Hi all! For many of you, it is important to organize the space in your home as competently, functionally, and practically as possible, while trying not to compromise the design. Therefore, it will be relevant to talk about the cabinet above the washing machine in the bathroom.
In most cases, the washing machine is installed specifically in the bathroom, although the option of its location in the kitchen is not excluded.
The bathrooms themselves are small. In addition to the machine, all the attributes of the bathroom are also located here. And it is important to have additional space for storing household chemicals, laundry detergents, etc.
In my opinion, the cabinet above the washing machine looks very interesting, promising and practical. But it is still worth considering all aspects of the decision.
Where to put a washing machine in a small bathroom?
Spacious rooms leave room for imagination, but how can owners of “Khrushchevka” apartments, modest in size, install equipment?
New items in the furniture industry, miracles of technology, plumbing, finds, and inventions of folk craftsmen will help you find an original solution. Traditionally, the main massive element is placed along the room. There is still a narrow area at your disposal where you need to “squeeze” a washbasin, a cabinet with household chemicals, cosmetics, and a laundry basket. Where can you install even the most compact washing machine? Here are some options for a small bathroom.
Under the bathroom sink
The “washing machine plus sink” combination will help free up space. A special water lily sink is installed above the device. The drain pipes of the “tricky” washbasin are not in the center, but in the back wall. This leaves room for maneuvers during installation and operation of the machine, making it safe.
- the area of the sink should be larger than the body of the washing machine;
- the drainage system is located behind the equipment;
- the gap between the washbasin and the device is 2-3 cm;
- connection to the water supply is made by a special siphon with two pipes.
How to hide a washing machine under the sink?
If the washing machine does not harmonize with the interior of the bathroom, it can be hidden under the washbasin using the doors of a special cabinet, or covered with a curtain.
By building the machine under the countertop, you can increase the capacity of the washbasin and free up access.
Unusual placement of the washbasin
Are you the owner of a bathroom with a narrow drain? You can hang the sink above it. This will not affect ease of use, but will free up space. Such “non-classical” plumbing fixtures of an original form will help to rationally “beat” any interior.
Shower stall
Do you prefer showering to other procedures? Install a shower stall instead of a bathtub. Such a replacement will help rationally plan the space and give the room a modern look.
Combination of bathrooms
From two small “closets” you can make one spacious bathroom, in which there will definitely be a place for washing equipment. Such redevelopment requires permission from utility services. If the wall between the restrooms is load-bearing, be prepared to receive a refusal.
Between the bathroom and the toilet
A combined toilet allows you to place a washing machine between the plumbing. It is convenient, compact, practical.
How to close a washing machine?
Does the appearance of the equipment contradict the design solutions in the interior? How to hide the facade of the case and protect it from moisture? A cabinet (box, tall cabinet) or niche will help you.
Cabinet for washing machine
This solution kills two birds with one stone:
- the machine is hidden, protected by doors;
- additional shelves and compartments for storing detergents, household items, and dirty linen make housekeeping easier.
Niche for a washing machine
A new trend in modern renovation is a separate niche for a washing machine. It is easy to make it yourself from any material (foam block, tiles, drywall, chipboard). The main thing is to take into account the size of the unit when planning and performing work. Leave side gaps of at least 3 cm, take into account the distance and location of the holes for the output of communications. The upper free space can be equipped with shelves.
The small dimensions of apartments daily challenge modern housewives, but this is not a reason to refuse the benefits of civilization. We wish you bold experiments, compromises, and extraordinary solutions.
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Built-in washing machine in the kitchen: choosing the “right” model
The range of washing machines is really huge. When choosing, they are guided by many parameters: appearance, functionality, capacity, brand, cost, etc.
It would be a good idea to pay attention to those characteristics that may make it difficult or, conversely, easier to design a built-in cabinet for a washing machine in the bathroom or kitchen
Built-in model or not?
For built-in models everything is simple. The documentation provides all the necessary parameters for integrating a washing machine into furniture. If you have chosen a built-in washing machine, then you don’t have to read the rest of the selection criteria.
What is the depth of the washer?
The majority of non-built-in models are the same in height and width - 850 mm and 600 mm, respectively. Depth of technique matters. For small kitchens and bathrooms, where it would be nice to narrow the countertop on one side to 500 mm, it is better to choose narrow models with a depth of up to 440-450 mm. If you plan to leave the countertop on the washing machine side with a standard width of 600 mm and there is also no need to cover it with facades, this selection criterion does not matter.
