Gap between the sink and the washing machine

It can be challenging to locate your washing machine in the ideal location, particularly if there is limited room. A lot of people wind up putting it directly beside the sink. But this arrangement frequently results in a tiny but noticeable space between the washing machine and the sink.

Though it might not seem like a big deal at first, that little space can quickly grow annoying. Maintaining a clean and organized space becomes challenging due to the infiltration of dust, water, and small objects. In the long run, taking care of this problem can save you time and effort.

Fortunately, there are easy and efficient ways to close the space and give your laundry room a more seamless appearance. Making your space neat and functional is easier than you might think, whether you’re looking for a temporary fix or a longer-term solution.

The location of the sink and the machine

Typically, a sink intended for installation over a "home assistant" is not like other sinks with shallower depths. Such a sink can only rise to a maximum of 20 centimeters, which is sufficient to fully enclose the washing machine underneath. It’s also important to keep in mind that in order to keep moisture from the sink from seeping into the household appliances, the edges of the sink must extend at least 2 and preferably 5 centimeters beyond the perimeter of the washing machine’s top panel.

Additionally, there should be a space between the sink and the machine; installation guidelines state that this space must be one centimeter or greater, although most often it is only 0.5 centimeters or less. This separation is required to prevent the delicate sink from being harmed by intense vibrations from electrical equipment. The same holds true for the side walls of the appliance: a minimum of one centimeter should separate the washing machine from adjacent items like a bathtub or shower stall.

Since the washing machine can jump from side to side during the spin cycle, it is best to leave at least 2 centimeters between it and other objects. This could cause scratches or break delicate bathroom fixtures.

Additionally, a space of at least 6 centimeters should exist behind the washing machine, depending on the siphon, to allow the hoses and siphon to be positioned freely behind the body. If the sink or other design elements prevent you from leaving a space behind the machine body, you can still make a small niche for all the hoses by cutting a groove in the wall. The hoses should never be locked into a niche; they should always be left open.

It is essential to leave enough space between a washing machine and sink when installing one next to the other in order to prevent water damage, allow for adequate ventilation, and minimize vibrations that could harm both appliances. This space also allows for cleaning and maintenance, which helps to maintain your laundry room or bathroom and the lifespan of your washing machine.

Pros and cons of placing a sink above the machine

In a small home or studio, installing a sink over the laundry machine is a great way to maximize space. A clever solution like this would free up space that could be used for other equipment or to make a cozy passageway in the hallway—a common area in small apartments where machines are kept. Furthermore, the ornamental panel typically complements the interior design far better than the dull, conventional washing machine design.

Combining a sink with a machine does have one drawback, though: there is a higher chance of using an electrical appliance. In actuality, professionals recommend against ever positioning electrical appliances in a way that could cause them to come into contact with water. The washing machine will be inundated with water in the case of a pipe break or damage to the sink, seeping into the areas where the appliance is not protected from moisture.

In the event of such an emergency, there is a chance that the user could get an electric shock in addition to significant harm to the apparatus. Craftspeople attempt to install only specific sinks with a siphon placed closer to the wall rather than in the middle of the bowl in order to avoid this from happening. In this instance, the electrical gadget won’t be harmed by the leak. This kind of sink is commonly referred to as a "water lily."

Moreover, keep in mind that installing washing machines beneath sinks that have standard 85-centimeter heights is difficult. In this scenario, the device’s panel will obstruct your ability to approach the sink, and the structure’s height may annoy small children and people of low stature.

Problem Solution
Not enough space for both sink and washing machine Choose a compact sink and a slim washing machine
Water splashing onto the washing machine Install a protective barrier or splash guard
Sink and washing machine height mismatch Adjust the sink height or opt for a lower-profile washing machine
Difficulty accessing the washing machine due to the sink Consider placing the sink to the side rather than directly above

There is more to this than just aesthetics involved in filling in the space between your sink and washing machine. It’s about keeping your house safe and functional, making the most of the available space, and avoiding damage. The important thing is to fix the gap before it gets worse, whether you go for a more involved option like custom fittings or a more straightforward one like silicone sealant.

Sealing this gap properly will help stop water leaks behind your washing machine, which can cause expensive problems like mildew and mold. You can keep your laundry or bathroom area neat and tidy and prolong the life of your appliances by acting now.

Remember this little detail. In the long run, even a small area can lead to larger issues, so figuring out the best solution now will save you time and trouble later. Select the approach that best suits your configuration, and take pleasure in a tidy, well-kept area.

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Dmitry Kuznetsov

Technical consultant and blogger. I have always been passionate about technology and enjoy learning how various equipment works. On this site I share my knowledge about washing machines, offer advice on caring for them and talk about new products on the market.

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