If your washing machine is near a bedroom or living area, compare the stated spin noise in dB and the noise emission class for each model you’re considering. Then check that the space allows for a stable installation. A top-loading machine may suit a narrower space; a washer-dryer is worth considering if you need to dry clothes in the same appliance, but don’t assume its cycles will be quiet. For the front-loading and top-loading washing machines covered by the rules in France, the durability index, mandatory since 8 April 2025, can also help you choose, but it doesn’t measure noise.
If your washing machine is in an en-suite bathroom or open-plan kitchen, you may hear it spinning from another room. Checking the sound data for the exact model can help you compare appliances before you buy.
A niche or small room means checking the dimensions, the clearance needed and the connections, as well as making sure the appliance will be stable on the floor where it’s going.
If repairability and reliability matter as much as noise, the durability index gives you a separate point of comparison for the front-loading and top-loading washing machines covered by the rules in France.
If your washing machine will be near a bedroom or living area, start by checking its spin noise, then compare models against the space and flooring available. A built-in drying function and durability address different needs : neither replaces these initial checks.
| What matters | What to check | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Spin noise | Compare the stated airborne noise emissions during spinning, in dB, and the noise emission class for the exact model. | If spinning could disturb someone resting in the next room, I want to compare more than just the word « quiet ». Around 36 % of shoppers would put quietness first. |
| Space and stability | Measure the full dimensions and required clearances ; make sure the floor allows for a stable installation and that the appliance can be levelled as instructed. | For a niche or small bathroom, I need an appliance that fits and can be used without compromising stability. This would be the priority for around 29 % of shoppers. |
| Built-in drying | If you’re considering a washer-dryer, compare its capacity and stated data with the wash-and-dry cycle you plan to use. | If there’s no room for two appliances, I also want to be able to dry my clothes, while keeping in mind that the drying cycle may make some noise. Around 21 % of shoppers would make this their priority. |
| Durability | For a front-loading or top-loading washing machine covered by the rules in France, check the durability index and the details behind its rating. | Once I’m happy with the noise level and installation, I want to take repairability and reliability into account. Around 14 % of shoppers would put this first. |
The maximum spin speed in revolutions per minute isn’t enough to tell you how noisy the machine will seem in a neighbouring room. The European energy label shows the airborne noise level during spinning and the noise emission class for the exact model.
Compare both figures for the models you’re considering, along with their capacity, dimensions and spin-drying efficiency.
Bosch and LG’s installation advice explains that a machine that isn’t level or is placed on an unsuitable floor can vibrate and bang. The stated noise level alone doesn’t tell you about this.
Before using the machine for the first time, follow the instructions to remove the transit bolts, adjust the feet and check that the appliance is stable.
Data for the wash cycle alone may not reflect the combined wash-and-dry cycle. Miele notes that some washer-dryer functions also include spinning during drying.
If you need built-in drying, check the capacities and stated information for the cycles you plan to use.
For washing machines covered by the rules in France, the durability index provides information on factors including repairability and reliability ; it doesn’t describe spin noise or vibrations caused by the installation.
Use it alongside the sound data and installation checks, not instead of them.
Information about a particular range or model can give you a useful point of comparison, but it shouldn’t lead you to assume that every appliance from a brand will make the same amount of noise.
Bosch describes the WAJ28057FF as a 7 kg front-loading washing machine with a spin speed of 1 400 rpm. It’s one example of a front-loading model to consider, but those two specifications alone don’t determine how noisy it will be in your home.
LG France’s advice covers levelling, adjusting the feet and checking the floor when installing its washing machines.
If width is an issue and you’re considering a top-loading machine, the European EPREL register lists the Whirlpool TWB721CBSILENCEFR as measuring 90 × 40 × 60 cm, with a stated spin noise level of 72 dB.
Compare the stated airborne noise during spinning, in dB, and the noise emission class on the energy label for the exact model. These figures give you a basis for comparing appliances ; the word « quiet » isn’t a substitute.
No : the stated figure describes airborne noise emissions, not every vibration you might notice at home. The floor, the machine’s stability and how level it is all matter too ; check that the space allows for an installation that follows the instructions.
Follow the instructions for your model to remove the transit bolts, place the appliance on a suitable floor and adjust its feet. Bosch and LG stress the importance of a stable, level machine ; an anti-vibration accessory shouldn’t be used to make up for an incorrect installation.
Yes, for the front-loading and top-loading washing machines covered by the rules : according to the DGCCRF, the durability index has applied to these appliances in France since 8 April 2025. Check the index and its parameters to help you assess durability, but don’t mistake it for a noise rating.
It can be a useful option if you need to dry clothes but don’t have room for a separate appliance. However, don’t assume it will be quiet during drying. Check the data for the cycle you plan to use : Miele notes that a washer-dryer may also spin during drying.