C7331A top-loader is an option to consider if width is limited.
- AEG France lists a 7 kg capacity and dimensions of 903 × 397 × 599 mm for this model, in height, width and depth order.
- These measurements apply specifically to the LTR8C7331A. Also check that you have enough room to open its lid.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool France’s top-loading range includes 6 kg and 7 kg models to compare if width is a constraint.
- Top loading is worth considering if opening a front-loader’s door would be awkward.
- Check the dimensions and installation requirements for the model you choose. You can’t work these out just from the fact that it’s a top-loader.
Top-loading washing machines to consider
These two top-loading models are worth considering if width is your main constraint. Before choosing, check their installation dimensions and capacity, and make sure there’s enough room to open the lid. They may not be suitable if you’re short on depth.
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Haier T Series 7 THASN276TM6-S, 7 kg top-loader
Worth considering if you prefer top loading and 7 kg is enough for your usual loads.
The model name indicates 1 200 rpm and an A energy rating. Check the manual to see how much room is needed to open the lid and connect the machine.
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Candy TCA464TM4-S ProWash 500, 6 kg top-loader
Worth comparing if top loading suits your space and a 6 kg capacity is enough for your usual loads.
The model name indicates 1 400 rpm, a B energy rating and 17 programmes. Check the installation dimensions and clearance above the lid before buying.
Frequently asked questions
Can you install a top-loading washing machine under a worktop?
Not if the worktop stops you opening the lid: a top-loader needs access from above. For an under-worktop installation, consider a front-loader whose manual confirms it’s suitable for your intended setup.
What capacity should you choose for a small home?
Choose a capacity to suit your usual loads, not just the size of your home. Que Choisir generally puts the needs of one person or a couple at between 5 and 7 kg. Also check the maximum load for the programmes you plan to use.
What should you measure before ordering a washing machine?
Measure the width, height and depth at the tightest points, then check the delivery route, connections and clearance needed to open the door or lid. Compare these measurements with the installation diagram for your chosen model, and remember to allow access for maintenance.
How should you compare two models that fit the same space?
First compare their capacity with your laundry needs, then check the energy label information, including kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, spin performance and noise, as recommended by ADEME. Where available, the durability index gives you another way to compare models.