Not a single modern housewife can imagine her life without a washing machine (hereinafter abbreviated as SM). But if the bathroom has a very small area, finding a place for it becomes a real problem. The main difficulty is related to the fact that the equipment must be connected to communications (water supply and sewerage). If the situation is such that it is impossible to install it in the bathroom, the only possible solution is installation in the kitchen. A washing machine built under the countertop in this case is the most successful location option from the point of view of both convenience and aesthetics.
First of all, we will consider machines with a front loading type, because... they are best suited for under-counter installation. But there is another type - with vertical loading. This option will require a folding countertop, but sometimes for a kitchen with a non-standard layout this can be the most successful solution. We will consider all the nuances regarding top-loading machines in a separate paragraph below.
Dependence of height on machine type
There are two main types of washing appliances: front-loading and top-loading. And height standards for these machines rarely differ. This is normal and is explained by design features.
In a private house
Front loading washing machines
These are common devices now. They don't want to be too tall. Many structural elements are located on the side, under and above the drum.
There is enough space for the engine and other important parts. Of course, large machines differ in this regard from miniature ones, but all of them are proportionally no lower than the vertical options.
Under the sink
Top loading washing machines
Unlike the previous ones, such designs usually do not take up much space left and right. Whether this is convenient or not depends on the specific operating conditions.
Such machines are on average no higher than products with horizontal loading. Although some extreme options in both categories may have a different relationship. But there is no point in comparing them. These are exceptions to the rule.
Lid in open position
Washing machine in the kitchen with different layouts
Here are some interesting ideas on how to beautifully arrange a stationary or built-in washing machine.
- Corner kitchens with washing machine.
- Linear (straight) layout.
Washing machine height: standard under countertop
Most people use front-loading devices. And therefore, manufacturers, setting a standard for height, decided to make washing machines convenient for the largest possible number of users.
Under the countertop in the kitchen
To do this, they took into account the parameters of typical furniture, since the equipment must be harmoniously combined with the decor. When producing the same tables, they usually make the height 85 centimeters.
This corresponds to the average height of a person, regardless of gender, - 170 centimeters.
People who are approximately this tall can sit comfortably at a table like this. After all, this level allows you to work or study in an ergonomic position, so that your arms, back, and neck get less tired.
Unit design
That is why manufacturers of washing machines began to create a standard height, focusing on the average countertop. And such automatic machines can also be called ergonomic, because their height is familiar to most adults.
Of course, if the device is located in the bathroom, this is not so important. But for some reason, some people prefer to keep washing machines in the kitchen. Or in other places.
Perhaps in order to free up an already small bathroom. And in this case, the height of the washing equipment will, of course, play a significant role. Including for the perception of the interior.
Diagram with dimensions of installation under the countertop
It is important to consider that an automatic machine can spoil the entire interior with its appearance if it is too large or too small. Especially in the first case.
In addition, most washing machines are white. And if the height of the washing unit is too high, it will be too conspicuous.
This will lead to the fact that the washing machine will be perceived as the central element of the room's interior. Of course, this is not bad in some cases, if it was intended that way.
Horizontal loading unit dimensions
The only room where such an arrangement is appropriate is perhaps the bathroom. In other places, such a decision is ridiculous.
In addition, a machine that is too tall can touch shelves and other objects in the room. And this is unacceptable. If the device touches some object, vibration will be transmitted from it, and the same shelf will begin to loosen.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages
- The main advantage is saving space in a small bathroom, especially if the area does not exceed 2-3 square meters. This is a solution for bathrooms in Khrushchev-era apartment buildings or small studios, where in the kitchen there is often no room for an additional large unit.
- Since there is a sink here, all water communications are nearby, and there will be no difficulties with connecting hoses and drainage.
- The machine can be easily disguised by being built into a cabinet under the washbasin, which can be closed with beautiful doors. Relevant if you don’t like open appliances or the bathroom is decorated in a classic, eco-friendly or vintage style.
Instagram @_marina_ky
Instagram @pepper_sasha
Flaws
- Most likely, it will not be possible to place a unit with a large tank volume under the sink. But for one person, a couple or a family with 1-2 children, a medium-sized car is quite enough.
- After washing, it is advisable to ventilate the room, so if you have one bathroom in the apartment, you need to take this point into account and think about the use of the bathroom.
- If the machine is closed on all sides by a cabinet, the result is a static structure, the approach to which may be inaccessible. As a result, it will be difficult to move, clean and repair.
- The space under the sink will be occupied. But with proper use of free space, you can easily compensate for it and organize storage.
