Who is this decision for?

Households considering repair first

You want to know whether the machine can be back in working order within an acceptable timescale, with the necessary part available, before choosing a replacement.

Households with limited space or access

You need to consider the route to the installation space, the appliance’s dimensions, and the room needed to open its door or lid.

Households focused on everyday use and lifespan

You want to compare a capacity suited to your laundry, noise levels, energy and water use, the durability index, and information about parts for your next machine.

What to consider when making your decision

Have it repaired

Consider this: if a professional can identify the fault and recommend a suitable repair based on the machine’s condition.

Bear in mind: your decision also depends on whether the part is available and how long the repair will take. The Repair Bonus is subject to eligibility conditions, as set out by ecosystem.

Replace it with a front-loader

Consider this: if there is enough room to open the door at the front and the capacity you need is available in a front-loading model.

Bear in mind: you’ll need clearance in front of the machine to open the door and load it.

Replace it with a top-loader

Consider this: if loading from the top works better with the available access and avoids a door opening into a walkway.

Bear in mind: you’ll need to keep the space above it clear and check that the model’s capacity suits the loads you typically wash.

What matters to you What to check Who is it for?
Whether it can be repaired Ask for a diagnosis and quote that specify the part required and the timescale; check whether the repair may qualify for the Repair Bonus. If my washing machine can be back in service soon, I’d rather look into that option before replacing it. Around 33% of consumers would make repair their priority.
Space and access Measure the machine, the delivery route and the clearance needed in front of a front-loader’s door or above a top-loader. A machine needs to fit in the room and be easy to open and load without blocking the way. For around 25% of consumers, this would be their top priority.
Everyday use Compare capacity in kg, kWh per 100 Eco 40-60 cycles, water use per cycle, programme duration and spin noise. If I do laundry often or can hear the spin cycle in nearby rooms, I want to compare the figures for each model rather than just its energy rating. Around 25% of consumers would put everyday comfort first.
How long the replacement will last Check the durability index for the exact model, along with information about parts and maintenance. After a breakdown, I want to be able to maintain and, if necessary, repair my next machine. Around 17% of consumers would put this ahead of other considerations.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Replacing the machine without looking into a repair

    A breakdown doesn’t automatically mean you need to replace your washing machine. Its condition and whether the required part is available could affect your decision.

    Find out the model number and identify the fault, then ask for a quote and a repair timescale. If you’re considering the Repair Bonus, ask a QualiRépar professional to check the eligibility conditions.

  • Looking at the energy rating alone

    Two washing machines with the same energy rating can have different energy use, programme durations and spin noise levels.

    Compare all the information on the labels for the models you’re considering, and choose a capacity that suits the loads you actually wash.

  • Measuring the machine without allowing room to open it

    A front-loader needs space in front of its door, while a top-loader needs clear access from above. The route to its final position matters too.

    Check the access route, the dimensions listed for the model and the clearance needed to load it once it’s installed.

  • Assuming a brand’s claims reflect a model’s durability

    A warranty covering only one component or a claim about longevity doesn’t, by itself, tell you how long the whole washing machine will last.

    Check the warranty cover, durability index and parts information for the exact model you’re interested in.

Brands to compare by model

These ranges offer a starting point for comparing types and capacities. The features mentioned apply to specific models, not to every machine from a particular brand.

Bosch

Bosch’s product pages list capacities of 7 kg for the WGE02203FR and 9 kg for the WGG244F1FR front-loaders.

  • Two models to consider if you’re comparing different front-loader capacities.
  • The capacity and spin speed of these models don’t indicate the durability of the whole range; check the index for the model you choose.

Whirlpool

Whirlpool’s top-loader range includes models with capacities from 6 to 7 kg. These may be worth considering if loading from the top would make access easier.

  • Whirlpool lets you search for spare parts using your appliance’s model number.
  • Check the capacity, dimensions and availability of the part you need for the exact model.

Electrolux

Electrolux’s range includes the EW6S1064NA slim front-loader, which has a 6 kg capacity and a depth of 411 mm.

  • This model gives you a chance to consider a stated depth if space is limited.
  • The dimensions and energy-use figures for this model don’t apply to every Electrolux washing machine.

Miele

Miele’s product page for the WWA120 WCS front-loader lists an 8 kg capacity and a maximum spin speed of 1,400 rpm.

  • You can compare these features with other models suited to the same load requirements.
  • Capacity and spin speed aren’t enough to assess durability; check the index and the conditions specific to this model.

Joybuy products

Products related to this topic will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does the Repair Bonus apply to every broken washing machine?

No. According to ecosystem, the scheme applies in particular to appliances owned by households and bought in France that are no longer covered by a legal or commercial warranty or by insurance. The fault must be eligible and the repair must be carried out by a QualiRépar professional. Ask them to confirm whether your appliance qualifies.

Which index should I check when choosing a new washing machine?

Check the durability index for the exact model, but don’t rely on it as your only selection criterion. According to France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition, the durability index has been gradually replacing the repairability index for washing machines since 8 April 2025. You should also check the model’s parts and maintenance information.

What should I compare on the energy labels of two washing machines?

Compare the energy rating, kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, Eco 40-60 programme duration and spin noise. These figures relate to the reference programme shown on the label, so bear that in mind when considering how you usually use your machine.

How can I check spare parts before replacing my machine?

Look for information that matches the exact model number. If you’re already considering a repair, ask someone to confirm whether the required part is available and how long it will take to arrive. The European Commission has set availability requirements for certain washing machine parts, but you should still check whether the part needed for your fault is available.

Does a top-loading washing machine always take up less space than a front-loader?

No. A top-loader may be a better fit if a front door would block the way, but its lid needs clear access from above. Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the clearance needed to use it, then check that the model’s capacity suits your laundry loads.