For frequent family washing, first choose a capacity that suits your usual loads, then check the durability rating and repair information for the specific model. ADEME recommends choosing a washing machine sized to your actual needs. A front-loader may suit larger loads if you have enough space, while a top-loader may be a better fit where width is limited, according to UFC-Que Choisir. Since 8 April 2025, the durability index has replaced the repairability index for washing machines covered by the scheme in France, according to the ministries responsible for the ecological transition. Neither this index nor a motor warranty, on its own, guarantees the longevity of the whole machine.
Want to minimise disruption and look at the durability, maintenance and repair criteria for the model they choose. The ministries responsible for the ecological transition say the durability index covers several criteria, including reliability and repairability.
Want a capacity that matches the loads they actually wash, rather than automatically choosing the largest drum. ADEME recommends checking that the capacity suits the needs of your household.
Need to balance the available space, type of opening and capacity required for regular washing.
Start with your usual loads and the space available, then check the durability and repair information for the exact model. ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that matches your actual needs. In France, the durability index has replaced the repairability index for washing machines covered by the scheme since 8 April 2025, according to the ministries responsible for the ecological transition.
| What matters | What to check | Who this may suit |
|---|---|---|
| Minimising disruption | Check the durability rating and its criteria for the exact model. It is not a guarantee of how long the machine will last. | When I have several loads to wash, I want to reduce the risk of the machine being out of action and understand the model’s rating; around 36% of consumers put uninterrupted laundry first. |
| Choosing the right capacity | Compare your usual loads with the stated capacity in kilograms, and check the limits for each programme. | If my loads vary, I want a drum that avoids both extra cycles and a capacity I rarely use. Nearly 29% of consumers prioritise a drum capacity that suits their loads. |
| Considering repairs | Check the parts and service information for the model, and distinguish a warranty covering one component from cover for the whole appliance. | I want to check parts, service and the cost of a repair before choosing; around 21% of consumers prioritise repairability. |
| Checking the space available | Measure the space and clearance needed to open the door, then compare them with the model’s dimensions and capacity. | With limited space, I need to balance the dimensions with the amount of laundry I wash; around 14% of consumers make the machine’s footprint their main priority. |
A large capacity is not automatically right for loads that are often small or sorted, and the maximum load may vary by programme.
Compare your usual loads with the stated capacity and check the limits for each programme before choosing.
A commercial warranty limited to the motor tells you nothing about cover for the other components. In France, the legal guarantee of conformity is provided by the retailer, the Ministry of the Economy reminds consumers.
Check the duration, exclusions, covered parts and claims process for each warranty separately.
The durability index brings together several criteria, but it does not guarantee how long an individual machine will work.
Check the rating shown for the exact model and, where details are available, the criteria used to calculate it.
The WAN2827FFR front-loading washing machine has a stated capacity of 8 kg, which you can compare with your household’s usual laundry loads.
The PerfectCare 900 EW9FI71014FC front-loading washing machine has a stated capacity of 10 kg. Consider it if you regularly wash large loads.
The WCA120 WCS Active front-loading washing machine has a stated capacity of 8 kg, which you can compare with your usual loads.
The TDLR7251FR top-loader has a stated capacity of 7 kg and a width of 40 cm, making it worth considering when space is a major constraint.
The products featured here are front-loading washing machines. Compare their stated capacity with your usual loads, then check the information for each specific model.
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Worth considering if a stated capacity of 9 kg suits your household’s usual loads.
Capacity: 9 kg. Spin speed: 1,400 rpm. Class A is stated in the product name.
The product description mentions SensiCare, an inverter motor and 14 programmes.
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Worth considering if you regularly wash large loads that suit the stated capacity of 10 kg.
Capacity: 10 kg. Spin speed: 1,400 rpm. Class A is stated in the product name.
The product description mentions AutoDose, load detection, a Direct Drive motor, a steam programme and Wi-Fi.
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Worth considering if an 8 kg capacity suits your usual loads and the stated depth fits the space available.
Capacity: 8 kg. Spin speed: 1,400 rpm. Stated depth: 47 cm.
The product description mentions an inverter motor, Wi-Fi, drum cleaning and several specialist programmes.
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Worth considering if the stated capacity of 7 kg suits the amount of laundry you wash regularly.
Maximum capacity: 7 kg. Class A is stated in the product name.
The product description mentions Active Water Plus and a Reload function. It states a two-year product warranty and a 10-year warranty limited to the motor; check the terms of each.
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Worth considering if regular large loads make the stated capacity of 10 kg a good fit.
Capacity: 10 kg. Spin speed: 1,400 rpm. Class A is stated in the product name.
The product description mentions an inverter motor, SensiCare, 16 programmes, a steam function and a load sensor.
For washing machines covered by the scheme, the durability index has replaced the repairability index in France since 8 April 2025, according to the ministries responsible for the ecological transition. Check the rating for the exact model and, where available, look at the details.
No. Load limits may be lower depending on the programme and fabric type. Check the model’s manual to find the right loads for the laundry you wash regularly.
No. Parts availability does not determine the price of a part or the cost of labour. Check the parts and service information for the model you are considering.
No. A warranty limited to the motor may not cover the other components. Read the terms, exclusions and claims process for each warranty separately.
ADEME advises against using too much detergent, as this can cause residue to build up in the washing machine and lead to unpleasant smells. Also follow the maintenance instructions and load limits in the model’s manual.