If it is assumed that the built-in cabinet for the washing machine will have doors, it is necessary to increase the width of the niche by the thickness of the hinges. So that, if necessary, it can be pulled out without removing the facades and tabletop - the width of the gaps will allow this to be done.
Is the top cover removable or not?
In order to be able to build a washing machine under the countertop of a kitchen unit with a standard height of 850 mm, the cover must be removed from the unit. In some models this is impossible to do, or rather pointless, due to the control panel extending onto the lid.
To build a washing machine into a cabinet under a countertop with a control panel extending onto the lid, you will have to increase the height of the kitchen tables. No problem, if the stove, an integral companion of any kitchen, is built-in, consisting of an oven and hob.
What if the slab is free-standing, with a standard height of 850 mm? Due to the built-in washing machine in the kitchen, the level of the countertop will be higher - at a level of 880-890 mm from the floor. There is only one way out: to design a kind of podium under the slab in order to raise it in line with the work surface.
What shape does the control panel have?
Designers of household appliances are moving away from classic straight lines. Often the washing machine has an attractive streamlined shape
Pay attention to the top control panel - if it is beveled and “goes” deep, after installing the washing machine in the kitchen cabinet, the container for powders will become inaccessible due to the overhang of the countertop in front
There are two options: cut off the limiters on the tray so that it can be removed completely, or put detergents in the machine drum. Also, an overly convex and protruding front part, even with a narrowed depth of the body itself, may not “allow” closing the washing machine with doors. By the way, regarding the installation of facades: the upper hinge must be embedded below the standard indentation of 100 mm, so as not to block the extension of the tray. It is better to lower it and embed it lower, say at a level of 200 mm from the edge (look at the height of the control panel).
How to properly install a clothes dryer on a washing machine
Regardless of the chosen method, there is a general algorithm for the correct installation of household appliances in a column on top of each other.
The dryer is always installed on top of the washing machine, not vice versa. The reason is that the unit is lighter, and, accordingly, the design is more reliable. In this case, the washing machine below is set strictly according to the level, even if visually it seems that it is already located level. The slightest deviation from the plane will lead to unnecessary vibrations, hum, and ultimately to instability of the column.
When installing a column, you need to calculate in advance whether the cables from household appliances will reach the sockets
It is best to install the dryer on the washing machine on concrete or tile. A good option is also a wooden floor, which can be additionally reinforced with slats. But the column cannot be mounted on linoleum, thin laminate, and especially on carpet; a soft coating will not allow achieving the required stability of the structure:
- A special tray or homemade shelf is installed on top of the washing machine. It is strictly forbidden to place devices close to each other, without an intermediate layer. This will put extra stress on both the washer and dryer. A layer of sealing material is placed between the lower unit and the pan, which absorbs the vibration of the column during operation.
- A purchased or homemade stand is securely fixed with bolts. It should not move forward, backward or to the sides; the column must be absolutely immobile.
- The dryer is placed on a homemade shelf or stand from the manufacturer. If we are talking about using a special shield, you need to make sure that the legs of the unit fit exactly into the recesses intended for them.
Upon completion of work, both devices remain connected to communications and the electrical network. When using a column, it is recommended to start the dryer and washing machine alternately. This will not only avoid unnecessary vibrations, but will also reduce the load on the home network.
Internal filling
An important point is also the internal layout of the cabinet. After all, it will be filled not only by the washing machine, but also by other items, as well as household chemicals
For example, if in addition to the washing unit, there will also be a dryer, then it is important to create a space between them in the form of a free section. Do not put one car on top of another or move them close to each other
You need to think about how many and what kind of shelves you will need for powder, conditioner, bleach, stain removers, and so on. With shelves, cabinets become much more spacious. A laundry basket also requires space, because you will have to put a large volume of dirty things into it, which do not always immediately fit into the drum of the machine. It is worth considering that sometimes things will emit an unpleasant odor. By choosing the right place for things in the closet, unpleasant moments like mold can be easily avoided.
With a small number of shelves, it is very convenient to use hanging baskets. Particularly interesting are the options with perforation, wicker or mesh.
And it doesn’t matter at all what material they are made of.
A wave-shaped towel holder can be a convenient addition. Its grooves are great for storing folded towels. A rod is suitable for hanging towels. As a result, you will not have to allocate a special place for drying them. If you have limited space, use hooks or clips.
Advantages and disadvantages
Let's start with the advantages and disadvantages. If you look at the photo, everything looks pretty cute, beautiful and cozy. But you shouldn’t perceive everything just as it seems to you at first glance.
