How to choose a washing machine by size?

Installing a washing machine isn't as simple as it seems. You need to find a suitable location in your apartment for the unit, ensuring easy access to utilities, level the floors, and carefully take measurements to select a washing machine based on its dimensions. Even the loading type—top or bottom—is important, as the dimensions of these machines vary significantly. There are quite a few subtleties involved.

Dimensions of front-loading washing machines

Front-loading machines are more common, so let's start with them. A niche for this type of washing machine should be at least 60 centimeters wide and at least 85 centimeters high. Depth is a bit more complex, as it depends on the load volume and the drum design. There are shallow washing machines (starting at 33 centimeters), although the average depth starts at 45 cm. Larger units with a load capacity of 10-12 kg can be as deep as they are wide – starting at 60 cm. Machines with a load capacity over 7 kg are always very deep, so they won't fit into a narrow niche.

Important! When choosing a niche for the washing machine, consider that the drain hoses will be located in the back, so add at least 5 centimeters to the depth of the intended washing machine. The same applies to the niche width; it's best to choose a little extra.

The space around the unit should be as spacious as possible, as the machine will wobble during the spin cycle, and if it is pressed too close to the walls, this will have a negative impact on both its internal components and the body's coating. Also, don't forget that front-loading machines open from the front, so there should be enough space in front of the machine to open the hatch, get to it, get laundry, and so on. Let's give an example of how to plan a place for a car.

• Let's look at the F-1096SD3 model from LG. Its dimensions are 60x85x36 (WxHxD).
• This means that the height of the niche (if, for example, you want to place the machine under the countertop) should be at least 87 cm.
• The depth of the niche is at least 40, and maybe even 50 centimeters, since the protruding parts of the machine also add to the dimensions.
• The width of the space is not less than 65 centimeters.

Typically, a larger depth is chosen for aesthetic reasons. If part of the washing machine protrudes from a three-sided niche, it doesn't look very aesthetically pleasing. And from a practical standpoint, it's better to create more space than to have to redo the furniture or choose a new washing machine later.

Dimensions of top-loading washing machines

Fitting a top-loading washing machine into cabinetry is more challenging because its access hatch is located above. Some people resort to using special folding countertops, but this installation method isn't suitable for everyone.

The vast majority of vertical washers are 40 centimeters wide, so there's no need to create a large niche for them, as they don't move much during operation. The depth of vertical washers is also standard, typically no more than 60 centimeters. The only difference between vertical washers is their height, but again, the average height ranges from 87.5 to 90 cm.

Not everyone likes front-loading machines, as they can be used as shelves, used to store light items, or hung above the machine. However, as you can see, finding space for a front-loading machine is a bit more difficult and requires more careful preparation.

   

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