By Deirdre Mundorf | Published Feb 28, 2022 2:57 PM

If your laundry room is tight on space or you are looking to maximize the square footage, consider stacking your washer and dryer. Before stacking them, though, there are a few things you need to know.

Even if both appliances are stackable, do not try to stack a washer and dryer without a stacking kit. Without a proper kit, the dryer may not stay in place, creating a major safety hazard. Stacking kits make it possible to safely place a stackable dryer on top of a stackable washer.

Read through the steps below to learn how to stack a washer and dryer with a stacking kit.

Prior to attempting to stack your washer and dryer, it is important to confirm that both models are able to be stacked. In order to stack a washer and dryer, both units must have a front-loading design.

Additionally, it is generally recommended only to use a stacked washer and dryer set from the same manufacturer. This will help ensure compatibility and stability.

Before stacking your washer and dryer, get the space ready for the machines and make sure the layout is functional. First, measure to confirm that the washer and dryer will fit once stacked. Make sure that there will be enough space between the wall and the units to vent the dryer and to open the doors and use the washer and dryer.

Aim to leave at least 1 inch of space on each side of the appliances, and at least 6 inches of space behind the units to allow enough room for the dryer to vent. Also measure to ensure the doors will have sufficient room to open fully, and check that you’ll be able to comfortably reach the dryer door and interior as well.

Once you’re sure of the location and logistics, disconnect your washer and dryer from their outlets, supply line, and vent.

A stacking kit for stacked washer dryer combos includes special hardware to replace the existing feet on the dryer. This step is relatively straightforward and typically only requires a Phillips head screwdriver. However, keep in mind that dryers can be heavy and cumbersome to move by yourself. You may want to enlist the help of a friend or family member when tipping the dryer over to replace the feet.

Before removing the dryer feet, place cardboard on the floor to help prevent your dryer from getting damaged. Then lay the dryer on its side on the cardboard. Remove the feet that came with the dryer, and follow the directions included in the stacking kit for placing the stacking support guides in place. Save the old feet from the dryer in case you ever decide that you no longer want to keep your washer and dryer stacked together.

Related: The Best Places to Buy a Washer and Dryer

Next, place the washing machine in the space you want it, leaving enough room behind it to reconnect everything once setup is complete. You will need to confirm that the washing machine is perfectly level before placing the dryer on top of it.

A level can help you with this task. If the machine is not level, use an adjustable wrench to adjust the feet. If you need to shorten one or more of the legs, you can rotate the wrench clockwise. To extend the length of a leg, rotate the wrench counterclockwise.

Now you are ready to stack the two units. When stacking a washer and dryer, remember the dryer must always go on top because it is the lighter of the two appliances.

However, a dryer is still quite heavy. Find a helper to assist you in lifting the dryer onto the washer. Once the dryer is up on the washer, position it correctly. The front of the washer and dryer should be flush with one another, and the rear side of the dryer should be slightly farther back than the rear of the washer.

The stacking kit should include brackets and clips to keep the washer and dryer securely in place. The clips are placed on each side of the dryer’s base. Then, the brackets will hook over the clips to keep the dryer from moving off the washer.

The components of each stacking kit may vary, so be sure to closely follow the manufacturer’s directions when attaching the clips and brackets to your units. In most cases, you should only need a Phillips head screwdriver for this step.

Related: 10 Laundry Room Storage Ideas That’ll Knock Your Socks Off

Finally, hook up your gas or electric stackable washer and dryer to the outlets, water, and vent. Follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions to ensure that this step is completed properly.

Once your units are reconnected, shift them to their final position. It is always a good idea to run a test wash and dry cycle to ensure that both machines are stable and operate properly. Run a small load of laundry and stay close by to monitor the machines for any leaking or excessive shaking.

Stackable washers and dryers can help free up considerable space in a laundry room, or even help you create a (nearly) invisible laundry room. Learning how to stack a washer and dryer with a stacking kit will help you achieve these goals and ensure that your units remain stable and safe to use. Remember: If you plan to stack your washer and dryer, it is imperative to confirm that your units are compatible and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

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