Who is this choice for?

Households keen to repair their next appliance

If you’re already replacing your washing machine, the durability rating can help you assess the reliability and repairability of comparable models, alongside their energy rating.

Households thinking about everyday laundry

Frequent washing, drying clothes indoors or having the machine near your living space can make energy and water use, spin performance and noise especially important. ADEME recommends checking the energy label and choosing a capacity that suits the loads you actually wash.

Households still considering alternatives to buying new

Before deciding to replace your machine, you could look into repairing your current one or buying a second-hand washing machine. For out-of-warranty repairs, ecosystem explains that the Repair Bonus depends, among other things, on whether the appliance is eligible and whether you use a QualiRépar-approved repairer.

Which factors should you compare?

The French Ministry for Ecological Transition states that the durability rating has applied to new washing machines sold in France since 8 April 2025. Compare ratings for machines with similar capacities and dimensions, while also considering the energy label and any installation constraints.

Factor What to check Who this matters to
Durability and repairability Compare the score out of 10 for the exact model and the details behind its rating, especially criteria relating to spare parts and maintenance. I want to be able to maintain and repair my next washing machine if it breaks down, without treating its score as a promise of how long it will last. Around 36% of consumers would make durability and repairability their top priority.
Water, energy, spin performance and noise Check the energy label for kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, spin performance and noise information, bearing in mind the conditions used to measure these figures. When I do laundry frequently or dry clothes indoors, I pay attention to energy and water use, spin performance and noise. These considerations would guide around 29% of consumers’ choices above all else.
Capacity and dimensions Match the capacity in kg to your usual loads and measure the space available, including room to open the machine. If space is limited or I rarely wash bulky loads, I need to choose a machine I can install and fill to suit my needs. Capacity and dimensions would be the top priority for around 21% of consumers.
Repair or reuse Before buying new, check whether your current machine can be repaired. If you’re considering a second-hand machine, check its condition, model and terms of sale. If my current washing machine can still be used, I’d rather look into a repair or a second-hand machine before buying new. Around 14% of consumers would prioritise this alternative.

What mistakes should you avoid?

  • Looking only at the energy rating

    The energy label tells you about energy and water use and some aspects of performance, but not the reliability and repairability criteria covered by the durability rating.

    Check both for the same model, then look at its capacity, dimensions and noise level.

  • Automatically opting for a larger drum

    A larger capacity is only useful if your loads call for it. ADEME says that a 7 kg capacity is enough most of the time.

    Think about your usual laundry and the bulky items you actually wash, rather than choosing based solely on the maximum capacity available.

  • Assuming you’ll qualify for the Repair Bonus without checking

    According to ecosystem, this scheme applies in particular to appliances owned by households that are no longer covered by a warranty or insurance policy, and repairs must be carried out by a QualiRépar-approved repairer.

    Before the repair, ask the professional whether your appliance and the proposed work meet the scheme’s requirements.

  • Confusing endurance testing with a guaranteed lifespan

    Manufacturers’ claims are based on their own testing conditions. Haier explains that its endurance tests don’t guarantee that an appliance will work for a specific number of years.

    For the model you’re considering, check its durability rating, product details and warranty terms separately.

Brands to consider

Bosch

A brand to consider if you’re comparing front-loading washing machines and paying attention to their durability ratings.

  • Bosch includes the durability rating in its washing machine information.
  • Compare the rating, capacity and energy label for the specific model: information about one machine doesn’t represent the whole range.

Miele

A brand to consider if the manufacturer’s information about longevity testing is part of your comparison.

  • Miele says it tests its appliances to simulate the equivalent of 20 years’ use.
  • This claim is based on Miele’s tests and doesn’t guarantee the lifespan of any individual appliance. Check the rating and label for the exact model too.

Haier

A brand to consider if you want to compare capacity and energy rating with the space you have available.

  • Haier offers Class A washing machines in its French range.
  • The brand explains that its endurance tests don’t guarantee a specific operating life. Check the specifications and rating for each model.

Washing machines at Joybuy

Matching products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Is the durability rating compulsory for new washing machines sold in France?

Yes, for new washing machines covered by the scheme. According to the French Ministry for Ecological Transition, the requirement has applied in France since 8 April 2025. The decree of 5 April 2024 provides for a score from 0 to 10, which may include one decimal place.

Is a high durability rating enough to make your choice?

No. It doesn’t replace the energy label or checking the capacity and dimensions. ADEME also recommends comparing water and electricity use, spin performance and noise levels in light of how you use the machine.

Can I get the Repair Bonus for my current washing machine?

You may be eligible if the appliance and repair meet the scheme’s requirements. According to ecosystem, the appliance must, among other things, be owned by a household and no longer covered by a warranty or insurance policy. The repair must also be carried out by a QualiRépar professional. Ask them to confirm your eligibility before the work starts.

Can a second-hand washing machine be an alternative to buying a new one?

Yes, if its condition and specifications suit your needs. ADEME lists local second-hand options. Before choosing, check the exact model, its energy and water use, whether you can install it and the terms of sale.