Start by asking for a diagnosis or quote. A repair could save you from replacing a washing machine that can still be fixed, and you may be eligible for the Repair Bonus, subject to certain conditions. If you do need a replacement, compare new models by their features and durability index, or consider a second-hand or refurbished machine after checking its condition, whether it can be installed in your home and who the seller is.
Compare how soon you could get a diagnosis and repair with the delivery and installation options for another appliance. ADEME notes that a washing machine breakdown can make everyday life more difficult, but replacing the machine isn’t the only option.
Check who is selling the appliance and how its condition is described. In France, the DGCCRF states that the legal guarantee of conformity applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a business to a consumer, but not to private sales between individuals.
Once you’ve considered a repair, compare the features of new models that meet your needs. France’s durability index provides information about the specific model, but you’ll still need to check its capacity, dimensions and usage information.
If a repair is still an option, how long it will take and what it involves matter just as much as getting a machine back in service quickly. The options below suit different situations.
Worth considering: a professional can assess the fault, and you can wait for their diagnosis before deciding whether to replace the machine.
Bear in mind: an appointment or waiting for a part could delay getting the washing done again; the Repair Bonus is also subject to eligibility conditions.
Worth considering: you’d like to compare the features of the exact model and its applicable durability index in France before buying.
Bear in mind: a durability rating won’t tell you whether the machine will fit in your home or meet your washing needs.
Worth considering: you can inspect the condition and model reference, and check the terms for taking delivery of an appliance that’s already been used.
Bear in mind: the protections available differ depending on whether the seller is a business or a private individual, as the DGCCRF points out.
| What matters to you | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Getting the washing done again | Compare the time it could take to get a diagnosis with delivery and installation times; measure the access route and the space for the machine. | Without a machine, I need to get the washing done again as soon as possible, but I don’t want to rule out a repair that could work. Around 36% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Knowing what protection you have | Check who the seller is and keep the model reference and description of its condition. | If I buy an appliance that’s already been used, I want to know who to contact if it doesn’t match its description; nearly 29% of consumers would prioritise this protection. |
| Choosing a durable model that suits your needs | For a new model, check its durability index, then its capacity, dimensions and energy, water and noise information. | If I replace my machine, I want to be able to assess the specific model based on more than just its capacity. Around 21% of consumers would be guided by this priority. |
| Getting rid of your old appliance | Check the retailer’s take-back arrangements or find a suitable collection service before delivery. | I can’t easily transport my old washing machine and need to arrange for it to be collected; around 14% of consumers would put this at the top of their list. |
The DGCCRF distinguishes between sales by a business and sales between individuals. The legal guarantee of conformity applies to the former, including second-hand and refurbished goods, but not to the latter.
Check who the seller is, and keep the appliance description, model reference and any documents provided when you buy it.
A breakdown doesn’t necessarily mean the appliance needs replacing. According to ecosystem, the Repair Bonus requires, among other things, an eligible fault, an appliance that is no longer under guarantee and work carried out by a QualiRépar-accredited repairer.
Ask a professional for a diagnosis or quote, then compare the estimated timescale with how soon you need to get the washing done again.
According to France’s Ministry for the Ecological Transition, the durability index has replaced the repairability index for the washing machines covered in France since 8 April 2025. This score out of 10 isn’t enough to tell you whether an appliance will suit your home or the way you use it.
Check the index for the exact model and compare its specification sheet with your available space and household needs.
A large appliance that no longer works can be difficult to move. Take-back arrangements depend in part on how the new appliance is handed over or delivered.
Ask the retailer how take-back will work, or arrange a suitable collection option before your new appliance arrives.
These examples of product ranges and manufacturer specifications can help you get started with your comparison. Always check the features of the model you’re considering.
In France, Bosch offers washing machines in a range of capacities and publishes durability information for some models.
Miele publishes detailed specifications for some front-loading washing machines.
Electrolux sells washing machines and offers a parts search tool that uses the product number (PNC).
These Joybuy models are options to consider if you’re looking to replace your machine with a new washing machine. Before choosing, check that their features suit your installation, and find out about delivery, take-back of your old appliance and the durability index for the exact model.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a top-loading machine with a 6 kg capacity.
The product name indicates a spin speed of 1,400 rpm, a B energy rating and 17 programmes. Check that there’s enough clearance to open the lid.
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Worth considering if a 10 kg capacity suits the amount of washing you do and a front-loading machine fits the space.
Check the dimensions, the access route to the room and the exact features of this variant before ordering.
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Worth considering if an 8 kg capacity suits your household and a front-loading machine works for your space.
The product name states a spin speed of up to 1,400 rpm and 16 programmes. To assess whether it will fit and how much energy it uses, check the full dimensions and the model’s energy label.
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Worth considering if you’d like to compare another 10 kg front-loading model as a replacement for your appliance.
The product name states a spin speed of up to 1,400 rpm and 16 programmes. Check its dimensions and detailed energy information rather than assuming how much energy it uses from a comparative claim.
Yes, if the appliance is no longer under guarantee, the fault is eligible and the repair is carried out by a QualiRépar-accredited professional, in line with the conditions published by ecosystem. Ask the repairer to confirm that you’re eligible before work begins.
Check the durability index for the model in question. According to France’s Ministry for the Ecological Transition, it has replaced the repairability index for washing machines since 8 April 2025. This score out of 10 complements the features you need to consider; it doesn’t replace them.
Yes, if a business sells the refurbished washing machine to a consumer, as the DGCCRF explains. The guarantee also applies to second-hand goods sold under the same conditions, but not to private sales between individuals.
Ask the retailer what take-back option is available when you buy your new appliance. French regulations require free take-back of used electrical and electronic equipment in certain circumstances; check the practical arrangements depending on whether you’re collecting the new machine or having it delivered.