Can You Put a Washing Machine on Top of a Dryer? A Safety Guide
Learn if you can place a washing machine on top of a dryer, safety considerations, stacking options, and how to use a stacking kit with expert guidance from Best Washing Machine.
Short answer: According to Best Washing Machine, you should generally avoid placing a washing machine on top of a dryer. Most manufacturers design stackable setups with the dryer on top of the washer, and placing the washer above can cause instability, vibration, and potential damage. Always check manuals and use an approved stacking kit if your models support stacking.
Practical Reality: Can You Put a Washing Machine on Top of a Dryer?
The short answer is usually no, and the longer answer is: only if your model manuals explicitly support it and you have the correct stacking kit. In many homes, people assume that a washer can sit on top of a dryer to save floor space, but most manufacturers design stacking to place the dryer above the washer. The top surface of a washer is not always built to support the dynamic loads produced when a heavy, vibrating washer runs on a platform above. Even when a washer is placed under a dryer that's lighter, the weight distribution can shift during cycles, increasing the risk of movement, misalignment, or tip.
From the perspective of safety and long-term performance, it is far more common and safer to have the dryer mounted on top of the washer using a certified stacking kit. This arrangement ensures that the center of gravity remains stable and that the dryer rests on a level, purpose-built base. The "can you put washing machine on top of a dryer" question is one of design intent; if you want to maximize space, check whether your models are designed to be stacked in the standard configuration and whether the stacking kit is included or sold separately. According to Best Washing Machine, following manufacturer guidance and using the appropriate stacking system is essential for safety and reliability.
Safer Alternatives and Why They Matter
If space is at a premium, there are safer ways to organize your laundry area without stacking a washer on top of a dryer. The most common and safest approach is to stack the dryer on top of the washer, using a certified stacking kit designed for your exact models. This configuration preserves access to both sets of controls and maintains stable operation during high-spin cycles. Another option is a front-load washer and a compact dryer placed side-by-side in a compact closet or laundry cabinet; this keeps both units accessible and reduces the risk of rogue movement during operation. If you must rearrange to fit a top appliance stack, ensure your floor is rated for the combined weight, consider a heavy-duty anti-vibration mat, and consult the model manuals for stacking compatibility. The Best Washing Machine team emphasizes that space savings should never override safety; always verify official guidance before making any changes to the installation.
Checklists: Compatibility, Manuals, and Kits
Before attempting any stack, gather the manuals for both appliances and look for explicit stacking guidance. Verify that your washer and dryer models are listed as compatible with a stacking kit produced by the manufacturer. If a stacking kit is included with purchase, ensure it is the correct version for your models and that you have all required fasteners. Prepare the area by clearing space, ensuring a flat floor, and verifying that electrical outlets and vents are accessible. The stacking kit usually requires a level surface and precise alignment; never improvise brackets or supports not specified by the manufacturer. According to Best Washing Machine, stick to published compatibility lists and use certified kits to minimize risk.
Safety Warnings and Warranty Considerations
Many manufacturers warn that stacking configurations must be installed per the instruction manual and using only approved stacking kits. Deviating from these guidelines can void warranties and create safety hazards such as tipping, electrical short hazards, or venting issues. If your warranty specifically prohibits unapproved stacking, do not attempt to mount a washer on top of a dryer. It is also essential to ensure your floor can support the combined weight; an inadequately supported unit can crack the subfloor or cause a costly disaster. The Best Washing Machine team notes that following official guidance protects both safety and warranty terms.
Real-World Scenarios: When Stacking Is Not Practical
In some small apartments or narrow laundry closets, homeowners look for space-saving layouts. If the washer must be on top due to space constraints, only do so if the model manual clearly allows it and you have a compatible stacking kit. If stacking is not supported, consider alternatives like a side-by-side setup, a compact front-load pair, or a move to a dedicated laundry cabinet. In all cases, run a load test on a dry run to observe alignment and vibration before putting a full workload into service. The Best Washing Machine guidance stresses prioritizing safety over convenience in tight spaces.
