Hooking up a washing machine to your sink is a convenient way to reuse water and save money on your utility bills. With the right type of machine, it can be an easy process that doesn’t require complicated plumbing modifications. This article will explain what to look for when shopping for a sink-compatible washing machine.
Consider a Portable Washing Machine
A portable washing machine, sometimes called a mini washing machine, is likely the simplest option for connecting to a sink. Portable machines are much smaller in size than traditional washing machines. They have attachments for connecting a standard sink faucet to provide water access. Some key benefits of a portable washing machine include:
- Compact size perfect for small living spaces like apartments, RVs or campers
- Rollers allow easy mobility to move it between rooms or pack away for storage
- Typically hooks up to any standard sink faucet
Many portable washers have integrated drain pumps that empty wastewater directly into the sink basin. This means no external drainage hookups are required. Just check your machine’s specifications to confirm it has a self-draining pump before purchasing.
Top-Load and Twin Tub Machines Work Too
In addition to portable machines, some regular sized top-load washing machines can also be hooked up to a sink. The key thing to look for here is that it has separate connections for hot and cold water. This allows you to connect a splitter adapter to your sink faucet, providing both inputs.
Twin tub washers, with separate tubs for washing and spin drying, are another option that can often integrate with sinks. The wash tub can utilize a sink connection for filling and draining. Just make sure yours is designed to hook up to a basic faucet rather than needing more complex plumbing accommodations.
What Type of Sink Do I Need?
When connecting a washing machine to a sink system, you’ll get optimal performance from a deep double basin sink. This allows ample room for both draining wastewater and providing a consistent pressurized water source. However, you can make a standard single basin sink work in most cases too.
The key consideration is ensuring your faucet and plumbing can support the washing machine’s water pressure needs. Most portable or compact machines use less water than a full-size laundry unit. Just check your sink sprayer hose or faucet aerator don’t restrict pressure capacity before hooking anything up.
Is a Sink Washing Machine Setup Practical?
While connecting a washing machine to your sink can present some unique challenges, it is a viable cleaning solution. The right compact washer can allow apartment, condo, or small space dwellers to enjoy access to a washing machine. When shopping for compatibility, focus on an integrated self-draining pump, adaptable water hookups, and moderate pressure requirements. With attention to these details, washing machine sink compatibility is entirely achievable.
References
Consumer Reports – Best Portable Washing Machines
https://www.consumerreports.org/washing-machines/best-portable-washing-machines-a9762514238/
Good Housekeeping – Can You Hook Up a Washing Machine to the Kitchen Sink?
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a35085484/can-you-hook-up-a-washing-machine-to-the-kitchen-sink/
Laura has had an enthusiasm for laundry ever since she was a teenager experimenting with wash cycles. She went on study textile science in college before working in product testing.
Soon, Laura found friends and family constantly asking her laundry advice, realizing she had become an unofficial laundry guru. The questions kept coming in, so Laura decided to start sharing laundry tips online to help more people. The enthusiastic response led her start the blog “Laundry How”.
Now in her late thirties, Laura uses Laundry How to tackle all kinds of laundry topics – stains, fabric care, detergents, and more. She provides advice from both her studies and experience testing techniques out firsthand. Laura continues to grow an engaged community of laundry learners, feeling fulfilled empowering people to make laundry an easy, confidence-building ritual rather than a dreaded chore.