Stacking your washer & dryer vs side-by-side: Which is better?

If you’re tempted to make the most of your space and create a more organized laundry area, you might be thinking about stacking your washer and dryer.

While stacking the units can save you a ton of room, there are a few things to consider before you start lifting. Read on to see if this space-saving option is right for you.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your washer or dryer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Considerations for stacking washers and dryer

Check out these points to determine if you can or should stack your washer and dryer.

1. Not all washers and dryers can be stacked

Only certain types of washers and dryers can be stacked, and trying to stack incompatible models can damage the units or result in serious injuries.

It’s not recommended to stack washers and dryers from different brands since they may not align properly or have compatible stacking kits. If you choose to stack your washer and dryer, try to stick to units from the same brand — and preferably the same series — for the best fit and safest experience.

What kind of units can be stacked?

Only specific models are candidates for stacking. Always review your unit’s user manual and guidelines to make sure it can be stacked.

• Front-loading washers and dryers: These models have a door on the front so they can remain accessible when stacked. The dryer should be stacked on top without blocking access to the washer drum. Top-loading machines can’t be stacked.
• Compatible models from the same brand and series: It’s always best to stack washers and dryers from the same brand and series. Stackable models are designed to withstand the extra weight and fit together securely.
• Units with front-mounted controls: All stackable units should have their control panels mounted on the front, which makes them easy to reach at a comfortable height.

Read more: How does a front load washer work?

2. A stacking kit is necessary

If you decide to stack your washer and dryer, you’ll need a stacking kit. This is a set of hardware that includes everything you need to secure a dryer on top of a washer. The kit helps evenly distribute the dryer’s weight on top of the washer and prevents the dryer from sliding off or wobbling.

Parts included in a stacking kit

• Brackets, which are attached to the back or sides of the washer and dryer. These brackets fasten the two units together so that they stay aligned and stable.
• Clips or bolts, depending on the design. Some kits include these to lock the dryer to the washer. These are typically placed along the edges of the appliances to keep them from shifting during operation.
• Rubber pads or adhesive strips in some kits. These can help reduce vibration between the washer and dryer and also protect the washer’s surface from scratches.
• Instructions to guide you through the installation process. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully so the units are aligned correctly and safely.

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3. The floor should be stable

To stack a washer and dryer, the floor underneath must be solid and level. Units should never be stacked on material such as tile or carpet or a sloping surface. If the surface is uneven or unstable, it can make the stacked units more susceptible to wobbling, vibrations and damage. In extreme cases, this could cause the appliances to shift or tip over, which can result in serious injuries to anyone nearby.

If your laundry area is on a second floor or in a space with less solid flooring (like older wood or raised floors), you may need to reinforce the floor or use anti-vibration pads to stabilize the units and reduce movement while they’re running.

Other considerations

Here are some more things to consider before attempting to stack your washer and dryer.

Stacked height

A stacked washer and dryer can make the overall height quite tall, often reaching 6 to 7 feet. You’ll need to make sure you can reach the door and control panel on both units. You should also make sure there’s enough ceiling clearance in your laundry room, especially if the units will be in a closet or other confined space.

Ventilation

With both units stacked, especially if they’re inside an enclosed area such as a closet, you’ll need to make sure there’s good ventilation to prevent mold or overheating.

Check that there’s enough space behind each unit for the dryer vent to be installed without any kinks or restrictions.

Plumbing and electrical connections

Stacked washers need to be close to the water hookups and a drain for wastewater. Make sure your laundry space has accessible water connections and that the hoses will be long enough to reach the connection points.

You should also make sure there are accessible electrical outlets for both the washer and dryer. Washers typically use a standard 120V outlet, while electric dryers require a 240V outlet.

Pros and cons of side-by-side washers and dryers

Still wondering if you should stack your units? Here are some pros and cons to keeping them side-by-side in your laundry room.

Pros

• Easier access means less bending or stretching to load and unload clothes, which may prove especially beneficial for people with mobility issues
• Provides more counter space on top of the machines for folding loads of laundry or storing items
• Tend to have more larger capacity options available
• Better vibration control since the machines are on the floor
• Flexible layout means the units are easier to move or rearrange in the space
• Easier maintenance and troubleshooting access to both units for repairs 

Cons

• Requires more floor space, which can be a problem in smaller laundry rooms.
• Limited installation options in small homes or apartments 
• Might not be suitable for compact laundry areas or closets.
• Harder to upgrade to stackable if your laundry space changes, since side-by-side units may not fit in stackable configurations.

FAQs about stacked washers and dryers

Can stacking a washer and dryer damage the appliances?

When done correctly with a stacking kit, stacking will not damage the washer or dryer. If you don’t stack the units properly, such as not using a kit or placing the washer on top, then the units could become unstable and possibly damaged.

Do stacked washer and dryer units vibrate more?

Stacked units may transmit more noticeable vibrations, especially if they’re not level. By using a stacking kit and keeping the washer balanced, you can minimize vibrations. Anti-vibration pads are also a good solution for reducing noise and movement.

Can I run a stacked washer and dryer at the same time?

Yes, you can run a stacked washer and dryer at the same time. Avoid overloading the washer or dryer and try not to run them for an extended time.

Does the washer have to be on the bottom when stacking?

Yes. Since the washer is heavier and generates more vibration — especially during the spin cycle — it needs to be on the bottom of the stack. This provides a stable base for the dryer, reducing the risk of toppling or shifting during use.

Is regular maintenance different for a stacked washer and dryer?

The maintenance for a stacked washer and dryer should be very similar to unstacked units. Accessing the dryer may be more difficult if it’s stacked above the washer, so tasks like cleaning the lint trap or vent may require a step stool.

It also may take some more effort to check the hoses and filters, as you’ll need to move the units for access. And repairs can be more complex since you’ll need to unstack the dryer to replace any internal parts.

Read more:  Is the All-In-One Washer Dryer a Pain to Maintain?

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you learn about stacking washers and dryers.

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