Can you stack two washing machines?
No, it is not safe to stack two washing machines directly on top of each other. The weight of a washing machine (often more than 80 kg) and the vibration during the spin cycle make this dangerous. Putting a dryer on a washing machine can be done safely with a stacking kit, but for two washing machines you need a distinctive cabinet-in-cabinet construction, such as a double washing machine cabinet.
Why two washing machines cannot go directly on top of each other
Stacking two washing machines brings several risks:
Too heavy: a washing machine weighs 70 to 80 kg empty. With water and laundry this can rise to more than 100 kg. The casing of the lower machine is not designed for that.
Heavy vibration: the spin cycle generates considerable forces. Two vibrating appliances on top of each other can shift or even fall over.
No suitable stacking kits: standard stacking kits are designed for a light dryer on top of a washing machine, not for the weight of a second washing machine.
Loss of warranty: if you stack appliances in a way the manufacturer has not approved, your warranty usually lapses immediately.
Safe solutions for two washing machines
Would you still like to install two washing machines? Then there are safe alternatives:
A double washing machine cabinet: a specially designed Washtower® washing machine cabinet in which both appliances can be placed safely side by side at an ergonomic working height. The machines sit in a distinctive cabinet-in-cabinet construction with a continuous base plate, so vibration is directed straight down through the construction. Have a look at the washer and dryer cabinets for this.
Placing them side by side: this is the most common and safest option.
A washer dryer: one appliance that both washes and dries saves space, but washes and dries less well than separate machines and has a smaller drum.
What is safe: a dryer on a washing machine
Putting a dryer on a washing machine is the standard space-saving solution. This can be done safely because a dryer is much lighter than a washing machine. The Washtower® tower setup is tested and certified by TÜV Rheinland for this. You will find more information on our page about the stacked washer and dryer.
For this setup you need:
A stacking kit: this provides a stable connection between the two appliances.
A washing machine cabinet: a washing machine cabinet offers extra stability, storage and comfort because you have to bend less.
Ventilation grilles: fitted as standard in Washtower® washing machine cabinets for good air circulation.
Important points with two washing machines
If you want to use two washing machines (side by side, for instance, or in a double cabinet), watch the following:
Power supply
Explanation: two washing machines together often draw more than 3600 watts. They usually cannot run at the same time on the same circuit without tripping the fuse. Discuss this with an electrician.
Water connection
Explanation: use a Y-connector to connect both machines to one water supply. Washtower® washing machine cabinets offer roughly 10 cm of space behind the cabinet for connections.
Drainage
Explanation: make sure the drain can handle double the amount of water. You can use a Y-piece for this too.
Space
Explanation: the standard recess of 62.5 x 86.3 x 58.3 cm (WxHxD) suits most washing machines. The cabinet can be placed about 5 cm from the wall.
Advantages of a double washing machine cabinet
Washtower® double washing machine cabinets offer specific advantages:
Safety: an anti-tip device as standard and a sturdy construction that absorbs vibration.
Comfort: less bending because the machines sit at the ideal working height.
Stability: a continuous base plate and adjustable feet to level the cabinet.
Storage: combine with storage cabinets for a complete laundry room setup.
Modular: put your ideal setup together easily using the online configurator.
Which setup suits your situation?
The best choice depends on your space and your wishes:
Little space and one machine: choose a washing machine stand to put your washing machine at working height.
Washing machine and dryer: put the dryer on the washing machine with a stacking kit, in a washing machine cabinet if you like, for extra stability and storage.
Two washing machines: use a double washing machine cabinet and place both machines side by side.
A complete laundry room: combine different cabinets into a complete cabinet wall with storage.
Do you have questions or would you like personal advice? Contact our customer service or put your ideal setup together easily using our online configurator.