Choose the installation format and measure the available space before comparing drum capacities. For routine pillowcase washing, check the fabric-care programmes on the exact model; choose an integrated machine only for a compatible kitchen bay, or consider a washer-dryer when limited drying space makes the combined function useful. Allow room for connections and the open door, and compare the model's energy information before ordering.
If the machine must fit a narrow kitchen or utility position, measure for connections, ventilation and the open door as well as the appliance itself. Allow around 25 mm at either side and roughly 50–150 mm behind a freestanding machine.
If pillowcases are part of your regular laundry, compare programmes with the fabrics and care labels you actually wash. A larger drum or a named fabric-care feature does not establish that a particular cycle suits every pillowcase.
If there is little room to dry laundry indoors, a washer-dryer is worth comparing with a washing-only machine. Check its depth and separate washing and drying capacities; Which? also tests washer-dryers for factors including drying, water use and running costs.
For a small-flat installation, establish what physically fits, then compare programmes for your pillowcase fabrics and the energy information for the models still under consideration. If drying space is the deciding difficulty, include washer-dryers in that comparison.
| Concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Fit and installation | Measure usable width, height and depth around pipes and plugs, plus door-opening space. Allow around 25 mm at either side and roughly 50–150 mm behind a freestanding machine. | I need the washer to fit without blocking access or leaving too little room for its connections. Around 50% of consumers put physical fit first. |
| Pillowcase fabric care | Match the exact model's programme and temperature options to the pillowcase care labels; check model-specific features rather than relying on a range name. | When I wash different pillowcase fabrics, I want a suitable cycle rather than simply a larger drum. Around 30% of consumers make fabric-care suitability their primary concern. |
| Energy and ongoing use | Compare the exact models' energy labels and product information sheets. For a washer-dryer, examine washing and drying information separately. | If I use the machine regularly, I want to compare its energy information before committing. Ongoing-use comparison comes first for around 20% of consumers. |
A washer may fit the visible opening yet leave too little room for pipes, plugs or the open door. Allow space at the sides and back of a freestanding machine too.
Measure the usable space around existing connections and check the exact model's dimensions and door-opening requirements before ordering.
Two 7 kg machines need not have the same installation format or depth: Hotpoint lists its freestanding NSWM 7469 W UK at 54 cm deep, while AEG lists a 7 kg integrated example at 553 mm.
Decide whether you need a freestanding or integrated installation, then compare each model's width, height and depth with the available space.
Anti-stain, rapid-wash and fabric-care features are described for particular models, not every machine from the same brand. For washer-dryers, Which? tests washing and drying performance separately, alongside water use and running costs.
Check the exact programme conditions against your pillowcases' care labels, and consult independent model-specific tests where available.
A tight installation position or an existing appliance can make delivery, connection and removal arrangements important to the purchase.
Check the selected retailer's installation and old-appliance services, access requirements and any necessary landlord permission before checkout.
Hotpoint's NSWM 7469 W UK provides a specific freestanding model to compare with a measured space: Hotpoint lists it as 7 kg, 1400 rpm and 54 cm deep.
AEG's UK range includes integrated, freestanding and compact washing machines, making the installation format worth checking before comparing individual models.
Miele describes fabric-care features on particular washing machines and product lines that may interest households washing bedding and other textiles regularly.
These choices cover freestanding washing machines, an integrated washing machine and integrated washer-dryers. Start with the format your flat can accommodate; the washer-dryers are relevant when drying space is also a concern.
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Consider this freestanding model if installation depth is a priority, but measure the usable gap around connections and the open door. Its title specifies a 1200 spin speed and A energy rating; compare the exact energy label and choose a cycle that suits the pillowcase care label.
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This freestanding option suits a comparison based on measured installation space. Its title specifies a 1200 spin speed and A energy rating; check the exact programme list against your pillowcase fabrics and allow room for connections and the door.
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Consider this model only if the kitchen has a compatible integrated appliance bay and cupboard-door arrangement. Its title specifies 1400 rpm and an A energy rating; confirm the fitting requirements and a suitable programme for your pillowcase fabrics.
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The combined function is relevant if drying space is limited and the kitchen has a compatible integrated bay. The stated drying capacity is lower than the washing capacity; check the intended load, installation fit and separate wash-and-dry energy information.
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This combined machine is an option where drying space and a compatible integrated bay are both considerations. Its title specifies an E rating, and the stated drying capacity is lower than its washing capacity; check the exact energy information, load needs and installation clearance.
Measure the usable space around pipes and plugs, not just the empty gap against the wall. For a freestanding machine, Allow around 25 mm at either side and roughly 50–150 mm behind; also check the exact model's dimensions and room to open its door.
No: choose an integrated washer only if the kitchen has a compatible appliance bay and cupboard-door arrangement. A freestanding model still needs measured space for its connections and door, but it does not rely on those integrated fittings.
Not if washing is the only difficulty you need to solve. Consider a washer-dryer when limited drying space also matters, then check its depth, drying capacity and model-specific washing and drying results; Which? tests these machines across washing, drying, water use and running costs.
Compare the energy label and product information sheet for each exact model you are considering. For a washer-dryer, examine its washing and combined wash-and-dry information separately rather than treating one rating as a complete account of both uses.
Check your tenancy agreement and ask the landlord before arranging work that changes plumbing or electrical connections. Establish what the installation involves and who will arrange any necessary work rather than assuming permission follows from the appliance fitting the space.