Choose a size based on the space available once the machine is connected and open, then match the capacity to your usual loads. A slim front-loader is best when depth is limited, while a top-loader suits narrower spaces. A standard front-loader may fit under a worktop if you can still access the door, whereas a mini washing machine is better for small loads when other types cannot be installed. If you’re planning to put it in a bathroom, have the electrical arrangements checked before you buy.
If there’s enough width for a front-loader but not enough depth, look at slim models and remember to leave space in front of the door. Que Choisir gives 5 to 7 kg as a general guide for one person or a couple, depending on your usual laundry needs.
A top-loader may be a good fit if its lid can open fully and there’s no worktop or low cupboard above it.
If the dimensions, connections or available clearance rule out both a front-loader and a top-loader, a mini washing machine can handle small loads. It may not be suitable for all the household’s laundry, though.
First, work out whether your main constraint is depth, width or the lack of space for a standard-sized machine. Then compare your laundry loads with the space you’ll actually have when loading the machine.
Consider it: under a worktop, if the space and clearance in front of the door allow.
Bear in mind: the open door and connections need more room than the machine itself.
Consider it: when there isn’t enough depth, but there’s still room for the width of a front-loader.
Bear in mind: you’ll still need clearance in front of the door.
Consider it: when width is the main constraint and there’s nothing above the machine.
Bear in mind: the lid means it can’t go under a worktop.
Consider it: for small loads when no standard-sized machine will fit.
Bear in mind: you may need another washing solution for bulky items.
| Factor | What to check before buying | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Overall size | Measure the space and remaining access route, then allow extra room for the connections. | If the machine gets in the way, I need to choose based on the dimension that’s actually limited: width or depth. Around 31% of shoppers with this concern would put size at the top of their list. |
| Capacity | Compare your usual loads with the stated capacity and check the limits of the programmes you plan to use. | I want to wash my everyday laundry without running extra cycles because the drum is too small; this would be the priority for around 25% of shoppers with this concern. |
| Installation | Check where the water supply, drain and socket are; consult the model’s instructions and have the electrical arrangements checked if installing it in a bathroom. | Before choosing a size, I need to know that I can connect and install the machine in the space available. This would be the main consideration for around 25% of shoppers with this concern. |
| Access to laundry | Check that the door or lid can open fully and that you have enough room to load the machine. | A machine that fits the space isn’t right for me if I can’t open it easily; nearly 19% of shoppers with this concern would prioritise access to the laundry. |
A machine that’s too small could mean running more cycles. Que Choisir generally puts the needs of one person or a couple at around 5 to 7 kg, depending on the laundry to be washed.
Estimate the size of your loads and how often you do the washing before reducing capacity to save space.
A slim model still needs room in front for its door to open; a top-loader needs enough clear space above it. Hoses also take up room once the machine is connected.
Measure the space in all three dimensions and compare it with the model’s installation diagram, including when the machine is open.
Having enough room doesn’t mean the electrical supply and location are suitable, particularly near a shower or bath.
Have the electrical installation and location checked before ordering. Don’t alter the connection to get around a space constraint.
Adapting the installation may require a professional.
Its small capacity limits the size of each load and can make bulky items difficult to wash.
Choose one for small loads when standard-sized machines won’t fit. For a wall-mounted model, also check the manufacturer’s requirements for fixing it in place.
Plan another way to wash items that won’t fit in the machine.
The French range includes the EW6S1064NA slim front-loader and the EW8T3653BA top-loader.
The LTR8C7331A top-loader is an example of a narrower option.
The WAJ28077FR front-loader gives you a point of comparison for the dimensions of this type of machine.
The TDLR55140SFR top-loader is an example of a model designed for spaces where width is limited.
This top-loading model is worth considering if width is restricting access and the lid can open freely. Compare its capacity with your usual loads too, and check the installation dimensions in the instructions.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a top-loading machine and have enough height to open the lid.
Stated capacity: 6 kg; stated spin speed: 1 400 tr/min. The product description lists a B rating, an Inverter motor, Wi-Fi and 17 programmes.
Before buying, check the instructions for the space needed to open the lid, the installed dimensions and the connections. If you’re installing it in a bathroom, have the electrical arrangements checked too.
Yes, provided the model is suitable for this type of installation and there’s enough room for its dimensions, connections and door to open. Check the installation diagram for the exact model rather than relying on its stated depth alone.
Have the location and electrical supply checked before buying, especially if the machine will be near a shower or bath. You’ll also need to allow enough room for the connections and to open the machine.
The machine fitting in the cupboard isn’t enough on its own. Have the electrical location checked, including with the doors open, and make sure there’s room for the hoses and access to the machine.
Place it on a hard, level floor, adjust the feet and remove the transit bolts as instructed in the manual. AEG also notes that an unevenly distributed load or overloading can cause the machine to become unbalanced.