Do you want extra storage space with a cabinet above the washing machine? Good choice, as long as you consider stability, ventilation, and sufficient clearance. In this guide, you’ll learn when a storage cabinet above the washing machine works, how to safely stack with a dryer, and which alternatives are often even more practical for your laundry area in the bathroom or utility room. If you mainly want to know how to save space with an upper cabinet, check out Saving space with a cabinet above your washing machine.
Dryer above washing machine and a cabinet above: what is possible and what is not?
There are roughly two situations. 1) You install an upper cabinet on the wall above a freestanding washing machine. 2) You stack a dryer on top of the washing machine using a certified stacking kit or enclosure cabinet, and optionally add more storage space higher up in the column. Both are possible if you follow the basic rules.
Stacking is only possible with the washing machine below and the dryer above. Always use an official stacking kit or a specially designed cabinet solution and secure the enclosure to the wall. This prevents sliding and tipping during spinning. A drawer or pull-out shelf between the machines can make loading and unloading more ergonomic but is optional. See Mounting a washing machine cabinet on the wall (how-to) for step-by-step instructions.
For a cabinet above the washing machine, you must respect vibration clearance, pipes, and ventilation. A cabinet hung too low can touch the washing machine during spinning or block access to controls and detergent drawer. For a dryer in a column, extra air circulation is important to properly vent heat and moisture.
Keep the following in mind:
- Height: generally hang the cabinet 10-15 cm above the top of the washing machine. This prevents contact during vibrations and keeps controls accessible.
- Clearance around: leave space at the back for drainage, power, and hoses. Allow about 10 cm clearance for connections and plugs.
- Ventilation: choose an open or partially open back panel and, for dryer stacking, additional ventilation openings higher in the cabinet.
- Mounting: firmly anchor every upper cabinet into a load-bearing wall with the correct plugs and screws. For stacking setups, a wall bracket is strongly recommended.
- Load capacity: check whether enclosure or wall cabinets can handle the weight and dynamic loads. Never place a dryer loosely on a shelf.
Important: placing a washing machine on top of a cabinet is not a safe choice. The appliance is too heavy and generates dynamic forces for which an upper cabinet is not designed. Preferably consider a column solution where the machine and dryer stand in or between a sturdy washing machine cabinet, or combine a freestanding washing machine with a separate wall cabinet above it. Optionally supplemented with washing machine base cabinets for extra storage.
Materials and construction of a cabinet above the washing machine
Choose robust furniture panels of 18-22 mm with melamine or a similar coating. This is moisture-resistant and wear-resistant but not waterproof. An open or partially open back panel facilitates pipe routing and improves ventilation. Integrate ventilation grilles at the top where possible and use rust-resistant fasteners. Always mount with the correct wall anchors for the wall type. Consider rounded edges and splash protection if the cabinet is part of a bathroom cabinet setup. Is the cabinet setup in the bathroom? Check Washing machine cabinets for the bathroom for suitable options and moisture-related considerations.
Smart alternatives that often work better
Are you unsure between an upper cabinet or an enclosure? The comparison below helps you choose. Tip: a washing machine cabinet with or without a dryer above optimally uses height and feels more stable than just a wall cabinet.
| Solution | Advantages | Considerations | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall-mounted upper cabinet | Extra storage space above washing machine, compact intervention | Good anchoring and 10-15 cm height clearance needed | Storage in small spaces |
| Washing machine cabinet single/double/stacked | Stable column, neat finish, ergonomic loading | Precise leveling and wall bracket recommended | Maximizing laundry space |
| Open shelf with supports | Quick to install, affordable | Watch load capacity and splash moisture in bathroom | Light storage such as detergents |
Are you considering an IKEA cabinet above the washing machine or a cabinet from the hardware store? The same rules apply: ventilate, keep distance, and anchor firmly. Looking specifically for a column solution for washing machine and dryer stacked? Then check out a washing machine cabinet with high load capacity, easy assembly, and long warranty or a washing machine cabinet wall. Want to create a complete custom wall solution? Read Assembling a cabinet wall for the laundry room.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high should a cabinet hang above a washing machine?
Generally keep 10-15 cm free between the top of the washing machine and the bottom of the cabinet. This prevents contact during vibrations and keeps controls accessible.
Can you put a washing machine in a cabinet?
Yes, provided the cabinet is sturdy, level, well anchored, and offers sufficient ventilation and space for pipes. Vibration dampers and an open back panel are recommended.
Can I place a dryer above a washing machine?
Yes, always use an official stacking kit or specially designed enclosure cabinet with wall mounting. Never place a dryer loosely on a shelf or unstable surface.
How much space should there be between the washing machine and the cabinet?
Leave clearance all around, especially at the back for hoses and plugs. About 10 cm of rear space is practical. Above the washing machine, 10–15 cm clearance works well in most situations. Want the exact guidelines? See How much free space do you need above the washing machine?
Tip from Wasdroom
Wasdroom does not supply a specific cabinet for above the washing machine. Are you looking for a stable column or neat enclosure? Then check out our washing machine cabinets in the Single, Double, and Stacked series with high load capacity, easy assembly, and 5-year warranty. This way you can use your laundry space safely and stylishly in the Netherlands and Belgium.