[adv1]
Before you buy this or that design option or before you do it yourself, look at the strengths and weaknesses of the solution.
If you install a cabinet above the washing machine, you will get the following benefits:
- The furniture will visually cover household appliances. This will hide it from prying eyes, thereby completing the design of the room;
- The design protects equipment from moisture. The bathroom is famous for its high level of humidity, and gradually the washing machine will probably begin to suffer from corrosion. The cabinet will prolong its life without rust;
- Excellent space saving. The area above the washing machine will be occupied by various things that should be in the bathroom. In this case, nothing will be visible;
- Cleaning the room is noticeably simplified and the time spent on this procedure is minimized;
- The washing machine and the boiler can be covered if they are placed on top of each other. There will still be room for household chemicals, etc.
As for the shortcomings, there are not many of them. Such solutions in the form of cabinets above the washing machine may not be suitable for all styles and not for every room. But this is rather an individual question.
A more obvious disadvantage is the risk of not noticing in time a leak in a machine that is locked in a cabinet. Although here everything depends on the design features of the cabinet.
[adv2]
The issue of the fragility of the cabinet is directly related to what material it is made of.
Color spectrum
The color palette for rural cuisine has practically no restrictions, with the exception of one thing - natural shades dominate. In the old days, village interiors were decorated with natural materials and paints symbolizing nature. But today we also need to avoid flashy shades.
A soft palette of shades will provide an atmosphere of home comfort.
I don’t recommend combining too many accents: three colors are enough for one room.
Beige kitchen
A country-style kitchen in beige tones allows you to plunge into an atmosphere of warmth and rural comfort. Against such a background, brickwork, wood furniture, stone, and forged products look advantageous. Cream shades are varied, but they are practical and versatile.
The beige color is non-staining, so it will be easier to keep the kitchen clean.
White
The white palette is considered the most universal. In the country direction, you should use not the sterile white tones characteristic of high-tech, but a milky palette.
White is the ideal background for colorful, contrasting accents.
Brown
A kitchen area decorated in brown tones is associated with good quality. In country design, it becomes a neutral basis for textiles and decorative elements.
Brown is the color of tree bark, appropriate in rural interiors.
I don't recommend combining many shades, limit yourself to 2-3.
Blue
A rustic kitchen in blue tones is usually decorated when it comes to spacious rooms. But a similar decor can be recreated in a small-sized kitchen in a Khrushchev-era building by selecting furniture in the appropriate style and some decorative details.
Those who love natural materials and laconicism will definitely like this design, since wood is used as the main element in the interior.
Turquoise, gray and blue, and green tones fit organically into the rural style.
An example of a beautiful blue kitchen in Italian country style.
Pink
You can add romantic notes to a rough country interior using delicate pink shades.
Wallpaper - striped or with a floral pattern, textiles, accessories can be pink. Attention! Don't use overly variegated shades. The country style matches the pastel palette.
Green
Herbal is one of the most natural, so it can also fit into a rural interior. Use mint, malachite and emerald. You need to give up neon and other artificial shades that do not exist in nature.
It is better to avoid deliberately artificial colors so that there is no dissonance in the design.
Photo selection of cabinets for a washing machine in the interior:
No other room is more synonymous with cleanliness than the bathroom. The most convenient way is to put it in a niche. If the bathroom layout does not provide for such convenience, use plasterboard and tiles, or buy a cabinet with a compartment for a washing machine. This space can be used to its fullest: install shelves or a wall cabinet to store bathroom accessories, towels and other useful things.
White color is the most advantageous: it creates a feeling of purity and freshness.
Choose a narrow (up to 33 cm) washing machine - this one will fit in any closet.
A cozy place for equipment can be found under the sink - if the size allows. You can install the washing machine under the countertop, which will protect the top panel from moisture. Or hide it in a cabinet next to the sink.
Leave a small (five centimeters) gap between the countertop and the washing machine: there you can store the operating instructions or a minimum kit for self-repair.
It is better not to close the cabinet door while washing - this way you can control the process.
Most often, the washing machine door opens to the left, so it is more convenient to place it on the right side of the countertop.
Large household appliances, compact furniture, small space are an eternal problem faced by apartment owners. Traditionally, the layout of a living space includes a small kitchen, bathroom or toilet. Therefore, there are few options left for placing the washing machine. To arrange household appliances compactly, beautifully and conveniently, you can use a built-in or stationary cabinet for a washing machine. The product is made to individual sizes, which eliminates difficulties with using the unit and problems during installation.
