People with a narrow space for their machine
If space is tight, measure the route to the machine’s location as well as the room needed to open the door or lid. The machine must fit securely and leave access to the connections.
Who is this guide for?
People who are sensitive to noise
In a flat, compare the stated spin noise and bear installation in mind too: an uneven floor or poorly adjusted feet can make vibrations worse.
Shoppers who value a long service life
To factor reliability and repairability into your decision, check the durability rating for the exact model rather than relying on a brand’s general claims.
Which criteria should you consider first?
For a flat, check the space and connections before choosing between different styles. Whether you choose a top-loader or a front-loader will then depend on how much room you have to open it.
Top-loading
Consider this : when width is limited and the lid can open freely.
Bear in mind : you’ll need to keep the top clear to load the washing.
Front-loading
Consider this : if the space can accommodate the machine and there’s room to open the door in front.
Bear in mind : the stated depth doesn’t include the extra room needed for the hoses and the door to open.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Size and installation | Measure the access route, the space for the machine and the room needed to open the exact model you’ve chosen. Check the connections and make sure the floor is stable. | When moving home, I need to be able to get the machine in, open it and connect it without an unstable installation. Around 33% of consumers prioritise this compatibility. |
| Noise and vibrations | Compare the stated spin noise and its class on the label. Make sure the machine can be installed level on a stable floor. | If the spin cycle could disturb me at home, I want to consider both the stated noise and any vibrations caused by the installation. Around 27% of consumers prioritise keeping these disturbances to a minimum. |
| Capacity and consumption | Match the capacity in kg to the amount of washing you usually do. Also check the energy and water use, and the duration of the Eco 40-60 programme on the label. | I’m looking for a capacity that suits my washing, while keeping water and energy use and cycle length in mind. Around 20% of consumers prioritise this balance. |
| Durability and repairability | For the exact model, check its durability rating out of 10 and the available information on parts and servicing. | If I plan to keep the machine for a long time, I want to assess its reliability and repair options before choosing. Around 20% of consumers prioritise a long service life. |
In France, the Ministry for the Ecological Transition says that the durability rating replaced the repairability rating for washing machines on 8 April 2025. A rating given to one model should not be applied to an entire brand.
Which mistakes should you avoid?
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Measuring only the front of the machine
A washing machine also needs to fit through the access route, leave room for the connections and allow the door or lid to open.
Before ordering, compare the dimensions and installation diagram for the exact model with the access route, the space for the machine and the room needed to open it.
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Assuming a low stated noise level means there’ll be no vibrations
Perceived noise also depends on how stable the floor is and how the feet are adjusted, particularly during the spin cycle.
Compare noise information across models and make sure you can install the machine level, following the instructions.
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Comparing energy classes alone
The energy class doesn’t tell you how much water the machine uses, how long the Eco 40-60 programme takes or how noisy it is during the spin cycle.
Check this information on each model’s label and compare its capacity with the amount of washing you usually do.
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Assuming one model’s rating applies to the whole brand
In France, the durability rating that has applied to washing machines since 8 April 2025 is specific to each model. Older pages may still refer to the repairability rating.
Note down the full model reference and check its durability rating before comparing two machines.
Brands to consider
These brands offer models you can use to compare different styles and product details. Always check the specifications of the exact machine you’re interested in.
Bosch
Bosch’s French range includes front-loading washing machines with stated capacities from 7 to 10 kg.
- Bosch says the front-loading WGB254A2FR has a 10 kg capacity and a maximum spin speed of 1,400 rpm.
- These specifications don’t apply to every model in the range. Check the dimensions, noise and durability rating of the model you’re considering.
Electrolux
Electrolux gives you different styles to compare: UFC-Que Choisir lists the top-loading EW6T4613HA as an option for small spaces, while Electrolux offers the 9 kg front-loading EWF0914A2.
- These models offer two different starting points for comparing opening space and capacity.
- Check the dimensions and durability rating for the exact model, and don’t assume the specifications of one style apply to another.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool’s range includes the 7 kg top-loading TDLR7251FR washing machine, and the brand also offers an official spare parts catalogue.
- You can use the model reference to find its documentation and the corresponding spare parts.
- A general Whirlpool page still refers to the repairability rating. For a new washing machine in France, check the durability rating for the model you’ve chosen.
Joybuy products
Related products will be available soon.
Frequently asked questions
What should you check before ordering a washing machine for a flat?
Measure the space for the machine, the delivery route and the room needed to open it. Then check that there’s a suitable water supply, waste outlet and electrical connection. UFC-Que Choisir also recommends placing the machine somewhere frost-free, on a flat, stable floor.
Is a top-loading washing machine always better for a small space?
No. It may suit a narrow space, but you’ll need room to open the lid. Check the full dimensions, access to the connections and the capacity of the model you’re considering before ruling it out or choosing it over a front-loader.
Is the energy class enough to compare two washing machines?
No. For each model, also check the label for energy and water use, the duration of the Eco 40-60 programme, capacity and spin noise information. The energy class doesn’t tell you how much space you’ll need to install the machine.
Which rating should you check for a new washing machine in France?
Check the durability rating for the exact model. According to the Ministry for the Ecological Transition, this rating has replaced the repairability rating for washing machines in France since 8 April 2025. It provides information on factors including reliability and repairability.
When should you call a technician to connect your washing machine?
If the electrical or plumbing installation doesn’t meet the requirements, have a qualified technician make the connections. Even if the existing connections are suitable, follow the machine’s instructions and the installation requirements for its location.