How Do I Measure for a New Washer and Dryer?
Q: I’m shopping for a new washer and dryer and want to be sure they’ll fit my laundry space. How do I measure correctly?
A: To measure for a new washer and dryer, you’ll want to confirm the width, depth, and height of your laundry area, plus clearance for doors, hookups, and (for dryers) venting. The steps are a little different depending on whether you’re installing units side-by-side or stacking them in a closet-style opening.
1) Decide: Side-by-Side or Stacked?
Before you measure, decide how you want the laundry set installed:
- Side-by-side: Washer and dryer sit next to each other, often under a shelf or countertop.
- Stacked: A front-load washer and dryer are stacked to save floor space, usually inside a laundry closet.
Your measurements should match your plan so Beacon can recommend the right models and configurations.
2) Measure the Width
Width determines what sizes and layouts are possible:
- Side-by-side: Measure from wall-to-wall or cabinet-to-cabinet across the full space.
- Stacked: Measure the opening width at the top, middle, and bottom, and use the smallest measurement.
- Plan for a little clearance so units don’t rub walls, trim, or cabinets during install.
Many full-size washers and dryers are around 27 inches wide each, but capacities and designs vary, so your exact opening matters.
3) Measure the Depth (And Leave Room Behind the Units)
Depth is a common surprise because hoses, cords, and venting need space behind the machines:
- Measure from the back wall to the front of any doors or trim that might close in front of the units.
- Allow room behind the machines for water hoses, drain connection, power cord, and (for dryers) vent ducting.
- Make sure you’ll still have comfortable space to stand and load laundry in front.
4) Measure the Height
Height matters most for stacked setups, but it can also affect side-by-side installations under shelves:
- Side-by-side: Measure from the floor to any shelf or cabinet above the machines.
- Stacked: Measure from the floor to the top of the opening (or ceiling, if open).
- Compare your height to the manufacturer’s listed stacked height for the exact pairing you’re considering.
5) Check Door Swing and Access
Door swing can make a laundry area feel comfortable — or frustrating — even when the machines “fit”:
- Note which way your current doors swing and whether they bump into walls, each other, or shelving.
- If you’re moving to a front-load washer, consider which direction you want the washer door to swing for easier loading.
- Measure the clearance for any bi-fold, pocket, or hinged doors in front of the laundry area.
6) Confirm Hookups and Venting
While you measure, take note of what’s already in place:
- Washer water hookups and shutoff valves
- Washer drain standpipe location and height
- Dryer vent route (through wall, ceiling, or floor)
- Dryer power supply (typically a 240V electric outlet)
Beacon focuses on electric laundry setups and does not service gas appliances, so electric dryer hookups are ideal for the models we recommend.
7) Measure the Delivery Path to the Laundry Area
Washers and dryers are bulky, so you’ll also want to measure the route into your home:
- Measure the narrowest doorway and hallway along the path to your laundry area.
- Check for tight turns, steps, or staircases that may require tilting or rotating the machines.
For a full checklist, see “What Should I Check Around My Home Before Replacing an Appliance?”.
Bring Your Measurements to Beacon
Write down your width, depth, height, and delivery-path measurements and bring them — along with a few photos of your laundry space — to Beacon. We can help you choose a washer and dryer that fit your opening and match your household’s laundry needs.
If anything feels uncertain, our friendly technicians in yellow can help confirm measurements before delivery so you can order with confidence.
More Laundry & Measurement Help
For more guidance, visit the Appliance Measurement Help Center and the Laundry Buying Guide Help Center, including: