What Size Washing Machine Do I Need?

Washing machine sizes chart

When purchasing a Beko freestanding or integrated washing machine, you’ll discover a wide range of size options. Each capacity plays a crucial role in determining how much laundry you can tackle in a single load.

Common Laundry Loads by Washing Machine Capactiy Table

Whether you require a slimline appliance for your small apartment or a larger model that can handle sizable loads, knowing how to select a washing machine that suits your needs is crucial.

Standard washing machine dimensions

To ensure that you select the right size washing machine for your space, having an understanding of the average dimensions of each capacity can be beneficial. Whether you're dealing with a tight space or have an ideal location in mind, it's important to ensure that your chosen appliance will fit once delivered.

While the average dimensions of washing machines, including height, depth, and width, may be similar, it is important to check the specific dimensions of the model you're considering before making a purchase. Please refer to our washing machine product pages for specific height, width, and depth dimensions.

Washing machine width

When purchasing a new appliance, it's important to understand the size dimensions of your washing machine. The washing machine width for each capacity is as follows:

7kg - 60cm
8kg - 60cm
9kg - 60cm
10kg - 60cm
12kg - 60cm

It's important to note that widths can vary by 1-2 mm depending on the brand. This list provides approximate measurements, so always check the specific dimensions of the appliance you are considering.

It is also important to ensure that the space you plan to place your new appliance in is at least 60cm wide, with some additional space to help the installation process. When planning to place your new washing machine under a counter, it is recommended that you have at least 25mm of clearance on either side of the appliance.

Washing machine depth

The washing machine depth for each capacity varies as follows:

7kg (including slimline) - 49-56cm
8kg (including slimline) - 55-59cm
9kg - 58-64cm
10kg - 58-64cm
12kg - 60-64cm

Ensuring the right depth for your space is important to allow for optimal access to your washing machine. You want to make sure your machine is not protruding from your counters, as this can create a potential trip hazard. Similarly, you don’t want your appliance to be too deeply set in your counter space.

It is also recommended that you leave at least 15cm of space behind a washing machine to factor in where the appliance’s hose will be housed and for ventilation purposes.

Don’t forget to consider the full depth of the washing machine with the door open. Failing to account for this can make loading and unloading laundry awkward, something you’ll want to avoid every wash day.

While larger capacity washing machines tend to have larger depth sizes, finding the right machine for you depends on the available space you have, as well as your laundry needs. We recommend checking the manufacturer's webpage for specific recess depth, as it may vary by brand.

Washing machine height

The height size of your washing machine for each capacity varies as follows:

7kg - 82-84.5cm
8kg - 82-84.5cm
9kg - 82-84.5cm
10kg - 84-84.5cm
12kg - 84.5cm (freestanding models only)

While the height of your washing machine can vary by a couple of centimetres depending on the model, it’s important to check our washing machine product pages for the specific height of the model you’re considering before purchasing.

Integrated washing machine measurements

Ensuring the right size for your integrated washing machine is crucial to ensure that it fits well within your counter space. For specific information on your washing machine dimensions, please refer to our integrated washing machine product pages for the size of your specific model. While most integrated washing machines typically have dimensions around 82cm (H) x 54cm (D) x 60cm (W), it's important to check the specifications of your chosen model. For smaller or larger spaces, consider different appliance models with varying dimension sizes.

Washing machine capacity size guide

Washing your laundry is easy when you’ve got help from the right capacity appliance. Depending on the amount of laundry you typically wash in each use, it’s important to consider different washing machine size capacities.

These capacities range from smaller appliances at 7kg to large capacity washing machines of up to 12kg. But what exactly can you fit into each size capacity per load?

Small-capacity washing machines

Small capacity washing machines, like 7kg machines, are ideal for small or single households with minimal laundry needs. A 7kg washing machine, for instance, fits snugly into tight spaces while delivering excellent cleaning performance. It can comfortably accommodate up to 20 t-shirts or three bath and three hand towels in one load on select cycles, making it suitable for small households of one or two people who prefer to do weekly laundry.

Medium-capacity washing machines

Medium washing machines, ranging from 8kg to 9kg capacities, are the standard choice for many households. These machines are well suited for standard family homes with two to four members. Whether you're washing work shirts or baby clothes, this size has the space for your average family laundry load. For example, a 8kg washing machine can effectively manage up to four bath and four hand towels selected cycles.

Large-capacity washing machines

Our 9kg, 10kg, and 12kg washing machines are our large-capacity washing machines, ideally suited for large families with considerable laundry needs. A 12kg washing machine, for instance, can manage up to 60 t-shirts at one time in selected cycles, making it an ideal choice for larger households. If your children are constantly dirtying and changing their clothing, a large washing machine provides the additional loading space needed to keep you on top of your laundry pile effectively.

Factors to consider when choosing washing machine size

Buying a washing machine means figuring out what will fit best into your lifestyle, the amount of laundry you have, and the space that you have to store everything. You will want to make sure you’re considering all factors to find the perfect appliance fit for your home.

Household size and laundry volume

When purchasing a new washing machine, two factors to consider are your household size and laundry volume. These factors will directly influence the capacity you need. For individuals living alone or those with minimal weekly laundry needs, a smaller, 7kg washing machine size may suffice. However, larger families facing growing laundry piles might benefit from opting for a larger 10kg or 12kg washing machine to streamline laundry time.

It's important to remember that maximum load capacities can vary for each programme on your washing machine. Simply because a machine is labelled as 12kg, it doesn't guarantee that every programme can handle that volume of laundry. Before loading your machine, always refer to your user manual to understand the specific capacity limits for each wash programme.

Available space and layout

One of the most important factors to consider when buying a new washing machine is your available space. While many kitchens have a designated spot for a washing machine, it’s essential to ensure that your new appliance will fit seamlessly into the allocated space. Before making a purchase, measure your space against the specific washing machine size dimensions to avoid any issues when the product is delivered and installed.

Why you shouldn’t buy a washing machine that is too large or too small

You will be faced with various challenges if you purchase a washing machine that is either larger or smaller than its designated space.

Problems with buying a washing machine that’s too large

It may not fit properly in the designated space, especially under counters or in utility rooms
Loading and unloading can be awkward if the machine is too deep or bulky for the surrounding layout
Larger machines can use more water and energy per cycle than smaller models, even when underloaded

Problems with buying a washing machine that’s too small

The drum might not accommodate your typical laundry load, meaning you’ll need to run more frequent cycles
You may be tempted to overload it, which reduces wash efficiency and cleaning performance
Frequent overloading or excessive use can place strain on the motor and drum, potentially shortening the appliance’s lifespan

Choosing the right washing machine size

Buying the correct washing machine size for your home involves considering many factors, including space, laundry volume, and family size. By understanding your personal needs and home requirements, you can effectively manage your laundry loads while ensuring the correct and safe installation of your new appliance.

Small households and apartments

For smaller households with one or two members, opting for a smaller washing machine can be beneficial due to the reduced laundry volume. If your laundry needs are less frequent, a smaller appliance may suffice. Smaller households might also have less space, especially in apartments or cosy homes. In these cases, selecting a smaller washing machine that fits seamlessly into your space without obstructing is important.

Medium to large families

For medium to large families with substantial laundry loads, a larger or medium-sized washing machine may be necessary. When considering a purchase, it’s important to think about the dimensions of your washing machine and compare these to the counter space or chosen location. Ensuring a good fit within the designated space is essential, even if it means sacrificing a bit of capacity.

Utility rooms and tight spaces

When searching for a washing machine suitable for a utility room or other confined spaces, it's important to consider the dimensions of your chosen appliance. This ensures you can avoid potential installation issues and seamlessly integrate the machine into your designated space. Begin by measuring the space accurately so that you understand what room you have to play with. Many of our slimline products are specifically designed to fit smaller depth locations, making installation easier.

Overall, choosing the right washing machine for your home involves many considerations. Thankfully, with our precise appliance dimensions for our standard sized machines and slimline washing machines, you can ensure that you select an appliance that fits perfectly into your chosen space while meeting your laundry capacity needs effectively.

Ready to purchase your new appliance? Explore our wide range of washing machines, available in a variety of colours, sizes and specifications. Whether you’re after a sleek integrated model or a freestanding design, you’re sure to find one that fits seamlessly with your home’s style and layout.

Washing machine size FAQs

Are all washing machines the same size?

No, not all washing machines are the same size. If you're considering a smaller washing machine, your capacity might only be 7kg, with shorter height and depth sizes. If you're a large family with substantial laundry needs, a larger washing machine, such as our 12kg machines, which take up more space but provide greater capacity, might be a better option for you.

Are all washing machine widths the same size?

No, not all washing machine widths are the same size. The standard washing machine width is 60cm and you're likely to find most models conform to this measurement. However, it's essential to check the model specifications to learn the width of each washing machine, as this may vary depending on the manufacturer and drum size.

What's the standard depth of a washing machine?

A washing machine's depth can vary anywhere between 40cm to 60cm, depending on the model and manufacturer. It's important to check each model's specifications to determine the exact depth you're considering. Depending on the size of your space, the depth of the washing machine will ultimately determine the best fit.

Are all washing machines the same height?

No, not all washing machines are the same height. While the variance might not be vast, knowing the specific size for your model can ensure the best fit for your appliance in your home. The standard height is 85cm for a washing machine in the UK. However, for an accurate idea of the height of your model, you should check with the manufacturer.