Last Updated on February 12, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
A dryer and a washer are a must-have in every modern home. If you do have room in your house for a dedicated laundry room, that’s fantastic, but if you don’t, a stacking washer and dryer can be a good option. Stackable dryers and washers are not the same size as conventional washers and dryers.
The height, width, and depth of most washer and dryer machines are readily available from the manufacturer. When choosing the correct size dryer and washer for your room, keep in mind that you’ll need some clearing space. Clearance space refers to the excess space on the sides and rear of a dryer and washer.
For a variety of reasons, knowing how to accurately estimate the proportions of your house for a replacement dryer or washer is critical. For starters, getting a great fit the very first time saves you the time and money of having to return your latest laundry equipment. Second, a dryer or washer that functions naturally in your laundry room will provide you a better user experience.
Related: 7 Washing Machine Brands To Avoid and 3 Most Reliable Brands
What are standard washer and dryer sizes?
Standards for washers and dryers can vary, depending on the manufacturer. It is important to pay attention to the specifications because you need a certain amount of clearance to open and close your door. When buying a new washing machine or clothes dryer measure the space in which it will be located. If you are replacing an older model, measure the space before buying a new one. Newer, more efficient models will save you money, but only if they fit into the space where your old machine was located.
Standard Washer Dimensions: 33 inches wide x 27 1/2 inches deep x 32-34 inches high
Standard Dryer Dimensions: About 25-27 Inches Wide x 27-28 Inches Deep x 33-35 Inches High
These sizes typically include the dryer drum as well as the casing. Front loading washers usually have a deeper frame than top loaders, so keep that in mind when measuring for either one. Also, pay attention to the model’s specifications because some models have a larger footprint than others.
Stackable washer and dryer dimensions
Stackable dryers and washers, as the name implies, are intended to be securely stacked vertically to save room on the floor. They are front-loading and have the dryer stacked on top of the machine.
The dimensions of stackable dryers and washers vary depending on the model, but they are typically 77 to 80 inches high (stackable), 30 to 34 inches deep, and 27 inches in diameter.
Another great space-saving choice is a stacked washing center, that is a solitary equipment featuring the dryer on top and the washer on the bottom. Stackable dryers and washers have comparable proportions as stacked washing centers. Stackable laundry centers are typically 74-79 inches tall, 23-28 inches wide, and 26-35 inches deep.
A washer dryer combination is a much more compact choice if you’re working with limited space. A washer dryer combination is an all-in-one washer and dryer which washes and dries your clothing in the same drum.
Generally speaking, you’ll need plenty of room to access the appliance’s panels without hitting anything. In the back, make sure there’s enough room for exhaust hoses, drains, and plugs. Additionally, drip pans will require space around the equipment, as well as easy accessibility for home maintenance professionals.
Stackable washers and dryers, as well as laundry facilities, require a minimum 40 inches of depth. Because many models are 30 inches or more deep, getting an additional five to ten inches of room behind the components should be plenty to cater any plugs or hoses.
Standard washer and dryer dimensions
Washing machines and dryers are typically 31 to 33 inches deep, 27 inches in diameter, and 36 to 39 inches in height. The volume of the machines, on the other hand, is an important consideration to consider when choosing your appliances.
The width of typical washers and dryers is around 27 inches. If you want to put these units next to each other, you’ll need around 54 inches of separation. Also, keep in mind that you’ll need to add approximately an inch of space in between units and their surroundings, bringing the total to roughly 57 inches.
The capacity of a washing machine ranges between 2.3 to 5.0 cubic feet, plus the average being 3.5; the capacity of a dryer is usually bigger.
A washing machine’s inside area varies from model to model. The typical capacity, however, is approximately 3.5 cubic feet. When picking a machine, this dimension is crucial, particularly if you plan to clean a lot of large things. Some big machine-washable items, like 8 x 10 Ruggables, need a larger cleaning tub.
Front load washer and dryer dimensions
A front load washer is a fully automated washer that fills from the front. Such machines often use less energy and water and produce better laundry outcomes than top-loading machines.
Front-loading washers are not normally any broader than top-loading washers, despite the fact that they often have a larger capacity. When delivering full-size capacity, front-loading machines are approximately 27 inches wide. They range in height from 36 to 41 12 inches and depth from 25 1⁄4 to 34 3/8 inches.
Front-loaders additionally allow you to put your dryer over the washer to conserve room on the floor. You’ll have to make absolutely sure they’re the same size, get a bracket-mounting kit, then hoist the dryer over the washer—but that’s all.
This has drawbacks: the buttons can be difficult to reach if you’re under five feet tall, some repairs may need unstacking the devices, and if one system breaks down before another, you might just have to rebuild both to get them to stack again.
Top load washer and dryer dimensions
Top-loading washers and dryers offer a variety of washing cycles in a user-friendly manner. Many top-load washing appliances include a soft-close lid, built-in dispenser, and mid-cycle access, making them simple to fill. Traditional top-loading washers come in a variety of capabilities, but their external widths are typically the same.
Top-loading agitator washers and dryers are typically 27 and 27 1/2 inches in diameter. Traditional versions range in height from 42 and 43 inches and depth from 25 1/2 and 27 inches. A pulsing agitator aids the cleaning process in typical top washers and dryers, which soak garments in water for the duration of the cycle.
To flow water beside the drum in top load washers without an agitator, a shallow impeller is used. Top-load washers with impellers have larger storage capacity. They don’t harm your clothes in any way. These high-efficiency washers are a more modern take on traditional top-load washers with agitators.
They offer most of the same capabilities as current front load washers, such as load sensors that detect the ideal water level and quick spin cycles that save drying time and conserve energy while eliminating more water. Keep in mind that high-efficiency dryers and washers without agitators take a particular high-efficiency washing powder, and wash cycles are typically longer than typical top washers.
Compact washer and dryer dimensions
If you’re limited on room, a compact washer and dryer are a good option. They occupy up a bit less room than regular machines and are ideal for tiny spaces where bigger machines would be inconvenient.
Compact washing machines have a width of 24-27 inches, a height of 34 inches, and a depth of 23 inches. This reduces the required side-by-side space by 6 inches, between 54 inches for normal units to 48 inches for compact units.
Six inches may not seem like much, but in a tiny space, it may make a tremendous impact. Compact dryers and washers are about the same size as a dishwasher and thus are generally front-loading to fit under normal counters.
They have a smaller capacity than regular machines, typically 1.5-2.5 cubic feet against 3.1-4.0 cubic feet that’s for a full-size machine.
- Compact dryers and washers have a width of 24′′-27′′, a height of 34′′, and a depth of 23′′.
- Side-by-side compact dryers and washers require at least 48′′ of space.
- The majority of tiny washers and dryers are front-loading.
- Compact machines are small enough to fit beneath a normal counter.
If you have a limited space that is taller than it is broad and don’t believe compact units will fit, you’ll need a stackable laundry set or a washer-dryer combination.
Mega-capacity washer and dryer dimensions
These would be the Goliaths of washing machines and dryers, built to handle the heaviest loads on a regular basis. This type of washers and dryers has a minimum width of 28 inches, therefore precise measurement is required to guarantee they work in your home. Furthermore, the industry for these dryers and washers is still modest.
The requirements for this sector will be less constant than for the others, but mega-capacity dryers and washers generally range 40 to 42in x 23in to 30in x 32in to 34in (HxWxD), excluding four inches for ventilation and hookups. This category has a depth of 55 to 56 inches when the doors are fully opened to 90 degrees and an additional four inches for installing ventilation.
The term for these dryers and washers originates from their overall cubic feet, not their footprint. Lesser mega-capacity washers start at 4.8 cubic feet and run all the way up to 5.8 cubic feet, which is the industry’s largest.
Full-size washer and dryer dimensions
The width of full-size washers and dryers is approximately 27 inches. (A few 29 and 30-inch versions are available, but these washers and dryers cannot be stacked.) The internal capacity is at least 7.0 cu. ft. for the dryer and 4.5 cu. ft. for the dryer. For the dryer, you’ll need a ft.
Full-size dryers and washers are the industry standard, with a width of around 27 inches, making them a good replacement for top-loaders. Full-size dryers and washers are generally 27 inches wide by 39 inches long and 32 to 34 inches deep (WxHxD), not adding the four inches for ventilation and hookups.
The depth of this category ranges from 54 to 57 inches when the doors are fully opened to 90 degrees.
While top-loading, full-size machines are available, front-loading washers and dryers are the most prevalent. This not only makes the user experience more uniform, but it also allows the devices to be stacked. Because front-loading washers and dryers allow you to lean into the machine, depth is crucial.
Small washer and dryer dimensions
Small dryer and washer sets may save a lot of space. They usually have a width of around 24″ in most cases. Their cleaning capacity, on the other hand, is typically not significantly smaller than that of their full-size equivalents. Compact models can hold up to 2.5 cubic feet in space, whilst full-size choices can hold up to 4.5 cubic feet.
Compact dryer and washer sets are popular because of their tiny footprint, making them ideal for small rooms and households. However, don’t mistake their small stature for a lack of functionality; most are just as feature-packed as their larger brothers. Stackable pairs in small sizes are also available.
You don’t have to sacrifice quality, functionality, or durability just because you buy a tiny washer and dryer.
As the demand for apartment-size dryer and washer sets grows, more firms are manufacturing world-class small machines that compete with their bigger counterparts in every parameter. You’ll end up with an innovative, extremely efficient product that suits in whatever tiny area you have in mind if you do your study and know exactly what you want from your small washer and dryer.
Side by side washer and dryer dimensions
The usual washer and dryer are 27 inches wide, so if you want to put them side by side, you’ll require roughly 54 inches of room and an inch between them, for a maximum of 57 inches. If you have enough room for a side-by-side installation, you’ll have more options for improvements.
You may choose between a top-loader, a front-loader as well as high-efficiency, huge capacity, control-over controls, and additional rinse cycles. You may even discover machines with clever sensors that regulate things like the fluid rate and temperature autonomously. A side-by-side configuration (with the front washer) may be hidden behind a counter that also functions as a folding table.
The aperture is closer to the surface, making loading easier than with a stacked unit. Now for all you aesthetes out there, these front-loaders are a sight to behold. It will cost more if you want all the whistles and bells, but it will save you money in the long run in terms of water and energy savings.
How much room do I need between washer and dryer?
There isn’t a set rule on this; it depends on the exact models you’re considering.
You should leave at least 30 inches of space between a side-by-side washer and dryer to allow room for opening the doors. A stackable washer and dryer combination will usually be around 36 inches apart (washer on top of dryer).
The most important thing to keep in mind is that the washer and dryer should be located so you can easily access them for routine maintenance.
Clearance space:
While providing necessary space for proper maintenance of appliances should be considered, the appliance manufacturers are very specific about the minimum clearances they recommend. Also, keep in mind that the mechanical room must have enough clearance for service personnel to provide routine or emergency maintenance upon installation of new appliances.
Room size
About 24 to 30 inches of floor space is required on either side of a top-loading washer. This allows room to open the door and, in some cases, leave the lid up while loading or unloading clothes. A front-loading washer will take about 30 inches of floor space on one side, but this may vary by model.
A dryer typically needs about 36 to 42 inches of floor space in front (to allow for ventilation), plus another 24 to 30 inches behind for the dryer duct and exhaust vent. Most modern dryers have a folding or sliding door that flips up, but some models may have a swing-out door.
How to measure washer and dryer dimensions?
The first step is to figure out the appliance’s width, depth and height. The width refers to how wide it is from left to right, not front-to-back. This can be measured by placing a tape measure diagonally across the unit. Then use this number for both width measurements below.
The depth of some models can be measured vertically, but you may need to lay the appliance down on its side. While laying the unit down, measure it both this way and diagonally (front-to-back.)
Depth should be measured from front-to-back. Finally, height is how tall it is off of the ground; this will vary by model, but a good estimate can be taken by measuring from the top of the laundry door down to the floor.
