Sizes and types of washing machines: choosing front and vertical

Your laundry routine may be greatly impacted by your selection of washing machine. Finding the ideal fit for your home requires knowledge of the sizes and types of the numerous options available.

Although there are many different types of washing machines, front-loading and top-loading models are the most popular. Each type has advantages of its own, and the best option will rely on your laundry needs, preferences, and available space.

Understanding the distinctions between these types will assist you in making an informed choice, regardless of whether you’re searching for a machine with particular features or are working with limited space.

Types of washing machine configurations

Certainly, the size of automatic washers in addition to their functional characteristics (e.g., maximum load, ability to dry or iron).D.) They consider the significance when making a decision.

Apart from the machine’s necessary dimensions to fit into a kitchen cabinet or an oversized bathroom, there are additional indications that indicate its functionality.

While most of us have long since come to terms with the necessity of a washing machine, a few decades ago people would have considered such a model to be novel as there were only top-loading models available.

They had no automation and would not stop jumping around the apartment.

Although front-loading washing machines are wildly popular, you can still purchase a top-loading, automatic machine that is just as modern and high-quality today.

On the market, the following configurations are available:

  1. Front (horizontal). In the case of horizontal loading machines, you will have to take into account many nuances with the dimensions and access to the hatch itself.
  2. Vertical (hatch from above). Of course, the dimensions of vertical loading washing machines are slightly different from the previous ones, since they take up less space, but are completely unsuitable for installation in cabinets.

Understanding the distinctions between front-loading and top-loading washing machines is essential when selecting one, as each style has advantages of its own in terms of size, effectiveness, and convenience, making it simpler to locate the ideal match for your laundry requirements and available space.

What are the sizes of washing machines

The machine is essentially universal in size, just like anything else. The three primary dimensions used to measure the washing machine’s body are height, width, and depth.

A typical washing machine’s dimensions are typically 85 to 90 cm for height, 45 to 60 cm for depth, and no more than 60 cm for width.

However, there is still variation in the sizes of automatic washing machines even with this standardization.

The main idea is that the machine’s size will vary depending on the kind of loading and the location of installation and operation.

Standard sizes by loading type

A washing machine can load laundry both vertically and horizontally, as we have already covered. Because of this, the washing machine’s dimensions vary greatly, enabling it to be integrated into a home’s existing interior design.

Standard washing machine sizes are, of course, more common than non-standard ones; however, if your laundry room is small, you’ll need to look for alternatives, the sizes of which vary depending on the loading type.

Even though there are many different kinds of washing machines, housewives do not seem to like the larger machines’ overall sizes, even though they can hold far more laundry in kilograms.

Three different indicators determine the differences in automatic washing machine sizes. This usually relates to the width and depth, but even for machines that have objects on top of them, the height is always roughly the same.

For an LG machine or any other brand, let’s examine the key measurements in the form of a table (after all, the dimensions are always the same, the software capabilities change).

Case configuration Width (cm) Depth (cm) Height (cm)
Front loading
Standard 60-85 60 85-90
Narrow 60 34-40 58
Compact 68-70 47-60 43-45
Vertical loading
Standard 40 60 60-85
Large 85-100

Front-loading machines and their dimensions

It is common knowledge that front-loading washing machines are larger than other models (both in width and depth), mainly because of where the laundry loading door is located.

This exact door is found on the front of the case for horizontally loading machines, as you already know. With this configuration, the device can be integrated into kitchen cabinets or placed beneath bathroom sinks.

A washing machine’s standard height is 85 or up to 90 cm, despite its impressive size. It can be placed next to a standard tabletop or cabinet to create a continuous surface because it is the same height (in the kitchen, for example).

If there is nowhere to put a washing machine taller than 85–90 cm, you can search for one that is only 50 cm tall. These models are easily integrated into cabinets.

It’s true that you will have to give up some laundry capacity because narrower machines can only hold 3.5–4 kg, as opposed to standard ones that can hold up to 12 kg.

Vertical machines and their dimensions

Consider the vertical option if you want to purchase a standard machine made for 5 kg that will stand alone and not be integrated into anything.

Although top-loading washing machines are not much larger than regular ones, they are ideal for small spaces where it would be difficult to load laundry through a side door.