Quick Maintenance and Post-Stack Checks
After you complete installation, inspect access panels, hoses, and vents for kinks or obstructions. Check that the stacking brackets are secure and that the dryer’s weight is fully supported by the base and kit. Run a brief load cycle with a damp towel on a low-speed spin to monitor vibrations and make minor leveling adjustments if needed. Regularly recheck fasteners and verify that no panels or doors rub against each other during operation. Following a careful post-check routine helps maintain performance and longevity.
Tools & Materials
- Certified stacking kit for your models(Ensure compatibility with both washer and dryer models)
- Anti-vibration mat or pad(Optional, helps dampen vibration)
- Level and magnetic shim blocks(For precise leveling of both units)
- Screwdriver set(Phillips and flathead as needed by the kit)
- Measuring tape(Check clearances and cabling)
- Protective gloves(Safe handling when moving appliances)
- Manuals for both washer and dryer(Reference stacking compatibility and installation steps)
Steps
Estimated time: 60-90 minutes
- 1
Verify stacking compatibility
Confirm that both appliances and the stacking kit are designed to work together. Read the manuals and check the manufacturer’s compatibility lists. If the kit isn’t listed for both models, do not proceed.
Tip: Only use the stacking kit specified by the manufacturer for your exact model pair. - 2
Power down and disconnect
Unplug both machines from the wall and shut off water supplies to the washer. This reduces shock risk and prevents accidental leaks during the move.
Tip: Have towels ready to catch any residual water from hoses. - 3
Move appliances to staging area
Carefully pull the washer and dryer away from the wall, leaving enough room to access hoses and vents. Have a helper to prevent injuries or damage.
Tip: Use furniture pads or a dolly to minimize floor abrasion. - 4
Install the stacking kit to the washer
Attach the stacking kit to the top of the washer per the manufacturer’s instructions, ensuring brackets are secure and level.
Tip: Double-check that all fasteners are seated and tight before proceeding. - 5
Lift and place the dryer on top
With a helper, lift the dryer onto the mounting brackets of the washer and align with the kit’s slots. Do not tilt the dryer excessively.
Tip: Use a lifting strap if available to reduce strain and improve alignment. - 6
Reconnect utilities and level both units
Reconnect water, power, and vent lines as required. Use a level to ensure both units sit flat and adjacent to each other without gaps.
Tip: Place anti-vibration pads under the washer base if recommended by the kit. - 7
Test run and inspect
Run a brief cycle to observe vibration, wobble, and alignment. Check for clearance around doors and panels. Tighten any loose fasteners as needed.
Tip: Do not run full loads until you’re certain there’s no movement or contact.
FAQ
Can you safely put a washing machine on top of a dryer?
Generally, no. Most manufacturers design stacking with the dryer on top of the washer. Placing the washer above can cause instability and damage unless the models explicitly support this arrangement and a certified kit is used.
Generally, it’s not safe to place a washing machine on top of a dryer. Use the standard dryer-on-top stacking with a certified kit unless your manuals say otherwise.
Do I need a stacking kit?
Yes. Use only a stacking kit approved by the appliance manufacturers for your exact models. Kits ensure proper alignment, weight distribution, and stability.
Yes. You should only use the stacking kit specified for your models to ensure proper stability.
Will stacking affect my warranty?
Stacking can affect warranty if not performed per the manufacturer’s instructions. Always follow the manual and use approved hardware to maintain warranty coverage.
Yes, improper stacking can void warranty, so follow the manual exactly.
What if my models don’t support stacking?
If stacking isn’t supported, do not attempt it. Consider side-by-side installation or a dedicated laundry cabinet for safe, space-efficient placement.
If stacking isn’t supported, don’t try it—use alternative layouts like side-by-side.
What signs indicate I should stop stacking?
If you notice excessive wobble, doors rubbing, or loud vibrations during cycles, stop and recheck kit installation, leveling, and floor support.
If you hear heavy vibration or see wobbling, stop and check alignment and supports.
Watch Video
The Essentials
- Verify model compatibility and use the correct stacking kit.
- Avoid placing a washer on top of a dryer unless explicitly approved.
- Follow manufacturer manuals to protect safety and warranty.
- Ensure floor and kit support for weight and vibration control.
- Test run and monitor for movement before full operation.