The next step is to figure out how much room you need between your washer and dryer. There isn’t an industry standard, but you should leave at least 30 inches of space between a side-by-side unit for opening the doors. A stackable washer and dryer combination will usually be around 36 inches apart (washer on top of dryer).
The last step is to measure the height, width and depth of your wall space for each unit. When measuring the height, you need to find out how high off of the ground it can go; this varies by model, but it’s best to choose a height that will allow access to the unit when needed.
Measure from the floor up and add an inch if you plan on putting down rugs or carpeting. You should also measure where any wall studs lie in relation to the washer and dryer; this is important for installation purposes. Also, if you plan on stacking the units, be sure to measure how high you can go with each machine.
Troubleshooting guides:
- 7 Reasons Why Kenmore Dryer Not Heating And How To Fix
- 7 Reasons Why GE Dryer is not Heating and {How to Fix it}
- Why is My Samsung Dryer Not Heating Up? – How To Troubleshoot
FAQ
How big of a washer and dryer can I fit in my laundry room?
The capacity of the machines is most often the determining factor in what you can fit into your space. You may also consider front-loading machines or stackable units that don’t require much floor space at all. The following list gives the dimensions for various machines; the highlighted dimensions are rough guidelines for fitting them into your laundry room.
A typical washer is 27″ wide, 33″ deep and 34-36″ high.
A typical front-loading washer is 28 to 29 inches wide, 33 to 35 inches deep (including door), and 38 to 40 inches high with the pedestals attached.
A typical top-loading washer is 27 inches wide, 35 to 37 inches deep (including door), and 38 to 40 inches high with the pedestals attached.
A typical single or double stacked dryer is 27 to 29 inches wide, 33 to 34 inches deep (including the door)and 38 to 40 inches high with the dryer stacked on top of the washer.
How far from the wall should a washer and dryer be?
This depends on the specific models of the appliances. As a general rule, you should leave an extra foot or two of clearance space for each machine.
Some washers can be installed as close as 30 inches from the wall; others need at least 36 inches to allow room for opening the door and adding clothes.
Dryers typically need to be located about 2 feet from the nearest wall.
With front-loading machines, it may even help if they are pushed out another foot or so from the wall to allow better air circulation around them for faster drying times.
What is the smallest size for a washer and dryer you can find?
Washers: typically 27 inches wide and top-loading, but some front-loading models come as small as 24 inches wide. The width of a compact or “condo” washer is around 22 to 25 inches – perfect for those with limited space.
Many brands offer stackable washer and dryers that take up minimal floor space.
Dryers: the smallest size for a built-in dryer is 27 inches wide; 29 to 30 inches wide is generally the smallest size on freestanding models. A condensing dryer, which uses outside air to ventilate exhaust (normally on natural gas lines) requires more clearances around it than conventional electric dryers.
Is 4.5 cubic feet a big washer?
A washer with 4.5 cubic feet of capacity is on the larger end; some models are as small as 3.25 cubic feet (about equivalent to a top load washer).
Washers come in capacities ranging from 2 to 7 cubic feet, generally corresponding to the size of each model. As for front-loading models, they’re more efficient than top-loaders, wash clothes more gently and use less water.
The larger front loaders can hold slightly more clothes than the average residential washer (about 5 cubic feet.)
How do I fill the gap between my washer and dryer?
A washer and dryer should be located so you can easily access them for regular maintenance.
This does not prevent you from leaving enough space to open doors or make sure there’s ample airflow around the units. It’s often recommended that each machine should face the other (if both are used regularly) but this is more important with washers than dryers, which should still run properly when placed away from the other machine.
Some people will place a rack or shelf between their appliances for additional storage space.
Conclusion
While there are no conventional washer and dryer sizes, there are normal, stackable, compact, and single-unit washing machine size variations. These dimensions will aid you in determining whether or not a particular dryer or washer will suit your space.
Knowledge is essential if you want to make a significant investment. With this comprehensive washer and dryer measurement guide, we hope you’ll be one bit closer to successfully picking a washing appliance that you’ll like using.