Saving space is a decisive factor when choosing furniture for large built-in appliances. A competent project and original design of the cabinet model allow you to create the illusion of free space, as well as arrange products compactly and ergonomically. In most cases, washing machines are installed in the kitchen or bathroom, built into specially designated niches or modules. This cabinet helps solve the following problems:
space saving. A pressing problem that almost all homeowners face is the compact installation of large household appliances. Installing a washing machine inside a cabinet frees up space in the room; aesthetic appeal of the work area. Regardless of which room the cabinet will be installed in (kitchen, bathroom), the room “wins” in aesthetics
Household appliances will not attract the attention of guests if you hide them behind beautiful furniture doors; rational use of free space. There are furniture models for household appliances with additional sections, shelves, and drawers. Internal content depends on the size of the installation space
Inside you can install baskets, nets, shelves for storing detergents; spectacular room design - furniture for rooms with high humidity can be made from moisture-resistant materials, the doors can be decorated with decorative facades, the product can be made in a suitable style so that all the furniture in the room looks like a single ensemble; maintaining order and ease of cleaning the room. The neat arrangement of equipment inside the cabinet simplifies the process of wet cleaning in the bathroom or kitchen. Housewives can put various personal hygiene items and household chemicals on the shelves.
The internal content depends on the size of the installation space. Inside you can install baskets, nets, shelves for storing detergents; spectacular room design - furniture for rooms with high humidity can be made from moisture-resistant materials, the doors can be decorated with decorative facades, the product can be made in a suitable style so that all the furniture in the room looks like a single ensemble; maintaining order and ease of cleaning the room. The neat arrangement of equipment inside the cabinet simplifies the process of wet cleaning in the bathroom or kitchen. Housewives can put various personal hygiene items and household chemicals on the shelves.
An additional advantage of installing a washing machine in the interior of a cabinet is the sound insulation of operating equipment. As a rule, washing machines operate loudly on the spin option. The cabinet walls create some barrier to noise and vibration, performing a noise-absorbing and sound-insulating function. The top panel of a small cabinet built under the sink can be used as a convenient shelf for placing various accessories, small items, and hygiene products.
When the bathroom has a large area
Placing a washing machine in a spacious bathroom is not a problem - you don’t have to fight for every centimeter of free space and pay more attention to the design of the room. To prevent household appliances from affecting the interior style, especially if it is classic, retro, Provence and country, it is advisable to hide it in a closet or cabinet, closing it with decorative doors (see photo ):
But it is best to allocate a special space for a mini-laundry. Here you can additionally install a drying machine, ironing board and hanger for freshly washed clothes.
This is perhaps the most practical solution for a spacious bathroom. To see this, just look at the photo :
Finding a place for a washing machine in the bathroom is not as difficult as it seems at first glance. And let the kitchen remain for the dishwasher, refrigerator and other large equipment that helps create culinary masterpieces.
Photo selection of designer creativity in conclusion:
Nuances of self-assembly
You will choose what to make the cabinet above the washing machine from and what design decisions to follow. I'll just give you just a few recommendations.
Be sure to draw up preliminary drawings and assemble the cabinet strictly according to them. You shouldn’t do everything by eye or simply copy other people’s designs that you like. Everyone has different bathrooms, different free space and the corresponding dimensions of the washing machine itself.
But according to generally accepted rules, the width of the cabinet should be 3-4 centimeters greater than the width of the machine.
As for height, there are no strict restrictions. You can make it at least 1.5, at least 3 meters. But keep in mind the fact that tall structures are less stable. But this way you will be able to get more shelves and drawers. Look for a reasonable middle ground. Most often, cabinets up to 2.5 meters high are used.
Make a cabinet based on the size of the bathroom. If you assemble a huge cabinet and insert it into a small bathroom, it will look ridiculous. Plus it will require a lot of space.
I think that after considering all these nuances and features, you can safely go to a furniture store, or write a list to visit the construction market, where you will purchase all the necessary materials.
I’ll add on my own behalf that the cabinet above the washing machine is really a good solution, which I personally and my family have been using for several years. And no one is going to give it up.
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How to choose a place to install a furniture unit with a washing machine
The main requirement that a washing machine places on the installation site is the proximity of utilities - a water supply system for water supply, a sewer system for drainage and electricity for connection. And in addition to the traditional bathroom, these conditions include:
- kitchen;
- hallway (more precisely, the wall that adjoins the kitchen or bathroom);
- dressing room (subject to the previous requirement being met);
- a separate room for a utility unit (the so-called laundry room).
