For a shared home, measure the available space first and choose a capacity to suit the loads you actually wash together: according to ADEME, 7 kg is often enough. Then compare noise levels and spin efficiency, along with the consumption figures on the new model’s energy label. These values won’t predict vibrations transmitted through your floor or how long laundry will take to dry in your room.
If the machine will be running while other people are at home, compare its spin-cycle noise in decibels and its noise class. Also make sure it can be installed securely: the figure on the label doesn’t tell you how much vibration will travel through your floor.
Whether it’s going in a kitchen, bathroom or narrow cupboard, check the machine’s dimensions, the route to its final position, door clearance and space for the connections before settling on a capacity.
Compare the spin-drying efficiency class, but don’t use it to estimate an exact drying time. Choose a capacity that suits your usual loads, and also check the water per cycle and energy use per 100 cycles on the label.
First check that the washing machine will fit and can be installed. Then compare suitable models against the household’s needs and the information on their energy labels.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Noise and vibrations | Compare the dB rating and noise class during the spin cycle on the label for the exact model. Check the instruction manual for guidance on levelling the machine. | If the washing machine is running while the other people in the household are around, I want the spin cycle to disrupt daily life as little as possible; around 42% of consumers would make quiet operation their priority. |
| Size and installation | Measure the height, width and depth, access routes, and clearance for the door and hoses. Confirm the delivery arrangements. | If space is tight, the main thing is being able to get the appliance in and install it without making it difficult to use; around 33% of consumers would prioritise its size. |
| Capacity, spin performance and consumption | Work out the size of the loads you’ll combine, then compare capacity in kg, spin-drying efficiency class, litres per cycle and kWh per 100 cycles for the Eco 40-60 programme. | If laundry dries in the room, I want a drum that suits our usual loads without overlooking spin performance or consumption; around 25% of consumers would prioritise this balance. |
According to ADEME, a capacity of 7 kg is usually enough, but regularly washing larger loads may change what’s right for you. Energy-label figures let you compare models on a like-for-like basis; they don’t show how a machine will behave on your floor.
A drum that’s bigger than you need could mean running cycles with only a small load. ADEME recommends matching the capacity to the loads you actually wash, and says that 7 kg is often enough.
Before deciding whether you’d benefit from a larger capacity, think about how much laundry you usually combine and how often you wash it.
A marketing claim is no substitute for the spin-cycle noise rating. UFC-Que Choisir notes that spin noise remains a point to consider when choosing a washing machine.
Compare the dB rating and noise class for the exact model, then follow the manual’s instructions for removing the transit bolts and levelling the machine.
Two machines with the same capacity may have different depths. The appliance’s dimensions alone don’t account for the space needed for connections and for opening the door.
Before ordering, also measure the route to the room, the space behind the machine and the door’s opening arc.
Some Bosch front-loading models highlight AntiVibration design or features for managing smaller loads.
Miele’s ranges may appeal if you’re looking for features designed to care for fabrics or automatic detergent dosing.
Haier offers both front-loading washing machines and top-loading models, which may be worth considering if width is limited.
Yes. The DGCCRF states that this requirement applies to new washing machines sold in France, both in shops and online. Check that the information shown matches the model you’re considering.
Compare the capacity, kWh per 100 cycles, water use in litres per cycle, spin-cycle dB rating and noise class, as well as the spin-drying efficiency class. These standardised figures, based on the Eco 40-60 programme, don’t predict vibrations through your floor or drying time in your room.
It may be, if your usual combined loads suit that capacity. ADEME says that 7 kg is usually enough; if people in your household regularly wash larger loads, work out how much laundry you need to fit before choosing.
For sales with delivery in France, Article R541-161 of the French Environmental Code governs the collection of used products at the delivery point or through the other options set out in the legislation. Confirm the arrangements when you order, including how to prepare the old appliance and make it accessible.