Who is this choice for?

Households weighing up repair or replacement

If your washing machine has broken down, check whether it is still under warranty and ask if an approved repairer can provide a quote before you decide to replace it.

Shoppers who care about durability

If you’re replacing a worn-out appliance, compare its durability score out of 10 and the details behind it for each model. The index covers repairability and reliability; it is not a substitute for the energy label.

Households reassessing their laundry needs

If your laundry loads or home have changed, choose a suitable capacity and check energy use, spin performance and noise levels. ADEME recommends starting with your household’s actual needs.

Which criteria should you check first?

Have it repaired

Worth considering: if a professional can assess the fault before you decide whether to replace the machine.

Check: according to the Ministry of the Economy, the Repair Bonus requires, among other things, that the appliance is out of warranty and that you use an approved repairer. Poor maintenance or improper use may make the appliance ineligible.

Buy new

Worth considering: if you decide to replace the appliance and want to compare models that display a durability index.

Bear in mind: the index covers repairability and reliability, but not the energy use, capacity or noise levels that matter to your choice.

Buy refurbished

Worth considering: if the seller specifies the exact model, the condition of the individual appliance, any work carried out and the warranty terms.

Bear in mind: the index for a new model is not enough, on its own, to assess the condition of the refurbished appliance on offer.

What matters What to check Consumers concerned
Repair before replacing Check the warranty and ask an approved repairer for a quote; ask them to confirm whether the fault meets the Repair Bonus conditions. If my washing machine breaks down, I want to know whether it can still be repaired before buying another one; this would be the priority for around 25% of consumers.
Durability of a new model Compare the score out of 10 and its breakdown for specific models that meet the same laundry needs. I want to reduce the risk of having to replace my appliance again too soon; around 31% of consumers would put the durability and repairability of a new machine first.
Energy use and spin performance Check the label for electricity use in kWh per 100 cycles, water use in litres per cycle and the spin-drying efficiency class. When I dry laundry indoors, spin performance matters as much as water and electricity use; around 25% of consumers would prioritise these criteria.
Capacity, space and noise Match the capacity in kg to your usual laundry loads; measure the space available and check the noise level. If the machine is near living areas, I want it to fit the space without choosing a drum that’s too large for my laundry loads; around 19% of consumers would prioritise finding the right fit.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Replacing the appliance without considering a repair

    A breakdown does not necessarily mean you need to replace your washing machine. The Repair Bonus may apply, subject to the conditions set out by the Ministry of the Economy.

    Check the warranty and ask an approved repairer for a quote before making your decision.

  • Choosing based on the durability index alone

    The score out of 10 covers repairability and reliability, but it does not tell you how much energy the machine uses or whether it suits your laundry loads.

    For the exact model you’re considering, also check the energy label and the features that matter for your home.

  • Choosing a large drum when you don’t need one

    ADEME recommends matching capacity to your usual laundry loads rather than running more cycles with a drum that is not full enough.

    Estimate the size of your typical loads and check the machine’s dimensions before you buy.

  • Comparing energy use figures based on different measures

    According to the European Commission, washing machine labels show, among other things, electricity use per 100 cycles and water use per reference cycle. These figures are based on different periods of use.

    Compare figures using the same units and basis. Also consider cycle duration and spin performance in light of how you dry your laundry.

Brands to consider by model

Beko

Worth checking model by model when comparing washing machine durability index data.

  • Beko France publishes durability index information for washing machines from its brands on data.gouv.fr.
  • Check that the data you’re looking at matches the model being sold. This information does not allow you to draw conclusions about the reliability or energy efficiency of the brand as a whole.

Miele

Worth considering if you want to look up the durability index data for a specific model.

  • Miele S.A.S publishes a dataset on washing machine durability indexes on data.gouv.fr.
  • Check that the model being sold matches the available data before comparing. The data does not amount to an assessment of every Miele model.

Electrolux

Include it in your comparison when you can find the exact model and its corresponding index information.

  • Electrolux France publishes a dataset on washing machine durability indexes on data.gouv.fr.
  • Check that the data matches the model on offer. This information alone is not enough to draw general conclusions about the brand.

Joybuy products related to this choice

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Is the durability index compulsory for new washing machines sold in France?

Yes. According to the ministry responsible for the environment, the durability index has applied to eligible washing machines since 8 April 2025. Its score out of 10 covers repairability and reliability. Compare specific models, but don’t use the score to infer their energy use or noise levels.

Can a broken washing machine qualify for the Repair Bonus?

Yes, if it meets the scheme’s conditions. According to the Ministry of the Economy, the appliance must, among other things, be out of warranty and taken to an approved repairer. Poor maintenance or improper use may make it ineligible for the bonus. Ask the repairer to confirm whether the scheme applies to your fault when they provide a quote.

What capacity should I choose when replacing a washing machine?

Choose a capacity to suit your usual laundry loads rather than automatically going for the largest drum. ADEME says that 7 kg is usually enough. Also check the space available, the spin performance and the noise level of the model you’re considering.

How should I look after a new washing machine?

Use the amount of detergent specified on the product and follow the washing machine’s instructions. ADEME recommends using the right amount to help prevent detergent build-up in the pipes and drawer. Always check the guidance for your specific appliance.