When placing a furniture module with a washing machine in a particular room, you should take into account certain features of each zone. A separate laundry room is the dream of every housewife. Here you can place a complete set of laundry equipment, combining it with a convenient storage system for linen and detergents. A built-in ironing board will be a nice bonus. Moreover, in the modern interpretation, the laundry room does not have to be large at all; it is enough for it to fit the necessary set of equipment, which a furniture set will help to place compactly and functionally.
The bathroom will be an ideal solution for those who do not have plans for a global reconstruction of engineering communications and at the same time the space of the room allows them to accommodate such large equipment. In addition, the remoteness and closedness of the bathroom best blocks the noise of a working washing machine, and the laundry basket and household chemicals placed here greatly facilitate the washing process. However, you should take into account the increased level of humidity in the bathroom, especially small ones, which means that it is better to additionally cover the washing machine with a facade.
In case of limited square footage, it is quite possible to consider the option of replacing a traditional bathtub with a shower stall, and installing a tall cabinet with a built-in washing machine in the free space.
Most often, the lack of space in the bathroom makes it necessary to take the washing machine to another place:
If the kitchen area allows you to integrate a washing machine into a furniture set, this solution will also save you from problems with the supply of communications. However, it should be borne in mind that if the washing itself in the kitchen does not cause any particular controversy, then storing household chemicals in close proximity to the cooking area is not entirely correct.
As one of the possible alternatives, the possibility of installing a furniture module with a washing machine on the balcony is sometimes considered (provided it is directly adjacent to the kitchen and the appropriate permission has been obtained). Removing communications to a balcony or loggia will certainly cost money, but with the right approach it will allow you to set up a full-fledged separate laundry area with a multifunctional storage system.
An equally popular solution is to move the furniture module with the washing machine into the hallway. However, in this case, the possibilities are limited by the width and depth of the wall adjacent to the bathroom or kitchen. You can hide the washing machine either in a closet or in a floor cabinet.
A washing machine in the dressing room is another not only newfangled, but also practical trend. The main thing is that the width of such a dressing room does not interfere with free movement. And, again, the dressing room with a working wall should be adjacent to the bathroom or kitchen. By planning appropriate niches in the furniture module, you can easily place not only a washing machine in the dressing room.
Choosing a location for installation
The rules for installing built-in equipment require proper connection of communications. In this regard, it is most convenient to install the washing machine in the kitchen or bathroom - there is a water supply nearby and a sewer for drainage. If the installation is carried out in a corridor, you must first wire the system and then install the cabinet. It is possible to equip a separate laundry room only in large houses/apartments. Basic rules for choosing an installation location:
- The best option is the bathroom. The idea can be implemented in several ways: remove the bathroom, in its place put a shower stall and a vertical cabinet under the washing machine (the material of the cabinet must be moisture resistant), mount a corner structure with additional modules, shelves, install compact appliances under the washbasin - sinks are mounted in the countertop or installed above;
- A rational idea is to install a washing machine in the kitchen. In a spacious room, the cabinet is mounted separately. In a small room they make a work area with a dryer and a machine on one side of the line, a dishwasher, a microwave, other kitchen appliances on the other side, the central part is a sink, wall cabinets for dishes. Another option is to install the front machine at the end of the headset;
- A practical solution is to install a cabinet with a washing machine in the hallway (corridor). If the room is narrow, built-in furniture along the entire length of the “short” wall is suitable - functional and simple. The square corridor is equipped with a wide straight or narrow corner structure so that opening the cabinet does not interfere with entering/exiting the room. In the hallway, the unit is covered with facades, otherwise the machine looks out of place and unattractive;
- a situation without an alternative - installing furniture in the toilet. It’s easy to imagine a free-standing machine in the bathroom, but a closet is a serious matter. There are few solutions - a cabinet for compact appliances in the corner, you can install an upper cabinet above the washing machine and hide various accessories, toiletries, detergents, and household chemicals on the shelves.
Despite the fact that washing machines are difficult to fit into small rooms, the equipment fits well into furniture with a built-in installation option. This allows you to free up space, carefully arrange the washing unit, and use the space to maximum benefit. It is important that the cabinet can be made to fit any size of equipment, give the product an interesting appearance, and fit organically into the decor of the room.
