Solution to Stack Dryer on Top of Raised Washing Machine

****Edits: I finally found the edit button, phew!
- Badly worded question and OP. That's on me.
- I take it back. The flaming has been fun. But some of you need a damn good hug! Or a damn good therapist.l
- I am not SO stupid as to not comprehend that a wm is HEAVY and VIBRATES/MOVES.
- I also basically understand the difference between STATIC load and DYNAMIC load
- Obviously there are heavily engineered solutions to what I'm hoping to do, so the general idea of trying to find a solution isn't dumb.
- The dumb thing was thinking there might be a simple solution and that something not-fit-for-purpose might be the answer.
- I just want to have BOTH wm and dryer raised off the floor/stacked. I CAN'T put them side to side.
- note to self. Think first, ask questions later. Especially on OzBargain.
- thanks to those who have been helpful. ****

So google is being extremely unhelpful, which might mean its a stupid question. Please don't flame me if it is……

Is there any reason I can't chuck a washing machine on a nice, solid shelving unit and put a dryer on the second level?

If the unit is rated to a couple hundred kg, surely it would handle a wm?

Is there some reason a good shelving unit wouldn't handle the vibrations as well as a much more flimsy looking dedicated wm stand or stacking kit?

Why can't I find others asking the same question? What am I missing?

Comments

  • +11

    Washing machines are heavy AF and the vibration will most likely rattle the shelf and can lead to rips, tears and cracks in the wall causing the machine to fall.

    When shelves state a maximum load, most likely referring to stable items not items that constantly move.

    You can mount a dryer tho. alot of units have dryers mounted but you need to research how it's installed.

    I personally wouldn't put it on a shelf, mount the dryer and put the washing machine on the floor. Better be safe than sorry.

    Or use a dryer stand like this one https://www.britec.com.au/product/dryer-stand-maxi/

    • I already have the wm on a pedestal thing so the dryer stand wont be tall enough hence looking for other options. I have just bought a new heat pump dryer which i thought would have plenty of space BESIDE the wm but it misses by about a cm. D'oh. Not good planning i know.

      Even the pedestal doesnt seem that solid, but does a great job of taking the vibration and weight. Ideally i dont want the wm on the floor as im 6'5 with significant back problems. Oh the dilemma. Lol.

      • Having recently bought a new washer and dryer set - if you have a heat pump dryer, it will likely be might be too heavy to wal mount (or put on a shelf) - that was the conclusion I reached my research. However you can buy cheap (or expensive) stacking kits to stack the heat pump dryer on top of the washing machine, if they are compatible dimensions wise. The cheap one (I got) is like a thin rubber mat. More expensive ones may be custom to the model/s of machine you get and sometimes have a pull out tray/shelf thing to help sort your dried washing.

  • +4

    So you can do what you want in life as long as you’re willing to face the consequences.

    There is no reason why you can’t do what you’re suggesting, but in your use case, why can’t the WM stay on the floor and the dryer (usually lighter) sit on the first shelf?

    If you use something like the 400kg RackIT system available from Bunnings, you can build it in a way that doesn’t require a shelf at the bottom and just a support beam at the back.

    • +3

      why can’t the WM stay on the floor

      Having the WM (front loader) a bit higher allows easier access with less bending over, you can drop the basket on the floor and empty into it easily, plus also allows easier draining when checking the filter.

      • Yep. This. I already have my wm on a "pedestal" for reasons above. But yeah, maybe the single shelf idea for the dryer might be a good option with the wm left in situ. Ill get my tape measure out first this time. Lol..

        • +1

          Not sure of your configuration but I found (accidentally) that a good gap between the washer and dryer is very handy for storing washing baskets, etc.

          I think your idea of shelving is great and I'm surprised it's not more common. I did notice in the States that some houses had washers and dryers hidden upstairs in a large cupboard, both on a frame much like shelves. I have a standard drier ATM bolted to the wall but long thought if/when I get one of these new heat pump versions I will definitely make a solid shelf for it so it still sits above the washer.

          For the washer it's probably prudent to consider a shelf that has narrow feet which can survive a wash down (eg stainless steel, or a good quality synthetic). Being able to get a mop under the washer is nice, plus it's easy to get things (socks mainly IME) that fall down behind it.

          • +2

            @fantombloo: Appreciate your thoughtful post. Definitely some food for thought. :)

            Part of the issue is that I'm a renter so bolting things to walls or installing you-beaut cupboards isn't really a great option unfortunately.

