How to ensure a laundry bench is strong enough for a washing machine?

[RustyOcean]

Hi!

I'm looking to renovate my laundry. 

I've seen some older posts with other people also having health issues that require them to put their washing machine on their bench top. I need to do this too. 

But it was mentioned that the bench needs to be setting enough to hold my machine. How do I know if my bench top is strong enough? 

I want just bench with space underneath then shelves over the sink. My laundry room is very small, quite narrow. I need to put the laundry baskets and cat litter out of the way.

I want to upcycle an old kitchenette wooden bench. 

I had originally thought that wall mounting the machine where it sits would be enough, but now I'm not sure? 

Tia 

[EricL]

Hello @RustyOcean 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks you for sharing your question about your laundry bench.

Your benchtop must be able to withstand a great deal of dynamic forces as the washing machine moves in a lot of directions and often vibrates very strongly. I propose engaging the services of a handy person or a builder to properly secure and support the laundry benchtop. Another option is to use a Bedford 666mm White Front-Loading Washing Machine Stand.  

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Jason]

Hi @RustyOcean,

Let me also extend a very warm welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community.

Would you be able to share some photos of the old bench you were thinking of using? It might help community members to see what you are working with, assess whether it would be suitable, and suggest next steps. Some photos of your laundry might also be helpful.

Thanks,

Jason

[RustyOcean]

Thank you so much!!

I've not bought the bench yet, but it was a basic "kitchen" wooden bench. I didn't want to have cabinets, but if that's the safest option I can look into it. 

 

[EricL]

Hi @RustyOcean 

Please keep us updated with your progress, we look forward to seeing your washing machine benchtop installed and ready for use.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[RustyOcean]

[RustyOcean]

 

This is the cupboard I need to remove. With the way it's been installed, can I actually take it out ?

[MitchellMc]

Yes, you can take it out @RustyOcean, but it will take some work. At a minimum, you'll probably need to repair the walls it's up against, the ceiling, and redo the cornice to run along the top of the new wall sections into the corner.

Mitchell