How to raise your washing machine or dryer to the perfect height

If you find bending down to load and unload your front load washing machine or dryer uncomfortable - whether due to back pain, height or other factors - you're not alone. A lot of people struggle with this aspect of laundry, adding another reason to sigh to a chore they’d rather not be doing in the first place.

The good news? There are clever solutions to safely bring your washer, dryer or washer dryer combo up to a comfortable working height, and you don't need a full laundry room renovation to make it happen.

In September 2025, contestants Ben and Emma on Channel 9’s The Block wowed the judges with the elevated washing machine and dryer in their laundry room renovation. Their appliances sat at an easily accessible, bend-free height, surrounded by stylish cabinetry that created a seamless, high-end look.

They even included pull-out laundry shelves - aka 'hidden helpers' - directly beneath the washer and dryer for laundry baskets, a brilliant touch that further reduces the need for bending.

This built-in approach transforms your laundry space into a proper home design feature rather than a hidden utility area.

This is where laundry pedestals come to the rescue. These sturdy platforms are specifically designed to elevate front load washers and dryers to a more comfortable height, and they're much easier to install than a full cabinetry overhaul.

If you’re unsure about putting your washer on top of a box, fear not. You needn’t worry about it taking a tumble during the spin cycle, because laundry pedestals are engineered to handle the weight and vibration of modern appliances. They're built tough, with reinforced bases that keep everything stable even during the most vigorous spin cycles. A pedestal will usually include brackets or have holes for screws or bolts to attach it directly to the base of your washing machine.

Most pedestals also come with built-in drawers that are perfect for storing laundry detergents, fabric softener, and other cleaning products. No more hunting around for that stain remover or balancing bottles on narrow ledges.

If you like the idea of giving your laundry a lift with a pedestal, you'll find you have a couple of main choices:

1. Brand-specific models are designed to match particular washing machine brands and models. These often coordinate with your appliance's colour and styling, creating a seamless look. If you’re in the market for a new washer or dryer, this option is well worth exploring - and the availability of a brand-specific pedestal may even be enough to determine your choice of new appliance.

2. Universal pedestals work with most front loaders regardless of brand. These can be a good option if you aren’t upgrading your current washing machine or dryer, and allow you the flexibility to change appliances down the track. If you find it difficult to locate a pedestal specifically for your brand of washing machine or dryer, a universal pedestal can be a good option.