Instagram @goodsantehspb
Instagram @design_by_idesign
All height standards for washing units
Depending on the type of load, the height standards for washing equipment do not differ. Of course, there are exceptions to these norms.
Near the bathroom in the country
If an automatic machine does not meet the height standard, it does not mean that it is bad. But it’s still worth taking a closer look at it.
It is important to make sure that the non-standard washing machine:
- reliable brand;
- long-term warranty;
- compliance with standards in other respects.
Standard sizes
Then, of course, you can buy such a device without fear. Just first you should take measurements of the area where the automatic machine will be placed. To make sure that it will fit there, will be comfortable, and will look aesthetically pleasing.
If you don’t have any special preferences (for example, a desire to buy a specific model), it’s better to choose a washing machine that has a standard height. The table below shows the standard height of a top-loading and front-loading washing machine, as well as common deviations from these rules.
| Front loading | Top loading |
| Average standard – height 85 cm | Height standard – 85–90 cm |
| The maximum according to the standard is a height of 90 cm | Standard height with open lid – 125–130 cm |
| Option for a sink – height from 60 to 70 cm | |
A standard automatic machine will not fit under an average sink. And even with front loading. That is why devices with a significantly lower height are produced for this purpose.
Some people choose top-loading washing machines. But these are very small devices, and you can’t wash much in them. In addition, do not forget that the optimal drum load is only half.
Various options
The standard for a countertop washing machine is 85 cm. However, it is important to take something else into account.
If you want to place an automatic machine under the tabletop and the height of the device is 85 cm, it is better to purchase or order a tabletop no less than 88 cm.
So that there is a gap of 2-3 cm at the top. It is not easy to find such furniture, but if you order it, there will be no problems. The standard for the countertop in the bathroom is the same as in other places - 85 cm.
It is also important to take into account that the most complete wash cycle includes rinsing and spinning. With the latter, the machine may shake slightly.
With top cover
This means that its upper border will sometimes be a little closer to the tabletop. This is why the minimum height of the latter should ideally be 3 cm or more.
If you rent an apartment, it is better not to build a washing machine anywhere. And purchase washing units that are small in height, from 60 cm. This is convenient, especially if you move.
When the small option is not suitable, at least you should not buy something higher than 85 cm. This means that it is better to take a non-standard front-loading automatic machine.
In the apartment
In any case, it is important to monitor the device, no matter what its price category. Yes, in automatic machines the program pilot works great, guiding the process.
However, even this sometimes fails. For example, if something happens to the microcircuit. And to prevent the laundry from spoiling, it is important to stop the process in time.
Choosing a sink or washbasin
The main feature of sinks designed to be placed above built-in appliances is a flat bottom (hence the name “water lily”, by analogy with the flat leaf of a water lily), and optionally an offset drain.
There are various under-sink washing machines available in different sizes, including artificial stone washbasins that are over 120 cm long and 44 cm wide.
The washbasin is mounted on special brackets; the flat or side siphon must be installed before connecting the washing machine. Typical sizes of washbasin bowls are 60/60 cm, 60/50 cm and 60/44 cm.
The depth of the bowl can vary from 8 to 20 cm. The material from which the washbasin bowl is made can be very diverse.
Transparent glass structures are quite rare due to the installation features. Usually this is earthenware, porcelain, acrylic, artificial or natural stone, steel.
It is preferable to choose artificial acrylic stone with a dirt-repellent coating. Acrylic has some flexibility and is more resistant to shock absorption and vibration. Porcelain and earthenware are also excellent solutions, especially from a hygiene point of view.
Source: https://aquacomm.ru/cancliz/mnogokvartirnyie-doma/santehnika/stiralnye-mashiny/stiralnaya-mashinya-pod-rakovinu.html
What else is worth considering
Of course, it is important to know what the height of the unit is, but this is not enough. There are a number of other aspects to consider. Only then will it be possible to choose the optimal automatic machine. It doesn’t matter whether it will be in the bathroom, kitchen or other room.
Bosch
In any case, in addition to the height of the washing equipment, it is worth considering:
- depth;
- width;
- brand.
Installation Rules
When installing a sink above a washing machine in the bathroom (photo below), you need to remember a few basic principles.
- When planning co-location, consider the location of communications so that there is no direct contact between water and electricity.
- Please note that you will need a special siphon for the washbasin: with an outlet for the washing machine, a splitter or with a check valve. The latter blocks wastewater and prevents it from reaching the drain if the pipe becomes clogged. It is also advisable to install a special overflow drain that will prevent water from overflowing the edge of the bowl.
