Choosing the right washing machine size depends on your space, household size, and laundry needs. This comprehensive guide covers all washer types, dimensions, and capacities to help you make the perfect choice.
Washing Machine Capacity Calculator
Find the right capacity for your household needs.
Recommended Capacity
Front-Load Washing Machine Dimensions
Front-load washers are the most popular type for their efficiency, capacity, and cleaning performance. They can be stacked with a dryer to save floor space.
Size Category
Capacity
Width
Depth
Height
Best For
Compact
2.0 - 2.5 cu ft
24"
24" - 26"
33" - 34"
1-2 people, apartments
Standard
4.2 - 4.5 cu ft
27"
30" - 34"
38" - 39"
3-4 people, typical homes
Large
4.5 - 5.0 cu ft
27"
31" - 34"
38" - 40"
4-5 people, larger loads
Extra Large
5.0 - 5.8 cu ft
27" - 29"
32" - 39"
39" - 43"
5+ people, bulky items
Mega Capacity
5.8 - 6.0+ cu ft
27" - 30"
34" - 40"
40" - 43"
Large families, king comforters
Front-Load Advantages:
More energy and water efficient than top-loaders
Gentler on clothes with tumble action
Can be stacked to save space
Higher spin speeds = less drying time
Can fit under countertops (without pedestals)
Top-Load Washing Machine Dimensions
Top-load washers come in two varieties: traditional agitator models and high-efficiency (HE) impeller models. Both require overhead clearance for the lid.
Top-Load with Agitator
Size Category
Capacity
Width
Depth
Height
Best For
Compact
3.2 - 3.5 cu ft
27" - 28"
26" - 28"
42" - 43"
1-2 people, budget-friendly
Standard
3.5 - 4.2 cu ft
27" - 28"
27" - 29"
42" - 44"
2-4 people, traditional washing
Large
4.2 - 4.8 cu ft
27" - 28"
28" - 30"
43" - 45"
4-5 people, bulky items
Top-Load HE (High Efficiency - Impeller)
Size Category
Capacity
Width
Depth
Height
Best For
Standard
4.2 - 4.7 cu ft
27" - 28"
27" - 29"
42" - 44"
3-4 people, water efficiency
Large
4.7 - 5.3 cu ft
27" - 28"
28" - 30"
43" - 45"
4-5 people, larger loads
Extra Large
5.3 - 6.2 cu ft
27" - 30"
28" - 32"
44" - 46"
5+ people, maximum capacity
Top-Load Advantages:
Easier to load/unload - no bending over
Can add items mid-cycle
Faster wash cycles (agitator models)
Generally lower upfront cost
No door seal mold issues
Compact & Portable Washing Machines
Perfect for apartments, RVs, or tight spaces. Available in both ventless and portable varieties.
Compact Front-Load (24" Wide)
Type
Capacity
Width
Depth
Height
Installation
European Style
2.0 - 2.5 cu ft
23.5" - 24"
22" - 24"
33" - 34"
Built-in or freestanding
Stackable Unit
2.3 - 2.7 cu ft
24"
24" - 27"
33" - 34"
Stackable with dryer
Portable Washers
Type
Capacity
Width
Depth
Height
Power Source
Full-Size Portable
1.6 - 2.1 cu ft
20" - 22"
20" - 22"
35" - 37"
120V standard outlet
Compact Portable
0.9 - 1.5 cu ft
17" - 20"
17" - 20"
31" - 35"
120V standard outlet
Twin Tub
1.3 - 1.8 cu ft
23" - 26"
15" - 18"
28" - 31"
120V standard outlet
Washer/Dryer Combo Units
All-in-one units combine washing and drying in a single machine. Ideal for extremely tight spaces where separate units won't fit.
Type
Wash Capacity
Width
Depth
Height
Ventilation
Compact Combo
2.0 - 2.5 cu ft
24"
23" - 25"
33" - 34"
Ventless (condensing)
Standard Combo
2.3 - 2.8 cu ft
24" - 27"
24" - 27"
33" - 39"
Ventless or vented
Combo Unit Considerations:
Dry capacity is typically half the wash capacity
Longer total cycle times (3-6 hours for wash + dry)
Cannot run separate loads simultaneously
Ventless models may leave clothes slightly damp
Perfect for spaces where separate units are impossible
Space Planning & Installation Requirements
Minimum Space Requirements
Washer Type
Width
Depth (incl. door)
Height
Door Clearance
Front-Load
30"
50" - 54"
42" - 46"
24" - 28" front
Top-Load
30"
30" - 32"
46" - 48"
20" - 24" top
Compact (24")
27"
45" - 48"
36" - 38"
20" - 24" front
Stacked Units
30"
32" - 34"
76" - 80"
24" - 28" front
Clearance Requirements:
Side clearance: 1" minimum on each side for vibration
Rear clearance: 4" - 6" for hoses and ventilation
Top clearance (top-load): 20" minimum for lid opening
Front clearance (front-load): 24" minimum for door swing and loading
Stacked units: 72" minimum ceiling height
Doorway & Hallway Access:
Standard washer (27"): Requires 30" minimum door width
Compact washer (24"): Requires 27" minimum door width
Hallway turns: Add 6" to washer width for maneuvering
Stairways: Measure carefully - front-load easier to navigate
Measuring Your Space:
Measure the laundry area width, depth, and height
Measure all doorways and hallways from point of entry
Account for door swing (front-load) or lid opening (top-load)
Check for overhead cabinets, shelving, or low ceilings
Verify water supply, drain, and electrical locations
Consider if you'll stack washer/dryer now or in future
Understanding Washing Machine Capacity
What Each Capacity Can Handle:
Capacity
Loads per Week
Household Size
Can Wash
2.0 - 2.5 cu ft
3-5 loads
1-2 people
Twin comforter, 10-12 towels
3.0 - 3.5 cu ft
5-7 loads
2-3 people
Full comforter, 12-15 towels
4.0 - 4.5 cu ft
7-10 loads
3-4 people
Queen comforter, 15-18 towels
5.0 - 5.5 cu ft
10-14 loads
4-6 people
King comforter, 20-25 towels
6.0+ cu ft
14+ loads
6+ people
King comforter + sheets, 25+ towels
Capacity Considerations:
Don't overload: Clothes need room to tumble for proper cleaning
Larger isn't always better: Small loads in large washers waste water/energy
Match with dryer: Dryer should have 1.5-2x washer capacity
Bulky items: Need extra capacity beyond household size
Pets: Pet bedding/blankets require larger capacity