To stack or not to stack? (washing machine + tumble dryer)

[NoIdeasForWittyNickname]

We're considering a single-storey rear extension + reconfig of other parts of the ground floor, which may give us an option for a (very modest) utility / laundry room space. It'll be big enough to house a separate washing machine and a tumble dryer on the floor level, but if they're stacked, we can have a bit more storage and add a utility sink. I've always wanted to banish washing/drying machines away from the kitchen and it's the first time I may be able to do so, which is very exciting But I'd be grateful for a bit of advice. Would you rather have (a) a modes storage upgrade + a utility sink but stacked appliances or (b) floor-level washing machine and tumble dryer but slightly more modest storage and no utility sink?

I would stack. Having extra storage space and a sink would far outweigh not stacking them.

I have my washer and dryer stacked. The system I have as a pull out shelf between them.

I've talked to a couple of friends and today and they said stacking is the last resort, too heavy on the back to load / offload the top unit

That’s so random?! Are they especially short or have mobility problems?

I have mine stacked and it’s great. Empty washing machine out into basket. Pull out shelf. Pick basket up and out on shelf. Put clothes from basket into TD.

When I empty the TD I just put the basket on the floor and drop clothes in as then it’s easier to stand closer to the TD.

There is arguable LESS strain on the back as you are only crouching for half as long!

I like a utility sink myself
But to the pp wanting a dishwasher in a utility room, I’m not convinced that is a good idea. You’ll be carrying the dishes and stuff further when stacking and unstacking which will be a total PITA

@ContessaVerde

I like a utility sink myself But to the pp wanting a dishwasher in a utility room, I’m not convinced that is a good idea. You’ll be carrying the dishes and stuff further when stacking and unstacking which will be a total PITA

Presumably it’s freeing up space in the kitchen? Although layout might mean it’s ok, we used to have to walk past our utility room from our dining table to our kitchen in our kitchen diner.

Hi OP we bought this stacking kit that has a shelf. I put the laundry basket on the shelf to take things in and out the dryer.

AO and Boots Appliances customer services were really helpful, I told them what features I needed and they picked me a washer (haier) and dryer (hoover) that would fit together with this stacking kit. 2 years later all good.

£29 Stacking kit C00378975 www.bootskitchenappliances.com/product/c00378975-wpro-laundry-accessories-white-50395-362.aspx

Funny that your friends think floor level is better for back, I think kneeling and hunching over does me worse. Having the dryer at face level is easier in my opinion. Wish the washer was there too!

I could not be without the sink in my utility room and it was improved no end when we installed a catering sink that is wide and deep so oven shelves, cat litter trays, the burnt frying pan etc can all fit in.

Stack your tumble drier and washing machine.

I have a bad back and I find the staking makes it easier less bending. I have had a laundry without a sink. Don't.

Thank you everyone! So many useful tips (e.g. about the extra pull-out shelf, or about extra worktop space if appliances are side by side) - it's all a bit of an eye-opener! I'm really glad stacking doesn't get universal thumbs down, phew, as I was kind of leaning towards that layout but then got cold feet.

@YellowFish12, yes, actually one of them is quite short! That surely explains her point of view.

@TeenTitan007

If you stack then you have to lift every wet garment -either separately or together - from the washing machine to the dryer. Pain in the back - literally! Keeping them side by side gives you space for a big counter which is far more useful than the space saved by stacking. Counter can be used for dry/wet clothes, baskets, detergents/cans, ironing even. We chose the latter when we had the choice.

But you'd be bending down to unload the washing machine regardless? If your drier is also on the floor then you have to bend down to unload that as well. At least with them stacked you're only bending once. If anything it's easier on the back!

Stacking is a real space saver and if you get a plastic pull out shelf to go in between you'll never look back! Having a tumble dryer at eye height is fab.

Stack. I'm a 5'2" wimp and the only problem I have is someone puts the detergent on top of the stack. No issues with loading/unloading. I've not got a pull out shelf but my washing basket has a handle/lip thing which is use for a bit of support if I need it.

Stack and shelf. It's bliss. I don't have it in my new house and I miss it so much.

I have a bespoke cabinet. The washer stands on the floor. The dryer in its own unit above and a cupboard for detergents above that. I have a large hand wash sink with a plumbed in drainer. Then a bit more work surface with a wine fridge under! I wouldn’t change anything. Stacking kits are ok but for maximum storage get a unit built to take the machines plus storage. It’s way better.

You can also get storage over the sink and add in a tall towel radiator. Drys well!

Thanks again, everyone. So many fans of stacking, I'll definitely go for that option!
@PresentingPercy - good tips, thank you.

That room currently has two windows. We were planning to keep one, but perhaps we should consider blocking if off as well, more options for cabinets or shelves

Does it need two windows? We have a stable door which is part glazed, and I can put airing outside easily. We have a folding airer.

On our other wall in our galley laundry room we have boot storage, waste paper recycling basket (we seem to have loads), hanging rail for drying shirts and a big cupboard for ironing board, Cleaning equipment/materials etc. We also have drawers for lightbulbs, string, batteries and “stuff!”

I had mine stacked for years in the last house. Dryer on top. It worked perfectly well. We had a worktop between so it was very secure.

@PresentingPercy - no, certainly doesn't need two windows! We're planning to brick off one of them. Maybe the other should be turned into a door Great point about paper recycling storage!

@PresentingPercy and @BeautifulandWilfulandDead - ok, sounds like a more solid housing for the dryer is the way forward! Thanks!

The only thing I would point out in relation to stacked is if you’re short like me, reaching the drier controls at the top of the machine might mean using a step! Stacking frees up space and no way would I have a utility room without a sink. You must use a purpose built stacking kit or have a housing built. Also ensure you have access for ventilation around the drier and if a condenser definitely look at drawing to the drain so you don’t have to empty the drawer.

Draining to the drain!

We have them stacked but, in my wisdom, left a wedge of space between them to put the steam generated iron on the worktop above the washing machine. On the plus side, I have a lot more space but on the downside the dryer is too goddamned high, even though I can reach in it if you open the dryer load as soon as it is done you can burn your arm on the metal lip trying to fish out the last sock.

If I was lucky enough to have this choice I would not go for stacking. A counter across the top of the two machines would look better and be really useful for all sorts of things. Also much easier to replace a washing machine or dryer when independently placed.