Before replacing your washing machine, check that the new appliance will fit in its space, that the door or lid can open and that it’s compatible with your connections. Then compare the capacity and durability index of the relevant new models. The index combines reliability and repairability criteria, but it doesn’t guarantee a specific lifespan, so check the parts, maintenance requirements and warranty too. A refurbished appliance could also be a good option if the professional seller describes the condition and tests carried out on the specific appliance, along with its model reference and warranties.
If you want to compare more than just size, the durability index for relevant new washing machines combines reliability and repairability criteria. Then check the information for each model on parts, maintenance and warranty.
If your new washing machine needs to fit where the old one stood, measure the space and the delivery route. Allow room for the door or lid to open, and check the connections in the manual for the model you choose.
If you’re happy to buy an appliance that’s been used before, ask the professional seller for the exact model reference, the condition of the specific appliance, the tests carried out and the warranty information. The product details for the new model alone don’t describe the refurbished appliance being offered.
First rule out appliances that won’t fit your space or work with your connections. From the models that meet your usual washing needs, consider durability and maintenance requirements. If you’re thinking about buying refurbished, check the specific appliance on offer rather than relying only on details of the original model.
| What matters | What to check | Who this applies to |
|---|---|---|
| Durability and repairability | For relevant new washing machines sold in France, compare the durability index of models that suit your needs. Also check the information on parts, maintenance and warranty. | I want to maintain or repair my next appliance rather than have to replace it prematurely. Around 36% of consumers put this at the top of their list of concerns. |
| Space and connections | Measure the space, the delivery route and the clearance needed to open the door or lid. Check the drainage and water supply requirements in the manual for the model you choose. | In a small utility room, my first priority is making sure the appliance will fit and can be installed correctly. Installation compatibility is the main concern for around 29% of consumers. |
| Size and capacity | Compare the model’s stated capacity with your usual loads, then check that you’ll be able to access a front-loading door or a top-loading lid. | I want to keep to my usual washing routine without choosing an appliance whose door or lid gets in the way of everyday use. For around 21% of consumers, size and load capacity come first. |
| Condition of refurbished appliances and warranties | Ask the professional seller for the full model reference, the condition and test results for the specific appliance, and information on parts and applicable warranties. | If I buy a refurbished washing machine, I want to know exactly what I’m buying and who to contact if something goes wrong. Around 14% of consumers put these purchase conditions first. |
According to the ministry responsible for the ecological transition, the durability index has applied since 8 April 2025 to relevant household washing machines put on sale in France. ADEME explains that reliability and repairability each account for half of the score. So the score doesn’t replace measuring the space or checking the details of the specific appliance.
The score is based on reliability and repairability criteria. It doesn’t predict when a particular appliance will break down, and it doesn’t take care of installation constraints.
Compare models that all suit your space and how you plan to use them, then look at the detailed information on parts, documentation and maintenance.
The depth, pipes and clearance needed to open a door or lid could also prevent installation or make the appliance harder to use.
Measure the space and the delivery route, then compare your measurements with the dimensions and manual for the exact model reference.
Two appliances of the same model can differ in condition or what’s included. The DGCCRF says that a product sold as refurbished must have undergone functional tests before being put on sale.
Ask the professional seller for the model reference, documented condition, work carried out, included accessories and warranty terms for the specific appliance on offer.
A filter or detergent drawer that’s difficult to reach can make the maintenance recommended in the manual less convenient once the appliance is installed.
Before you buy, check that you’ll be able to reach the parts that need cleaning. Then follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions for that model.
Worth considering if you want to search for original parts using your washing machine’s model reference: Bosch offers an E-Nr. search for several product ranges.
Worth considering if the stated period of parts availability after production ends is important to you.
Worth considering if you want to check the documentation for a top-loading model where the dimensions and installation requirements are key to your choice.
First, compare appliances that both fit your space and meet your usual washing needs. According to ADEME, reliability and repairability each account for 50% of the final score. Then check the information on parts and maintenance rather than looking at the overall score alone.
Yes, for household washing machines covered by the regulations. According to the ministry responsible for the ecological transition, the durability index has applied to these appliances put on sale in France since 8 April 2025. Check the index for the relevant new model when comparing products.
Measure the space, the delivery route and the clearance needed to open the door or lid. Also check the manual for the model you’ve chosen for connection and installation requirements. For example, Electrolux’s instructions for its appliances call for an earthed socket and specify the required drain height.
Yes. According to the French Ministry of the Economy, the legal guarantee of conformity also applies to refurbished goods sold by a professional to a private individual. Before you buy, ask for details of the specific appliance’s condition and tests. Don’t confuse this legal protection with any commercial warranty the seller may offer.