In a small home, first choose a washing machine that fits the space available, then compare its stated spin-cycle noise level. A front-loader may suit you if there’s enough width, a top-loader works well in a narrow alcove, and a washer-dryer means you won’t need space for a second appliance. No dB(A) figure alone can guarantee how noisy a machine will seem near a bedroom or living room. A stable floor, all four feet firmly in contact with it, and no contact with surrounding furniture also make a difference.
If your washing machine is near your bed or living area, noise and vibration during the spin cycle are important factors to consider. Les Numériques points out that noise levels rise particularly during this stage.
In a kitchen, bathroom or cramped cupboard, you need to be able to install and use the appliance without wedging it against the furniture. Measure the width and depth, and allow enough room to open it.
A washer-dryer removes the need to find space for a second appliance. However, check both capacities: LG’s product information for the LG F964R71WRST lists 9 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying.
Consider it: if there’s enough width for this style and spin-cycle noise is your main concern.
Bear in mind: a model advertised as quiet may still be deep; according to Whirlpool, the Whirlpool W7X 89R SILENCE FR is 60.7 cm deep.
Consider it: if your alcove is too narrow for a front-loader; a documented Whirlpool top-loader is 40 cm wide.
Bear in mind: you’ll need clear space above the appliance to load it, and a top-loader isn’t necessarily quiet during the spin cycle.
Consider it: if you need to dry clothes at home but don’t have room for two appliances.
Bear in mind: the drying capacity may be lower than the washing capacity; the LG F964R71WRST product information lists 9/6 kg.
If your washing machine will be near your living space, check that its style suits the space you have, then look at the spin cycle and installation requirements. The priorities below reflect the main needs of people making this choice.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Noise and vibration | Compare the stated spin-cycle noise levels in dB(A) for models with similar capacities. Make sure the floor is flat and stable, with all four feet firmly in contact with it. | When the machine is near my bed or living room, I mainly want the spin cycle to bother me less. Around 36% of consumers prioritise this need. |
| Size and access | Measure the width, height and depth, then allow for the door to open and for the connections. Make sure the appliance doesn’t touch nearby furniture. | If my alcove is very narrow, I need to be able to fit the machine in and use it without wedging it into place. This is the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Energy use and routine | Check the EU energy label for energy use per 100 cycles, water use per cycle and the duration of the eco 40-60 programme. Choose a capacity that suits your laundry, too. | For my regular laundry, I want a capacity and running costs that fit my routine. This is the main need for around 21% of consumers. |
| Washing and drying in one appliance | Compare the washing and drying capacities separately, as well as the energy and water figures for the wash-and-dry cycle. | Without room for a separate tumble dryer, I need to be able to dry clothes at home, even if I have to split a load. Around 14% of consumers prioritise this solution above all else. |
The label helps you compare stated noise emissions, but it may not reflect how loud the machine will seem in your home. Nearby walls and how stable the installation is also matter, as Les Numériques and UFC-Que Choisir point out.
First compare the spin cycle on similar machines, then check the available space, flooring and foot adjustment.
UFC-Que Choisir advises against putting a washing machine on carpet or similar surfaces, as they can compress under its weight.
Make sure you have a flat, stable floor before considering anti-vibration accessories.
The two capacities may differ. LG lists a washing capacity of 9 kg and a drying capacity of 6 kg for the LG F964R71WRST.
Check the drying capacity of the model you’re considering and whether splitting your laundry into smaller loads will suit your routine.
Explore its front-load and top-load models depending on whether low stated noise or width is your priority.
The WAJ28057FF front-loader is worth considering if you’re looking for a stated depth of 546 mm.
The F964R71WRST washer-dryer suits anyone looking for one appliance that can do both jobs in the same space.
No. The stated level lets you compare appliances, but it can’t predict exactly how noisy one will seem in your room. Les Numériques highlights how home-use conditions can affect the noise you hear; also consider the floor and how close the machine is to furniture.
Leave enough room to open the appliance, access the connections and avoid contact with furniture. UFC-Que Choisir recommends a gap of at least 0.5 cm between the machine and nearby furniture, as well as a flat, stable floor.
No. They’re no substitute for a stable floor and four feet that are all firmly in contact with it. Check these installation requirements first; UFC-Que Choisir advises against placing the machine on carpet or a similar surface.
The first figure is the washing capacity and the second is the drying capacity; they aren’t necessarily the same. LG lists 9/6 kg for the F964R71WRST. If you wash a load larger than 6 kg, check how you’ll manage drying it.