Reducing the height of a washing machine to fit under a worktop

Some people find their worktops have been fitted too low and their washing machine won’t fit underneath because it’s too tall. If you haven’t bought a washing machine yet and the height difference is only a few millimetres you may be able to find one that’s slightly lower than average although it’s not easy to research the height of washing machines and most are the same standard height anyway.

The most common method of getting a washing machine to fit under a worktop that’s too low is to remove the lid, which can reduce the height of the washing machine by a few millimetres or even up to an inch or so depending on the height of the original lid. However – you shouldn’t use the washing machine without a lid!

Removing the lid can have the following consequences -

• It will increase noise levels
• Expose a possibility for small fingers to touch electrical parts
• If the washing machine caught fire there’s nothing to contain it and smoke could escape to the room. In the event of something catching fire inside the lack of a lid will allow much more oxygen to the fire and could make it more serious
• Any leak from above the machine could allow water inside to short out and blow expensive parts (leak from a bathroom ceiling above the kitchen or just water from the worktop above for example)

Height reduction kits

Most washing machine manufacturers have a specially designed low lid (a flat metal plate with a seal) which is available as an accessory. This will lower the height of your washing machine safely. Sometimes they come as a complete “height reduction kit” which can include replacement feet or wheels to further lower the washing machine height if necessary.

If not using the proper manufacturers low lid it may be possible to make a cover and fix it to the top of the casing. The main things to be aware of are that the lid should be fireproof, and shouldn’t touch any parts – especially electrical connections. It should also really have some sort of seal (similar to draft-proofing) to help reduce noise and restrict smoke escaping as well as reduce air supply in the (rare) eventuality of something catching fire inside. However, I have to advise that the proper height reduction kit is better.

Here are some spares links to some height reduction kits for washing machines -

Height reduction kits – NOTE: there are several height reduction kits listed over 2 pages of results. However, some don’t have photos or even model numbers that they fit. If you can’t find enough information just send a part enquiry via the “Need help?” box at the bottom of the page. You would also need to be sure exactly how much the height of the washing machine will be reduced by using the reduction kit before purchasing.

Miele height reduction kits

Reducing the height of a Miele washing machine