To increase the functionality of the bathroom and save valuable space in the kitchen, many residents of Khrushchev-era apartments opt for installing the washing machine under the sink. This option may not be the best, but when there's truly nowhere to put the machine, it's manageable. And if done correctly, there won't be any discomfort. And most importantly, you need to choose the right washing machine, which is what we'll discuss below.
Selecting sizes
The main criterion for choosing an under-sink washing machine will be its size.
The depth of automatic washing machines varies from 33 to 82 cm, so it's clear that if you install a machine that's too large, there won't be enough space, and it'll be difficult to get to the sink. Therefore, the optimal depth is 50 cm, provided that the sink will have a maximum depth of 60 cm. If the sink is smaller, then the washing machine should also be narrower, so that there is a gap for the communications behind the back wall.
The height of the washing machine cannot exceed 70 cm. If you install a 17 cm high sink above a standard 82-85 cm high washing machine, it will be extremely difficult for a short person to wash, and children will be unable to reach the faucet at all. The solution is to add a stool.
As for the width of the washing machine, it is not important here. Everything will depend on location.
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The selection of compact machines suitable for under-sink installation is limited. Here are some of the automatic washing machines available:
The Candy Aquamatic 1D835-07 is a Russian-assembled washing machine from a renowned Italian brand. Its depth is 46 cm and its height is 70 cm, making it ideal for bathroom installation. It has a dry laundry capacity of 3.5 kg and a spin speed of 800 rpm. It features 16 wash programs, allowing you to wash a variety of fabrics. This washing machine retails for approximately $170.
The Zanussi FCS1020C is an Italian-made washing machine with a load capacity of just 3 kg. It measures 52 cm deep and 57 cm high. It spins laundry at 1000 rpm. The washing machine is small, but the price is impressive - about $340.
The ELECTROLUX EWC 1350 is a Polish-assembled washing machine with a 3 kg load capacity and a 1300 rpm spin speed. It measures 57 cm in height and 52 cm in depth. It offers 15 washing modes, enough to thoroughly clean a variety of items and linens. The machine features intelligent controls and costs approximately $360.
The Eurosoba 1100 Sprint is perhaps the most expensive compact washing machine, made in Switzerland. Like previous machines, it has a load capacity of only 3 kg and a spin speed of 1100 rpm. It lacks leak protection, which makes it a bit of a hassle to buy, considering its price of $510.
Please note! Small washing machines are quite expensive, and are typically manufactured in Europe.
Which sink to choose?
To combine a sink with a washing machine in the bathroom, you need to choose the right sink. A standard sink with a low base is unsuitable for this purpose, both technically and aesthetically. It's essential to choose a "lily pad" sink, which has a maximum height of 20 cm. The drain in these sinks can be horizontal or vertical. The best option is one where the drain does not touch the appliance, as your safety depends on it. This is a horizontal drain located closer to the wall.
Please note: Water Lily sinks have a special siphon that will be located behind the back wall of the washing machine.
There are two types of water lilies: light and uni. Unlike the uni, the light water lily has no tap hole and is more elegant in shape. A special type of sink, the light-luxe, is distinguished by its quality and appearance, and is correspondingly more expensive.
According to the shape of the sink above the washing machine, there are:
square;
rectangular;
with rounded corners;
round;
oval.
Particularly popular are "water lily" sinks combined with a countertop, on which you can place various small items.
Pros and cons of such an installation
When installing a washing machine under the sink, you need to carefully weigh all the pros and cons. It's worth noting that there aren't many advantages to this type of installation:
Firstly, this type of placement allows you to save space;
Secondly, it gives the bathroom a modern look, which many people find stylish and attractive, although this is subjective.
There are quite a few downsides that are worth paying attention to:
You can’t wash bulky items in a small machine: down jackets, blankets, rugs;
Most small machines have a B wash quality;
Water lily pads with horizontal drains are more likely to become clogged;
When washing, there is a risk of water getting on the washing machine, or more precisely, on the control board, which can lead to equipment failure;
Installing a washing machine with a depth of 50 cm may cause inconvenience when washing;
During installation, you will need a special siphon, which will have to be purchased separately, and it is not so easy to find.
If you have no other space for a washing machine than under the bathroom sink, consider this option carefully. Plan every detail to avoid inconvenience when using both the sink and the washing machine.
To increase the functionality of the bathroom and save valuable space in the kitchen, many residents of Khrushchev-era apartments opt for installing the washing machine under the sink. This option may not be the best, but when there's truly nowhere to put the machine, it's manageable. And if done correctly, there won't be any discomfort. And most importantly, you need to choose the right washing machine, which is what we'll discuss below.
I love my Indesit washing machine. It's very compact and a pleasure to use.