Choose between a front-loader and a top-loader based on the space available, then match the capacity to your usual washing loads. ADEME says that 7 kg is enough in most cases, while a top-loader could suit you if space is tight. To compare models that meet both requirements, look at their energy and water use, noise and spin performance, then check the durability index that applies to the relevant washing machines in France. None of these indicators on its own guarantees how long an appliance will last.
If you’re replacing a machine for everyday washing, start with the loads you actually do rather than the maximum capacity shown. ADEME says that 7 kg is enough in most cases, and also recommends looking at water and energy use, spin performance and noise.
If the available width limits your options, a top-loading model could be worth considering. However, check its depth and height too, along with the space needed for connections and to open the lid.
If you want to find out how easy your next appliance may be to maintain and repair, check the durability index for the model in question. According to the ministry responsible for ecological transition, this score out of 10 takes account of factors including spare parts, maintenance, ease of dismantling and resistance to wear.
The style of machine determines whether it will fit your space. Once you’ve found models that suit your installation and household loads, it’s easier to compare their performance and durability.
Consider this if: there’s enough room to open the door and install a model with a capacity that suits your loads.
Bear in mind: check the model’s width and depth, as well as the clearance needed in front of the door, before ordering.
Consider this if: width is your main constraint. Boulanger lists a 40 cm-wide top-loader for this type of space.
Bear in mind: a narrower machine may still need more depth and clearance above it.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity and space | Compare the capacity in kg with your usual loads, then measure the width, depth and clearance required. | If my usual loads don’t fill a large drum and space is limited, I want a machine that works for both. Around 24% of consumers would make this their top priority. |
| Noise and spin performance | Check the spin noise level in dB(A) and the spin-drying efficiency class, rather than looking only at the maximum speed in tr/min. | If the machine is near living areas or I need to dry clothes indoors, I want to balance noise levels with spin performance. This would be the top priority for around 24% of consumers. |
| Water and electricity | For similar capacities, compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the duration of the Eco 40-60 programme. | If I do laundry regularly, I want to compare the water and electricity use listed for each model per cycle. Around 23% of consumers would put these figures first. |
| Durability and repair | Check the durability index out of 10 and its breakdown, particularly the information about spare parts, maintenance and ease of dismantling. | When replacing an appliance, I want to understand what might make it easier to maintain or repair, rather than rely on a promise that it will last. For around 29% of consumers, how long an appliance lasts would be their main concern. |
A capacity that’s larger than your usual loads could mean running the machine more often with a drum that’s only partly full. ADEME says that 7 kg is enough in most cases.
Before choosing a capacity, think about your regular loads and any bulky items you actually wash. Then check the machine’s dimensions.
The A to G rating doesn’t tell you everything about water and electricity use, programme duration, noise or spin performance.
Compare figures for models with similar capacities on the Eco 40-60 reference programme, then consider whether this cycle suits the way you do your laundry.
For the relevant household washing machines sold in France, this score out of 10 covers factors relating to reliability and repairability. According to the ministry responsible for ecological transition, it doesn’t guarantee that a machine will work for a specific number of years.
Use the score to compare models that already meet your needs, then check the breakdown, documentation and warranty terms for each one.
The top-loader listed by Boulanger is 40 cm wide, but it’s also 61 cm deep. Its width alone doesn’t tell you whether it will fit your space.
Measure all three dimensions, check the route for delivery and allow room for hoses, cables and the lid to open.
The specifications below relate to the models mentioned, not every washing machine made by each brand. Use them to identify what to compare on the product pages of machines that fit your space.
The French product page for the Bosch WGB256A2FR front-loader lets you check the capacity, dimensions and spin performance of a specific model.
The product page for the Miele WCA120 WCS 8kg Active front-loader brings together useful details for comparing its capacity and consumption with similar machines.
The product page for the Electrolux EW6FI2914OV front-loader combines the model’s washing specifications with its documentation and repair information.
Yes. According to the ministry responsible for ecological transition, for the relevant household washing machines sold in France, the durability index replaced the repairability index on 8 April 2025. This score out of 10 covers factors including reliability and repairability; it doesn’t promise a specific operating lifespan.
Compare energy and water use, noise and spin performance, as well as the duration of the reference programme. ADEME recommends checking these criteria. To make the figures useful when choosing, compare machines with similar capacities and intended uses.
It may be, if your usual loads fit within that capacity. ADEME says that 7 kg is enough in most cases. If you regularly wash bulky loads, base your choice on what you actually wash rather than automatically opting for the largest capacity available.
Measure the available width, height and depth, then check the product page for the clearance needed to open the door or lid and for the connections. Also check the delivery route and follow the installation instructions for your chosen machine.