            I really think i'll be looking for a solid shelving unit thats tall enough to go over the wm on pedestal but still stable without a lower shelf.
            Then chuck the dryer on top. Dryer certainly doesnt seem to spin that much or bounce around, so would hopefully be ok.

  • +6

    Just do it and make a post if it fails

    • +2

      Lol. I'll get back to you.

  • +2

    When we converted our warehouse we had the laundry built so the washer and dryer are at shelf level. We then put in a pull our table that can hold the washing basket when we take clothes out of it. We’ve had that setup for over 30 years and it is still going strong. We don’t run the spinner higher than 1000 rpm. The other thing is to ensure you square it regularly because if they are unbalanced they walk. The secret is a completely over engineered bench to hold it.

    If you like I can PM you a picture.

    • Probably should have mentioned in my op that I'm a renter so more extensive construction isn't an option. Certainly sounds great though. A pic of your bench misght be helpful though. Thanks. :)

  • +6

    Don't forget that a washing machine is already heavy, and that it gets a lot heavier when its working because its full of water.

    A dryer, not so much so.

    • Yeah for sure. I guess part of my confusion lies in a smallish pedestal being able to handle the dynamic load, but how solid would a bigger shelving unit need to be? Rhetoric question at this stage it seems.

    • A dryer, not so much so.

      A heat pump dryer is going to be a lot heavier than a normal dryer. Most don't even recommend wall hanging.

  • Ask your toddler to stand under it to check if it stays in place while running.

    • Ummm. I only want the wm to be about a foot off the ground. Not 3.

      • What is a foot

  • It will work if you stack Dryer directly on top of WM, but not on a shelving unit.

    Why can't I find others asking the same question? What am I missing?

    Because it's common sense. The main thing holding the dryer is the little screws on the wall, not the shelf.

    • "Common sense"? Where did I say anything about attaching anything to a wall?

      Does a regular stacking unti REQUIRE attachment to a wall? I wasn't aware of that. Also, don't really want to attach anything to a wall as a renter.

    • Yeah. As menfioned above. Already have a pedestal. Trying to find a solution that elevates both. Probs didnt make that clear in my OP. Thanks though. :)

  • +2

    There is STATIC load and DYNAMIC load.

    My guess is the shelf is rated for STATIC load.

    • -7

      That makes SENSE

      Not very HELPFUL though.

      Appreciate your input, anyway. :)

      • Not very HELPFUL though.

        What is the difference between static and dynamic weight limit?

        The static weight limit refers to the amount of weight a (a shelf can take when the washing machine and dryer are not operating) vehicle's roof can support while it's stationary. The dynamic weight limit is the load weight a vehicle's roof (a shelf can safely support while the washing machine and dryer is operating) it's moving, and often it's lower than the static limit.4

        • -5

          Well yes. I understand that bit too.

          Does your average shelving unti come with a dynamic weight limit recorded? Not that i can tell.

          If the static limit is 200kg, is there a formula to work out the dynamic limit? Unfortunately i dont remember enough of year 12 physics from 30 odd years ago to be able to answer that myself.

          Any further enlightenment would certainly be appreciated. :)

  • -6

    The reason you can't find the answer on google is because the concept is stupid on multiple levels, all based on physics, and the diminishing and variable balance of the WM. But do it, by all means Under the 'suck it and see protocol, and report back. Then we'll all know the reasons behind why google itself can't even be arsed explaining it.

    • +1

      Ha ha. Lol. Well you win the prize for the most triggered person in the discussion. Tough day with the family or something?

      "Stupid on multiple levels" "all based on physics and the diminishing and variable balance of the WM"

      Well my most humble apologies. I didn't realise physics was such an easy subject to understand. I mean, to be honest, I'm struggling to understand what "diminishing and variable balance" means. I get that the washing machine moves around. What does the "diminishing" bit mean? Actually. Don't worry. You're obviously wayyyyyyyy too intelligent to bother with someone so stupid.

      I honestly hope you sort out whatever it is making you so upset. Cheers.

  • Here's a floor-mounted option:
    But it appears to me pedestals and/or plinths aren't rated to carry a washer/dryer stack.

    • Yeah, thankyou. Have seen various versions of that stand. My issue is wanting BOTH washer and dryer to be raised. That version and most others arent tall enough to get over the wm plus pedestal underneath. Again, i dont want my wm on the ground. However i think I've now found a similar stand thats taller and therefore might work.

