Who is this choice for?

Shoppers who prioritise repairability

You’re replacing a worn-out appliance and want to compare its documentation, how easy it is to dismantle, maintenance requirements and access to spare parts before choosing a model.

Households with space and laundry needs to consider

You need to choose a loading type, dimensions and capacity that suit both your installation and your usual laundry loads, without overlooking durability.

Shoppers open to refurbished appliances

You’re considering a refurbished second-hand appliance, provided the professional seller describes its condition, the checks or repairs carried out, and the applicable warranties.

Which criteria should you prioritise?

In France, ADEME says that washing machines put on sale since April 2025 must display a durability rating. For a new appliance, check the rating and its breakdown for the exact model; for a refurbished one, focus instead on the information provided about the specific appliance on offer.

New front-loader

Consider it: if front loading suits your installation and the way you use your machine.

Bear in mind: a durability rating won’t tell you whether the model’s dimensions and capacity are right for you.

New top-loader

Consider it: if loading from the top better suits your access requirements.

Bear in mind: the loading type doesn’t determine durability, which needs to be assessed model by model.

Refurbished

Consider it: if the offer clearly describes the appliance and the checks carried out.

Bear in mind: assess the appliance’s history and the terms of its commercial warranty as part of the specific offer; don’t assume they’re the same as for a new machine.

Criteria What to check Who it matters to
Repair and maintenance For a new model, read the breakdown of its rating: documentation, dismantling, maintenance and spare-parts availability. If I want to maintain or have my next washing machine repaired, these options come before its other features. Around 40% of shoppers would make repair and maintenance their priority.
Installation and washing Check the dimensions, allowing for the necessary clearance, then check the loading type and capacity of the specific model. My machine needs to fit in its space and handle my usual laundry loads without making everyday use more difficult. Around 30% of shoppers would prioritise a good fit for their installation and laundry needs.
Refurbished appliance terms Check the condition described, the checks carried out, any repairs made and the written warranty terms. Before choosing a refurbished appliance, I want to know what’s been checked and who to contact if something goes wrong. Around 30% of shoppers would put this kind of information and reassurance first.

What should you avoid before ordering?

  • Relying on the overall durability rating alone

    The same rating brings together several criteria, and they won’t all meet your needs in the same way. If repairability matters most to you, take a separate look at the details on spare parts, documentation and dismantling.

    Ask for the calculation sheet for the exact model and compare the criteria that matter to your decision.

  • Confusing a motor warranty with cover for the whole appliance

    A commercial warranty covering only the motor won’t necessarily cover the other components. For example, Miele offers a 25-year motor warranty on certain new domestic washing machines, subject to purchase, use and registration conditions.

    Before comparing it with another offer, check which component is covered, how to activate the warranty and what’s excluded.

  • Assuming refurbished means the same as new

    According to the French Ministry of the Economy, a refurbished product is a second-hand item whose functions have been tested and which has been repaired if necessary. This definition alone doesn’t tell you the condition or history of the appliance on offer.

    Read the offer description, identify the professional seller, and keep the warranty terms and proof of purchase.

  • Leaving measurements until after delivery

    Capacity and depth vary from model to model. Even a washing machine that looks suitable on paper can cause problems if you haven’t considered the door opening, connections or route to its intended position.

    Measure the space and delivery route, then check the door opening, clearance for pipes and cables, and any restrictions involving a stacked tumble dryer.

Brands to consider, model by model

Electrolux

Worth considering if you want to consult a detailed rating sheet and identify spare parts by appliance model.

  • Electrolux’s listing on Darty gives its LTR8C7313DS top-loader a rating of 8,50/10. Electrolux also provides exploded diagrams and parts lists for some precisely identified models.
  • The LTR8C7313DS rating and parts information for another model don’t apply to every Electrolux machine. Check the rating sheet and spare parts for the model you’re interested in.

Bosch

Worth a look for a new front-loader if capacity and overall size are your main priorities.

  • The Bosch WGE02203FR listing on Boulanger gives a capacity of 7 kg and dimensions of 59,8 × 84,8 × 63,2 cm, which can help you check whether it will fit your space.
  • These specifications apply to the WGE02203FR. Check the durability rating and dimensions separately for any other Bosch model.

Miele

Consider it if the scope of a commercial motor warranty is one of your criteria.

  • Miele offers a 25-year motor warranty on certain new domestic washing machines, subject to the terms set out in its contract.
  • This isn’t a 25-year warranty for the whole appliance. Check whether the model qualifies, the purchase channel, any registration requirements and the applicable exclusions.

Valberg

Worth considering for a new 10 kg front-loader if that capacity suits your usual laundry loads.

  • Electro Dépôt lists a capacity of 10 kg and a durability rating of 8,2/10 for the Valberg WF 1014 A-10 W566C.
  • This rating applies to the WF 1014 A-10 W566C, not all Valberg washing machines. Read the rating breakdown and check the dimensions before choosing.

Joybuy products related to this choice

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

When did the durability rating become relevant to washing machines in France?

ADEME says the display requirement applies to washing machines put on sale since April 2025. To compare two appliances, check the rating out of 10 and the calculation sheet for each model: one model’s rating doesn’t apply to its entire range.

What should you check beyond the durability rating?

Read the detailed reliability and repairability criteria for the specific model, including maintenance, documentation, dismantling and spare parts. Then check its capacity and dimensions: the rating doesn’t tell you whether it meets these practical needs.

Does a refurbished washing machine come with the legal guarantee of conformity?

Yes. In France, when a professional sells the appliance to an individual, the French Ministry of the Economy confirms that this guarantee also applies to refurbished goods. Any commercial warranty is separate, so read its specific terms and exclusions.

What should you check before buying a refurbished washing machine?

Check the appliance’s identity and condition, the checks carried out, any repairs made, the accessories included and the written warranty terms. Ask for details about the specific offer rather than relying on the word ‘refurbished’ alone.

How should you plan to maintain your washing machine after buying it?

Check the manufacturer’s care instructions for the model you’ve chosen and find out which parts you’ll need to access. ADEME recommends regular descaling and cleaning the filters and door seals, following the instructions for your appliance.