Choose a format based on the dimension you’re short of: a top-loading washing machine takes up less width, while a slimline front-loader takes up less depth. For an under-worktop or stacked installation, measuring the space isn’t enough. Check the door opening, connections and stated compatibility of the appliances and their accessories too.
If width is limited, look at top-loading models; if depth is the issue, consider slimline front-loaders. Que Choisir distinguishes between these two constraints: a slimline front-loader is generally close to 60 cm wide.
Having enough height doesn’t necessarily mean a front-loader can be installed under a worktop. Check that the manual allows this type of installation and specifies any accessories you might need.
To place a tumble dryer above a washing machine, check the model numbers and dimensions of both appliances, the stacking kit and the stability of the installation area.
First rule out any formats that won’t allow proper installation and access; then compare the features of the models that remain suitable.
| What to consider | What to check | My needs |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions and opening space | Measure the width, depth and height separately, then check how much room is needed to open the door or lid. Que Choisir gives approximate widths of 40 to 46 cm for top-loaders and depths of 33 to 45 cm for slimline front-loaders, which are generally close to 60 cm wide. | My space is narrow, or access in front of the machine is limited. I want to be able to install the appliance and load the washing without blocking access. |
| Connections and flooring | Check the locations of the socket, water inlet and drain; review the manual’s requirements and make sure the appliance can stand on a flat, stable floor. Also check the route to the installation area. | Before delivery, I want to know whether the appliance can be connected and installed properly where I intend to put it. |
| Under-worktop or stacked installation | For an under-worktop installation, look for explicit approval in the manual and check whether a kit is required. For a stacked setup, Que Choisir recommends two front-loading appliances with compatible dimensions. Confirm that the kit suits the model numbers you’ve chosen and that there’s enough height for the tumble dryer above. | I’d like to free up floor space or use the area under a worktop, without assuming that two appliances with similar dimensions will be compatible. |
| Use and durability | Once the installation is confirmed, compare the capacity you need for your washing, as well as the energy, water and noise figures for each model. The European energy label uses a scale from A to G; in France, the durability index applicable to washing machines since 5 April 2025 is a score out of 10, according to ADEME and French public information. | If several models fit the space, I’d like to compare their capacity and usage information rather than choosing based on dimensions alone. |
A slimline front-loader takes up less depth, but its width may not solve the problem if your space is narrow.
Note down the three available dimensions and the space needed to open the appliance before comparing a top-loader with a front-loader.
A height that looks suitable doesn’t guarantee that the top of the appliance can be removed or that its components will remain protected.
Check the manual for the exact model to confirm that it can be installed under a worktop and whether a kit is required.
Que Choisir recommends front-loading appliances with compatible dimensions. Electrolux kit documentation shows that compatibility can also depend on the depth and exact model number of the appliances.
Check both model numbers with the kit manufacturer, then make sure there’s enough height, the floor is stable and the connections are accessible.
A capacity that suits your usual washing won’t make up for an appliance that blocks the door or sticks out beyond its space.
Check the format and installation first, then compare the capacities of models that fit your space.
This freestanding model lets you wash and dry your clothes in one appliance. Compare its dimensions with your available space, and check the manual if you’re planning an under-worktop installation or another special setup.
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If you’re looking to wash and dry your clothes in one appliance, compare this model’s dimensions with your available space and the room needed to open it. Its stated capacities are 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. Check the manual for any under-worktop installation or use with another appliance.
Measure the available width, depth and height, as well as the space needed to open a door or lift a lid. Also check the delivery route, the location of the socket and water connections, and the clearances required by the manual.
Not necessarily. According to Que Choisir, a slimline front-loader is generally close to 60 cm wide and takes up less depth, at around 33 to 45 cm. If width is your main constraint, consider top-loading models instead, which are generally around 40 to 46 cm wide.
Only if the documentation for that specific model allows this type of installation. Bosch describes models with removable tops and advises checking that its under-worktop kits are compatible. Follow the manual rather than removing the top of just any front-loader.
Check that both appliances are front-loading, that their dimensions suit the stacking kit and that the tumble dryer will sit above the washing machine. Confirm which model numbers the kit manufacturer approves, and check the floor is stable and there’s enough height.
It’s a score out of 10 that takes repairability and reliability into account, among other factors. According to ADEME and French public information, the index has applied to relevant washing machines since 5 April 2025. French regulations on displaying the index allow the score to include one decimal place.