      I've also finally found a couple shelving units that are perfect dimensions and seem more solid and are cheaper than the dedicated dryer stand. Worst case scenario with one of them is it will end up in my back shed. Lol. Will see how it goes. Cheers..

      • This commercial plinth is spec'd for a 122kg washer. What's the weight of your two appliances? Your stature indeed allows access to your dryer if stacked on a washer that's mounted on a suitably rated plinth.

        • Getting a "404 error" on your link, but appreciate the help. Would have to double check the weights.

          The pedestal i have and the few others ive looked at don't recommend stacking on top, so i will be most interested in looking at your suggestion. Could I trouble you for another link or name or similar?

  • Don’t do it. Washing machines need a completely stable and solid base to work properly otherwise it could spin unbalanced (high centrifugal force) and that could lead to it moving off the shelf or even worse buggering up the balancing. It could also void any warranty you have on the machine. The dryer on the other hand might be ok as they operate on a slower rotational speed and don’t move around as much.

    • +1

      Yeah cool. I get that. But given i already have my wm on a metal pedestal, I'm failing to understand why a solid shelving unit would be much different. Not bolted down like with the pedestal, but maybe with a rubber mat underneath or similar. Anyway. Everyone finally has me convinced it was indeed a stupid question, so I'll probs just go.with a dryer stand as some helpful folks have recommended.

      Either that or i might try it with the washer just for s÷$ts and giggles. Not like i would just set up and leave unattended anyway. Lol. I watched it on the pedestal several times on spin cycle before i was convinced that would work. Maybe I'll have my own "Scotty" moment. "Shes breaking up Captain, I'm not sure how much she can take."

      Cheers for the input.

      • In the old days with brands of front loaders you could purchase a kit to mount the dryer on top of the washing machine. The W/M was on the floor. Not much help I know.

        My only experience is with a roof cage on my 4WD. The roof load limit is 100kg. That's fine on most roads. Dirt tracks the load rating drops to 70kg. 4WD tracks it's 40 to 50kg.

  • +1

    I think you have the idea now based on the other comments… but dont do it. Shelves are only ever attached to the wall, and for something heavy that moves, you need a cabinet, stand or similar to transfer the load directly to the floor for stability. Also with the heat pump dryer you cant wall mount at all. It can go above the washing machine, no problem, but needs an appropriate stand to rest on. I'd strongly suggest having it plumbed directly into the waste water too, if possible. If need be, you can get a section with an extra nipple on it to go above the s trap, if the washing machine connects into the same spot. Obviously not necessary - but it beats forgetting to empty the tray and having a mess.

  • +2

    You can but the shelf will need to be a lot stronger and reinforced than you think and the washer bolted down.

  • +1

    Here's an article I found about putting washing machines on a plinth or a washer stand: https://www.choice.com.au/home-and-living/laundry-and-cleani…

    Doesn't specifically mention then placing a dryer on top though.

  • +2

    Metal fatigue from the vibration during spin cycles will kill it eventually. How long depends on the how much it shakes and how heavy duty the shelving is. Since no one test their shelving for such loads, it may last forever or the joints may crack after a few weeks, you're the guinea pig so let us know how you go.

  • Yeah google is dodgy af. Why don’t you just do it and post the results. I’m sure someone else who has such bright ideas can benefit from your adventures and their results.

    • Thanks for your completely unique and super helpful comment. Did you think of that all by yourself?

      • So google is being extremely unhelpful, which might mean its a stupid question. Is there any reason I can't chuck a washing machine on a nice, solid shelving unit and put a dryer on the second level?

        Simples…

        I don’t understand why you think google is a know it all person… It is a search engine, meaning you’re searching for a result from what someone else has posted. If you can’t find a result of what you’re looking for its either you’re doing it wrong or someone else has not posted anything about it before.

  • +1

    I've got my heat pump dryer directly on top of my washing machine, I've had no troubles.

    • +1

      They dont recommend direct stacking on top of a peesestal.

      • I'd do it anyway

        • Yeah, I'm tempted. Lol

  • +1

    Staple some 2x4's to the side of your machines and hey presto, legs.

    Who needs to buy heavy duty shelves now???

    • She'll be right.

  • +1

    The answer is complex and not simple and would be best answered by a mechanical engineer.

