Households that can wait for a diagnosis
Your washing machine has broken down, but you can wait to find out what work it needs. A quote will help you compare getting it working again with replacing it.
Who are these options for?
Households that need to get their laundry done again quickly
Availability, delivery times and installation arrangements matter just as much as the machine’s features. Check how your old washing machine will be taken away, too.
Buyers who want to understand how long a new machine might last
You want to compare repairability, reliability and access to parts for specific models. The durability index can help you make a choice, but it cannot guarantee how long a machine will last in your home.
What should you check before deciding?
Repair your existing machine
Consider this if: a diagnosis is possible and the time it will take to get the machine working again suits your laundry routine.
Bear in mind: the repair will leave the machine out of action, and it may not prevent another fault.
Buy refurbished
Consider this if: a machine available from a professional seller meets your washing and delivery needs.
Bear in mind: the models available and the services included vary from seller to seller.
Buy new
Consider this if: you need a particular size or capacity and want to compare models’ durability information.
Bear in mind: a durability rating cannot predict how long an individual washing machine will last.
To choose between these options, start by thinking about what would actually stop your household from doing its laundry. Then check the details of the machine you are considering.
| What matters to you | What to check before buying | Who this may suit |
|---|---|---|
| Whether it can be repaired | Ask for a diagnosis and a quote that specifies the parts, timescale and repair guarantee. Ask a repairer accredited under the scheme whether the repair may qualify for the repair bonus. | If my machine can be put back into working order, I’d rather find out what work it needs before deciding to replace it; around 33% of consumers would prioritise this decision. |
| Durability of a new machine | Compare the durability index and its breakdown across similar models, then check the energy label, guarantee and parts for the model you have chosen. | When buying a new replacement, I want to be able to assess repairability and reliability without treating a rating as a promise of longevity; around 25% of consumers would put this first. |
| Condition of a refurbished machine | Check the professional seller’s identity, the stated condition, which functions have been tested, what accessories are included, and the guarantee and delivery arrangements. | I’m happy to choose a refurbished machine if I can find out about its condition and what recourse I have after buying it; this would be the priority for around 25% of consumers. |
| Capacity and installation | Measure the space and access route for delivery. Choose a capacity based on the laundry you actually wash, and confirm the installation and collection arrangements. | If the washing machine won’t fit in my home or suit my laundry needs, replacing it won’t solve anything; around 17% of consumers would put these practicalities first. |
What should you watch out for?
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Don’t mistake the durability index for a guarantee of longevity
Since 8 April 2025, the durability index has been displayed on the new washing machines covered by the rules and sold in France. According to the French government departments responsible for ecology, it is based on repairability and reliability criteria; it does not guarantee how long any individual machine will last.
Compare the rating and its breakdown across models intended for similar use. Then check the guarantee terms and information about parts for your chosen model separately.
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Don’t rely on the word ‘refurbished’ alone
France’s Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control defines refurbished goods as second-hand items whose functions have been tested and which have been repaired or restored where necessary. The term does not replace a proper description of the machine being offered.
Before ordering, check any stated faults, included accessories, after-sales service, and delivery and installation terms. Keep a copy of the listing and the invoice.
A missing accessory or installation that has not been arranged could mean extra steps after delivery.
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Don’t increase the capacity without considering your usual laundry loads
A larger drum is not necessary for every household. ADEME says that a 7 kg capacity is usually enough and recommends avoiding cycles with a drum that is not full enough.
Think about the amount of laundry you actually wash, including bulky items, then check the machine’s dimensions and the space needed to install it.
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Don’t wait until delivery to think about your old machine
If you do not make arrangements in advance, you may have to keep your old washing machine until a collection option becomes available.
Ask the seller how to arrange collection when your new machine is delivered, and what you need to do beforehand, including making sure there is access and disconnecting the old machine.
Arranging collection separately can take time and require transport.
Brands to consider for parts and servicing
Bosch
Worth considering if you’re buying a new washing machine and want to look up genuine parts for a specific model.
- Bosch says spare parts for its washing machines are generally available for 15 years, and offers a search tool using the E-Nr reference.
- Bosch’s stated availability period does not confirm that every part is immediately available or that a particular model is reliable. Check the reference and the part you need.
Miele
Worth considering if a commercial guarantee covering the motor is a factor in your choice of a new domestic washing machine.
- Miele offers an additional 25-year guarantee on the motor of certain domestic washing machines, subject to purchase and activation conditions.
- This offer may not cover the whole washing machine or every circumstance. Check the model, territory covered, activation requirements and exclusions in Miele’s terms and conditions.
Electrolux
Worth considering if you want to find parts or request a repair for a compatible model.
- Electrolux support offers ways to search for parts and book repairs for its washing machines.
- These services do not confirm that a particular part is available or how long it will take to obtain. Check for your model.
Joybuy products related to this topic
Products related to this topic will be available soon.
Frequently asked questions
Does the durability index guarantee a certain number of years of use?
No. The durability index is not a guarantee of how long an individual machine will last. According to the French government departments responsible for ecology, the rating out of 10 takes repairability and reliability criteria into account for the models covered. Check the breakdown and guarantee terms before choosing.
Am I covered by a legal guarantee if I buy a refurbished washing machine?
Yes. In France, the statutory guarantee of conformity applies when a refurbished washing machine is sold by a professional to an individual, as France’s Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control explains. It does not apply to sales between individuals. Check who the seller is, and keep the product description and invoice.
How can I arrange collection of my old washing machine?
Discuss collection with the seller when you order your replacement machine. Confirm how it will be arranged with delivery, where the old machine will be collected from, and what you need to do to prepare it. Don’t wait until the delivery driver arrives.
Does the repair bonus apply to every washing machine fault?
No. The repair bonus depends on the scheme’s conditions and on the work being carried out by an accredited repairer. The French government departments responsible for ecology say it is deducted from the bill when the repair qualifies. Confirm eligibility and get a quote before the work begins.
Should I choose the same capacity as my old washing machine?
Not necessarily. Choose a capacity based on the amount of laundry you usually wash and the types of items you wash. ADEME says that 7 kg is usually enough, but this is only a general guide. Consider your own needs, the space available and the delivery arrangements, too.