- Installation occurs in the following order: a plan with markings for the brackets, their installation (attached to dowels or anchors), installation of all sink elements, connection of the washing machine and communications. Afterwards, be sure to check whether the equipment works.
- If the bowl is shallow, provide the washing machine with protection from splashes - the best solution for this is a countertop.
- Since equipment vibrates during washing, ensure there is space between the walls of the appliance, siphons and fastenings so that they do not get damaged or become loose. For the same reason, it is better not to place the unit close to the wall - constant vibration will not benefit the finish. And to reduce movement when washing, you can put a rubber mat down.
- After the machine is installed, check that all connections are tight. It is better to additionally secure them with clamps. This is necessary to avoid water leakage, which will be difficult to clean behind equipment installed under the surface.
Instagram @ekaterina_kodinceva
Instagram @projection_design
Instagram @krylova_design
Rating of the best models with standard sizes
Automatic washing machines are the most important household items that no housewife can do without. Thanks to the large number of models of various sizes, equipped with a wide range of functions, it is possible to choose a device that optimally combines indicators such as price and quality. Let's look at the best models of washing machines, differing in standard sizes, which have won the largest number of consumer votes.
Samsung WW65K52E695
This washing machine has a depth of 45 cm and a maximum drum load of 6.5 kg. The advantage of this model is the ability to wash clothes that are not too dirty very quickly, in just 15 minutes, and in cold water. Its functionality also includes the following.
- Washing clothes using steam, which is very important for families with small children and people prone to allergies. Hot steam not only perfectly dissolves washing powder and effectively fights bacteria and allergens, but also completely washes out the powder particles at the end of the cycle.
- The extra rinse function is also a guarantee of washing quality.
- Modern Eco Bubble technology copes with stubborn stains, and the option of pre-soaking dirty laundry is also an important advantage.
- The AddWash function allows you to add forgotten laundry or conditioner directly during washing through a small additional hatch specially designed for this purpose.
- The direct drive inverter motor ensures low noise levels during operation, as well as increased wear resistance of its mechanism. The company issues a ten-year warranty on such engines.
- A special relief drum delicately washes items made of thin fabric, creating a layer of water that protects the laundry from puffs and pilling.
- Autonomous drum cleaning function, as well as self-diagnosis of problems using a mobile device.
Bosch Serie 6 WLT24440OE
The depth of this washing machine is also 45 cm, however, the drum is capable of washing up to 7 kg of laundry in one cycle. The advantages of the model are such points.
- Inverter motor mounted directly on the drum, which reduces vibration during operation.
- A special drum pattern that gently grips the laundry and protects it from damage and pilling.
- A large selection of washing programs, such as a special mode for washing children's clothes that removes stains caused by various biofactors, an additional rinse that effectively washes out the remains of washing powder, a mode for washing sportswear, jeans, shirts, underwear, as well as down jackets and bulky items.
- Modes for hand washing delicate types of fabric and night silent washing of laundry.
- Short wash of lightly soiled items in just 15 minutes.
- An intelligent system for determining the weight of laundry, reducing the washing cycle time and, consequently, energy consumption.
Haier HW70-BP12758S
Quiet in operation and extremely economical machine with the highest energy efficiency class A+++. The depth of this model is 46 cm, drum loading is up to 7 kg. The functionality includes the following features and details.
- Inverter motor.
- A special drum that carefully washes the most delicate types of matter.
- Short program for washing clothes in 15 minutes.
- Various programs for washing different types of clothes, such as washing baby clothes, sportswear, synthetic fabrics, wool, bulky items and down jackets.
- Steam washing with antibacterial and anti-allergy effects.
- Special antibacterial coating on the surface of the drum and powder tray.
LG F2H6HS0E
The depth of the unit is 45 cm, the maximum weight of laundry when loading is 7 kg, and the increased diameter of the hatch, which makes loading and unloading laundry easier, makes this model very convenient to use. Other advantages of this model include the following points.
Inverter motor providing low vibration and silent operation of the unit. Washing clothes using steam. A special drum surface that provides a gentle approach to things made from the most delicate types of matter. “6 care movements” technology, which adjusts the speed and direction of rotation of the drum to a specific type of fabric. Many programs and washing modes. An additional rinse function that effectively removes powder residue from laundry, which is important for people prone to allergies. A short laundry program where the entire cycle is completed in 30 minutes.
You can find out how to properly install a new washing machine below.
