Most washing machines have a cabinet depth of around 60 cm, but you'll need more for the installation depth you need. For hoses, plugs, and vibration-free installation, you often need 5 to 10 cm of extra space behind the machine. Especially with larger drums, the cabinet depth can reach 67 to 70 cm. Looking for a suitable cabinet? View All washing machine cabinets for a quick overview and to compare specifications by model. This article contains standard dimensions, a handy depth vs. load capacity chart, and practical measuring tips to ensure your washing machine fits easily in a niche or under a countertop.
In short: what is the standard installation depth?
As a rule of thumb, the standard depth of a washing machine cabinet is approximately 60 cm. This is the bare cabinet, excluding any protruding parts. For the actual installation depth, add 5 to 10 cm for water hoses, drainage, and the necessary clearance to prevent vibrations from being transmitted to the wall. If you arrive at a total niche depth of 65 to 70 cm, a standard front-loading appliance will fit comfortably. If you choose a large capacity of 9 to 12 kg, the appliance's own depth can be as much as 63 to 70 cm. Therefore, always check the product specifications for each model and allow for additional margin in your niche dimensions.
Dimensions by washing machine type (front loader vs. top loader)
Front-loading dishwashers are the standard in the Netherlands. They are typically 60 cm wide, approximately 85 cm high, and have a cabinet depth of 55 to 70 cm, depending on the drum capacity. Top-loading dishwashers are more compact in terms of width: often around 40 cm wide and 85 to 90 cm high, with a depth of around 60 cm. If you have limited space, a top-loading dishwasher is a compact solution. If the dishwasher needs to be installed under a countertop, consider the height of the niche and the countertop: a standard countertop is 60 cm deep and 90 cm high, while the space under the countertop is often 82 to 85 cm. Check whether the dishwasher fits under the countertop without a top panel and whether the door can still open fully. If the niche/installation depth is limited, a single-appliance cabinet is a safe choice: see Single series (cabinet for one washing machine) .
Depth and capacity: which drum fits in your niche?
The higher the loading capacity, the deeper the machine usually is. This is due to a larger drum and more counterweight. For example, a 6 or 7 kg front loader can still be relatively shallow, while 9 to 12 kg models are often deeper than 60 cm. Use the guideline below to quickly determine the approximate installation depth you need. Note: these are average values; each make and model may vary.
| Filling weight | Average cabinet depth of appliance | Required installation depth |
|---|---|---|
| 6 - 7 kg | 45 - 55 cm | 55 - 65 cm |
| 8 kg | 55 - 60 cm | 62 - 68 cm |
| 9 - 10 kg | 60 - 67 cm | 67 - 72 cm |
| 11 - 12 kg | 67 - 70 cm | 72 - 75 cm |
If your niche is too shallow, a more compact model with a lower capacity is often the safest choice. If you still want a large drum, allow extra room and check the depth, including the door and front.
How to measure the niche size and installation depth
- Measure the depth from the back wall to the front edge of the niche or cabinet. Also note any protruding baseboards or pipes.
- Add an additional 5–10 cm to the measured depth for hoses, plugs, and vibration-free installation.
- Check height and width : the standard width is 60 cm and the height is 85 cm, but measure your niche and countertop. A base unit often requires a height of 82-85 cm.
- Check the door clearance : can the door open fully without touching the frame, cabinet front or wall?
- Please note the floor and skirting board : a high skirting board or thick floor covering can reduce the effective depth.
- Position the water and drain lines so that the hoses do not kink or take up extra depth.
Want to check step-by-step dimensions and assembly? Consult the Manuals: Dimensions and Assembly .
Placement and space around
Door opening and rotation direction
Most front-loading machines have a left-hand hinge. If your dryer is next to it, or if a cabinet door opens the other way, consider whether it's still practical. Maintain at least 40 cm of clearance in front of the doorway to allow for easy loading and unloading of large items. In narrow passageways, a top-loading machine can be convenient because you load from above and don't need a side-to-side turning radius. Are you placing appliances side by side? Compare the depth and width measurements in the Double series (side by side) .
Stacking with a dryer
If you want a washer-dryer tower, use a suitable stacking kit and check the total depth. A dryer is often the same depth as or slightly shallower than a washing machine, but hoses and drains still require an additional 5 to 10 cm. For a stable and safe setup with a stacking kit, calculate a built-in depth of 67 to 75 cm, depending on the capacity of your washing machine. For complete combinations and cabinets, see the Stacking series (washer and dryer stacked on top of each other) .
Are you working on your overall layout and want more storage space or a practical worktop? Check out Laundry Room Design: Tips for advice on layout and required working/installation depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard installation depth of a washing machine?
Expect a total installation depth of 65 to 70 cm for most front-loading dishwashers. The cabinet itself is often around 60 cm deep, but hoses and clearance require an additional 5 to 10 cm.
Does a washing machine fit under a 60 cm deep worktop?
Yes, provided you have sufficient recess depth and height. Ensure a clear height of 82 to 85 cm and allow 5 to 10 cm of space behind the machine for hoses and vibration clearance.
Are there shallow or narrow washing machines for small niches?
Yes. There are compact front loaders with cabinet depths of 45 to 55 cm and top loaders with a width of 40 cm. However, be aware of the lower capacity and always check the exact model dimensions.
How much clearance should I leave behind the washing machine?
It's best to leave 5 to 10 cm of clearance behind the machine. This prevents kinked hoses, provides space for the plug, and keeps the machine vibration-free.
