In a studio flat, start by identifying what you’re short of: depth, which may call for a slim front-loading model; width or clearance in front of the machine, which may suit a top-loader; or space to dry your washing, which a washer-dryer can help with. Also measure the delivery route, the door opening and the connections before comparing capacities. If installation would require work that you can’t arrange, a laundrette or equipment rental may be better suited to your home.
If you have a shallow alcove, a slim front-loading washing machine is worth considering, provided there’s enough width. You’ll still need to be able to open the door and access the connections. UFC-Que Choisir notes that the slim models it describes retain a width of around 60 cm.
A top-loading washing machine avoids the need for clearance to open a front door. This format can suit a space where width or room in front of the appliance limits your options, as long as there’s enough room above it to open the lid.
A washer-dryer combines both functions without needing space for a separate tumble dryer. However, UFC-Que Choisir points out that its drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity, so you may need to split a washed load before drying it.
Each format addresses a particular space constraint, but you’ll still need to check the usable capacity and whether the appliance can be installed. Here’s how to compare the options before taking measurements.
Worth considering: if you’re short on depth but have enough width and room to open the door.
What to bear in mind: the drum may be more limited in size. The slim models described by UFC-Que Choisir are 33 to 45 cm deep while retaining a width of around 60 cm.
Worth considering: if you’re short on width or space in front of the appliance, but can keep the top clear.
What to bear in mind: the lid needs room to open upwards, so this format isn’t suitable beneath a fixed worktop.
Worth considering: if drying your washing at home matters as much as washing it, and there’s little room for a second appliance or a clothes airer.
What to bear in mind: according to UFC-Que Choisir, drying capacity is lower than washing capacity. Cycles may take longer, and drying uses water and energy.
Worth considering: if your space or connections won’t accommodate a washing machine at home without alterations that need to be assessed.
What to bear in mind: doing your washing will mean arranging a trip or access to equipment that isn’t always available at home.
| Factor | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Size and access | Measure the delivery route, the full space available and the clearance needed to open the door or lid. | If the machine could block the way, I need to be able to get it into the room and load the washing without making the space awkward to use; around 33% of consumers make access a priority. |
| Washing capacity | Compare your usual loads, including fabrics you wash separately, with the capacity allowed by the programmes you’ll use. | If I do laundry regularly, I want to avoid running extra cycles without choosing a drum that’s too large for my loads; around 27% of consumers put suitable capacity first. |
| Drying your washing | For a washer-dryer, check the washing and drying capacities separately for the model you’re considering. | If there’s nowhere practical to dry washing, I want to dry it at home without adding a second appliance; around 20% of consumers prioritise this need. |
| Installation options | Check the water inlet, waste outlet and suitable electrical supply, as well as any alterations that may need to be assessed. | If I’m unsure about the connections in my home, I need to decide whether a fixed appliance is feasible before buying one; around 20% of consumers prioritise whether installation is possible. |
A drum that’s too small can mean more cycles, while a large capacity used for small loads may not be right for your needs either. UFC-Que Choisir says that 5 to 7 kg is generally enough for one person or a couple, depending on the loads and programmes you use.
Think about what you actually wash, especially fabrics you wash separately, before settling on a stated capacity.
A washer-dryer may not be able to dry a full load straight after washing it: UFC-Que Choisir lists separate capacities for washing and drying.
Compare both figures for the specific model and be prepared to reduce the load or take some washing out if you want to run a wash and drying cycle back to back.
Even if the appliance fits the alcove, doors, the machine’s opening or access to the water supply and waste outlet could prevent installation. Electrolux France explains in its pre-installation guide that its installation service doesn’t carry out plumbing, electrical or carpentry work.
Check the delivery route, the space and existing connections before ordering. Have any necessary alterations assessed.
Any work that needs doing could delay installation.
Adding connections may involve more than simply installing an appliance. ANIL distinguishes alterations to rented premises or equipment, for which the landlord’s written consent should be taken into account.
Before making changes to your home, explain the plan to your landlord and check the building’s rules if shared areas or pipes are involved.
These models are included as examples of the top-loading format, not to compare brands overall. Check the dimensions and capacity of each specific model.
The Electrolux EW6T4613HA is among the top-loading models for small spaces cited by UFC-Que Choisir.
The AEG LTR8C7331A is another top-loading model cited by UFC-Que Choisir.
The Whirlpool TDLR6253BFR is listed by UFC-Que Choisir among its top-loading models.
Measure the delivery route and the available width and depth, then check the space needed to open the door or lid and reach the connections. UFC-Que Choisir says that the slim front-loaders it describes reduce depth to 33–45 cm while retaining a width of around 60 cm. You’ll still need to check the specifications of the model you choose.
Not if the washed load is larger than its drying capacity. UFC-Que Choisir says the maximum drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity. Compare both figures for the model you’re considering before planning a wash-and-dry cycle without taking any washing out.
Don’t use an extension lead to install a washing machine. Promotelec recommends plugging it directly into a dedicated circuit. If the existing electrical supply isn’t suitable, have it assessed rather than replacing a suitable socket with an extension lead.
It may be possible, depending on the location and the bathroom’s electrical installation. Promotelec notes in particular that the appliance must be earthed and supplied by a circuit protected by a 30 mA residual-current device. If you’re unsure, have the proposed location checked.
Check with your landlord whether the project would alter the rented premises or equipment, and get their written consent before making any changes. ANIL also recommends checking the building’s rules if the project could affect pipes or shared areas.