Choose a format based on the dimension that’s actually limiting your installation: a top-loading washing machine is best for a lack of width, while a slimline front-loader takes up less depth but won’t necessarily help if access is narrow. If you’re installing it under a worktop, check that the model is designed for this. In a bathroom in France, also check the positioning and electrical protection requirements set out by Promotelec.
The best place to start isn’t capacity alone, but how much room the machine can take up without getting in the way.
If width is limited or a porthole door would obstruct the way, compare a top-loading machine with other formats that fit the space. Make sure there’s enough room above it to open the lid, though: top-loading models described by Que Choisir are generally 40 to 46 cm wide.
Measure the available height and depth, then distinguish between a front-loader designed to fit under a worktop and a model designed to take a cabinet door. Bosch describes a removable top as a feature of specific under-worktop models, not all front-loaders.
If there’s enough width for a front-loader but space in front of the machine is tight, check the model’s depth and the room needed to open its door. A model described as “slim” still needs to be checked against these measurements, as well as the capacity that suits your household’s laundry.
Start by measuring the space and the areas needed to open the machine. Then compare the capacity and installation type of the models that will work there day to day.
| What to consider | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Width and opening space | Measure the width of the space and the access route; allow room in front for a porthole door to open, or above for a lid. Que Choisir gives a width of 40 to 46 cm for top-loading models. | My access route is narrow: I’m interested in a narrower machine, as long as its lid can open freely. |
| Depth | Compare the appliance’s depth with the space actually available, then check any protruding parts, connections and the door when open. Que Choisir describes shallow front-loaders as 33 to 45 cm deep, while noting that they retain a standard width of around 60 cm. | I have enough width for a front-loader, but don’t want the machine or its door to obstruct the way. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated capacity in kg with your usual load sizes and bulky items; check the capacity of the specific model rather than assuming it from its format. | Saving space shouldn’t make it difficult to load my usual laundry. |
| Installation under a worktop | Check the height of the space and the installation instructions; confirm whether the model is designed to have its top removed or to take a cabinet door. These are two different types of installation. | I need the machine to fit under the worktop. If I want a cabinet door, I need to choose a model designed to take one. |
| Bathroom | In France, Promotelec states that a washing machine must be outside electrical zones 0, 1 and 2, and the hidden zone; it must also be earthed and protected by a 30 mA RCD. | If I’m installing it near a shower or bath, I want the position and circuit checked before choosing a model. |
A machine may fit in its space but still block a walkway when the door is open. A top-loader avoids the need for clearance in front, but needs room above.
Note the width, height, usable depth and opening space before comparing programmes or capacities.
A front-loader designed to fit under a worktop with its top removed isn’t necessarily designed to take a decorative cabinet door.
Check the instructions for the exact model and confirm the height, door-fixing system and accessories required for your cabinetry.
A smaller capacity can make it harder to wash bulky items and may mean splitting one load across several cycles.
Compare the compact model’s capacity with your usual laundry loads and with larger models that still fit the available space.
Having floor space available doesn’t mean that a spot near a shower or bath is suitable. Promotelec sets out requirements for electrical zones, earthing and 30 mA RCD protection.
Have the location and circuit checked if the existing installation needs to be altered.
The examples below show different dimensions and installation types. Always compare the manufacturers’ specifications with the actual space available.
Electrolux France product pages let you compare several formats: top-loading, slimline front-loading, freestanding front-loading and built-in.
Bosch Home Appliances France distinguishes between under-worktop models with removable tops and fully integrated washing machines.
When LG France describes the F92SR50WHS as “slim”, check what that means alongside its stated depth.
This option is for choosing a machine to fit a compact space. Before deciding, check its installation dimensions and door clearance against your kitchen or bathroom.
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If depth is your main concern, compare this model’s overall dimensions and door clearance with the space available. It has a stated capacity of 8 kg; check the instructions before installing it under a worktop or in a bathroom.
Measure the width, height and usable depth, taking connections and the space in front of the machine into account. Allow room for the porthole door to open or, for a top-loader, for the lid to open above the machine. Then compare your measurements with the instructions for the exact model.
No: having enough height doesn’t necessarily mean the machine will fit. Check that the manufacturer approves this type of installation. If you want to fit a cabinet door to the machine, choose a model designed for integration. Bosch, for example, distinguishes between under-worktop models with removable tops and fully integrated models.
Consider one when other formats that meet your needs won’t fit in the available space. Check the model’s stated capacity and consider whether it suits your usual loads, especially bulky items.
Yes, provided you follow the positioning and electrical protection requirements set out by Promotelec: the machine must be outside zones 0, 1 and 2, and the hidden zone; it must be earthed and protected by a 30 mA RCD. If the circuit or layout needs to change, ask a qualified electrician to check the plans.