    I am a different type of engineer but this is my basic conceptual understanding (which could be incorrect, so take with a pinch of salt): as others have said the WM produces dynamic load (movement/vibration), not static (stationary).

    If the WM is on the floor it should transfer load directly to the foundation which should easily dissipate vibration etc. However if you use a bracket or shelf and fix this into the wall, then the vibrations could potentially need to move through your shelf and the wall studs before going down to the foundation (different load path).

    The systems used to support dynamic loads are complex and different to static loads, for example engineers use dampeners on bridges to reduce vibrations and change their frequency. I doubt anyone has investigated WM vibrations in this level of detail.

    In terms of consequences, would potentially imagine fixings to come loose over time with vibration, drywall fixings could start popping out of the wall
    and worst-case scenarios vibrations transferring via the studs to the entire structure (e.g. house/roof framing) and causing all sorts of adverse issues/damage. However this is largely hypothetical and depends on the properties of the dynamic load and materials/structure taking them.

    • -2

      You are wasting your time, if the OP can't (refuses) to grasp, dynamic and static balancing principles, let them turn their laundry into shrapnel.

      • +2

        Here i was thinking it must have been a rough day, but it appears your salty replies are just a part of your personality. Imagine having a Sook over multiple days at someone who actually acknowledged the whole exercise might be futile right there at the top of the page. Could I humbly suggest some professional help for that anger problem of yours? I'm not sure why my post is so triggering for you. Maybe some past trauma in your laundry or similar. But its good to take some personal responsibility for your feelings rather than just ranting at random internet strangers.

        • -3

          Umm,
          " who's" triggered?

          A washing machine on a "shelf" is a ridiculous concept, and doubly so in someone else's house.And triple dumb idea with another machine involved.
          I think you have to be trolling.Why else would you search for nil result and think (despite multiple warnings here, it's a non starter.
          That said, I'll judge your free psychological diagnoses, on the same level as your engineering abilities.

          If you (despite physics) complete your task safely with full functionality of the machines, do post images up, but not before you lodge a patent.

          • @Protractor: Ohhhhh. So your replies are based on the fact you CARE about me and about the owner of the house. You're not just being a self-righteous prick. Rigggggghhhtttt. Now i get where you're coming from. Thanks so much for clarfying that.

          • @Protractor: Here you go. Heres a photo someone else sent me of their "washing machine on a shelf" Gee. Maybe thats photoshop?

            Or maybe they could see i was trying to FIGURE IT OUT. And they could SEE I KNEW my idea was bad and they were ACTUALLY HELPFUL and offered a POSSIBLE SOLUTION. (All beit far more extensive than what i can do)

            Seriously dude. The ONLY thing you are doing is continuing to piss and moan. Maybe its autism in which case, believe me, I get it. But again. Your replies are useless and you're wasting both our time.

            https://files.ozbargain.com.au/upload/157591/109372/img_0225…

    • So a "nice, solid shelving unit" with "dampers" in it then?? Cool cool. I'll keep an eye out for one of those. ;) ;)

      Seriously though. Appreciate your thoughtful reply. I'm not totally oblivious to the mechanics of what I'm asking about, even though old-mate "protractor" likes to keep sinking the boots in about how dumb I am.

      Like you eloquently point out, its a potentially complex issue. I honestly didn't think I'd generate quite so many outraged replies. At least I've had 2 or 3 comments that have been actually helpful. Cheers for yours. :)

  • +1

    I'm just a layperson but I'd be worried about metal fatigue

    • +1

      I'm starting to worry about too-many-replies fatigue. Lol.

  • +1

    I would build your own and over engineer it. Any of the store purchased plinths are just rubbish.

    Second to that, if your washing machine is still under warranty I would check your user manual as some manufactures will exclude raising a machine on a plinth from their warranty.

    • Better a broken warranty than a broken back imho. But i hear you. Cheers.

      As for buiding my own..Yeah, nah. Zero aptitude or motivation. Kinda wish i did though.

  • -1

    First World Problems

    • OP is renting, so it becomes a 3rd world problem by default.

    • -2

      Judging by the large number of completely useless replies I'm getting, the first world needs to get a life!

  • +1

    Are you able to put legs in? I did this in my laundry. Or if as you say renting, even just a thick piece of wood that can be removed when you leave

  • +1

    Yah, you can use it but check the ratings of your Shelving Unit. i'm using it from last 8 years and no issue at all. works all the time. just make sure you screw in with support and all good.

