People sensitive to spin-cycle noise
If the machine will be used near a living room, bedroom or neighbours, compare the noise level of the specific model and don’t overlook how stable it will be once installed.
Who is this guide for?
People with a narrow space for the machine
Whether it’s going in a kitchen, bathroom or cupboard, the appliance’s dimensions aren’t the only thing to consider: allow for the door to open, connections to be made and laundry to be accessed.
Households that dry clothes indoors
Choosing a capacity that suits your usual loads means you won’t end up with a drum that’s too large for everyday use. It’s also worth comparing spin-drying efficiency if you dry clothes at home.
What should you check?
In a compact flat, first rule out any models that can’t be installed and used properly. Then compare the features that matter most for your laundry.
| Feature | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Noise and vibrations | Compare the spin-cycle noise level and acoustic class on the energy label. Also check the manual for requirements concerning the floor and levelling. | If the machine spins near a living area, I want to minimise disruption for the people at home and the neighbours; around 42% of consumers prioritise quiet operation and stability. |
| Size and access | Measure the space and check the clearance needed to open the door, fit the hoses and connect the specific model. | If the appliance fits in the space but I can’t open the door or reach the connections, it isn’t right for my home; space and access are top priorities for around 33% of consumers. |
| Capacity and spin performance | Choose a capacity in kg that suits your usual loads, then compare the spin-drying efficiency class and the consumption figures on the label. | For regular laundry and indoor drying, I want a drum that suits my washing rather than a larger capacity I’ll only use occasionally; around 25% of consumers put this need first. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Comparing decibel levels without ensuring a stable installation
The noise level on the label doesn’t tell you everything about vibrations caused by an incorrectly installed appliance. Miele recommends that its washing machines sit level on all four feet; the Bosch WGG254ASFR manual covers removing the transit bolts and levelling the machine, among other things.
Before your first wash, follow your model’s manual to remove the transit bolts, adjust the feet and check that the machine is stable.
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Choosing a large capacity when your usual loads are small
ADEME recommends matching the capacity to the amount of laundry you need to wash and says that a 7 kg model is usually sufficient. A larger capacity is only useful if your loads call for it.
Think about how much laundry you wash regularly before choosing your drum capacity.
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Assuming an anti-vibration mat is a one-size-fits-all solution
LG suggests that anti-vibration surfaces may help improve stability, while Miele sets specific requirements for supporting some washing machines on wooden floors. An accessory is no substitute for levelling the machine or using a suitable surface.
First check your floor and the installation instructions for your model. Only add a mat or pads if they’re suitable for that setup.
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Thinking that running a wash at a certain time solves noise issues
In France, Service-Public.fr states that noise from a household appliance may be an issue if it goes beyond the usual inconvenience of living in a community. So the time of day doesn’t mean you can ignore the disturbance it may cause.
Choose reasonable times for your home and make sure the machine is stable, particularly during the spin cycle.
Brands to consider, model by model
Bosch
Worth considering if you’re comparing different capacities and want to check the installation instructions for the model you have in mind.
- The Bosch WGG254ASFR manual covers the installation location, removing the transit bolts and levelling the machine, among other things.
- This documentation doesn’t prove that a Bosch washing machine will be quieter or more stable than another model.
LG
Worth considering if you’re looking at front-loading washing machines; check the dimensions and instructions for each appliance.
- LG recommends adjusting the feet to reduce vibrations and notes that anti-vibration surfaces may help improve stability.
- Installation requirements vary by model, so general advice is no substitute for the manual.
Miele
Worth considering if you pay particular attention to the surface supporting the appliance, especially on a wooden floor.
- Miele recommends that its washing machines are level and supported by all four feet; its guidance also sets out specific requirements for wooden floors.
- These manufacturer instructions don’t mean the same supports or accessories are suitable for every brand.
Hisense
A brand to include when comparing front-loading models, provided their dimensions suit your space.
- The energy label and manual for a specific model let you check its stated noise level and installation requirements.
- Don’t assume you know how noisy or stable an entire range is based on the brand name alone.
Top-loading washing machines on Joybuy
These two top-loading models are worth considering if there isn’t enough room to open a front-loading door. Before you choose, check their dimensions and allow enough space to lift the lid.
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Haier T Series 7 THASN276TM6-S, top-loading, 7 kg, 1200 rpm, class A
A top-loading machine may suit you if there isn’t enough room in front of the machine to open a front-loading door.
Stated capacity: 7 kg; displayed spin speed: 1200 rpm. Compare the noise level and spin-drying efficiency class on the model’s energy label, then check the manual for the required clearances and levelling instructions.
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Candy TCA464TM4-S ProWash 500, top-loading, 6 kg, 1400 rpm, class B
A top-loading machine is worth considering if access in front of the appliance is limited and your usual loads fit within 6 kg.
Displayed spin speed: 1400 rpm. This figure doesn’t replace the spin-drying efficiency class or spin-cycle noise level. Compare these on the energy label and check the installation clearances in the manual.
Frequently asked questions
What should I compare on a washing machine’s energy label for a flat?
Compare the spin-cycle noise level, acoustic class, capacity, energy use per 100 cycles and water use per cycle. The European Commission also says the label shows the cycle duration. Consider these figures in relation to how you use the machine, but don’t assume they tell you how much vibration will travel through your floor.
Is an anti-vibration mat enough if the machine moves?
No. First check the transit bolts, the supporting surface and the levelling, following the model’s manual. LG says an anti-vibration surface may help improve stability, but its usefulness depends on the installation. Miele also sets specific requirements for some wooden floors.
What capacity should I choose for regular laundry in a small home?
Choose a capacity that suits your usual loads rather than the largest load you might wash occasionally. ADEME says a 7 kg washing machine is usually sufficient. If you dry clothes indoors, also compare the model’s spin-drying efficiency class and noise level.
Is a top-loading washing machine always a better choice than a front-loader?
No. The right format depends on the width available, room to open the machine and access to the connections. A top-loader doesn’t need space for a door to swing open in front, but it does need clearance above. Whichever format you choose, compare the noise level of the specific model.
Can you ignore noise concerns if you run the washing machine during the day?
No. The time of day doesn’t mean there can’t be a disturbance. In France, Service-Public.fr notes that noise from a household appliance may be an issue if it goes beyond the usual inconvenience of living in a community. A stable installation and consideration for your neighbours when choosing when to wash are still important.