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Where Should You Place Your Washing Machine: Balcony or Bathroom? Expert Insights Reveal Common Mistakes

Every location has its unique advantages and limitations. Therefore, before deciding where to place your washing machine, it’s essential to thoroughly understand potential drawbacks to avoid unnecessary complications during use.

Administrator

5 December, 2025

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the “ideal” placement of a washing machine, as every home has unique layouts and conditions. The most critical factor is ensuring the location has proper water supply and drainage. Common spots within a home include the bathroom, kitchen, utility balcony, or a dedicated laundry room.

Each location comes with its own pros and cons. Before deciding where to place your washing machine, it’s essential to weigh the potential drawbacks to avoid unnecessary hassles during use.

Pros and Cons of Placing a Washing Machine on the Balcony

Many prefer placing the washing machine on the balcony, as it not only saves space but also offers convenience when drying clothes. You won’t need to carry laundry from inside the house to the balcony, reducing the distance you need to walk.

Additionally, balconies typically have open, well-ventilated spaces, preventing humidity issues for the washing machine. However, there are a few considerations when placing it here:

– Waterproofing Concerns:

The first thing to note is the need for thorough waterproofing. While a washing machine under normal use won’t leak, unexpected malfunctions can occur.

Moreover, since balconies are open spaces and may not be fully enclosed, rainwater can easily enter. Poor waterproofing can lead to water seepage into walls, causing mold, peeling paint, or even structural cracks. In severe cases, leaks can affect lower floors.

– Drainage Issues:

When placing a washing machine on the balcony, proper drainage is crucial. The machine’s wastewater requires a dedicated drainage system, and not all drains are equipped to handle it.

Given the large volume and rapid discharge of water, a specially designed drain with a secure connection to the plumbing is necessary. Without adequate slope and drain size, water may overflow, causing unpleasant odors.

– Sun and Cold Protection:

For west-facing balconies, direct sunlight can damage the washing machine over time, causing discoloration or material degradation. Using a sunshade or placing the machine in a closed cabinet is recommended.

In colder regions, winter temperatures can affect the machine’s performance and durability, potentially disrupting laundry routines.

Pros and Cons of Placing a Washing Machine in the Bathroom

If your bathroom is spacious, placing the washing machine here is a viable option. Drainage is more convenient compared to the balcony, and there’s no need for additional plumbing. Dirty clothes can be tossed directly into the machine, saving time and installation costs.

However, in smaller, dimly lit bathrooms with occasional odors, placing the machine here can be inconvenient.

– Inconvenient Movement:

Housework is already tiring, and bending to load or unload laundry in a cramped space can be cumbersome. Multiple trips to the balcony for drying add to the frustration.

– Humidity Reduces Machine Lifespan:

High bathroom humidity can cause the machine to rust and degrade faster. The already cramped space becomes even more inconvenient with the addition of a washing machine.

– Noise is Inevitable:

Operating noise is unavoidable, and if the bathroom is near the bedroom, it can be disruptive.

Thus, many prefer the balcony, especially with modern designs featuring utility balconies that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With proper planning for waterproofing, drainage, sun protection, insulation, and ventilation, placing the washing machine on the balcony becomes a worry-free choice.