A home with a narrow alcove
If the available width limits your choice, compare it with the dimensions of a top-loading washing machine. Make sure there’s enough clearance above it to open the lid, too.
Who are these formats for?
A room with limited depth
If the machine might stick out into a walkway, a slim front-loader is worth considering. Check that its width and door clearance work for your room.
A machine to fit under a worktop
If you want to keep your worktop, look for a front-loader described as suitable for under-counter installation. The manual for your chosen model should confirm the dimensions and installation requirements.
What should you check before choosing?
Measure the space and allow for the clearances needed to use the machine, then choose a capacity that suits the laundry you wash regularly.
| Criterion | What to check | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Width and depth | Measure the alcove and the walkway separately. According to Que Choisir, top-loading models are generally 40 to 46 cm wide; slim front-loaders mainly save on depth, with sizes ranging from 33 to 45 cm. | If my walkway is narrow, I’ll check the width of a top-loader. If the machine might stick out into the room, depth is the first dimension to consider. |
| Access to the laundry | Allow room to open the lid above a top-loader or the door in front of a front-loader. Also check the manual for the space needed for connections. | The machine needs to remain usable once the furniture and doors are in place, not just fit inside the alcove. |
| Capacity | Compare your usual loads with the capacity in kg. Que Choisir says 5 to 7 kg is generally enough for one person or a couple; the maximum load may be lower for some programmes. | I want to avoid running extra cycles for my usual laundry, without choosing a large drum just because it fits the space. |
| Under-counter installation | Look for a model described as suitable for under-counter installation, or one with a removable top specifically approved by the manufacturer. Check the installation height and any required parts in the manual. | If I’m keeping a fixed worktop, I need a machine designed for this setup, with a door that can still open. |
| Bathroom | Check the planned position in relation to the bath or shower. Promotelec explains the requirements for safety zones, earthing and 30 mA residual-current protection; cupboard doors must be treated as open when assessing the zones. | Before installing a machine in my bathroom, I’ll have the position and electrical supply checked if I’m unsure they meet the requirements. |
Mistakes to avoid
-
Choosing the smallest drum without considering your laundry
If the capacity is too small for your household’s needs, you may have to run more cycles or find it harder to wash larger items.
Estimate your usual loads and check the capacities allowed by the programmes you use. Que Choisir generally puts the needs of one person or a couple at between 5 and 7 kg.
-
Assuming “slim” means narrow in every dimension
A slim front-loader is designed mainly to save on depth. It may still be unsuitable if you’re short on width in the alcove.
Measure the dimension that’s causing the problem before choosing a format, and remember to allow room to open the door or lid.
-
Removing the top from any front-loader
Under-counter installation depends on the model’s design: a machine that fits beneath a worktop height-wise isn’t necessarily designed to be installed that way.
Check the manufacturer’s stated compatibility and follow the manual before making any changes.
Depending on the model, an under-counter cover plate may be needed; Bosch offers one as an optional extra for some machines in its range.
-
Treating a bathroom like any other alcove
Being close to a shower or bath changes what you need to check about the location and electrical supply.
Before buying, have the planned position and circuit checked if you’re unsure. Promotelec points out that simply putting a machine in a closed cupboard doesn’t, on its own, make the location suitable.
A few brands to know
Whirlpool
The TDLR62667FR is an example of a narrow top-loader: Whirlpool lists a 6 kg capacity and dimensions of 40 × 90 × 60 cm.
- Its 40 cm width may suit an alcove where width is the main constraint.
- It is still 60 cm deep, and the lid needs clearance above it.
Electrolux
The EW6S3626XA is a freestanding slim front-loader. Electrolux lists a 6 kg capacity and a depth of 411 mm.
- Its stated depth suits a different installation constraint from a narrow top-loader.
- Check its width against the alcove and allow enough clearance in front of the door.
Bosch
Bosch’s range for under-counter installation includes front-loaders with removable tops, including 8 and 9 kg models.
- This range lets you look for models specifically described as suitable for under-counter installation.
- Check the instructions for the exact model; Bosch says an under-counter cover plate may be available as an optional extra.
A top-loading washing machine on Joybuy
This top-loading model is worth considering if the width of your alcove is the main constraint. Also measure the available depth and allow enough room to open the lid.
Image unavailable
Candy TCA464TM4-S ProWash 500 top-loader, 6 kg
Top loading can work well when width is the main constraint, provided the lid has room to open freely. The stated capacity is 6 kg, with a spin speed of 1 400 tr/min. Check the installation dimensions and the clearance needed for connections in your alcove.
Frequently asked questions
What should I measure before ordering for a narrow alcove?
Measure the available width, depth and height, then allow for the space needed to open the lid or door. For under-counter installation, check the stated compatibility and installation dimensions in the manual for the exact model.
Is a slim front-loader as narrow as a top-loader?
No. According to Que Choisir, a slim front-loader mainly saves on depth, while a top-loader is distinguished primarily by its narrow width, generally 40 to 46 cm. The former needs clearance in front of the door; the latter needs room above the lid.
What capacity should I choose when space is limited?
Choose a capacity that suits your usual loads rather than simply opting for the smallest drum available. Que Choisir says 5 to 7 kg is generally enough for one person or a couple; the stated capacity refers to dry laundry and may be lower for some programmes.
Can a washing machine be installed in a bathroom?
The location needs to be assessed in relation to the bath or shower and the electrical supply. Promotelec says a washing machine must be outside zone 2, connected to earth and supplied by a circuit protected by a 30 mA residual-current device. In a cupboard, the doors should be treated as open when assessing the zones. Have your installation checked if you’re unsure.