If you want to stack a tumble dryer on top of a washing machine you need a stacking frame or stacking kit.
Can you stack a dryer on a washing machine without a stacking kit?
I’ve come across many people who just stood their tumble dryer on top of the washing machine. But it should be obvious that this is not a good idea.
There are two reasons why you need a stacking kit. The first is because the tumble dryer could get thrown off the washing machine during a fault, or merely vibrate off during a particularly boisterous spin.
The second reason is that a person could potentially pull a dryer on top of themselves if they pulled down on its open door.
This scenario is less likely though. The concern is aimed more at children, but it’s possible to imagine someone stumbling near by and grabbing hold of the dryer door only to have it fall on them.
If your washing machine and tumble dryer are the same brand and style, the manufacturer may have designed a frame specifically for them. This is definitely the best option if you can find one.
The trouble is that there are many different configurations of tumble dryer and washing machine, and different models – even from the same manufacturer – may have different chassis and casings.
Universal tumble dryer stacking kits
There are universal stacking kits available that are supposed to connect any tumble dryer to any front loading washing machine.
They should be cheaper than the manufacturer’s although they might not be as snug a fit. You may prefer to try a universal stacking kit if your washing machine and tumble dryer are different makes or if you find the manufacturers kit too expensive.
As with all “universal fit” products there is the potential for it to not be a “perfect” fit but if the makers say they connect all tumble dryers to any front loaders then they should do so satisfactorily or you will be entitled to your money back. Pay close attention to the sizes of appliance they quote to make sure yours will fit.
Related links: Find washing machine – tumble dryer stacking kits
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Dear Washerhelp,
We have just bought a new condenser tumble dryer (with indication of stackable option) and a washing machine (no indication of stacking option). Due to lack of space, we would like to stack them one on one. It seems dryer should be stacked on the washer. But we don’t know how to stack them. And we would like to ask you what kind of stacking kit we need to make it. The condenser tumble dryer is Hoover VHC 681B and the washing machine is Hoover WMH148. Thank you so much…
Dava: If the washer and dryer are from different model ranges there might not be a dedicated kit available. If both are 600mm you may find a suitable one here Find universal tumble dryer stacking kits Other than that I would contact Hoover and ask them.
Dear Washerhelp,
Thank you very much for your prompt response.Our washing machine looks bit thinner than dryer but both are same in wide.
We wiil very appreciate if you find a specific staking kit from Hoover for us…
Thank you again….
Hi there,
Fantastic website! Can you help me identify a washing machine stacking kit that would be suitable for a John Lewis washing machine and tumble dryer. The fronts of both machines are slightly rounded and every kit I have looked at says they may not be suitable.
Cheers,
Mike.
Thanks Mike. If they are both John Lewis brand machines I would expect John Lewis should be able to get one for you. Few places actually stock the kits.
Hello Washerhelp,
This is a fantastic website. A question on stacking washer dryer. My washer is a 7kg beko model (width-60cms; depth- 54cms) while my condenser tumble dryer is 8kg hotpoint(width-59.5cms; depth-58.4cms). Is there a stacking possibility. If so what is the stacking kit that I should use?
Thanks Chitra. I’m unable to track down specific stacking kits but if the dryer is deeper than the washer as yours appears to be I can’t imagine one being available.
I am thinking of buying a GAS dryer and putting it on top of my washing machine. Is this suitable? Do I need a special stacking kit?
Judith: I would imagine it could be a bad idea, especially with some washing machines exploding these days. I would also worry if a washing machine caught fire underneath a gas dryer…
i have a beko fridge and freezer, both under counter. can i stack them directly on top or do i need a stacking kit? thanks