Selection of building materials
Cabinet above the washing machine made of white semi-gloss laminated chipboard, made independently
Before choosing building materials, you need to carefully and accurately measure the bathroom and washing machine. Different models have different dimensions. Then you need to make a drawing, taking into account the dimensions of the cabinet. It should be 3-4 cm wider than the washing machine.
A small wall cabinet above the washing machine in a niche
In terms of height, choose the option that is most suitable for you, it can vary from 2 to 2.5 meters. The higher the structure, the greater the number of functional shelves. Please note: the tall structure is unstable. The size of the cabinet should correspond to the size of the bathroom; large furniture in small rooms looks awkward and takes up a lot of space.
Moisture-resistant MDF for making a bathroom cabinet
After taking measurements, we go to the store and select moisture-resistant MDF, which is the most suitable and budget option for making furniture. This is a relatively new material, which is obtained by pressing fine dry sawdust. But at the same time, it is very resistant to aggressive environmental influences.
When choosing MDF, you should pay attention to the thickness, choose the required color and texture. It must have a PVC coating for additional protection from moisture. The MDF thickness required is at least 19-20 mm, with such parameters the cabinet will be very reliable and can withstand a washing machine weighing about 80 kg
The MDF thickness required is at least 19-20 mm; with such parameters, the cabinet will be very reliable and can withstand a washing machine, the weight of which is about 80 kg.
Carefully examine the surface of the product for chips and scratches. Start making.
Equipment and tools for cabinet making
You will need a fairly standard set of tools:
- drill;
- screwdriver;
- jigsaw;
- metal corners;
- screws;
- tape measure, pencil.
Before making the cabinet, we calculate the dimensions of all parts. The intermediate shelves will be 10-15 mm shorter than the bottom and top walls. We make markings and cut out parts to individual sizes. You can order ready-made material, which will be cut on a special machine.
Details of the future shelf made of white MDF
Step-by-step instruction:
- First of all, we attach the legs to the base.
- Mark the holes for the shelf holders on the side walls.
Holes for fastening shelves on the side walls
- Drill holes with a drill and insert shelf holders.
- We take the base (bottom) and connect it with the help of corners and screws to the side walls.
Holes for connecting the cabinet frame
Pinch screws and end hole
- We secure the top of the cabinet and the back wall using corners.
- Next we install the internal shelves.
- Finally, we install the door with a closer. If desired, you can make a door with a mirror. Mirrors visually increase the space in the room, so many designers take advantage of this advantage.
A cabinet with a machine inside and shelves, built into a bathroom niche
In some cases, the washing machine is not closed with a door, and it “fits” harmoniously into the new interior. A white washing machine can be placed in a classic snow-white bathroom, and a gray metallic one will suit a bathroom with gray ceramic tiles.
Large cabinet above the washing machine near the shower
If there is no time and opportunity to place a cabinet, a simpler and more affordable option is possible - placing shelves above the washing machine. They can also store various accessories that are necessary for daily care.
Convenient shelves above the washing machine
They can be made from available materials, for example, pieces of MDF that could have been left over after renovating an apartment, or from glass coated with film (for easier maintenance).
Spacious, hand-made closed bathroom cabinet
Bathroom cabinet with space for a washing machine
Should I buy ready-made furniture, or create a budget-friendly and most suitable universal rack or cabinet? In any case, the choice is yours.
Corner cabinet with built-in washing machine
Washing machine in a small bathroom with convenient and functional cabinets and shelves
What you need to install a dryer
The set of materials and tools for installing the dryer depends on the chosen installation method. The easiest way is to use special fasteners; in this case, you will only need the factory shield itself from the manufacturer and instructions for it.
In other cases, to install household appliances in a column, you need to prepare:
- durable metal slats for mounting to the wall;
- a sheet of chipboard or a wooden shelf to create a stand;
- dense drywall - if you plan to create a niche;
- screws and self-tapping screws for fixing parts of the structure;
- a screwdriver with replaceable tips and a screwdriver for performing the work.
Important! To install a washing machine and dryer in a column, you need to purchase a rubber seal. It is placed under the upper household appliance to dampen vibration.
Washing machine under the bathroom sink: advantages and disadvantages
When choosing compact washing machines under the sink, it is important to consider the following advantages:
- the ability to competently organize space, especially for small rooms;
- rational use of space under the sink. The interior turns out to be more functional;
- creating an unusual design and style of the room.
