Start by measuring the space, the route to the room and the clearance needed to open the machine. A top-loading model suits a narrow space, while a slimline front-loading model can work where depth is limited. If a standard front-loader will fit, choose its capacity based on the amount of laundry you actually share, then compare the noise levels and energy use shown on the label. A washer-dryer is worth considering if there’s no room for a separate dryer, provided its drying capacity is right for you too.
The available width, depth and clearance for opening the machine will determine which type will fit. Que Choisir distinguishes between narrow top-loaders and shallow front-loaders. Measure the dimension that’s restricting your choice before comparing capacities.
Wash cycles, particularly the spin cycle, can disturb other people in the household. Compare the noise level in dB and the noise class on the model’s label, and make sure the machine can be installed on a stable floor.
Choose the capacity based on the amount of laundry you actually wash and how often you run a cycle. A drum that’s too small may mean more washes, while a larger capacity is only useful if it suits your needs.
First, make sure the washing machine can be delivered, opened and connected in the space available. If you don’t need to buy an appliance, you could also check what laundry facilities are nearby, without assuming they’ll fit your routine.
Worth considering: if the width and door clearance work for your room. A shallow model may suit a space with limited depth.
Allow for: clearance in front of the door, as well as the machine’s dimensions and its connections.
Worth considering: when width is limited or a front-opening door would be in the way. Que Choisir generally puts the width of top-loaders at between 40 and 46 cm.
Allow for: enough clearance above the machine to lift the lid, and a capacity that suits your household’s laundry.
Worth considering: if you need to wash and dry clothes but can’t install a separate dryer.
Allow for: a drying capacity that may be lower than the washing capacity. Compare the stated capacities for both before choosing this type.
| Criteria | What to check | Who should consider this? |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Measure the delivery route and the space available, then check the opening clearance and connections in the model’s manual. | If the machine needs to fit into a hard-to-reach alcove, I want to be sure I can open it and connect it properly; around 33% of consumers put this compatibility first. |
| Noise and vibration | Compare the dB level and noise class on the label. Make sure the floor is stable and the machine is level, as instructed in the manual. | When the machine is near living areas, I want to minimise disruption for other people in the household. A quieter home comes first for around 25% of consumers. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated capacity in kg with the amount of laundry washed per cycle and how often you do the washing, particularly for shared loads. | If several people combine their laundry, I don’t want to run extra cycles or choose a drum that’s too large for our usual loads; around 25% of consumers prioritise this balance. |
| Energy and water use, and durability | Compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the durability index for the new model sold in France. | I want to take water, electricity and expected service life into account for regular use; these are priorities for around 17% of consumers. |
According to ADEME, the energy label provides information about water and energy use, as well as noise. Since April 2025, new washing machines sold in France have also had to display a durability index. Check the index for the model you’re considering, but don’t let it take priority over installation requirements.
A machine may fit in its intended space but still not get through the doors, leave enough room to open the door or allow for the necessary connections.
Measure the delivery route and clearances, and check where the connections are. Consult the installation diagram for the exact model.
Bosch’s product page for the WGE03207FR front-loader lists an 8 kg capacity and dimensions of 848 × 598 × 588 mm. It’s a useful benchmark if your space can accommodate that width.
Electrolux offers the 6 kg EW6T4613HA top-loader, which is 400 mm wide, as well as washer-dryers with separate washing and drying capacities.
Whirlpool’s range in France includes top-loading washing machines. The product page for the TDLR6253BFR lists a width of 40 cm and a capacity of 6 kg.
These machines suit three different situations: limited width, where a top-loader may be best; enough space in front for a front-loader; or no room for a separate dryer. Check each model against your measurements and the amount of laundry you need to wash.
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Worth considering if the width of your space points you towards a top-loader. Check how much room you’ll need to open the lid.
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Its stated capacity may suit larger shared loads, provided your space can accommodate a front-loader.
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A capacity to compare with your shared laundry routine if your room can accommodate a front-loader.
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Worth considering if you can’t make room for a separate dryer, provided you have space for a front-loading machine.
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Worth considering if depth is your main constraint. Check the model’s dimensions and allow enough room to open the door.
Measure the space, the doors and hallways the machine will pass through, and the clearance needed to open the door or lid. Then check the water supply, waste outlet, socket and requirements in the model’s manual. Electrolux’s pre-installation guide notes that plumbing, electrical and carpentry work isn’t included in the installation provided by its installers.
Compare the noise level in dB and the noise class shown on the label for the exact model, rather than assuming its spin speed tells you how noisy it will be. ADEME says that noise classes A or B correspond to particularly quiet appliances.
Yes. According to ADEME, washing machines sold in France have had to display a durability index since April 2025. Compare the index for the models you’re considering once you’ve checked that they suit your space, capacity needs and noise requirements.
Not necessarily. The drying capacity may be lower than the washing capacity, as with the Samsung WD11DG6B85BEU3, which is stated as 11 kg for washing and 6 kg for drying. Compare both figures to see whether your usual load can go through a complete cycle without removing some of the laundry.