Integrated vs freestanding washing machines: Which is best?

An integrated washing machine is designed to sit behind a kitchen cabinet door, creating a built-in appearance that blends in with the rest of your kitchen. The washing machine itself is hidden from view when the cabinet door is closed, making integrated models a popular choice for modern, streamlined kitchens.

Integrated washing machines are ideal if you:

• Want your appliances to blend into your kitchen
• Prefer a neat, built-in appearance
• Are replacing an existing integrated washing machine
• Have a kitchen designed around built-in appliances

One thing to consider is that integrated washing machines generally offer less flexibility when it comes to installation and placement. They need to be fitted into a suitable cabinet space and installed correctly with the furniture door attached.

A freestanding washing machine is designed to stand independently rather than being concealed behind a kitchen cabinet door. This is the most common type of washing machine and gives you greater flexibility over where the appliance is installed, provided there is suitable access to water, drainage and electricity.

Freestanding washing machines are ideal if you:

• Want more flexibility over where you install your appliance
• Are replacing a freestanding washing machine
• Don't need your appliance hidden behind a cabinet door
• Want a wider choice of models and capacities

Freestanding machines are available in a broad range of sizes, capacities, programmes and features, making it easier to find a model that suits your household and budget.

The best option depends largely on your kitchen and how you want your washing machine to look.

Choose an integrated washing machine if maintaining a seamless kitchen design is important to you and you already have suitable cabinetry.

Choose a freestanding washing machine if flexibility, choice and straightforward installation are more important. They're also a good option if you don't have cabinetry designed to accommodate an integrated appliance.

Before buying either type, make sure you measure the available space carefully and check the manufacturer's installation requirements. Integrated and freestanding models can have different dimensions, so don't assume a new appliance will automatically fit the space left by your old one.

Ultimately, neither type is universally better. Integrated washing machines prioritise a streamlined appearance, while freestanding machines offer greater flexibility and choice.