Measuring guide
How to measure for a washer and dryer countertop
Ten minutes with a tape measure is all it takes to know whether a countertop will sit neatly across your machines. Here is exactly what to measure, and what to look out for.
What you need
- A tape measure (a metal one is easiest to keep straight)
- A level, or the level tool in your phone's measure app
- Something to write the numbers down on
Step 1: Measure the combined width
Measure across the tops of both machines, from the outside edge of one to the outside edge of the other. Include the gap between them, because the countertop will bridge it. Measure at the front and again at the back: machines are not always perfectly parallel, and the larger number is the one that counts.
Many full-size front-load washers and dryers are around 27 inches wide each, but models vary, so trust your tape measure rather than a typical figure.
Step 2: Measure the depth of the tops
Measure from the front edge of the top to the back edge. Measure the flat top only, not the door or anything below it. While you are there, check that the top is actually flat: some dryers have a raised control panel along the back, and a flat countertop needs a flat surface to rest on.
If the countertop you are considering is deeper than your machine tops, decide where the extra goes. A small overhang at the back is usually easier to live with than one at the front.
Step 3: Check the space around the machines
- Above: measure from the top of the machines to the underside of any shelf or cabinet. You need room for the countertop itself (Airolity is 2.7 in high) plus enough space to actually fold a shirt or set down a basket.
- Beside: measure from the outer sides of the machines to the walls or cabinets. If the countertop is a little wider than your machines, it needs somewhere to go.
- Behind: leave the gap at the back alone. It is there for hoses, power cords and the dryer vent, which should never be squashed or blocked.
Step 4: Check that both machines are level and the same height
Lay a level across each machine, then across both. If one machine is higher, or either one rocks, adjust the leveling feet first. A washer and dryer from different brands, or on different pedestals, can sit at slightly different heights. A level base keeps a countertop steady, and level machines also vibrate less.
Step 5: Check doors, drawers and controls
Front-load doors open forward, so a countertop on top will not get in their way. But check the detergent drawer and any controls near the top front edge: open the drawer fully and make sure the front edge of a countertop would not block it.
Compare your numbers
Here are the Airolity countertop sizes. Compare them with your combined width (Step 1) and top depth (Step 2).
| 2-Piece | 3-Piece | |
|---|---|---|
| Width | 54 in | 54.15 in |
| Depth | 27.5 in | 27.5 in |
| Height | 2.7 in | 2.7 in |
| Panel thickness | 0.71 in | |
If your numbers are close, you are in good shape. If your machines are much narrower or wider, the countertop will overhang or fall short, so think about whether that works in your room before ordering.
Quick checklist
- Combined width measured at the front and back
- Depth of the flat tops measured, with no raised panels in the way
- Enough room above to use the surface
- Space beside the machines for any overhang
- Hoses and dryer vent left clear behind
- Both machines level and the same height
- Detergent drawer opens fully