Home Blog Raised Washer & Dryer for the Elderly

Making Laundry Safer and More Convenient

Published on: 30/04/2025 Author: Babette

Laundry can be a physically demanding task, especially for elderly individuals who may struggle with bending, lifting, or reaching into deep washing machine drums. A raised washer and dryer setup provides a practical solution, ensuring ease of use and improving safety.

This article explores how an elevated washing machine and dryer can benefit pensioners, answering common questions such as "How to make laundry easier for the elderly?" while also introducing solutions like washer and dryer cabinets.

Why raised washers and dryers are ideal for pensioners

A standard washing machine and dryer are typically positioned at floor level, requiring users to bend down when loading and unloading laundry. This can be challenging for older adults with mobility issues, arthritis or back pain.

Instead, a raised washer and dryer, often set within a washer and dryer cabinet, can provide significant advantages:

Easier Access & Less Strain: Raising the washer and dryer reduces bending and lifting, making it easier for pensioners to use them comfortably without putting strain on their back or joints.
Enhanced Safety: Elevated appliances help minimise unnecessary movement, lowering the risk of slips, falls and injuries in the laundry room.

Ergonomic & Stylish Design: Many modern washer and dryer cabinets such as Washtower’s Twin Collection 4.1 prioritise ergonomics, combining convenience with an attractive and practical home feature.

How to make laundry easier for the elderly?

A few strategic adjustments can transform laundry day into a more manageable task for pensioners. Here are some ways to improve efficiency and ease of use:

1. Choose an easy-to-use washing machine

Not all washing machines are designed with pensioners in mind. The ideal washer should have large, clearly labelled buttons and digital displays for easy readability. A front-loading design is preferable as it allows effortless access without excessive bending. Simple settings without complicated programming make operation more straightforward and a quiet operation helps reduce unnecessary strain or confusion, making laundry more pleasant and stress-free.

2. Use a washer and dryer cabinet

A washer and dryer cabinet lifts appliances off the floor, allowing pensioners to load and unload clothes at a comfortable height. These cabinets are particularly beneficial for individuals with limited mobility or those using a wheelchair.

3. Install laundry accessories for safety and comfort

Creating a safer and more accessible laundry space is essential for pensioners. Installing non-slip mats helps prevent falls by providing extra grip on slippery floors. Good lighting enhances visibility, making it easier to operate the washer and dryer while reducing the risk of accidents. Additionally, placing grab bars or handles near the appliances provides extra stability, allowing pensioners to maintain balance and feel more secure while doing laundry.

Features to look for in a washer and dryer for the elderly

When selecting laundry appliances for pensioners, consider the following features:

Front-loading design for easy access.
Large doors and drum openings for convenient loading and unloading.
Automatic detergent dispensers to avoid lifting heavy bottles.
Pre-set programs with easy-to-read instructions.
Quiet operation to avoid disruptive noise.
Energy efficiency to reduce running costs.

Also, don’t forget that where you install your washing machine can affect how easy it is to do the laundry. For instance, consider whether an upstairs or downstairs laundry setup would work best for your needs.

The best laundry solution for pensioners

A raised washer and dryer setup provides a practical and comfortable laundry experience for pensioners, reducing physical strain and improving accessibility. Pairing appliances with a washer and dryer cabinet ensures a clutter-free, ergonomic solution while maintaining a stylish look.

To explore washer and dryer cabinets that offer the perfect raised solution for pensioners, check out Washtower today.

Or, need any help choosing the right laundry cabinets for your needs? Please give us a call on 0330 818 3548 to speak with our team.