Start by identifying what is actually preventing you from installing a washing machine. A top-loader is best for a lack of width, a slim front-loader for limited depth, an integrated model for a suitable kitchen unit, and a stacked washer-dryer for a lack of floor space. In every case, check the space the appliance will take up once installed, how it opens, its connections and the requirements in the instruction manual. In a bathroom, also have the location and electrical supply checked.
Is an appliance around 60 cm wide too big to fit through the doorway, or does it get in the way once in place? A top-loader is worth considering: UFC-Que Choisir gives the width of this type as between 40 and 46 cm. However, you’ll need enough room above it to open the lid.
If a front-loader fits across but its depth gets in the way of a door or walkway, compare shallower models. Remember to measure the space needed for the door when open and for the connections, not just the appliance body.
A kitchen recess may point you towards an integrated model, provided the unit and door match the appliance. If you want to put a tumble dryer above the washing machine, the available height and compatibility with a stacking kit will be key.
Start by measuring whatever is causing the problem with your installation, then check the other dimensions in the manual for the model you’re considering. Narrow, shallow, integrated and stackable models each solve a different space constraint.
| Space constraint | What to check before you buy | Who this applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Width and access | Measure the clear width of the space and along the delivery route, including doors and obstacles. A top-loader still needs enough depth and clearance above. | If a front-loader won’t fit through my narrow access route, I’ll first look for a narrower appliance; around 33% of consumers prioritise this need. |
| Depth and front access | Compare the installed depth, including connections, and allow room to open the door. UFC-Que Choisir describes slim front-loaders as 33 to 45 cm deep, while retaining a width of around 60 cm. | I have room for a front-loader widthways, but want to leave enough space to move around and open the door; around 27% of consumers prioritise this need. |
| Recess and door | Check the unit’s internal dimensions, how the door is fixed and the installation requirements for the integrated model. A door won’t make up for a recess that’s too small. | In my fitted kitchen, the appliance needs to fit in its designated unit without getting in the way; around 20% of consumers prioritise this type of integration. |
| Floor space | For a washer-dryer stack, check the total height and that the kit is compatible with the exact model numbers of both appliances. Stacking won’t reduce the washing machine’s width. | If the two appliances won’t fit side by side, I’d rather make use of the available height; freeing up floor space is a priority for around 20% of consumers. |
An appliance may fit between two walls but leave too little room for the pipes, plug or door to open.
Check what’s at the planned installation spot and compare your measurements with the installation diagram for the exact model before ordering.
Its narrow width won’t help if there isn’t enough room to open the lid and load the washing.
Measure the clearance above the appliance and check the opening requirements in its documentation.
Matching widths don’t prove that a tumble dryer and washing machine can be stacked. The Bosch manual consulted requires a suitable kit; Electrolux advises checking compatibility by model number for its STA8GW4 kit.
Check the model numbers of both appliances and choose only a kit listed as compatible with that pair.
Also allow enough space for, and make the necessary arrangements to fit, a compatible stacking kit.
The appliance may not be suitable for the intended location because of its proximity to a shower or bath, or because of the electrical installation. Promotelec highlights restrictions in the zones around these fittings.
Before you buy, ask a professional to confirm the location, earthing and circuit protection if you’re unsure they meet the requirements.
The models below illustrate different configurations. Their dimensions are no substitute for checking the installation instructions for the appliance you choose.
A useful reference when looking at a narrow top-loader or a kit for stacking compatible front-loading appliances.
A useful reference for comparing front-loaders when depth is more of a constraint than width.
A useful reference for the dimensions of an integrated washing machine and the requirements for stacking appliances.
It depends on the appliance’s position in relation to the shower or bath, and on the safety of the electrical circuit. Promotelec advises keeping the washing machine out of zones 0, 1 and 2, and checking the earthing and 30 mA residual-current protection. If you’re unsure, ask a professional to check the proposed installation.
No. A top-loader is mainly designed for spaces where width is limited. UFC-Que Choisir gives the width of top-loaders as between 40 and 46 cm, but you’ll need room above to open the lid. Check the depth and connections too.
No. You need a stacking kit that’s suitable for the model numbers of both appliances. Electrolux requires a PNC compatibility check for its STA8GW4 kit, which is listed for front-loading appliances 47 to 60 cm deep. The Bosch manual consulted rules out stacking without a suitable kit.
First compare models that fit your space, then look at their energy consumption in kWh per 100 cycles, water consumption per cycle, noise level and spin performance. These are among the details shown by the European Commission; ADEME also recommends choosing a capacity that suits the amount of washing you actually do.