To reduce disturbance from the spin cycle in a flat, compare the dB(A) rating and noise class on the label for the exact model. Then choose a capacity that suits your laundry loads and check its durability rating. These noise figures relate to the Eco 40-60 programme; they don’t predict the vibrations you might experience due to an unstable floor, poor levelling or an unbalanced load.
If the spin cycle might disturb your neighbours or other people in your building, compare the stated noise levels of models that suit your home. You should also plan for a stable installation: the figure on the label doesn’t describe the vibrations transmitted through the floor.
First, check whether a front-loading or top-loading model can be fitted and opened in the space available. Then compare its capacity and spin-cycle noise: the style alone won’t tell you how quiet it will be.
Don’t choose based on noise alone. Match the capacity to the laundry you usually do, then check the stated energy and water consumption, the durability rating and the repair options for the model you’re considering.
For a washing machine in a block of flats, start with the spin-cycle noise rating for the exact model. Then consider how the space, installation and your laundry habits affect your choice. ADEME recommends checking the energy label and choosing a capacity suited to your actual needs.
| Concern | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Spin-cycle noise | Compare the dB(A) ratings and spin-cycle noise classes on the labels for the exact models. The measurement relates to the Eco 40-60 programme, not every cycle. | If the spin cycle can be heard in neighbouring homes, I want to reduce the stated noise level without relying on the motor’s name alone. This could be a priority for around 31% of consumers. |
| Stability and vibrations | Check that the floor is stable and that the appliance can be levelled. Follow the instructions to remove the transit bolts before use. | If vibrations could travel through the building, I want to avoid knocks caused by poor installation. This could be the main concern for around 25% of consumers. |
| Size and capacity | Measure the space and the clearance needed to open the appliance. Choose the capacity in kg to suit the amount of laundry you usually do. | If my space is narrow, I need an appliance that fits without choosing a drum that’s unsuitable for my laundry loads. This could be the top criterion for around 19% of consumers. |
| Durability and consumption | Check the model’s durability rating and its energy use in kWh per 100 cycles, as well as water use per cycle, measured for Eco 40-60. | If I’m replacing my washing machine for the long term, I also want to consider how easy it is to repair and how much it uses. This would guide around 25% of consumers. |
Revolutions per minute and motor names aren’t a substitute for the model’s noise rating. So a promise of quiet operation isn’t enough to compare two appliances.
Among models that fit your space, compare the dB(A) ratings and spin-cycle noise classes shown on their labels.
According to Bosch Home Appliances and Electrolux France, poorly adjusted feet, transit bolts left in place or an unbalanced load can cause vibrations and knocking.
Plan to level the machine and follow the installation instructions before its first spin cycle. Consider anti-vibration accessories only as an additional measure: they won’t necessarily fix the cause of the noise.
A poorly matched capacity could mean regularly washing small loads or running extra cycles if the drum is too small. ADEME recommends choosing a capacity to suit your needs.
Start with the amount of laundry you usually do and the bulky items you actually wash, then compare appliances with a suitable capacity.
The durability rating indicates reliability and repairability; it doesn’t measure spin-cycle noise or the vibrations produced once the appliance is installed.
Compare the rating and the noise figures for your chosen model separately. Don’t assume that a good score in one means it will perform well in the other.
Worth considering if you want to compare models with features described as reducing noise and vibrations, without assuming they’ll have the same effect in your home.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a front-loading model whose product information lets you compare noise, capacity and consumption.
Worth considering if a top-loading machine suits your width restrictions, but always compare the noise level of the model you have in mind.
Compare the sound emissions in dB(A) and the spin-cycle noise class on the label for the exact model. These figures relate to the Eco 40-60 programme; they don’t describe vibrations that the installation might transmit through the building.
Yes, because the figure on the label doesn’t cover every installation condition. Check that the floor is stable, the machine is level, the transit bolts have been removed and the laundry is evenly distributed. If unusual noise continues, have the appliance checked.
Yes. ADEME states that, since April 2025, the requirement to display this rating has applied to household washing machines covered by the relevant regulations. Check the rating for the model you’re considering on its product information or in store, and don’t confuse it with its noise class.
Ask which parts and repair options are available for the exact model. The European Commission states that the rules for the washing machines covered require a list of parts to be available for ten years; this doesn’t mean every part will be available on the same terms.