Ultimately, a top-loading washing machine’s dimensions are ideal for a small bathroom with limited space, as it eliminates the need to open the side hatch to remove laundry from the drum.

While a top-loading washing machine’s width is naturally 60 cm, this does not make it inconvenient in the slightest because it is much smaller and takes up no space up front when loading clean laundry.

However, a top-loading washing machine can also be categorized as a more compact option because of its approximately 40 centimeter depth.

Compact models of washing machines

There will be a countertop and maybe even a sink on top, so it won’t be a secret that only front-loading washing machines can be integrated into furniture.

As a result, manufacturers have offered versions that are compact in height yet still quite spacious, even for loads weighing up to 6 kg.

There are washing machine sizes with vertical loading that let you install it in tight spaces without sacrificing the amount of linen it can hold, if space is limited and the standard option isn’t suitable.

Tips and recommendations

Prior to anything else, you need to determine which room the machine will be in and how much room you left when designing your interior.

It’s likely that you will need to take into account built-in options (compact or narrow) if your apartment has small rooms, correspondingly small kitchens or bathrooms.

Choose the standard version of washing machines and focus more on the functional features than the dimensions if there are numerous spaces and family members (more than four people, including children).

What can be the weight of different models

Any object will, without a doubt, weigh more than another based on its size. This also holds true for washing machines, whose weight is greatly influenced by the size of the drum and the weight of the counterweight.

A fascinating fact is that, despite the different size of the drum, a narrow machine can weigh about the same as a regular one.

The concrete leveler will be heavier because narrow machines are more likely to shake due to instability in depth and width. This is all about the so-called counterweight, which stabilizes the centrifuge. To put it simply, a typical household machine will weigh no more than 60 kg.

Disadvantages of narrow and compact models

As we’ve already mentioned, the instability and narrow design of compact machines make them particularly vulnerable to shaking.

Consider these disadvantages carefully when making your decision:

  1. Despite their miniature size, their cost is higher.
  2. The capacity of the laundry is small and is suitable only for small families.
  3. Loud noise due to vibration and more frequent wear of parts.

In new buildings and asymmetrical rooms

Of course, picking a good washing machine model won’t be a problem for you if you recently purchased an apartment and are renovating. You will need to spend some time taking measurements if the interior has already taken shape and there aren’t many options for where to put the machine.

If the area is sufficiently narrow, measure it with a tape measure. The machine needs to be chosen appropriately. Since the depth shouldn’t deviate significantly from the overall depth of the countertops and cabinets, this also holds true for the placement along the diagonal wall.

Remember where the sewerage system is located, as it will cause issues if you install the machine at the other end of the room without any communications.

In standard bathrooms with an area of up to 4 m 2

The bathroom is, of course, the primary space where the machine is located. However, the size of the bathroom in an apartment usually does not appeal due to its spaciousness.

As a result, individuals are compelled to purchase small alternatives or decline to install appliances like sinks or even bathtubs, preferring to install shower cabins.

It will be impossible to reach the laundry machine, even with a standard installation, if there is no room underneath the sink. Examine a vertical one; it can be positioned near walls without compromising the hatch door’s ability to open.

Type Dimensions (HxWxD)
Front-Loading 85x60x45 cm
Front-Loading (Slim) 85x60x35 cm
Top-Loading 90x40x60 cm
Compact 70x50x45 cm
Large Capacity 85x60x60 cm

The size and type of washing machine that best suits your needs and available space should be taken into account. Larger capacities and generally higher energy efficiency make front-loading washers perfect for larger households. However, top-loading washers are renowned for their ease of use and speedier cycle times, making them a better option for smaller spaces or speedier washes.

Before choosing, it’s important to measure the space you have available as both types come in different sizes. There is a washing machine that will fit your lifestyle, regardless of whether you value features that save space, ease of use, or energy efficiency.

Making an informed decision and investing in a washing machine that will last for many years depends on your ability to distinguish between front-loading and top-loading models.

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Ekaterina Vasilieva

Consultant on choosing household appliances. Working in a hardware store, I helped many customers choose washing machines that perfectly suited their needs. In my articles, I share recommendations and personal life hacks for choosing and using, so that it is easier for you to make a decision.

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