Anyone dealing with a breakdown
You need a working washing machine, but want to find out whether your current one can be repaired before buying another.
Who is this choice for?
Anyone focused on how long it will last
You want to compare specific models for reliability, repairability, maintenance and access to spare parts, rather than focusing on capacity alone.
Anyone considering second-hand
You’re thinking about a refurbished or second-hand machine and want to know its condition, what checks have been carried out and which guarantees apply.
What should you look at?
Repair your current machine
Consider this: when the fault can be diagnosed and the machine can be working again within an acceptable timeframe.
Bear in mind: the washing machine’s overall condition and access to spare parts can affect whether this is the right option.
Buy a new washing machine
Consider this: if you decide to replace your machine and can compare the durability ratings of specific models.
Bear in mind: the rating alone cannot predict how long your machine will last.
Choose a refurbished machine
Consider this: if a professional seller clearly describes the checks carried out and the machine’s features.
Bear in mind: for the model on offer, you’ll still need to check its history and the condition of wear-and-tear parts.
After a breakdown, or if your washing machine is getting old, decide what matters most before comparing your options. For new purchases in France, the Ministry for Ecological Transition says that washing machines have been covered by the durability rating since 8 April 2025.
| What matters | What to check | Who this is for |
|---|---|---|
| Avoid replacing your machine too soon | Ask for a diagnosis and a quote, then look at the machine’s overall condition and access to spare parts. | If my washing machine breaks down, I want to know whether it can still be used before replacing it; around 36% of consumers put this first. |
| Prioritise a long-lasting new machine | Compare the durability ratings of specific models and check the details on repairability and reliability. | For my next washing machine, I want to be able to assess its reliability, maintenance and repairability; around 29% of consumers share this priority. |
| Choose a washing machine to suit your household | Check the capacity you need for your usual loads, then compare water and energy use, spin performance and noise on the label. | I don’t want a drum that’s often only partly full, or a machine that’s too small for my usual loads; around 21% of consumers put this fit first. |
| Consider a second-hand machine | Ask for the exact model, its condition, the checks carried out and the guarantees that apply, depending on the seller. | If I’m considering a second-hand or refurbished machine, I need to understand what has been checked and what condition it’s in; this is the main priority for around 14% of consumers. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Assuming the durability rating guarantees a long lifespan
According to the Ministry for Ecological Transition, this rating combines repairability and reliability criteria. It does not predict how long each machine will last in its actual conditions of use.
Compare ratings for specific models, then check the capacity, energy label and information about spare parts.
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Replacing your washing machine without getting the fault assessed
The fault alone doesn’t tell you whether the machine can be repaired. A diagnosis can help you decide by taking its condition and the proposed repair into account.
Ask for a diagnosis and a quote before ordering another machine. The QualiRépar directory, provided by ecosystem, can help you find a repairer.
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Confusing refurbished with simply second-hand
Service Public Entreprendre explains that the term “refurbished” means all functions have been tested and, where necessary, work has been carried out to restore them. It doesn’t, by itself, tell you how worn each part is.
Check the model, its stated condition, the checks carried out and the seller’s status before choosing.
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Choosing a larger capacity without considering your laundry
A drum that’s too large for your usual loads may often be only partly full; a capacity that’s too small could mean running more cycles.
Start by considering how much laundry you do. ADEME says a 7 kg capacity is enough most of the time, but that won’t suit every household.
Brands to assess model by model
Published brand data is no substitute for checking the specific model you’re thinking of buying.
Beko
Beko France publishes French data on washing machine durability ratings, which you can check by model.
- This data can help you check the rating for a specific model.
- It doesn’t mean every Beko washing machine has the same durability rating.
Electrolux
Electrolux France also publishes data on washing machine durability ratings.
- You can compare a specific model rather than the brand as a whole.
- Check the rating shown when you buy and the information for the model you’ve chosen.
Miele
Miele S.A.S publishes French durability rating data for the washing machines covered.
- This lets you review the information declared for a specific model.
- This data doesn’t prove how long a particular machine will last. Also check the terms relating to spare parts and after-sales service.
Joybuy products related to this topic
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I find the durability rating when buying online?
In France, Service Public says the durability rating symbol must appear on the pages related to buying the washing machine concerned and be readable without needing to interact with the screen. When comparing two machines, make sure the rating matches each model you’re considering.
What does a washing machine’s durability rating take into account?
According to the Ministry for Ecological Transition, this rating out of 10 combines repairability and reliability criteria, including documentation, disassembly, spare parts, maintenance and resistance to wear. It helps you compare specific models, but doesn’t guarantee how long any individual machine will last.
Should you get a washing machine repaired after a breakdown?
First, get the fault assessed if the machine might be repairable. The diagnosis, quote, proposed timescale, overall condition of the washing machine and access to spare parts can then help you choose between repair and replacement.
Does the legal guarantee of conformity apply to a refurbished washing machine?
Yes. In France, the Ministry of the Economy says the legal guarantee of conformity also applies to refurbished goods sold by a professional to an individual. Before buying, identify the seller and check the machine’s description and the stated checks. Don’t automatically assume the same applies to a sale between private individuals.