  • If it were me I would probably build a shelf out of solid garden sleepers , use the width of a plank the depth of the wm to lift the first shelf for the base of the Wm off the ground , make the shelf for the Wm just a fraction wider than the Wm , then attach side virtical side walls to outside of the base to just above the Wm. and then screw cross pieces to support the dryer for the top.
    It will be rock solid free standing and you can take it with you when you go.
    Just bolt together with coach bolts. Don't use glue so you can disassemble if you need to move.

    • Probably a more complex solution than I'm looking for, but thanks for the suggestion..

  • if the OP provided pix and/or sketch of the space with dimensions I'm sure we could provide more specific advice -

    as for testing dynamic limit - I built some storage shelves from pine - how I tested was to stand on a length of pine that supported at each end at the distance I wanted to test and bounce up and down to test how much it flexed - ended up with a frame with 2 x 1500mm spans of 42x19mm pine on edge (strongest for weight bearing) supported by 4 verticals of 42x19 - each shelf holds 4 storage boxes each with maybe 5 kg of stuff in them.

    If you built a DIY stand - I'd assume 80kg load (front loader washing machines typically have lumps of concrete inside to stop them jumping and moving on spin cycles) and probably 3"x2" (75x50mm?) clear pine (no knots - weak, can break) on edge - I'd also chisel or drill small indents to hold the four 'feet' of the washing machine in place and discourage it from moving on spin cycle.

    And I'd use rubber stops to both stop things moving and reduce noise through concrete slabs to any high-density neighbour if you're in a strata complex or such. Similarly, dryer noise can carry a long way through concrete. I once spent 6 months going out in my pyjamas after midnight trying to locate a regular 'graunch ,,, graunch …' noise at 1am that was preventing my sleep - finally found it, a shift worker using a clothes dryer in a unit two levels up and 3 units along from mine - urghh …

    • Oooof. The 1am seach for noise sounds rough. :( I'm a shift worker myself, but generally try to be a little more understanding about making loud noises at strange hours.

      I appreciate your reply. I've edited my OP because it was a bit woeful and as such, the replies are a bit all over the shop.

      I'm looking for a simple solution and as such will most likely just go with mounting the dryer.

      Thanks for the input.. :)

  • +1

    You can get dryer unit for top load washer (so it’s fairly high of the ground), you could use that as it’s basically a frame around the washing machine and then keep it on a pedestal.

    Edit: something like this : https://www.amazon.com.au/Britec-DRYERSTAND-Freestanding-Por…

    • Yep. Thats probably what I'll go with. Thanks.

  • +1

    Search for "anti-vibration pads for washing machine" pad, which use the same principle on submarine's engine. I would imagine that the shelve gotta we as wide as the machine for it to work… good luck.

    • +1

      Yeah, i would definitely use the vibration/rubber mat thingos. I was looking at shelves that are well over 600 wide and 600 deep which is what my wm is roughly. 600×600. I'm almost determinrd to see just HOW MUCH a shelving unit would shake. Lol.

      • If you find a suitable shelf, put some pad under it as well.

  • I have this combo. It’s very effective but installing is a bitch if you have a European laundry. Just a heads up!
    https://www.britec.com.au/product/dryer-stand-adjustable-was…

    • Nearly $500 just for a stand seems a bit steep to me, but thats probably what I'll go with. What do you mean by "european laundry"?

      • +1

        Ye the price was staggering to me, I got them during a sale and waited quite a long time for that but it was the best I could do. They are really strong though and I was so scared it would be flimsy crap. Mine hold a 12kg front load washer and a 8kg heat pump dryer.

        A European laundry is basically a cupboard or closet that your laundry machines are in, as opposed to a normal sized laundry room or open/shared space such as a bathroom. They are fairly common in apartments built in the last 15 years.

        • +1

          Ahhh. Gotcha, thanks for the explanation. I have plenty of height, just not enough width to put them side by side dammit. Cheers for the recommendation..

  • Hi,
    Just saw this question now.

    I also could not put them side by side due to space restrictions where I live. Is there any reason you can't just put the dryer on the WM. I did that earlier this year by sticking foam tape on the WM and then putting the dryer up on it. The setup has been working fine, and the dryer has not moved even a centimeter. Safe and convenient.

    • +1

      Most recommendations ive seen say you shouldnt directly stack on a raised wm. Turns out there are stands made for that purpose though so i might try one of them.

Login or Join to leave a comment