Functional combination of equipment with a sink and cabinets
It is worth noting the disadvantages:
- when installing a small-sized automatic washing machine under the sink, difficulties arise with choosing a non-standard siphon shape;
- More often the drain may become clogged due to the horizontal arrangement of water flow;
- creating inconvenience when moving equipment;
- The design of a built-in washing machine under the sink is not always convenient to use, as it is located too close to the plumbing.
Option with a functional worktop and compact sink
A functional solution is a set of washing machine with sink. In this case, the sizes of both objects will be the same.
In this case, the equipment is reliably protected from water ingress, which is important for the electronic panel. The sink can also be used when loading or unloading laundry
Options for kits with washing machine
When choosing a low washing machine under the sink, you need to take into account not only the dimensions, but also the controls. It is also necessary to choose the right drying programs. Standard modes include economy, super rinse and pre-wash.
Such designs may have a limited set of functions. They may not have door locking systems, leak protection or imbalance control.
There are special low machines that fit perfectly under the sink.
Features of choosing a cabinet for a washing machine
The most important point in size is the size of the niche for equipment. They must exceed the dimensions of the machine body by 2–5 cm. In the back you will have to retreat 10 cm. This will ensure normal air circulation. Also, the furniture does not suffer from vibration during the spin mode. On average, the height of a similar device reaches 90 cm, and the width and depth are 60 cm.
It is also taken into account whether the machine will be closed with doors. If so, then there should be 2 of them. One large door can tear out furniture hinges. This still takes up the depth of the thickness of the material. In this project, built-in washing machine options are ideal. They have hinges for hanging the sashes. But, this may make it difficult to pour in the powder. In this case, pour it into the drum. A similar technique is allowed by most manufacturers. Also keep in mind that some materials can create a thermal insulation effect. That wouldn't be particularly good.
It doesn’t matter whether you buy a cabinet in a store or design it to order. You must purchase equipment earlier. This will allow you to avoid all difficulties with further alterations.
Bathroom or kitchen - let's weigh the pros and cons
There is no clear answer to the question of where it is better to install equipment - in the kitchen or in the bathroom, since both of these places have their pros and cons. Ask kitchen installation advocates and you'll find out that:
- the kitchen is not so humid, so the parts of the washing machine will not corrode;
- here it is usually more spacious and easier to sort dirty laundry, and in a small bathroom there is sometimes not enough space to fully open the hatch;
- in a kitchen, there is no need to languish while waiting for someone in the household to take a bath in order to start the washing process.
Bathroom fans will argue:
- installation in the kitchen also requires a basket with dirty laundry, which is not very hygienic;
- Allergy sufferers will not be able to keep detergents in the kitchen;
- bathrooms are equipped with good hoods, so there is no need to be afraid of metal corrosion in the unit;
- dining in the kitchen and watching panties spinning in a drum is simply unacceptable for aesthetes;
- if the laundry basket is located in the bathroom, then you will have to grab dirty clothes and carry them to the kitchen, where lunch can be prepared at this time;
- if the laundry needs soaking, then it is very inconvenient to drag it to the kitchen across the entire apartment;
- grease and food odors that accumulate in the kitchen will affect the freshness of washed laundry;
- in the bathroom there is usually a concrete covering or tiled floor, which will prevent vibrations, but on the linoleum floor of the kitchen the washing machine can bounce and move.
Because of such ambiguity, everyone must decide for themselves the question “to be or not to be.”
Bathroom: rare, but apt
If you have decided on a bathroom, but don’t know how to fit a washing machine into such a small space, there are several ways to do this:
- Choose a narrow washing machine, no more than 45 cm. Just keep in mind that to open the hatch you will need another 70–80 cm of space.
- Devices with sinks built over them have appeared on sale, which can significantly save space in a small room.
- If you already have a machine, and it is of standard sizes, then purchase a sink with a drain not downwards, but to the side. In this case, the knee will not interfere with installing the washing machine under the sink.
- If possible, install the equipment next to the sink under a common countertop, then you will gain a place to store all sorts of small items.
- And if you can’t fit it in a small bathroom, then replace the bathtub with a shower stall, and you will have enough space. Perhaps you can also insert a pencil case or at least a laundry basket.
Kitchen - a classic of the genre
If you can’t install a washing machine in the bathroom, consider the kitchen option. It is best to choose a place closer to the sink, where there is access to water supply and drainage
It is important that you have an outlet at hand, since the cord of the equipment is usually 1.5 m, and using an extension cord for washing is dangerous - a short circuit may occur
To make the unit fit into the kitchen design, hide it under a common countertop. If you want it to be hidden in a cabinet, choose a built-in model.
