Choose a washing machine based on the space you’re short of: a top-loading model if width is the deciding factor, a compact front-loader if depth is the issue, or a front-loader designed for under-worktop installation if you need to keep the worktop usable. Also measure the space needed to open the lid or door. A machine that fits in its alcove could still obstruct the walkway or make it difficult to load.
A top-loading washing machine is worth considering if you can leave enough room to open the lid freely. The National Consumer Institute gives a width of 40 to 45 cm for this format; it isn’t suitable for installation under a worktop.
A shallow front-loader can help if there’s enough width and room to open the door. A reduced depth doesn’t necessarily mean a narrower machine, so check both measurements separately.
Look for a front-loader whose product details and manual explicitly approve under-worktop installation. Check the height of the alcove and whether any additional parts are required for the model in question. Don’t assume that the top panel can be removed from every front-loader.
In a narrow kitchen or utility room, start with the constraint that could prevent installation, then make sure the capacity suits your usual laundry loads.
Choose this if: width is limited and the lid can open freely.
Bear in mind: this format can’t be installed under a worktop, according to the National Consumer Institute.
Choose this if: depth is the main constraint and there’s enough width.
Bear in mind: the door needs space in front of the machine, even when the appliance is shallow.
Choose this if: you need to keep the worktop usable and the alcove can accommodate the model you’re considering.
Bear in mind: the manufacturer must specify that the model is suitable for under-worktop installation; a front-loading design alone doesn’t guarantee compatibility.
| Factor | What to check before buying | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Available width | Measure the width of the alcove and the appliance. For a top-loader, also check there’s enough clear space above to open the lid. | If the machine needs to fit between two units, I can’t make up for a few missing centimetres by choosing a shallower drum. Around 31% of consumers in this situation would put width at the top of their list. |
| Depth and clearance | Compare the appliance’s depth with the available space, then check the clearance needed in front of the door. | I want to be able to walk past the machine and load laundry without blocking the way. Depth would be the priority for around 25% of consumers in this situation. |
| Under-worktop installation | Check the model’s manual for under-worktop compatibility, confirm the alcove height and check whether any additional parts are required. | In a fitted kitchen, I need to keep the worktop in place while still being able to access my laundry. Around 25% of consumers in this situation would prioritise this type of installation. |
| Usable capacity | Compare the stated capacity in kilograms with your usual laundry loads, and check the load limits for the programmes you use. | If my household tends to have large loads, a machine that fits the alcove also needs to handle my everyday laundry. This capacity would come first for around 19% of consumers in this situation. |
A front-loader might leave the walkway clear when its door is shut, but block it when the door is open. A top-loader doesn’t need clearance in front, but does need space above.
Measure the available width, depth and height separately, then compare the clearance needed to open the appliance with the model’s dimensions diagram.
A top-loader needs access to its lid. The National Consumer Institute distinguishes this format from front-loaders that can be installed under a worktop when designed for this purpose.
If the worktop needs to stay in place, look for a front-loader that’s explicitly compatible and follow the manual for the model you choose.
According to the National Consumer Institute, the stated capacity refers to dry cotton laundry. Some programmes, particularly those for synthetics, have a lower load limit.
Compare your usual laundry loads with the limits in the manual for the programmes you plan to use.
As ADEME points out, two machines that fit the same alcove can differ in the water, energy, spin and noise information shown on their energy labels.
Once you’ve found the right format and capacity, compare these figures across the models that will fit your space.
Water and electricity consumption add up over the life of the machine.
For under-worktop installation, Bosch offers a range of front-loaders with removable top panels.
For narrow spaces, Whirlpool offers the 6 kg TDLR 6247 FR/N top-loader, among other models.
Beko offers front-loaders with a depth of 44 cm and a 6 kg capacity, and models with a depth of 49 cm and a 7 kg capacity.
Electrolux offers compact front-loaders as well as top-loading models.
These models illustrate two different needs: reducing width with a top-loader, or considering a front-loader when depth matters more. Before you decide, compare the dimensions and clearance stated in the documentation for each model with the space you have available.
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Worth considering if width is your main constraint and the lid can open freely. This format isn’t suitable for installation under a worktop.
Stated capacity of 7 kg, spin speed of 1 200 rpm and energy rating A. Check the dimensions and lid clearance against your available space.
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Consider this model if width is your priority, as long as you can keep the lid accessible. Check that the stated 6 kg capacity suits your household’s usual laundry loads.
Spin speed of 1 400 rpm, energy rating B and 17 stated programmes. Check the model documentation for its dimensions and clearance requirements.
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Worth considering if depth is your main constraint, but don’t assume a front-loader will also fit an alcove that’s narrow in width.
Stated capacity of 7 kg, spin speed of 1 200 rpm, energy rating A and 16 programmes. Check the overall width and the space needed to open the door.
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Compare its capacity with your laundry loads if you’re looking for an 8 kg model and need to keep an eye on the available depth.
Stated spin speed of 1 400 rpm and 16 programmes. Check the overall depth, width and door clearance before choosing this model for your alcove.
No. It’s best suited to spaces where width is limited, provided the lid can open. The National Consumer Institute gives a width of 40 to 45 cm for top-loaders, compared with a typical 60 cm for front-loaders. Top-loaders aren’t suitable for installation under a worktop.
Not necessarily. Electrolux compact front-loaders are designed mainly to reduce depth and are generally still 60 cm wide. Check the width of your alcove as well as the space needed in front of the door.
Choose a capacity that suits your usual laundry loads rather than the largest model that fits in the alcove. The National Consumer Institute suggests 5 kg for one person, at least 6 to 7 kg for a couple with a child, and 8 to 10 kg or more for a large family. ADEME says that 7 kg is enough most of the time. Also check the load limits for the programmes you use.
No. The manufacturer must specify that this is possible for the model in question. Bosch offers a range with removable top panels, for which an under-worktop cover may be required. Check the product details, dimensions and manual for the model you choose.
Compare the capacity with your usual laundry loads, then check the water, energy, spin and noise information on the energy label, as ADEME recommends. These factors can help you choose between appliances that will fit in your home, but they don’t replace checking the necessary clearance.