First, choose a loading style that works for your space: a front-loading machine needs room in front for the door to open, while a top-loader can be a good fit where width is limited. New or refurbished is a separate choice from the loading style. In either case, compare capacity for your typical loads, spin noise, energy and water use, maintenance requirements and durability information for the specific model.
Think about the size of your usual loads and any bulky items you wash. According to Que Choisir, 5 to 7 kg is generally enough for one person or a couple, while a family with children may need 8 to 10 kg. Also check the load limits for the programmes you use.
Measure the width and depth of the space, as well as the room needed to open the door or lid. Que Choisir’s guide gives a typical width of 40 to 46 cm for top-loading machines, compared with around 60 cm for front-loaders. Loading from the top may also suit you if you’d rather not bend down.
For a machine sold in France, check the durability index, maintenance options and parts information for the model you’re considering. If you’re buying a refurbished machine, also ask the professional seller about the condition of that specific appliance and the tests carried out.
First work out what will fit in your home, then compare the specifications of compatible models. Loading style and whether to buy new or refurbished are two separate decisions.
| Factor | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Measure the space and check how the door or lid opens. According to Que Choisir, top-loaders are generally 40 to 46 cm wide, while front-loaders are around 60 cm; check the dimensions of the exact model. | I have limited width, or I’d prefer to load laundry from the top. If I choose a front-loader, I also need room to access the door. |
| Capacity | Match the stated capacity in kilograms to your regular loads and larger items. Que Choisir gives a typical capacity of 5 to 7 kg for one person or a couple, and 8 to 10 kg for a family with children; check the limits for each programme. | The size of my laundry loads and how often I wash matter more than a maximum capacity I’d rarely use. |
| Spin performance and noise | Compare the spin noise levels on the models’ labels and, where available, test results for the same measure. Que Choisir assesses spin performance and noise separately: the rpm figure doesn’t tell you both. | If the machine is near a living area, spin noise will influence my choice. I’ll also make sure it’s installed according to the instructions. |
| Cycles and consumption | Look at the water and electricity use, capacity and duration for the Eco 40-60 programme together, using the model’s label and product information. Check the conditions for a quick cycle separately. | I need a cycle length that suits my laundry routine, without confusing a quick programme with the reference figures. |
| Maintenance and durability | Check the instructions to find out how to access the filter and carry out maintenance. For a washing machine sold in France, consult its durability index and detailed information: the French ministry responsible for ecology states that this scheme has applied to this category since 8 April 2025. | I want to know how to maintain the model I choose and have information about servicing and parts, rather than relying on the brand name alone. |
| Condition of the appliance | For a refurbished machine sold by a professional, ask for the model number, its functional and cosmetic condition, the tests carried out, any repairs, included accessories and warranty terms. The DGCCRF advises that the information must describe the refurbished appliance itself. | If I’m considering a refurbished machine, I want to be able to assess the actual appliance on offer, not just the model’s specifications when it was new. |
The figure shown may not be the permitted load for synthetic fabrics, delicates or wool. A capacity that doesn’t suit your laundry loads can also make it harder to plan your washing.
Estimate the size of your regular loads and check the instructions for the limits of the programmes you plan to use.
Que Choisir assesses spin performance and noise separately. SOS Accessoire also warns that leaving the transit bolts in place can cause significant noise, particularly during the spin cycle.
Compare the models’ spin noise levels, then follow the instructions to remove the transit bolts and level the appliance.
In France, the DGCCRF distinguishes a refurbished product from a second-hand one by requiring functionality tests. The term alone doesn’t tell you the condition of the specific appliance on offer.
Ask the professional seller for the full model number, the appliance’s condition, any work carried out, included accessories, and the delivery and warranty terms.
Que Choisir’s tests assess different factors, including washing, rinsing, spin performance, cycle duration and noise. A general opinion of a brand won’t tell you the figures for the model you’re considering.
Check its energy label, product information, durability index, instructions and installation dimensions.
A brand can help you put together a shortlist, but you’ll need to check the dimensions, programmes and maintenance information for each model.
When considering a Miele washing machine, start with the specific model rather than a general opinion of the brand.
Bosch sells the front-loading WGE03207FR, among other models. Its French product information lists an 8 kg capacity and a spin speed of 1 200 tr/min—specifications for this particular model.
When comparing a Siemens washing machine, check the specifications of the model that fits your space.
When considering an AEG washing machine, first check that its loading style and dimensions suit your installation.
When considering an LG washing machine, compare the model’s product information with the loads your household actually washes.
These models are suited to everyday household laundry: four front-loaders and one top-loader. Compare their specifications with your space and laundry loads. This selection alone won’t determine whether a new or refurbished machine is right for you.
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Worth considering if your laundry loads call for an 8 kg front-loader and there’s enough room for the door to open. The product title lists a maximum spin speed of 1 400 tr/min. Compare this model’s spin noise, cycle duration and maintenance requirements separately.
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This 8 kg front-loader could be worth comparing for regular household laundry. Its product title mentions SensiCare, steam and 1 400 tr/min. Check the model information to assess cycle duration, noise and maintenance requirements.
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A top-loader is worth considering if width is limited; also measure the space needed to open the lid. The product title lists a 6 kg capacity, 1 400 tr/min, 17 programmes and Wi-Fi. Check whether this capacity will handle your largest loads.
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The stated 8 kg capacity may suit family laundry, depending on the size of your loads. Make sure there’s enough space for a front-loader. The product title lists 1 400 tr/min and energy class C. Check the label for this model’s energy use and spin noise.
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Check that this 8 kg front-loader suits the size of your laundry loads and the space available in front of the appliance. The product title lists 1 400 tr/min, 16 programmes and a steam function. Check the model information for energy and water use, Eco 40-60 cycle duration and spin noise.
No. It’s mainly suited to spaces where width is limited, or if you prefer loading from the top. Que Choisir gives a typical width of 40 to 46 cm for a top-loader, compared with around 60 cm for a front-loader. Also measure the depth and the height needed to open the lid.
Yes. Compare the index and detailed information for the model you’re considering. According to the French ministry responsible for ecology, the durability index has applied to washing machines since 8 April 2025 and provides information on factors including maintenance, servicing and spare parts.
Compare the figures on the energy label and product information for the Eco 40-60 programme, then look at the quick cycle separately. Consider water and electricity use, capacity and duration together: programmes designed for different uses aren’t necessarily directly comparable.
Ask the professional seller about the condition of the specific appliance, the tests carried out, any repairs, included accessories, and the warranty and delivery terms. In France, the DGCCRF advises that a product must pass functionality tests to be described as refurbished, and that the information provided must relate to the product being sold.