Flat with a bedroom nearby
If the spin cycle runs close to a room where someone sleeps, compare the machines’ stated noise levels and bear in mind that installation conditions can make vibrations worse.
Who is this advice for?
Small home with limited space
When every centimetre counts, choose between a front-loading and a top-loading machine. Remember to measure the clearance needed to reach your laundry, too.
Replacing a machine that vibrated
When choosing a new model, distinguish between its stated features and factors that depend on the floor, levelling and how the laundry is distributed.
What should you check before buying?
Start by measuring the space and checking the energy label, then consider the installation conditions. A noise figure alone doesn’t tell you what you’ll hear in the next room.
| Feature | What to check | What matters to me |
|---|---|---|
| Spin-cycle noise | Compare the dB(A) level and noise rating shown on the label. ADEME also recommends checking the spin-drying efficiency. | I want to compare machines for a spot near the bedroom, without assuming the stated noise level guarantees peace and quiet in my home. |
| Dimensions and access | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the space needed to open the machine. According to UFC-Que Choisir, top-loading models are commonly 40 to 46 cm wide. | Short on space? A top-loader may solve a width problem, provided there’s room to open the lid. With a front-loader, I’ll need space in front of the door. |
| Stability during the spin cycle | Make sure the floor is flat and stable, as UFC-Que Choisir advises. Follow the instructions to remove the transit bolts and adjust the feet. Electrolux France also stresses the importance of a hard, level floor. | If the washing machine is near the living room, I need to consider how it’s installed and how the laundry is distributed, not just its noise label. |
| Capacity and maintenance | Choose a capacity that suits your usual laundry loads. Check the instructions to see how to access the filter and maintain the machine once it’s installed. | I want to be able to carry out maintenance easily, especially if the machine is under a worktop or in a tight space. |
What should you avoid?
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Relying solely on the word ‘quiet’
This doesn’t tell you how vibrations will travel through the floors or walls of your home.
Compare the spin-cycle figures on the label for the specific model, then consider the installation conditions separately.
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Choosing a top-loader based on width alone
A narrow machine can still be difficult to use if the lid doesn’t open fully or the capacity isn’t right for you.
Measure the space and the delivery route, then check the clearance above the machine and its capacity.
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Expecting an accessory to make up for an unstable installation
According to Electrolux France, a washing machine on a floor that isn’t hard and level may vibrate during the spin cycle.
Before considering an anti-vibration accessory, follow the instructions to remove the transit bolts, adjust the feet and distribute the laundry evenly.
A few models from well-known brands
Bosch
Worth considering if you’re looking for a front-loading washing machine with features the brand describes as anti-vibration.
- Bosch says its AntiVibration design helps reduce noise during the spin cycle.
- The manufacturer’s claim doesn’t predict how noisy the machine will seem in the next room. Check the noise level on the label for the specific model.
Electrolux
One option to look at for a narrow space is the top-loading EW8T3653BA, which is listed as having a 6 kg capacity.
- Electrolux France lists the dimensions of this model as 890 × 400 × 600 mm.
- These measurements apply to the EW8T3653BA, not every Electrolux washing machine. Remember to allow room to open the lid, too.
LG
Worth considering if you’re looking for a front-loader and want to compare dimensions and the features provided for installation.
- For the F14R31WHSA, LG France lists adjustable feet, a vibration sensor and dimensions of 600 × 850 × 565 mm.
- These features are specific to the F14R31WHSA and don’t demonstrate the noise performance of other models from the brand.
A washing machine option on Joybuy
This front-loading model may be worth considering if its door opening suits your space. If it will be near a living area, check its exact dimensions and the noise information on its label before deciding.
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CHiQ JW95883G front-loader, 9 kg, dark grey
This front-loader is worth considering if you have enough space in front of the door. Its product description lists a capacity of 9 kg, a BLDC motor, a 530 mm drum and a spin speed of 1400 RPM. Check the exact dimensions against your available space, along with the spin-cycle noise level and rating on the model’s label. These features alone aren’t enough to predict how noisy it will be in the next room.
Frequently asked questions
Does the dB(A) level guarantee peace and quiet in the next room?
No. The spin-cycle noise level and rating on the label help you compare the declared figures for washing machines. Floor stability and levelling also affect vibrations, as UFC-Que Choisir and Electrolux France point out.
Is an anti-vibration accessory enough if the washing machine moves?
Don’t treat it as a substitute for a stable installation. Before adding an accessory, follow the instructions to remove the transit bolts, check that the floor is hard and level, adjust the feet and distribute the laundry evenly.
Top-loader or front-loader for a small flat?
Choose based on the measurements of your space and the room needed to open the machine. According to UFC-Que Choisir, top-loading models are commonly 40 to 46 cm wide, but need clearance above them. A front-loader needs space in front of the door.
Can you put a washing machine in a bathroom?
You’ll need to assess the location in relation to the shower or bath and the electrical installation. Promotelec advises checking, in particular, the earth connection, 30 mA residual-current protection and that the appliance is positioned outside zone 2. If you’re unsure whether these conditions are met in your home, ask a qualified professional to assess the installation.
What should you look for on the energy label besides noise?
Compare the information on energy and water use, as well as spin-drying efficiency. ADEME recommends considering these alongside the noise figures when choosing a washing machine, rather than basing your decision on the stated noise level alone.