If you have a narrow alcove
If width is your main constraint and there’s room above the machine, a top-loading washing machine is worth considering. Check its depth too, along with the space needed to open the lid.
Who are these designs suited to?
If the spin cycle is noisy near your living space
If the machine is near where you sleep or work, compare the stated noise level during the spin cycle. Levelling the machine and distributing the washing evenly also help to reduce vibrations, as Electrolux notes in its support advice.
If you have space under a worktop
A front-loader may be suitable if its specific model is explicitly designed for this type of installation. Check its height in the permitted configuration, and make sure there’s enough space in front to open the door.
Which features should you prioritise?
Start by measuring the space and checking what can open around it: limited width may make a top-loader a better fit, while limited depth could point to a front-loader. Then consider spin noise and capacity in light of your routine. Don’t assume a machine will fit under a worktop just because it’s described as “compact”.
| Feature | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Size and access | Measure the width, depth and height, then check the model diagram to see how the lid or door opens. The French National Consumer Institute says that top-loaders can be 40 to 45 cm wide, but you’ll need to keep the space above them clear. | If my alcove is narrow, I need to be able to fit the machine in without making it difficult to load; around 42% of consumers would make fitting the machine their top priority. |
| Noise and vibrations | Compare the stated noise level during the spin cycle and check the installation requirements in the manual. Electrolux warns that a machine that isn’t level or has an unevenly distributed load can shake. | If I can hear the spin cycle from my living space, I mainly want to reduce the disturbance; around 33% of consumers would make this a priority. |
| Capacity and regular use | Choose a capacity that suits your usual washing loads, then compare the energy label and, for washing machines covered by the scheme in France, the durability rating shown before purchase. | If I regularly wash large loads, I don’t want to choose a small model that makes my routine more difficult; around 25% of consumers would prioritise capacity and information about how well the machine will last. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Looking only at the stated width
A slim top-loader needs space above it for the lid to open; a front-loader needs space in front for the door. The depth could also prevent the machine from fitting in the space available.
Measure all three dimensions and check the installation diagram for the model you’re considering. Don’t forget to allow room to load the washing.
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Assuming a low stated noise level means a quiet wash
The stated spin-cycle noise level doesn’t, by itself, tell you how much the machine will vibrate in your home. Electrolux highlights factors such as the machine being out of level and an unevenly distributed load, both of which can cause shaking.
Compare the noise rating, then follow the installation instructions and stick to the recommended load.
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Removing the top panel of a front-loader without checking the model
Whether an appliance can be installed under a worktop depends on the specific model. Bosch describes removable top panels for its dedicated under-worktop models, not for all its front-loaders.
Choose a model only if the manufacturer confirms that it’s suitable for this type of installation, and follow the installation diagram.
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Comparing only the energy rating
The energy rating alone doesn’t cover all the factors assessed by the durability rating, including repairability and reliability.
For a washing machine covered by the scheme and sold in France, check its durability score out of 10 and the breakdown, as well as the energy label and capacity. According to the French Ministry responsible for ecology, the rating has applied to washing machines since 8 April 2025.
Brands and ranges to consider
Bosch
A range worth considering if you need to fit the machine under a worktop.
- Bosch describes dedicated under-worktop front-loaders with removable top panels.
- This option isn’t available on all Bosch front-loaders, so check the model and its installation instructions.
Electrolux
The PerfectCare 800 EW8T3653BA is an example of a top-loader worth considering for a narrow alcove.
- Electrolux lists the dimensions of this model as 400 × 600 × 890 mm, with a capacity of 6 kg.
- These specifications apply specifically to the EW8T3653BA. Check its stated noise level separately, and make sure there’s enough space above the lid.
Whirlpool
The TDLR55140SFR gives an idea of the dimensions a top-loader can have.
- Whirlpool lists this model as 40 cm wide, 60 cm deep and 90 cm high.
- These dimensions don’t apply to all Whirlpool top-loaders. Also check how the lid opens and whether your chosen model is available.
Candy
The ProWash 550 BP 48SBL6-S is an example of a shallow front-loader.
- Candy lists the dimensions of this model as 595 × 488 × 880 mm, with a capacity of 8 kg.
- Its reduced depth doesn’t make this model narrow. You’ll also need to allow enough space in front for the door to open.
Joybuy products related to this topic
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put a top-loading washing machine under a worktop?
A top-loader with a lid that opens upwards isn’t suitable under a worktop that blocks it from opening. For this space, look for a front-loader explicitly designed for under-worktop installation, and check the instructions for the specific model.
Why might a washing machine vibrate heavily during the spin cycle?
Vibrations can be caused by the installation or the load, not just the model you’ve chosen. Electrolux highlights issues such as the machine not being level, an excessive or unevenly distributed load, and transit bolts that haven’t been removed. Check the manual for the points that apply to your machine.
Should you check the durability rating for a washing machine in France?
Yes. The durability rating is displayed before purchase for washing machines covered by the scheme and offered for sale in France. According to the French Ministry responsible for ecology, it has applied to this category since 8 April 2025. Check the score out of 10 and its breakdown for the model you’re considering.
Where can you compare energy label information?
The European public EPREL database lets you view and compare energy labelling information for the appliances covered, as the European Commission explains. Make sure the model you look up is exactly the same as the washing machine you’re considering.