Washer and Dryer Dimensions
Since there are so many different sizes and styles, standard washer and dryer sizes don’t really exist — which is why it’s so important to measure before you buy. However, washer and dryer dimensions do fall within a certain range. Knowing these dimensions gives you a better idea of what’ll work in your space. For more information, read Understanding Washer Sizes and Washer and Dryer Dimensions.
Front Load Dimensions
Front load washers are designed with the door in front. In general, standard front load dimensions are 27 inches wide, 33 to 39 inches high and 32 to 34 inches deep. This style is usually set up side-by-side, though some front load machines can be stacked.
Most dryers are front-loading machines while washers can be either front or top loading. Door configuration is a factor to consider when choosing your appliances.
Top Load Dimensions
Top load washers have doors on top of the machine. Top load dimensions range from about 27 inches wide, 42 to 44 inches high and 27 to 28 inches deep. This type of machine is always set up side-by-side and can’t be stacked.
Stackable and Stacked Dimensions
Stacking capability is only available for some front load models and a stacking kit is required to safely place the machines on top of each other. You can also choose a stacked laundry center — a single unit that doesn’t come apart. Dimensions for these machines range from 24 to 28 inches wide, 70 to 78 inches high (when stacked) and 27 to 34 inches deep.
All-In-One Dimensions
All-in-one washer/dryer combos have been gaining popularity over the last few years. They’re designed to handle all your laundry needs in one machine, and they’re an ideal choice for smaller spaces. On average, their dimensions range from 23 to 27 inches wide, 33 to 39 inches tall and 22 to 30 inches deep, though some can fall outside this range.
Compact Washer and Dryer Dimensions
Compact models are a good fit for limited space or small laundry loads. Standard dimensions for these machines can range from 24 to 30 inches wide, 33 to 36 inches high and 24 to 26 inches deep.
Large Capacity Dimensions
Large capacity models — machines that are 4.5 cu ft or larger — give you the room for washing and drying big loads, helping cut down on how much time laundry takes. These machines are typically a little wider and deeper, their dimensions ranging from 28 to 30 inches wide, 40 to 44 inches high and 32 to 34 inches deep.
Get to Know Your Laundry Room
Whether you have a laundry room or laundry closet, the space’s layout and available hookups play a part in determining the size, style and type of washer and dryer that’ll work best. Take a few minutes to measure the doorway into the room to give you an idea of what will fit through the opening. If you’re working with limited space, consider stackable machines or a stacked laundry center, but make sure your ceilings are tall enough to accommodate a stacked configuration. All-in-one washer dryers are another small space solution.
You’ll also want to know if you have gas or electric hookups. This is important because you’ll need to purchase the correct connection parts for installation.
If you’re planning to install your new machines yourself, our how-to guides on How to Install a Washing Machine and How to Replace an Electric Dryer can help. Lowe’s can also take care of the installation for you.
Take Your Measurements and Prepare Your Space
Along with taking measurements in your laundry room, you’ll need to think about how your appliances will get into that space on delivery day. Planning the route your appliances will take from where they’re unloaded to the laundry room may not seem like a natural first step, but it’s something you don’t want to forget. Mapping out the delivery path first actually helps determine what size machines will work best in your home. Appliances that are too big to fit into your home at delivery create complications from the start — and that’s what you want to avoid.
- The straightest path with the fewest obstructions is best, even if it’s not the shortest route. Avoid stairs and tight turns if possible.
- Measure jamb to jamb any exterior and interior doorways that fall along the delivery path. Some doors may need to be removed to get the machines into your home.
- Take note of the width and height of hallways along the delivery path.
Move any furniture, decor and area rugs out of the way prior to delivery to make navigating the delivery path easier.
How to Measure for a Washer and Dryer
Use a tape measure to take your measurements, noting height, width and depth.
- Measure the distance from the floor to the tops of any adjacent countertops as well as to the bottom of any shelving or cabinets on the wall.
- For stackable or stacked models, make sure the room has enough vertical space — about 78 inches on average.
- Measure depth from the back wall out to where the appliances will sit.
- If the machines are placed side by side, make sure the space is at least 56 inches wide.
- To ensure accuracy, measure twice.
Once you’ve found all your measurements, use the dimensions to shop for machines in that size — that way you won’t end up with something that’s too big for the space. If you’re not sure where to begin, our buying guides can help.
Find the Best Washing Machine for Your Home
The Best Dryer for Your Laundry Room
Plenty of Room: Additional Measurement Tips
Along with the overall dimensions, you’ll need to account for these additional factors and incorporate them into your final measurements.
- Front load models need more room in front since that’s where their doors are located. This is especially important if you’re working with a laundry closet — you’ll want to make sure the closet doors can close completely.
- You’ll need room to fully open front load washer and dryer doors — at least 20 inches — to be sure they’ll clear any obstructions, like jambs.
- Top load washers require at least 20 inches above the unit so the door can open all the way. Be mindful of shelves or cabinetry that may interfere with opening the lid.
- Leave at least 1 inch of space on each side of the washer and each side of the dryer for proper ventilation. This will also help reduce noise.
- You'll need at least 6 inches of space between the back of the machine and the wall where the venting and hoses will be hooked up.
- If you plan to use laundry pedestals with your washer and dryer, include them in your measurements. Pedestals are placed under the machines to alleviate strain from bending over to load or unload clothes and some offer storage for laundry supplies.
In addition to having enough space to fully open the appliances’ doors, consider whether the door needs a right- or a left-hand opening (door hinges on the right or left of the machine). The correct configuration can help with space constraints and offers convenience for loading and unloading laundry. Some machines have reversible doors for more flexibility, while other models have a hamper door — one that opens forward and down.
More For Your Laundry Room
Having the right appliances for laundry day is just part of the equation. With a space that is organized and tidy, tackling those loads of laundry is easier. Here are 8 Tips to Organize Your Laundry Room, ready to make laundry day less of a hassle. And don’t forget about the essentials. Make sure clothes smell fresh with laundry detergent and enhance the scent with scent boosters in the wash cycle. Help prevent static and wrinkles with dryer sheets and keep fabrics looking their best with stain removers. Laundry baskets and hampers make it easy to carry loads to and from the laundry room. For delicate garments, clothes drying racks give you the space to hang dry clothing. Every now and then it’s also a good idea to clean your washing machine, so keep washing machine cleaner on hand to ensure your clothing, sheets and other items always come out fresh and clean.