Choose your washing machine based on the loads you wash most often and the space available when the door or lid is open. Que Choisir points out that the permitted load varies between programmes, while ADEME recommends comparing spin performance, noise levels and the consumption figures listed for the model.
You alternate between small, sorted loads and fuller baskets : assess capacity based on the cycles you actually run, and check the permitted load for each programme. Que Choisir and ADEME stress the importance of choosing a capacity that suits your needs.
If the space is narrow or shallow, check the dimensions, the route to the alcove and the clearance needed to open the door or lid. The product specifications from Electrolux France, LG France and Whirlpool France show that dimensions vary by model.
You may want to give greater importance to spin performance and noise levels, while also taking account of the fabrics and loads in each cycle. ADEME recommends considering these factors when choosing an appliance.
Start with your usual loads and the space available, then compare the programmes, spin performance, noise levels and consumption figures of models that will actually fit in your home.
| What matters | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity to suit your loads | The weight of your usual loads and larger items ; the maximum load for the programme you use, which may be lower than the stated capacity. Que Choisir and ADEME recommend choosing to suit your actual needs. | If I alternate between small, sorted loads and sheets or towels, I look for a capacity that suits the cycles I actually run. Around 33 % of consumers prioritise matching capacity to the amount of laundry they wash. |
| Size and access | Model dimensions, access route, connections and the clearance needed to open the door or lid fully. The Electrolux France, LG France and Whirlpool France product specifications list dimensions for each appliance. | When the alcove is narrow or access is limited, I want to be able to install the appliance and open its door or lid without obstruction. Around 27 % of consumers prioritise the appliance’s size and access for loading. |
| Programmes and fabrics | Whether it has programmes for the fabrics you wash and the permitted load for each one ; check the manual. Que Choisir points out that maximum loads can vary from one programme to another. | If I wash wool, delicates or synthetics separately, I check that the programmes I need are available and that their load limits suit my laundry. Around 20 % of consumers put programmes and their individual load limits first. |
| Spin performance and drying | Spin-drying efficiency class and available settings, taking account of the care instructions on your clothes. ADEME and the European Commission identify spin performance as a factor to consider. | When I dry laundry indoors or put it in a tumble dryer afterwards, I want to compare spin performance rather than relying only on the maximum spin speed. Around 13 % of consumers prioritise preparing laundry for drying. |
| Noise and consumption | Spin noise, kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle on the label for the exact model. ADEME and the European Commission recommend checking the information on the label. | If the machine is near living areas, I check its noise level and stated consumption, while considering my own laundry habits. Around 7 % of consumers make these factors their top priority when choosing. |
The stated capacity may not apply to every programme. A larger drum also does not guarantee savings if your usual loads are still small.
Make a note of a few typical loads, then check their weight and the limits for the relevant programmes in the manual. Que Choisir and ADEME recommend choosing a machine to suit your laundry needs.
An appliance may fit in its alcove but still not have enough space for the door or lid to open. Overall depth may also differ from cabinet depth, as shown in the LG France specifications for the F84V51WHA model.
Check the dimensions of the exact model with the door or lid open, the connections and the route to its final position.
The displayed speed alone is not enough to compare spin efficiency. The settings also need to be suitable for the fabrics you wash.
Check the spin efficiency class and available settings, then follow the care instructions on your clothes. ADEME recommends considering spin performance when choosing an appliance.
A commercial guarantee advertised for a motor does not replace the legal guarantee of conformity. The DGCCRF states that claims under the legal guarantee of conformity must be made within two years of delivery of the goods.
Identify the seller and distinguish the terms of any commercial guarantee from the legal protections that apply to your purchase, as explained by the DGCCRF.
These examples illustrate the dimensions and features of specific models ; they do not mean that the same features apply to every range from a brand.
The PerfectCare 600 EW6T3465DA is an example of a 6 kg top-loading washing machine with wool, delicates and synthetics programmes, according to Electrolux France.
The Série 2 WGE03201FR is an example of a standard front-loading model, with a stated maximum capacity of 8 kg, according to Bosch Électroménager France.
The TDLR 6247 FR/N is another example of a 6 kg top-loading washing machine, listed by Whirlpool France as 40 cm wide.
The F84V51WHA is an example of an 8 kg front-loading model with several programmes and automatic dosing, according to LG France.
This selection includes washing machines for a range of load sizes and programme needs. Check the permitted load for each cycle and the dimensions of your chosen model before buying.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a stated capacity of 8 kg and programmes for different types of laundry ; check the permitted load for each cycle.
The product details list 1 400 RPM, an A energy rating, a B spin efficiency class and an inverter motor.
Wool, bedding and sportswear programmes are listed in the product description.
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Worth considering if your usual loads call for a stated capacity of 12 kg ; the permitted load may vary by programme.
The product details list 16 programmes, a spin speed of 1 400 rpm, an A energy rating, plus Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and steam functions.
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Worth considering if a stated capacity of 10 kg and a choice of programmes suit your loads ; check you have room for a front-loading model.
The title lists 16 programmes, 1 400 RPM, an A-30 % energy rating, a steam function and one-touch smart washing. The description mentions programmes for pet hair and bedding.
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Worth considering if a stated capacity of 8 kg and the available programmes suit your laundry ; check the dimensions and the clearance needed to open the door.
The title lists 16 programmes, 1 400 RPM, an A-15 % energy rating and a steam function.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a stated capacity of 10 kg and programmes for different fabrics ; check the load limits for each cycle.
The title lists 16 programmes, a steam function, an add-laundry function and an A-10 % energy rating. The description mentions an inverter motor, programmes for bedding, sportswear and delicates, plus a stated quiet function.
No, don’t assume it does : the maximum load can vary by programme. Check the load table in the manual for your chosen model, particularly for wool, synthetics and delicate fabrics.
Measure the route to the appliance, the space where it will go and the room needed for connections. For a front-loading model, check its overall depth and the clearance needed with the door open ; for a top-loading model, make sure the lid can open freely above the appliance.
Compare the EU label for the exact model, which includes figures such as kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and noise levels. The European Commission explains that these figures relate to the eco 40-60 reference programme ; they may not reflect every wash in your household.
Follow the appliance manual for connections and clearances. For its washing machines, Bosch recommends removing the transit bolts and adjusting and locking the feet to level the appliance ; check the manual for the model you buy.
For goods bought from a professional seller, the DGCCRF states that claims under the legal guarantee of conformity must be made within two years of delivery. This legal guarantee is separate from any optional commercial guarantee.