How big is a standard washer?#
A standard washing machine is 27 to 28 inches wide, 38 to 45 inches tall, and 26 to 34 inches deep, depending on whether it loads from the top or the front. The table below compares top-load agitator, top-load impeller, and front-load configurations with their exact width, height, and depth.
Standard washer dimensions by configuration#
| Configuration | Width (in) | Height (in) | Depth (in) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top-load agitator | 27–28 | 42–44 | 26–28 | a lower price and a deep-clean agitator |
| Top-load impeller | 27–28 | 42–45 | 27–30 | gentler high-efficiency washing |
| Front-load | 27 | 38–39 | 30–34 | stacking and the largest capacity |
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Installation clearances for a standard washer#
- Rear clearance: 4–6 in in behind a standard washer for the fill hoses, drain hose, and standpipe.
- Side clearance: 1 in in beside a standard washer to cut vibration noise against the cabinet or dryer.
- Top-load lid clearance: 20–22 in in above a top-load standard washer so the lid opens fully.
- Door swing: 22–24 in in of front space a front-load standard washer door needs to swing open.
Will your standard washer fit? Clearances and door swing#
Every standard washer needs 4 to 6 inches of rear clearance for the fill hoses and drain, plus about 1 inch on each side. The catch with a top-loader is overhead: the lid needs 20 to 22 inches of clearance above the closed height to open fully, so it cannot go under a shelf or counter. A front-loader instead needs 22 to 24 inches of door-swing room in front. Measure the opening for the case width of 27 to 28 inches, then check the direction your machine opens — up for a top-loader, out for a front-loader — and confirm that clearance is free.
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Standard washer sizes by type: top-load agitator, top-load impeller, front-load#
The three standard-washer styles load and fit differently. A top-load agitator washer, 27 to 28 inches wide and 42 to 44 inches tall, uses a center post for a proven, budget-friendly clean but needs 20 to 22 inches of lid clearance above. A top-load impeller washer, the same width but up to 45 inches tall and 27 to 30 inches deep, drops the agitator for more tub room and gentler washing. A front-load washer, 27 inches wide and shorter at 38 to 39 inches, can slide under a counter or stack with a dryer but is the deepest at 30 to 34 inches. All three need 4 to 6 inches behind for the hoses.
Senior Gas Appliance Specialist · 18 years experience
AGA-certified gas appliance specialist with 18 years of experience in residential and commercial oven, range, and cooktop repairs.
