Want to be sure your washing machine cabinet fits? Below you’ll find the common standard built-in dimensions for front loaders and top loaders, plus practical measuring tips. As a rule of thumb: calculate with 60 cm appliance width, 60-65 cm depth, and extra space for vibration, plugs, water, and ventilation. For a stacked setup, you generally need 180-200 cm niche height.
Quick overview of common built-in dimensions
| Situation | Appliance size (avg.) | Recommended internal niche width | Recommended internal niche depth | Recommended niche height |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washing machine front loader solo | 60 w x 85 h x 56-64 d cm | 64-66 cm | 67-70 cm | 90-95 cm |
| Washing machine + dryer stacked | 2 x 60 w x 85 h | 64-66 cm | 67-70 cm | 180-200 cm |
| Washing machine + dryer side by side | 2 x 60 b | 125-130 cm | 67-70 cm | 90-95 cm |
| Front loader on riser/working height | 60 w x 85 h | 64-66 cm | 67-70 cm | 115-145 cm (riser 30-60 cm) |
| Top loader | 40-45 w x 90 h x 60 d | 44-48 cm | 65-70 cm | 100-110 cm |
How to measure your niche correctly
- Measure internally at 3 points in width: bottom, middle, and top. Take the smallest measurement and plan 2-3 cm clearance per side.
- Measure the depth from the back wall to the inside of the front. Add 5-7 cm extra for plug, drain, and water hose.
- Measure the height from floor to top rail. For stacking, add both appliance heights plus 3-5 cm clearance and any shelf thickness.
- Note obstacles: baseboard/plinth, siphon, drain bend, power outlet, tap, and protrusions.
- Check the floor for flatness and vibration sensitivity. Provide adjustable feet or a vibration mat.
More measuring and installation tips can be found in our Guides and installation tips for washing machine cabinets.
Safety, ventilation, and load capacity
- Ventilation: maintain at least 200 cm² of open ventilation in your cabinet front or rear, or airflow through vents. See also Built-in depth and front dimensions of closed washing machine cabinets.
- Clearance: leave 2-3 cm free around and 5-7 cm behind the machines for hoses and air circulation.
- Load capacity: a stacked setup can quickly weigh 120-160 kg. Choose a cabinet with tested load capacity. Wasdroom cabinets are designed for up to 300 kg load capacity.
- Ergonomics: a riser of 30-60 cm raises the drum to working height and reduces bending.
- Stability: use a stacking set or intermediate shelf and anchor the cabinet to the wall where possible.
Standard dimensions per setup
Only a washing machine in a cabinet
Allow 60 cm appliance width for a front loader and plan 64-66 cm internal niche width. The 67-70 cm depth prevents tight spots at plug, hoses, and door. With 90-95 cm niche height, you can fit a shelf or drawer above the machine. For ergonomic working height, choose a riser of 30-60 cm and increase the niche height accordingly. See Dimensions single washing machine cabinet (about 60 cm wide).
Washer and dryer side by side
Two front loaders together require 120 cm. With side clearance and a center stile, you get 125-130 cm internal niche width. The depth remains 67-70 cm. With a worktop at 90-95 cm, you create a comfortable folding height and leave space for hose passage behind. For sizing per setup: Dimensions double washing machine cabinet (two appliances side by side).
Stacked washer and dryer
Plan for 64-66 cm internal niche width and 67-70 cm depth. For height, add 85 + 85 cm, plus 3-5 cm clearance and the thickness of the shelf or stacking set. Realistically, you’ll end up around 180-190 cm. If you want a lockable upper cabinet or extra margin, aim for about 200 cm. See also Standard height and depth of stackable washing machine cabinets.
Common measurement mistakes you can easily avoid
- Not accounting for protruding door handles or baseboards - always measure internally and note obstacles.
- Too shallow depth - don’t forget the extra 5-7 cm for hoses and plug.
- Insufficient ventilation - plan openings or vents in the front or rear.
- No vibration clearance - leave 2-3 cm around so appliances do not touch side walls.
- Unknown appliance depth - check the datasheet of your brand and model, especially for heat pump dryers which are often deeper.
Example dimensions of Wasdroom cabinets
For reference: the Wasdroom Double 8.0 is 235 cm wide, 200 cm high, and 67.5 cm deep. It provides space for two appliances plus storage around, within the guidelines for depth and height. All Wasdroom cabinets are made from moisture-resistant material with melamine, equipped with soft-close, and TÜV-certified with a load capacity up to 300 kg. Always consult the product specifications for the exact internal dimensions per model.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dimensions of the built-in cabinet for a washing machine?
For a solo front loader, 64-66 cm internal niche width, 67-70 cm depth, and 90-95 cm height is a safe guideline. For a stacked setup, the width remains the same, the depth 67-70 cm, and the niche height 180-200 cm. These dimensions allow for ventilation, vibration, and cable routing. Always check your appliance’s datasheet for the exact depth.
How wide should a cabinet be for a washing machine?
Reserve 64-66 cm internal width for a 60 cm front loader. This leaves 2-3 cm clearance on each side for vibration and placement. For two appliances side by side, you need 125-130 cm internal width, depending on any middle stile.
What cabinet size do I need for the washing machine?
Look at three things: internal width 64-66 cm, internal depth 67-70 cm, and sufficient height for your setup. If you place the appliance on a riser of 30-60 cm, increase the niche height proportionally. Don’t forget space for hoses and ventilation openings.
What are the dimensions of a top loader washing machine?
Top loaders are generally 40-45 cm wide, about 90 cm high, and approximately 60 cm deep. Choose an internal niche width of 44-48 cm and a depth of 65-70 cm to allow space for hoses and ventilation. Leave extra free space above the appliance to fully open the lid.
Get started with your washing machine cabinet
Ready to measure and build? Use the guidelines above and compare them with the product specifications of your equipment. To be sure everything fits, is stable, and neatly finished, check out the Wasdroom models and specifications or ask us for personal measurement advice. Or verify your niche size directly with the Washing Machine Cabinet Configurator: check your built-in size.