Measure the alcove, delivery route and clearance needed to open the door or lid, then check the connections and floor stability before choosing. A top-loader is best suited to a lack of width, while a compact front-loader may fit a shallow or low alcove. A washer-dryer can combine two functions when there’s also no room to dry laundry separately. If you’re considering one, compare the washing and drying capacities separately, as well as the stated energy and water consumption.
If width is your main constraint and you can keep the space above the appliance clear, compare top-loaders, taking their depth and lid clearance into account. Que Choisir Ensemble describes this format as narrow, although exact dimensions vary by model.
If you can access the appliance from the front, check its height, overall depth and door clearance. A smaller capacity may also mean doing more loads of laundry. Que Choisir Ensemble stresses the importance of choosing a capacity that suits your needs.
If you want two functions in the space available for one appliance, compare the drying capacity with the washing capacity: you may not be able to dry a full wash load in one go. Que Choisir Ensemble also notes that drying cycles take longer and can use water.
| Your concern | What to check | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Getting the appliance in and opening it | Measure the width, depth and height; check the delivery route and the clearance needed for the lid or door. | If your priority is fitting and opening the appliance in a narrow alcove, this constraint comes first; around 36% of consumers prioritise width and opening clearance above all else. |
| Fitting a shallow or low alcove | Compare the overall dimensions, any protruding parts and the door clearance; check the installation instructions for fitting the specific model under a worktop. | When depth or height limits your options, you need a front-loader that fits and opens in the available space; around 29% of consumers put this constraint first. |
| Drying without a separate appliance | Compare the washing and drying capacities separately, along with the overall depth and figures for the combined cycle. | If you don’t have space for a second appliance, the amount you can dry matters as much as the amount you can wash; around 21% of consumers prioritise drying in a single space. |
| Stability and noise | Check that the floor is level and sturdy, all four feet are supported, the connections are suitable and the model’s stated noise level is acceptable. | If vibration or noise could disrupt everyday life in your home, you need a stable installation and an acceptable noise level; around 14% of consumers prioritise these factors. |
Que Choisir Ensemble recommends using a compliant socket, a water supply, a drain and a flat, stable floor that can support the weight of the appliance. These checks are necessary whatever format you choose. If you’re unsure about the connections, have the installation checked by a professional.
The depth of the appliance body may differ from the overall depth, including protruding parts, and you’ll need even more room with the door open. LG’s specifications for the F852SV52IRS give a body depth of 47,5 cm, 53 cm including protruding parts and 101,5 cm with the door open.
Compare your available space with the full dimensions and clearances in the instructions for the model you’re considering.
If the appliance won’t fit, you may need to rearrange the space or choose another model.
Drying capacity may be lower than washing capacity. For example, LG’s specifications for the F852SV52IRS state a washing capacity of 8,5 kg and a drying capacity of 5 kg. Que Choisir Ensemble also points out that drying cycles take longer.
If you want to dry a load after washing it, plan around the stated drying capacity and check whether you’ll need to split the load.
Splitting a load can mean more cycles and more time; Que Choisir Ensemble also notes that water is used during drying.
A top-loader opens from above, while fitting a front-loader under a worktop depends on the specific model and its installation instructions. Bosch advises checking that its under-counter kit is compatible with the appliance.
Check the clearance needed for the lid or door and follow the model’s instructions. Don’t remove an appliance’s top unless the manufacturer provides a procedure for doing so.
You may need a different format or a different layout if the appliance won’t open or fit as planned.
As part of checking the intended location, make sure there’s a compliant socket, a water supply, a drain and a stable floor, as recommended in Que Choisir Ensemble’s installation advice.
Check these points before buying and make sure all four feet are properly supported on a flat, sturdy floor. If you’re unsure about the connections, have the installation checked rather than improvising.
The TDLR 62667 FR top-loader is an example of a format designed for spaces where width is a constraint.
The Mini Drum HW50-BP12307U1-S is an example of a compact front-loader marketed in France.
The F852SV52IRS is an example of a slim washer-dryer, useful for comparing the dimensions and capacities of both functions.
Bosch describes front-loading appliances and under-counter installation accessories whose compatibility depends on the model.
This selection features front-loading washing machines suited to space-constrained homes. Compare the dimensions listed with your available space and the instructions for each model; they don’t guarantee that an appliance will fit your home.
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Worth considering if a 7 kg front-loader suits your space; compare its full dimensions with your alcove before choosing.
The specifications state a depth of 59 cm, or 63,2 cm including the door. The top is listed as non-removable, so don’t plan to take it off for under-counter installation.
The product name indicates a spin speed of 1 400 rpm and an A energy rating.
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Worth comparing if the stated width of 465 mm suits your space constraints; check the full dimensions and clearances before buying.
The product name indicates a capacity of 9 kg and a spin speed of 1 400 rpm.
The description says to remove all four transit bolts and level the appliance before first use.
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Worth considering if you need a 10 kg washing capacity and the model fits your space; check the dimensions before choosing.
The product name indicates a spin speed of 1 400 rpm and 16 programmes.
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Worth comparing if you need a 10 kg washing capacity; check the dimensions of both the appliance and its intended space before choosing this model.
The product name indicates 16 programmes and a steam function.
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Worth comparing if space is limited in depth; the description states 48 cm, which you should compare with the overall dimensions and clearances available in your home.
The product name indicates a capacity of 8 kg and a steam function.
Measure the alcove, delivery route and clearance needed to open the appliance. Compare these measurements with the full dimensions and clearances in the instructions: the depth of the appliance body may not include protruding parts.
Don’t assume you can: whether it can be installed under a worktop depends on the model and its instructions. Bosch advises checking that its kit is compatible with the appliance. Follow the model’s instructions for installation and the required clearances.
Place the appliance on a flat, stable floor that can support its weight, and check that all four feet are properly supported. Que Choisir Ensemble also recommends leaving a gap between the appliance and neighbouring furniture. If you’re unsure about the connections, have the installation checked rather than improvising.
Simply installing a washing machine doesn’t determine whether you need permission. For tenants, Article 7 of the Act of 6 July 1989 requires the landlord’s written consent to alter the rented premises or equipment. For work in a block of flats that affects communal areas or the building’s external appearance, permission must be granted by the general meeting under Article 25 of the Act of 10 July 1965. Check the nature of the work you’re planning and the rules that apply to your home.