Start by choosing a capacity that suits the amount of laundry your household actually builds up between washes, then make sure the machine fits the space available. According to ADEME, 7 kg is usually enough. A top-loading model may suit a narrower space, while a front-loader may work well under a worktop; either way, check the appliance’s full dimensions. Then compare energy use, spin performance and noise on the energy label, as well as the durability index, which does not guarantee how long the appliance will last.
If everyday laundry builds up between washes, the drum needs enough capacity to handle it in fewer loads, without regularly running only partly full. ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that suits your household’s needs.
When width, depth or the space beneath a worktop is limited, the loading style and the exact dimensions of the model become key considerations. UFC-Que Choisir highlights in particular how narrow top-loading washing machines can be.
Energy use, noise and spin performance can help you compare machines for regular use. France’s durability index offers another point of reference, but it is separate from the warranty terms and does not guarantee how long an appliance will last.
Start with the amount of dry laundry you usually wash and the space available. Then compare usage and durability information for models that meet both requirements.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity and combining loads | Compare the capacity in kg of dry laundry with the amount that builds up between washes, and check the limits for the programme you use. | When everyday laundry builds up, I want to combine loads without choosing an oversized drum; around 33% of consumers would make suitable capacity their top priority. |
| Size and installation | Measure the space, access route and clearance needed to open the door; also check the water supply, drainage and power socket. | When space is limited at home, I need to be able to install and open the machine properly; around 27% of consumers would put this first. |
| Energy and water use, spin performance and noise | On the energy label, compare kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle and spin noise; these figures are based on the Eco 40-60 programme. | If the machine is near living areas, I want to take both energy use and noise into account; around 20% of consumers would prioritise these day-to-day considerations. |
| Durability index | Compare the score out of 10 between models that meet your needs, then check the warranty terms separately. | When choosing between appliances that already suit my household, I want to consider repairability and reliability without treating the index as a guarantee; around 20% of consumers would make this their top priority. |
According to UFC-Que Choisir, top-loading washing machines are generally 40 to 46 cm wide, while front-loaders are usually around 60 cm wide. In both cases, check the depth, door clearance and connections for the model you’re considering. In France, ADEME states that the durability index has been mandatory for new washing machines sold since April 2025. It takes repairability and reliability into account, but does not promise how long any individual appliance will last.
A larger capacity only helps you combine loads if your household really does build up that much laundry. Maximum load sizes can also vary between programmes.
Estimate your usual load of dry laundry and check the capacities for the cotton, synthetics, delicates or wool programmes you plan to use.
According to ADEME, this index compares criteria including repairability and reliability. It does not determine the cover provided by a commercial warranty or how many years your appliance will last.
Compare the index for models that suit your household, then check their warranty terms separately.
The stated width is not enough if the appliance cannot get to its intended space, its door cannot open or it cannot be connected properly.
Measure the access route and the space available, then check the water supply, drainage, power socket and floor stability before ordering. Have any non-compliant connections checked by a qualified professional.
The energy label figures for washing machines are based on the Eco 40-60 programme; they may not reflect a quick or delicate cycle.
Compare the label figures on the same basis, then check the model’s specification sheet for the programmes you need.
These range and model examples can help you identify which features to compare; each dimension or function mentioned applies to the specific model named.
The Bosch WAN2827TFR front-loader gives you an 8 kg model to consider if you have enough space for this style of machine.
The Whirlpool TDLR7251FR is an example of a top-loader to consider when width is limited.
The Miele WEA125 WCS front-loader is an 8 kg model to consider if its capacity and under-worktop installation suit your household.
No. According to ADEME, the index takes repairability and reliability into account, among other factors, but it does not guarantee that an appliance will last for a specific number of years. Check the model’s warranty terms separately.
For washing machines, they are based on the Eco 40-60 programme, as specified by the European Commission. Compare models on this shared basis, but don’t assume these figures apply to a quick or delicate programme.
Check that the appliance can get to its intended space, fit into it and open properly. Then check the water supply, drainage, power socket and floor stability. UFC-Que Choisir recommends checking these connections before installation; if they are not compliant, contact a qualified professional.