In an unequipped home, start by checking what you need to store food and prepare meals. Then decide when to get appliances for laundry and cleaning, based on how you’ll use them. Before buying anything, check the measurements, access routes and connections. If you’re unsure how long you’ll be staying or what you’ll need, also look into local second-hand options, rentals or buying later.
You need to get everyday essentials up and running without buying every appliance at once. Take stock of what’s already there, then prioritise refrigeration, cooking, laundry and cleaning according to how you’ll use them.
Available space isn’t the only factor when deciding whether an appliance will fit. You also need to check it can be brought in, that the doors can open and that the connections are in place. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of these checks, particularly for washing machines.
If you don’t yet know how long you’ll use an appliance, you can compare buying now, buying later, second-hand options and renting. ADEME says these options need to be looked for locally, so check what’s available and the terms before relying on them.
First decide which everyday functions you’re actually missing. Then check whether the appliances you’re considering can be brought into your home and installed there. Choosing how to acquire them comes afterwards: whether you buy new or second-hand, rent or wait to buy, you’ll still need to carry out these checks.
| Priority | What to check | What matters to consumers |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday essentials | Make a list of the appliances you can already use and the functions you’re missing: food storage, cooking, laundry and cleaning. Choose fridge and freezer capacity to suit your household’s needs. | If I have no way to keep food fresh or prepare meals, I want to sort out those essentials before buying less urgent appliances; around 31% of consumers prioritise these everyday needs. |
| Space and connections | Measure the space and access routes. For a washing machine, also check the water inlet, waste outlet, socket and installation type, as recommended by UFC-Que Choisir. | In a narrow room, I need to make sure I can get the appliance in and connect it before choosing its size; around 25% of consumers put this compatibility first. |
| Laundry | Compare the capacity with how often you do laundry, then check the dimensions and relevant information on the energy label. ADEME says a 7 kg washing machine is enough in most cases, but that capacity won’t suit every household. | If I do laundry at home often, I want a capacity that suits my washing habits rather than a large drum that’s rarely full; around 25% of consumers prioritise being able to do their laundry independently. |
| How long you’ll use it and how you’ll get it | Check local second-hand and rental options, along with the model number, condition, accessories, delivery arrangements and terms of use for the appliance you’re considering. | If I might be moving out soon, I’d rather look at temporary options or put off a purchase when I’m not sure how much I’ll use it; around 19% of consumers prioritise this flexibility. |
A washing machine needs to fit through the access routes, fit in its allocated space and have the right connections. UFC-Que Choisir also recommends checking the socket, water inlet and waste outlet.
Before ordering, measure the appliance, the space it will go in, the doors and the access routes. If you’re unsure about installation, check the model’s instructions and ask a qualified person to inspect the connections.
The label helps you compare appliances within a given category, but it doesn’t tell you whether the capacity, size or installation type will suit your home.
When comparing similar new appliances, consider the information on the label alongside how often you’ll use the appliance and your measurements. For a washing machine, also check the durability index highlighted by ADEME.
ADEME can help you find local rental and second-hand services, but the appliance you’re looking for and the terms for getting it will depend on what’s available in your area.
Before planning to use this option when you move in, confirm the model number, condition, accessories, delivery arrangements and contract terms.
If you’re replacing an appliance, plan how it will be taken away as part of the delivery arrangements rather than deciding once the new one has arrived.
Tell the retailer about the appliance to be taken away when you place your order, and confirm where and when it will be collected.
These brands offer several useful appliance categories for equipping a home. Still, compare the individual models and the terms that apply to each appliance.
According to Bosch Électroménager France, its range includes refrigeration, cooking and laundry appliances, so you can look for products to meet several needs from the same manufacturer.
Electrolux France features cooking, refrigeration and laundry appliances, as well as vacuum cleaners.
Whirlpool France features fridges, cooking appliances and washing machines, among other products, with different configurations across its categories.
These appliances cover three potential needs when moving into a home: preparing meals, storing food and keeping your home clean. Start by choosing the function you’re missing, then check the installation requirements and dimensions of the model you’re considering.
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An option for a kitchen without a hob, provided a built-in installation is possible. This model has 4 zones and 9 power levels.
Ask a qualified electrician to check the 560 × 490 mm cut-out, ventilation and 32 A power supply. You’ll also need cookware that’s compatible with induction.
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An option for cleaning your floors if you’re looking for a cordless vacuum cleaner. The product title lists 550 W, 55 kPa and a 60-minute runtime; check the runtime for the mode you plan to use.
Also check the dust container capacity before choosing this model.
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A way to restore your food storage if the capacity suits your household. The stated capacity is split between a 153 L fridge and a 74 L freezer; the stated width is 54 cm.
The product name lists a reversible door, Low Frost technology and an E energy rating. Check the height, full dimensions, required clearance and delivery access.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a 92 L fridge and that capacity suits your needs. The product has a small freezer compartment and an E energy rating.
Check the full dimensions and the capacity of the freezer compartment, particularly if this will be your household’s only way to store food.
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For reheating or preparing some meals in a kitchen with space for it. It may not replace a hob if you need a more comprehensive cooking solution. The model has a stated microwave power of 900 W and a grill function.
Allow for a stable surface, an earthed socket and the specified clearances: 10 cm at the sides and 20 cm above.
Start with the appliance that restores an everyday function you’re genuinely missing. This is often food storage, followed by a suitable cooking option if you prepare meals at home. Then decide when to get appliances for laundry and cleaning, based on how you use them and what you already have access to. Choose a fridge capacity that suits your household.
Measure the space and delivery access, then check the water inlet, waste outlet, socket and floor. UFC-Que Choisir recommends these installation checks. If you’re unsure about a connection, consult the model’s instructions and ask a qualified person to inspect the installation.
No. The energy label helps you compare the information shown for the appliances it covers, but it doesn’t confirm whether they can be installed in your home or suit your needs. Also compare dimensions, capacity and installation type. For a new washing machine, ADEME also highlights the durability index as something to consider.
Yes, if a suitable option is available near your home and the appliance meets your needs. ADEME suggests looking locally for rental and second-hand services. Before deciding, check the model number, condition, dimensions, delivery arrangements and terms.