If you are shopping for a new washer and dryer, you may have noticed that you have many options in terms of color, style, and size. The key to finding a set of laundry appliances that meet your needs is making sure they fit perfectly in your laundry room. Not all washers and dryers are created equal, so you need to know how to measure the space you have for them so you can get the right machines the first time and installation goes smoothly.
In this guide, I will provide guidelines for measuring for a new washer and dryer, what standard sizes are available, and there is even a chart that gives you size comparisons at a glance. By the time you are done reading this guide, you will know how to measure for a washer and dryer that fits perfectly in your laundry room.
Are Washers and Dryers a Standard Size
In general, washers and dryers come in standard 27-inch sizes, however, there are a few expectations with 29 and 30-inch models, plus compact machines at 24-inch wide.
However, the vast majority of front-load machines are 27 inches wide by 39 inches tall by 32-34 inches deep. Top-load units, on the other hand, are usually 27 inches wide by 42-44 inches tall by 27-28 inches deep.
Washer and Dryer Dimensions
Let’s take a look at some of the different types of washers and dryers, their dimensions, and any special considerations you should be aware of when it comes to measuring each one.
Standard Side-by-Side Washer and Dryer
A standard set of side-by-side washers and dryers requires about 56 inches of space in your laundry room. If the units are front-load models, you need to make sure there are at least 48 inches of space in front of the machines for loading and unloading clothes.
Some users find front-loading washers and dryers to be quite low, which can make it difficult when loading and unloading the machines. You may opt to add pedestals to the bottom of the units, which may add as much as 15 inches to their height.
If your new set of laundry appliances is top load, make sure to have at least two feet of clearance above the machines for ample room to open and close the lids.
When it comes to capacity, standard washers have about 3-5 cubic feet of space, while dryers typically have 5-7 cubic feet. With this said top load washers may have a slightly larger capacity than five cubic feet, whereas front load machines usually don’t exceed five cubic feet.
Compact Washer and Dryer
Compact washers and dryers are designed for use in small spaces such as closets, small apartments, etc. They can be stacked for even further space saving or installed side-by-side if space permits. They can sometimes also be installed under countertops to save even more space in the room.
Compact laundry appliances come in a standard size of 24 inches wide by 33-36 inches tall by 24-26 inches deep. If stacking these appliances, make sure the space is at least 24 inches wide by 66-72 inches tall by 24-26 inches deep. If installing a compact washer and dryer next to each other, the space should measure at least 48 inches wide by 34 inches tall by 25 inches deep. This measurement accounts for one inch between the machines.
Again, allow at least six inches behind your washer and dryer for hoses and ventilation. With this in mind, you may consider purchasing a ventless dryer, which requires a much shallower installation depth. Compact washers and dryers have a capacity about half that of standard-size units; about 1-3 cubic feet.
Large or Mega Capacity Washer and Dryer
Large-capacity washers and dryers can accommodate large loads of laundry. Their capacity is often larger than five cubic feet, which is big enough to be able to wash a king-sized comforter and sheet or dry up to 20 towels in a single cycle.
In One Washer and Dryer
All-in-one washer and dryer units allow you to wash and dry your clothes in a single machine, which saves a lot of space. These compact models are great for households with limited space.
The standard size for an all-in-one washer and dryer is 23-27 inches wide by 33-39 inches tall by 22-30 inches deep. Their capacity can be between 2-4 cubic feet.
Stacked Washer and Dryer
If your laundry room is small, you may want to consider buying a stackable washer and dryer set. Many front-load washers and dryers can be stacked to save space in tight quarters.
Individually, stackable washers and dryers measure 24-28 inches wide by 39 inches tall by 32-34 inches deep. To accommodate the stacked unit, you should make sure you have a space of at least 29 inches wide by 80 inches tall by 32-34 inches deep. If you are placing the appliances in a laundry room, add six inches to the depth of the units for ventilation. If you are installing the units in a closet, allow for at least an inch of clearance on each side of the machines for proper ventilation.
Top Loading Washer and Dryer
Most consumers are familiar with the top-load washing machine and matching dryer. The standard size for a top load washing machine is 27-28 inches wide by 41-44 inches tall by 26-28 inches deep. When measuring the space your new top-load washer needs, be sure to add an extra two feet to the height for lid clearance.
Almost any dryer can be paired with a top-load washing machine. The dimensions of a standard dryer measure 27 inches wide by 41-44 inches tall by 26-32 inches deep. When installing, allow an additional 4-6 inches behind the unit for ventilation.
Washer and Dryer Size Comparison
To help you easily see and compare the differences between the various types of washers and dryers, I have provided the chart below.
| Dimension | Std Side-by-Side | Compact | Mega Capacity | All-in-One | Stackable Units | Standard Top Load |
| Width | 27″ | 24″ | 23-30″ | 23-27″ | 24-28″ | 27-28″ |
| Height | 39-44″ | 33-36″ | 40-42″ | 33-39″ | 39″ | 41-44″ |
| Depth | 27-34″ | 24-26″ | 32-34″ | 22-30″ | 32-34″ | 26-28″ |
| Capacity | 3-5 cu.ft. | 1-3 cu.ft. | <5 cu.ft. | 2-4 cu.ft. | 4-5 cu.ft. | 3-5 cu.ft. |
How Much Space Do Washers and Dryers Need
Although washer and dryer dimensions vary depending on the style you buy, there are some standard recommendations you should follow when installing new units.
- For ease of use, leave at least 48 inches of space in front of the washer and dryer. This will give you plenty of room to load and unload the machines.
- Factor in at least 4-6 inches of space behind the appliances for connecting hoses and ventilation. This will ensure none of the connections gets pinched or obstructed during use.
- To reduce the amount of noise your new machines make, you should leave at least an inch of space between the units themselves and between the units and the walls surrounding them.
How To Measure Up for a New Washer and Dryer
When measuring the space for your new washer and dryer to make sure they will fit, follow the steps below.
Measuring Height
Measure the height of the space from the floor to any overhead shelving or cabinetry located above the machines.
Measuring Width
Measure the space from side to side. Keep in mind that the final measurement should account for three extra inches for airflow: one inch on each side of the machines and one inch in between the units.
Note: When you begin shopping for your new washer and dryer, remember to subtract the three inches we added for airflow to get the actual size of the units you need to fill the space properly.
Measuring Depth
Measure the distance from the wall behind the appliances to the opening of the space.
Allowing Space for Venting and Pipework
When measuring the depth, keep in mind that you will need an additional 2 inches to accommodate the inlet and waste hoses that connect to the units. Plus a 6-inch gap to accommodate the ventilation duct.
Allowing Space for Installation
Depending on the type of washer and dryer you buy, there may be some special considerations when it comes to measurements and installation.
If you purchase a top-load washer, you need to factor in another 20 inches of height, so you can open the lid and fill the machine easily.
If you opt for front-load models on pedestals, you need to add up to 15 inches to your height measurement to ensure they fit in the space you have for them.
If there is any floor molding in your laundry room, be sure to factor that into your measurements as well.
Finally, don’t forget to factor in the extra space needed to accommodate the open doors of your front load machines if you are installing them in a closet or some other small space.
The Benefits of a Matching Washer and Dryer
Realistically, any washer can be paired with any dryer. With that said, there are a couple of benefits to buying a matching washer and dryer set.
For starters, if you plan to stack the units, having a matching set ensures they are as sturdy as possible once installed.
Next, the only other benefit comes as user experience. Having a matching set of laundry appliances looks nice, and they are typically easier to use as a pair because they match in size and functionality.
FAQs Washer And Dryer Dimensions
How wide does a doorway need to be for a washer and dryer?
Your laundry room doorway should be at least 32 inches wide to accommodate your new washer and dryer. Ideally, the wider the opening, the easier it will be to maneuver the appliances.
Reference
Whirlpool Washer Dimensions
AO Washer and Dryer Measurements
Andy has over 8 years of experience working on residential household appliances, performing diagnostics, and repairs across most major brands. He graduated from the Denver Institute of Technology, is NASTeC certified, and has worked for Mr. Appliance. Andy has contributed to features on major publications including Better Home & Gardens, Family Handyman, and Yahoo.com.