But even if you do laundry in the kitchen, try to keep the dirty laundry basket and powders in the bathroom, as they are incompatible with food intake.
Types of cabinet designs
Like any other furniture, a wardrobe can be: floor-standing, built-in or wall-mounted. Let's talk about each model in more detail.
Depending on the type of placement, a cabinet installed in a bathroom can be built-in, wall-mounted, or floor-mounted (pencil case).
Floor models
They resemble part of a kitchen set. This could be a tall pencil case, which in addition to a niche for a typewriter has upper shelves. Behind them you can hide the boiler and communications. It is also suitable for storing household chemicals, tools and more.
The most common type of bathroom cabinets are those that are placed on the floor.
Families with small children will appreciate the advantage of tall cabinets. On the top shelves you can hide things and products that kids should not get into.
Also, the cabinet can be wide, with several compartments. This option is suitable for spacious bathrooms, as it will take up more space.
They are easy to use and can be easily combined with additional modules.
Wall cabinet above the washing machine
The simplest and safest option. A closed cabinet or open shelf is mounted above the washing machine. It is perfect for storing household chemicals, tools, and other small items. The advantage of this design is that it is easier to assemble it yourself, and it will not block access to communications. This means that if the hose comes loose, you won’t have to move or disassemble the furniture to fix the leak.
When arranging a small bathroom, it is important to save useful space; wall cabinets will help with this
Options for installing a dryer above a washing machine
Both washing machines and dryers are large. In a cramped apartment, there is usually simply not enough space for horizontal installation of devices. Therefore, they practice installing a column, placing the dryer on top of the washing machine. There are several options.
On special mounts
Since installing units in a column is very popular, manufacturers usually offer special shelves for securing the dryer above the washing machine. The device looks like a flat board made of durable plastic, but it is used as follows:
- placed on top of a washing machine installed on the floor;
- securely fixed to the surface using latches and a screw in the back;
- put a dryer on top;
- push the legs of the unit into the holes provided for this;
- check the structure for strength.
Some dryers are already equipped with a mount for installation in a column upon purchase. But even if the board is not included in the set, you can easily purchase it additionally. You just need to measure the width and depth of the washing and drying units in advance.
Factory-installed column mounts are suitable for washers and dryers of the same size. Important! Special mounts for installing the column include a retractable shelf. You can place a basin with laundry on it for more convenient loading of things into the dryer.
On slats
Mounting on metal slats is not the most popular option for installing a column. But sometimes you have to resort to it. If the devices differ in width and depth, and you need to install a dryer on a narrow washing machine, using a specialized device for the column will not work.
The main disadvantage of the design is that the slats are less reliable and there is always a risk of collapse
When using slats, they are fixed on the wall directly above the washing machine and form a kind of shelf, on which the drying unit is installed in the form of a column. The advantage of this design is the ability to freely select the diameter.
When installing a shelf to install a dryer in a column, you must carefully calculate the load on the structure. The slats must confidently withstand the weight of the device not only at rest, but also during operation under strong vibration.
Attention! When installing the shelf, you must make sure that the weight of the dryer does not damage the integrity of the wall itself. It is impossible to install slats on fragile thin partitions.
To a niche
If there is enough free space in the bathroom or utility room, you can make a niche for a column from plasterboard. In this case, between the washing machine and the dryer there will be a fairly strong and reliable layer of building material, which will take on the role of a shelf. An additional advantage of a niche is that the entire structure will look more compact. In this case, there will be no extra unoccupied space on the sides of the column.
A niche is the most reliable and neat option for installing a column
In addition to drywall, to make a niche you need metal corners and fasteners to give the structure strength, as well as putty or tiles for finishing. Before installing the column, you need to think in advance how convenient it will be to pull out household appliances if necessary. Communications and wires will be located in the rear of the niche. You will definitely need to maintain access to them in case of emergencies.
Advice! A type of niche is to install a drying machine in a cabinet; doors on hinges are mounted in the front part of the structure, allowing you to hide household appliances.
To the rack
Another option for installing household appliances is to purchase a rack for the column, consisting of two or more compartments of suitable dimensions. A washing machine is placed at the bottom, a dryer is placed on top, the weight of which is supported by a strong wooden shelf.
A spacious rack allows you to place household chemicals and other accessories next to the units
The design turns out to be quite convenient. If a durable rack is equipped with wheels, then to gain access to communications in the rear, it will be enough to roll the entire column to the side. This will be much easier than pulling out a washing machine or removing a heavy dryer from a height.
