People with a very narrow space
If space is tight in your bathroom or kitchen, a top-loader could be worth considering, provided there’s room above for the lid. Que Choisir lists this format as an option for cramped spaces.
Who is this choice for?
People with limited depth
If a front-loader could work but there’s limited space in front of the machine, check both its depth and how far the door opens. Que Choisir highlights the importance of allowing enough room to load the machine.
Studio residents without a standard space for a washing machine
If a standard front-loader won’t fit because of width or height restrictions, a compact model may be worth considering. You’ll still need to balance its size, access to the door and a capacity that suits your usual laundry loads.
What to check
First, identify which dimension limits where you can install the machine. Then check that the format you’ve chosen suits your laundry needs and leaves enough room to load it.
| What matters | What to check | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Width and access from above | Measure the available width and height; check the lid’s open height in the manual. | If my space is very narrow, I’ll consider a top-loader, while keeping the area above it clear. Around 36% of consumers prioritise the available width. |
| Depth and door clearance | Compare the machine’s depth with the pipes, walkway and space needed to open the door fully. | If there’s room for a front-loader but space in front is tight, I’ll check its depth with the door open. Around 29% of consumers put depth first. |
| Capacity in a compact size | Compare the capacity in kg with your usual loads, including bulky items, then check the model’s dimensions. | If I’m looking for the smallest possible model without compromising too much on useful capacity, I’ll compare both factors together. Around 21% of consumers prioritise this balance. |
| Alternative location or stacking | Measure the new space; if stacking the appliances, check that both machines and the stacking kit are compatible, as specified in their manuals. | If another location or a stacked setup might work, I’ll first check the dimensions and compatibility of the exact models. Around 14% of consumers prioritise this type of installation. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Relying only on the stated width or depth
The dimensions of the closed appliance don’t confirm that there’ll be enough room for the lid or door, connections and access for loading.
Also measure the delivery route and compare your measurements with the manual for the exact model, with the lid or door open.
If the appliance can’t get through the available access route or be installed in your chosen space, delivery or installation may not be possible.
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Choosing the smallest drum without considering your laundry
A capacity that’s too small for your usual loads could mean running more cycles. A larger capacity than you need isn’t automatically an advantage, either.
Think about the laundry you actually wash, and especially how much room bulky items need. ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that meets your needs.
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Planning to stack appliances without checking the models and kit
Compatibility depends on the exact washing machine, tumble dryer and stacking kit. A depth requirement listed for a kit doesn’t, by itself, confirm that your setup is compatible.
Before buying, check all three model references in their respective instructions. Bosch advises checking that both appliances are compatible before stacking them.
An unsuitable kit could prevent you from creating the stack you planned.
Brands to consider by format
Electrolux
The EW6T5127CE top-loader is an example of an option for a narrow space.
- Electrolux France lists this model as 400 mm wide, with a capacity of 7 kg.
- The lid needs clearance above the machine. Check its height when open against your available space.
Candy
The BP 48SBL6-S front-loader is worth considering when depth is restricted.
- Candy France lists this model’s cabinet depth as 488 mm and its capacity as 8 kg.
- That measurement alone doesn’t tell you how much room you’ll need to open the door or allow for connections. It also doesn’t confirm that the machine can be installed under a worktop or stacked.
Haier
The Mini Drum HW50-BP12307U1-S is a compact front-loader to consider when both height and width are restricted.
- Haier France lists this model’s dimensions as 510 × 492 × 700 mm and its capacity as 5 kg.
- Check that 5 kg suits your laundry needs, and allow room for front access and connections.
Bosch
The WAN2827QFR front-loader is an example of a standard installation. You should only consider a stacking kit after checking compatibility.
- Bosch Home Appliances France lists this model’s dimensions as 845 × 598 × 590 mm and its maximum capacity as 8 kg.
- Bosch specifies that the 17007417 kit is for washing machines with a depth of over 55 cm. This doesn’t confirm that it’s compatible with any particular appliance.
Whirlpool
The TDLR6242SFR/N top-loader is another format to compare when width is your main constraint.
- Whirlpool France lists this model as 40 cm wide, with a capacity of 6 kg.
- The product details also list a depth of 60 cm: a narrow width doesn’t mean a shallow machine. Remember to allow room to open the lid, too.
Options for small spaces on Joybuy
The options below include front-loading washing machines and a portable mini washing machine. Compare the stated dimensions with your available space, and check that the type of appliance suits your laundry needs.
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CHiQ JW95883G, front-loading washing machine, 9 kg
Worth considering if you’re looking for a front-loader with a stated width of 465 mm.
The product title lists a capacity of 9 kg, a 530 mm drum and a spin speed of 1400 RPM.
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CHiQ JW105883G, front-loading washing machine, 10 kg
Worth comparing if you’re looking for a front-loading washing machine and its stated capacity suits your usual loads.
The product title lists a capacity of 10 kg, a 530 mm drum, a spin speed of 1400 RPM and 16 programmes.
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Foldable portable mini washing machine, 10 L
Worth considering if you’re looking for a foldable portable appliance rather than a conventional front-loading washing machine.
The product title lists a capacity of 10 L, three cycle times of 2, 5 and 10 minutes, a power rating of 40 W and a speed of 320 RPM.
Frequently asked questions
Will a 40 cm-wide washing machine definitely fit in a 40 cm space?
No. The 400 mm listed by Electrolux France for the EW6T5127CE is the machine’s width. It doesn’t include the clearance needed or the height of the lid when open. Before choosing, compare the manual with the actual measurements of your space.
Can you put a tumble dryer on top of any front-loading washing machine?
No. Bosch Home Appliances France advises checking that the two models can be stacked and that the kit is suitable for the models in question. For its 17007417 kit, Bosch specifies a washing machine depth of over 55 cm. This isn’t a blanket approval for all appliances or kits.
How do you choose the capacity of a compact washing machine?
Compare the stated capacity in kg with your usual loads, including bulky items, rather than simply choosing the smallest appliance. ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that meets your needs; Que Choisir notes that a drum that’s too small can mean running more cycles.
How do you compare the energy use and noise levels of two models?
Compare the information on their energy labels, including energy use per 100 cycles, noise levels and spin-cycle details. ADEME recommends taking these factors into account. The figures on the label don’t guarantee the energy use or noise level of each programme you run.
What should you do if a new washing machine bought from a professional seller isn’t as described?
In France, you can claim under the legal guarantee of conformity from the professional seller. The French Ministry of the Economy says you have two years to make a claim for a new product. Any additional commercial warranty offered doesn’t replace this legal guarantee.