If space is tight at the back but there’s room for the door to open without blocking the way, consider a slim front-loading washing machine. If width is the main issue, a top-loading model could be a good fit, provided there’s enough space to open the lid. For one or two people, UFC-Que Choisir generally recommends a capacity of 5 to 7 kg; mini washing machines with a 2 to 3 kg capacity are best kept as a backup when a standard model can’t be installed. Before you choose, measure the clearance you’ll need and check the water and electrical connections, as well as the safety of the installation area.
Your main washing machine should fit the space without forcing you to run small loads over and over. For one or two people, UFC-Que Choisir generally recommends a capacity of 5 to 7 kg; choose the right size for the loads you usually wash.
If there isn’t enough width, consider a top-loading model and check that the lid can open. If depth is the issue, a slim front-loader may work, as long as its door doesn’t block the way when open. You should also have the electrical installation checked.
A mini washing machine can be useful as a backup if you can’t install a standard model. However, its limited capacity means you’ll need another solution for bulky items.
Consider it if: depth is limited, but there’s enough width for the appliance and room to open the door.
The trade-off: the door needs room to open, and very shallow models may have a smaller capacity, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
Consider it if: width or the clearance in front of the appliance is an issue, but there’s room to access the top.
The trade-off: a narrower design doesn’t necessarily mean less depth, and you’ll need enough room to open the lid fully.
Consider it if: there’s no way to install a standard washing machine.
The trade-off: UFC-Que Choisir describes capacities of around 2 to 3 kg, which are not ideal for bulky laundry or regular use as your main machine.
| What to consider | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Measure the overall width, depth and height. Allow room for the door or lid to open, and make sure there’s enough space to move around the room. | You should still be able to move around freely once the washing machine is installed and open. |
| Capacity | Compare the weight of dry laundry in kilograms with your usual loads. UFC-Que Choisir generally recommends 5 to 7 kg for one or two people; the rated capacity applies to cotton or the Eco 40-60 programme. | I want to avoid running lots of cycles, but don’t want a drum I’ll rarely fill. |
| Access to the drum | Try out the loading position: make sure there’s room for a front-loading door to open, or that the top is accessible. UFC-Que Choisir notes that some people prefer top-loaders because they don’t have to bend down as far. | Loading laundry shouldn’t block the way or make everyday tasks difficult. |
| Energy use and noise | Compare the energy label figures for kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, the Eco programme duration and the noise class. ADEME also recommends considering the capacity you need. | In a small living space, I want to compare energy use and noise before choosing a model. |
| Installation | Check the water inlet, drainage and electrical supply requirements in the user manual. For a bathroom installation, Promotelec specifies that the appliance must be outside zones 0, 1 and 2 and the hidden volume, and must be earthed and protected by a 30 mA residual-current device. | I need to make sure the connections and location are suitable for safe installation. |
A slim front-loader needs room for its door to open; a top-loader needs enough space to open the lid.
Measure the space and access routes, then check how far the door or lid of the model you’re considering will open.
A drum that’s too small can mean more cycles, while a large drum that’s rarely full may not suit your laundry habits.
For one or two people, use UFC-Que Choisir’s 5 to 7 kg recommendation as a guide, then factor in how often you do laundry and whether you wash bulky items.
Extra cycles use more water and electricity.
A washing machine’s small size doesn’t remove the need to take care around water and its electrical supply.
Follow Promotelec’s guidance on location and protection. If you’re unsure about the bathroom zones or the electrical circuit, have the installation checked before you buy.
UFC-Que Choisir describes this format as a 2 to 3 kg backup option: larger items may be difficult to wash, and spin-drying performance varies by model.
Choose one only if you can’t install a standard appliance, and plan how you’ll wash bulky items.
Candy offers slim front-loading washing machines for spaces where depth is limited.
Electrolux offers top-loading models, including the 6 kg PerfectCare 600 EW6T3264AK featured by the brand.
Whirlpool top-loading models are worth considering when width is limited.
These top-loading and front-loading models offer a range of capacities to consider for a studio flat or a narrow room. Check the dimensions of each model against the space you have available.
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A top-loader is worth considering if width is your main constraint. Measure the appliance and leave room to open the lid.
6 kg capacity, 1,400 rpm spin speed and 17 programmes.
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If depth is limited, check the overall depth of this front-loader and make sure there’s enough clearance in front of the door.
8 kg capacity and 1,400 rpm spin speed. Consider whether your usual loads justify this capacity.
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For a small room, check the dimensions of this front-loader and the space available in front of its door before choosing this style.
8 kg capacity, 1,400 rpm spin speed and 16 programmes. Compare its energy label with those of the other models you’re considering.
Yes, provided the location and electrical installation meet the relevant safety requirements. Promotelec advises placing the appliance outside zones 0, 1 and 2 and the hidden volume, earthing it and protecting its circuit with a 30 mA residual-current device. If you’re unsure, have the installation checked.
Check the water inlet, drainage and electrical supply at the intended location, then consult the user manual for your chosen model. For one of its connections, Electrolux specifies a threaded 3/4-inch cold-water tap; don’t assume this applies to your appliance too.
UFC-Que Choisir says that 5 to 7 kg is generally enough for one or two people. Choose a capacity to suit the size and frequency of your loads, bearing in mind that some programmes can’t take a full load.
No: slim models are mainly designed for spaces with limited depth. According to UFC-Que Choisir, they’re generally close to 60 cm wide and need clearance in front of the door. If width is the issue, consider a top-loader instead, and check that the lid can open fully.
This format is best used as a backup when a standard washing machine can’t be installed. UFC-Que Choisir describes capacities of around 2 to 3 kg; check the spin-drying options and plan another way to wash bulky items.