Where To Put A Tumble Dryer In A Small House?

Published on: 8/01/2025 Author: Babette

Tumble dryers have become indispensable appliances in our homes. However, finding the ideal spot for your tumble dryer in a small house can be challenging. 

In this article, we'll explore various tumble dryer location options if you’re short on space. 

This includes covering some popular ideas including putting the tumble dryer in a cupboard, under the stairs, or in a bathroom.

Kitchen

Traditionally, the kitchen has always been where our laundry appliances are housed. Laundry appliances are a relatively new invention, meaning our homes had to be adapted to equip them. So while other options do exist, if there isn’t space elsewhere in your property then the kitchen may still prove to be the best spot for homes in the UK.

Many people think they have no room for a tumble dryer in the kitchen. But this all depends on your laundry cabinet setup! For instance, stacking your appliances on top of each other or placing them side by side can instantly solve the issue. 

Utility Room

Not all small homes have a utility room. But often, they can provide an additional entrance to your home alongside the main front door. 

If so, this space creates endless potential to add a tumble dryer. Alternatively, if you don’t have a utility room but do have some outdoor space, utility rooms can be added on. In most cases, building a utility room doesn’t require planning permission either. 

Similar to any other room where you might consider adding a tumble dryer, there are a number of configurations you can opt for. Since most utility rooms are on the smaller side, adding a wall-mounted design can be a practical choice.

Utility rooms can also offer a sense of separation between where your laundry takes place and the rest of your home. Washtower tumble dryer cabinets also have the technology to reduce vibrations, helping to improve the ambience wherever you end up installing your tumble dryer. 

Bathroom

The bathroom might not seem like the first choice for a washing machine or tumble dryer. But seeing as the bathroom often has the necessary plumbing and ventilation (or can easily be adapted if upgrades are needed), it can be more convenient than you think. 

After all, when space is at a premium it’s time to get creative with the solution! With the right cabinet design, your tumble dryer will also sleekly fit around your existing bathroom decor. 

At Washtower, our laundry cabinets aren’t just available in different configurations but also in colours. This offers plenty of choices to suit different bathroom layouts but also stylistic preferences. 

Under The Stairs

Even in the smallest of homes, if there is a staircase then this usually means there is also space underneath the stairs. Popping out the measuring tape can soon reveal if this often underutilised area could provide an option for your space dilemma. 

Putting a tumble dryer under the stairs can offer practicality, especially as it offers a central location between the rest of your home. Whether you want to air dry some clothes outside or take freshly washed laundry upstairs, you’ll never have too far to travel. 

However, one consideration is that the area will likely require adapting so that it has the necessary connections and ventilation. However, whether your tumble dryer needs venting will also vary depending on the model. 

Upstairs

If you are going to be carrying your laundry upstairs anyway, why not cut down your journey time by moving your laundry appliances upstairs? 

Whether you have a spare room or cupboard space, there could just be an option you haven’t considered before. In particular, moving a tumble dryer in or near a bathroom can mean fewer upgrades are needed due to the proximity of any required connections. 

As with any option for finding a place to put a tumble dryer in a small house, asking a tradesperson can reveal what’s doable, including ideas you might not have otherwise considered.

The Garage

Space might be tight inside a small home, but what about in an outbuilding such as a garage? Granted, this option won’t be available for those living in high-rise accommodation. But for detached, semi-detached or terraced homes, the garage could be a place to consider. 

By relocating your tumble dryer to the garage, you also separate your laundry from your main living spaces. While you may need to take a slightly longer route back to your wardrobe, it can keep all your laundry completely out of sight. 

Plus, you’ll remove the space that your laundry would have taken up from your small home and free this up for something else.

Tumble Dryer In A Small Property FAQs

Have more questions about installing a tumble dryer when your home lacks space? We’ve answered some common queries below. For anything else, feel free to get in touch with the Washtower team. 

Can I Put A Tumble Dryer Under The Stairs?

Absolutely! Utilising the space under the stairs is a clever way to integrate a tumble dryer into your small house. However, before doing so, assess the available space and access to ventilation. If there's enough room and proper ventilation can be ensured, this can be an excellent option.

Can You Put a Tumble Dryer On Top Of A Washing Machine?

One common space-saving technique is to stack your tumble dryer on top of your washing machine. This setup is not only efficient but also practical. Washtower offers special cupboards designed to securely house your tumble dryer on top of your washing machine. This setup is a great option for small utility rooms or kitchens with limited floor space.

Can You Put A Tumble Dryer Under A Sloping Roof?

Placing a tumble dryer under a sloping roof is possible but comes with certain considerations. The angle and height of your roof may affect the installation. Ensure there is sufficient headroom for the tumble dryer to function safely and efficiently. 

Proper ventilation remains crucial, as confined spaces can accumulate heat and moisture, affecting both the appliance and the room. 

As with any creative storage option for a tumble dryer, we would advise double-checking with a professional first.

Is A Tumble Dryer In The Bathroom Dangerous?

While it might seem unconventional, it's possible to install a washing machine and tumble dryer in a bathroom if space constraints demand it. However, this approach comes with some caveats. 

First and foremost, safety is paramount. Make sure the bathroom is adequately ventilated to disperse moisture and prevent condensation. 

Additionally, consult local building codes and regulations, as placing electrical appliances in bathrooms can be subject to specific requirements.

Can You Put a Tumble Dryer In A Cupboard?

Putting a tumble dryer in a cupboard is another space-saving strategy. For example, the Basic cupboard WSCS1462 could be a great choice! Apart from the fact that it is designed in a way that naturally absorbs vibration, it also comes with a TÜV-certification

Where Should You Not Put A Condenser Tumble Dryer?

While condenser tumble dryers offer more flexibility, they still require a degree of ventilation around the machine to avoid overheating. Therefore, overly tight spaces that don't comply with the manufacturer's recommendations aren’t ideal. Washtower cabinets work with most appliances, but you can always contact our customer support team if you are unsure. 

Another thing to avoid is installing a condenser tumble dryer in any locations that are too hot. Similarly, most tumble dryer manufacturers require the temperature of the room to be above 10°C, meaning extremely cold rooms are also unsuitable.

Washtower - Space-Saving Laundry Solutions For Small Houses

At Washtower, we’re here to help you find the right laundry storage solutions for your needs. As well as improved accessibility, this also extends to working with the room you have available in your home. 

To design your dream laundry space, simply head over to our configurator page to get started. If you’d like to learn more about our products or have any further questions, please give our team a call on 03308183548 or email us at info@washtower.co.uk.

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