James B. Parker
Mandy PhillipsLaundry rooms, for the sake of convenience, are usually installed near bathrooms due to water access, but can you install a washer and dryer inside a bathroom?
Washers and dryers can be installed inside bathrooms, but there are some things to consider. While there are no specific building codes stating you cannot install washers or dryers in your bathroom in most areas. However, safety concerns like proper ventilation and the size of your bathroom come into play.
There are many different ways you could install a washer and dryer in the bathroom so it’s crucial you get everything done properly.
Explore clever design tips and functional ideas to seamlessly integrate a washer and dryer into your bathroom.
Is It a Good Idea to Put a Washer and Dryer in the Bathroom?
One of the main things to consider before putting a washer and dryer in your bathroom is whether your bathroom is large enough to accommodate these appliances.
Washers and dryers are installed side-by-side or stackable, with the stackable setup saving more room and would be ideal for medium-sized bathrooms.
But, ultimately, your bathroom might not be big enough for a washer and dryer.
If your bathroom is more than spacious enough for a washer and dryer, you will want to consult your local building code authority.
Usually, you won’t have a problem installing these appliances in your bathroom, but it’s always best to be sure.
With the right size bathroom along with a washer and dryer that’s properly installed and ventilated, you create a space-saving solution that allows you to turn a laundry room into something else.
Stackable or Side-by-Side Washer and Dryer in the Bathroom?
When it comes to washer and dryer setups, your two main options are side-by-side or stackable.
The stackable setup is usually best for bathrooms because it saves space.
A side-by-side setup can work just fine if you have an extremely large bathroom, but for an average-sized bathroom, the stackable setup is the better choice.
Besides saving space, stackable washers and dryers are also known to create less back strain as there is less bending over to change loads, and they have a longer lifespan.
The main downside to stackable washers and dryers is that they use more water which can cause a slight increase in your water bill along with possible environmental concerns.
How to Install a Washer and Dryer in the Bathroom
What You Will Need
- Screwdriver
- Level
- Silicone Tape
- Crescent or Adjustable Wrench
- Stacking Kit
Side-by-Side Washer & Dryer Installation
1. Preparations and Placement
Begin by prepping your space for the installation, which includes cleaning and removing any debris.
Then measure your space to ensure that your new washer and dryer will fit.
You will then want to see how even or level the ground is where you’ll be placing the washer and dryer.
Use a level on the floor, and if your floor is severely out of level you may need to install your appliances elsewhere.
An unlevel floor can affect washing and drying or even damage the appliance.
Have someone assist you by putting the washer and dryer in place but leave some space in the back for you to attach water hoses, a vent, and plugs.
Before going any further, cut off the electrical power and water supply to your home.
2. Install Your Washer
Attach the two hoses at the back of your washer to the proper outlets.
One hose and outlet will be for cold water. The other will be for hot.
Attach the hoses by hand, then use an adjustable wrench to tighten them the rest of the way.
Next, use silicone tape around the hose connection to prevent any leaks.
Some modern washers have a water trap or suppression valve.
You should consult the instruction manual that came with your specific model to install them properly.
With your hoses properly connected, you can plug in your washer, and the installation will be complete.
3. Install Your Dryer
Before purchasing your dryer, you should make sure the cord is compatible with the outlet in your home.
Older homes usually have a 3-prong outlet, while newer homes have a 4-prong outlet.
After installing the proper pronged cord to your outlet, you will need to attach the heater vent.
Use the hose provided with your dryer or an acceptable replacement and attach the hose to the vent duct on your wall and your dryer’s vent port.
Secure the hose firmly on both ends with hose clamps that can be tightened with a screwdriver.
4. Testing and Finishing Up
With both your dryer and washer installed, you can push them closer to the wall.
Then turn on your water and electricity.
Run both your washer and dryer to ensure that they are working properly.
Make sure your washer isn’t leaking any water, and your dryer is showing no signs of electrical issues, and that the vent hose has remained secure.
Stackable Washer & Dryer Installation
1. Preparations and Placement
Before purchasing a washer and dryer, you should first measure your space to make sure they will fit.
Make sure to check the height of both appliances combined against the height of your walls.
Clean the area of any debris and make sure the floor is even using a level.
Bring the washer into the area with assistance or a utility cart.
Be sure to leave some space between the washer and the wall to hook up the hoses and the plug.
Before beginning the installation turn off the electrical power and water supply to your home.
2. Install Your Washer
Using the hoses attached to the washer, connect these hoses to the water outlets on your wall.
One hose will be colored or marked for cold water and the other for hot water.
Attach the hose to the outlets by hand, then use a wrench if necessary to tighten them the rest of the way.
Finally, wrap silicone tape around the hose connections to prevent any leaks.
Some washers come with traps or suppression valves.
Consult the manual that came with your model of the washer to install these additional features.
With your hoses attached, plugin your washer.
3. Stack Your Dryer
The reason why you install a washer first in a stackable setup is the weight of wet clothes in the washer can damage your dryer if it’s put on top.
Bring your dryer into the room and, with assistance, lift it on top of your washer.
Use a washer and dryer kit to connect the two appliances.
Each kit is a little different but usually requires you to install brackets with a drill or screwdriver to connect the two appliances.
In any case, follow the instructions given with your stacking kit.
4. Hookup Your Dryer
With your washer securely stacked, you can finish the installation by hooking up the dryer.
Attach the hose from your dryer’s vent port to the wall vent.
Securely attach the hose with hose clamps on both sides using a screwdriver.
You may require a longer hose since your dryer is higher off the ground.
Plugin your dryer while noticing whether your outlet is a three-prong or four-pronged outlet and which type of plug your dryer has.
Turn your electricity and water back on with everything connected and test your washer and dryer.
How to Hide a Washer and Dryer in Your Bathroom
Most ways to hide a washer and dryer in a bathroom involve using some type of cabinetry or a closet.
You can hide them in a cabinet underneath your vanity if using side-by-side units.
They can also be placed in a cabinet behind a large mirror.
There are other less expensive ways to hide your washer and dryer, such as using a curtain rod with curtains to cover the appliances when they are not in use.
Washer & Dryer Bathroom Ideas
Decorative Panels or Sliding Door
You can install a sliding door or some decorative panels to not only hide your appliances when not in use but gives you the chance to add more style to the room.
This design idea can work for either side-by-side or stackable units.
Bathroom Divider
Bathroom dividers come in a large variety of finishes and styles to suit anyone’s taste or budget.
In a large bathroom, you can use a divider to separate the bathroom space from the laundry space.
This design idea works best with a stacked washer and dryer.
Washer and Dryer Cabinetry
If your budget allows, you can have cabinetry that’s specially built for your washer and dryer.
Many options are available, such as installing this cabinetry below your vanity for side-by-side units or creating cabinetry that reaches the ceiling for stacked units while giving you more storage space.
FAQ
Your washer and dryer do not have to match. While stylistically, it’s nice to have both units match, it’s not required. The performance and durability of your appliances should be your primary concern.
This will depend on your home and your appliances. Most washers and dryers will run on normal 120-volt receptacles, while others need 240 volts. In either case, you should be able to plug both your washer and dryer into the same outlet without the need for a separate circuit.
