Households with limited space
Whether you’re fitting a machine in a small bathroom, an existing kitchen or a purpose-built housing, measure the available width, depth and height. Remember to allow enough space to open the machine, too.
Who is this guide for?
Households looking to match capacity to their laundry
If you do laundry frequently or wash bulky items, choose a capacity that suits your usual volume of dry laundry rather than basing your decision on the format alone.
Shoppers thinking about usage and durability
To compare models that suit your home, check their standardised consumption figures and spin noise levels. In France, also look up the durability rating for the specific model.
What should you check before buying?
Start with the space available: a top-loader opens from above, while a front-loader needs room in front for its door. A slimline front-loader still needs clearance for the door to open. For an integrated model, also check the installation plan and make sure the housing and door panel are compatible.
| Criteria | What to check before buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Measure all three dimensions and allow clearance for the door or lid to open. Check the installation plan, as well as the socket, water inlet, drainage and floor stability. | If the machine needs to fit in a housing or a small room, I need to be able to install it and open it without difficulty. Around 36% of consumers would prioritise this compatibility. |
| Capacity and laundry routine | Compare the capacity in kg with your usual loads of dry laundry and any bulky items. Check each model’s specifications, particularly for top-loaders and slimline machines. | When the laundry piles up, I want a suitable capacity without choosing a drum that’s too large for my regular loads. Around 29% of consumers are said to share this priority. |
| Consumption, cycle duration and noise | For similar usable capacities, check the kWh/100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco 40-60 programme duration and spin noise in dB on the energy label or in EPREL. | If the machine is near a living area, I want to consider noise as well as how much water and electricity it uses. Nearly 21% of consumers would put these usage figures first. |
| Durability and your old machine | In France, look for the durability rating for the exact model if one is required. Also ask how your old machine can be taken away. | When replacing a machine, I want to consider the durability of the new model and plan what to do with the old one. This would be the main concern for around 14% of consumers. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Relying on the housing dimensions alone
A washing machine may fit in the space but still leave too little room to open the door or lid. You’ll also need to consider the connections and floor stability.
Before ordering, compare your measurements with the overall dimensions and installation plan for the model you’ve chosen.
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Choosing a top-loader or slimline front-loader without checking its capacity
A space-saving design doesn’t tell you how much laundry the machine can hold. If the capacity is too small for your usual loads, you may end up running more cycles.
Check the capacity in kg, taking into account how often you do laundry and whether you wash bulky items.
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Comparing energy ratings alone
It’s worth taking a closer look at the consumption, programme duration and spin noise levels of different models.
According to the European Commission, the energy label and EPREL database provide information including kWh/100 cycles and water use per cycle. Compare these figures across models that meet the same capacity needs.
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Assuming the durability rating guarantees the machine won’t break down
In France, the durability rating for applicable washing machines is a score out of 10. It doesn’t predict how an individual appliance will perform or replace its warranty terms.
Check the rating for the exact model, then look separately at the warranty, installation and delivery or collection arrangements.
Brands to consider by format
Bosch
Worth considering if you’re looking for a freestanding front-loader or a fully integrated model to fit inside cabinetry.
- Bosch Home Appliances France lists the front-loading WGG244FRFR with a 9 kg capacity and dimensions of 848 × 598 × 590 mm.
- Bosch lists the fully integrated WIW24348FF at 818 × 596 × 544 mm. Check the measurements for the exact model you’re considering rather than assuming they’ll match another model.
Whirlpool
Top-loaders and built-in models to consider, depending on the available width and the type of installation you need.
- Whirlpool France lists the top-loading TDLR 62667 FR at 40 cm wide, with a 6 kg capacity.
- A top-loader needs space above the lid, and its dimensions and built-in installation requirements should be checked for each model.
Electrolux
Top-loaders and compact front-loaders to consider when limited width or depth narrows your options.
- Electrolux France lists the top-loading EWQ6412B with a 6 kg capacity and dimensions of 890 × 400 × 600 mm.
- The brand describes its ‘slim’ front-loaders as generally 33 to 45 cm deep. Check the capacity and dimensions of each model.
Miele
Front-loaders with a larger capacity to consider if their dimensions suit your space.
- Miele France lists the WSI883 WCS with a 9 kg capacity and an A energy rating.
- These specifications apply to this model. Check the dimensions and consumption figures for the model you’re considering.
Washing machines to compare on Joybuy
These washing machines come in a range of capacities and loading styles, making them options to consider when replacing a household appliance. Check each model against the space available: the stated capacity or depth alone won’t tell you whether it will fit.
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Hisense WF5I8043BWF, 8 kg front-loader
Worth considering if you’re looking for an 8 kg front-loader. Check its full dimensions and allow enough clearance for the door to open.
Spin speed stated as 1,400 rpm; Inverter motor. Look up the French durability rating for the exact model.
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Candy TCA464TM4-S ProWash 500, 6 kg top-loader
Worth considering if top-loading suits your space. Make sure you have enough room to open the lid fully.
B energy rating, spin speed stated as 1,400 rpm, Wi-Fi and 17 programmes. Check the installation dimensions and the durability rating for the exact model.
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Dreame DRWASHS8KG Washing Machine S, 8 kg
If you’re looking for an 8 kg capacity for a shallow space, compare the full dimensions and installation clearances with the space available.
White finish. To compare its durability in France, look up the applicable rating for this model rather than relying on a different score mentioned elsewhere.
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Electrolux EW6FI4805AW, 8 kg front-loader
If you’re replacing a freestanding front-loader, compare its position with your old machine and allow room for the door to open.
Spin speed stated as 1,400 rpm; features named Steam Hygiene and SensiCare. Check the French durability rating for this exact model.
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CHiQ JW85883G, 8 kg front-loader
If depth is a key consideration, check the overall dimensions and the space needed in front of the door before choosing this front-loader.
Spin speed stated as 1,400 rpm and 16 programmes. Check the energy label for the exact model to compare its standardised consumption figures.
Frequently asked questions
How can I check a washing machine’s energy label before buying?
Check the energy label or EU product fiche for the exact model. The European Commission also lets you look up model data in EPREL, including the energy rating, kWh/100 cycles, water use per cycle, capacity, Eco 40-60 programme duration and spin noise level.
Which durability rating should I check for a washing machine in France?
For applicable washing machines in France, the durability rating replaced the repairability rating from 8 April 2025, according to the Ministry for the Ecological Transition. Look up the score out of 10 for the exact model you’re considering. It provides information about factors including repairability and reliability, but doesn’t guarantee the machine won’t break down.
Can I install any washing machine in place of my old one?
No. The dimensions of your old machine alone aren’t enough to confirm the new one will fit. Also check the door or lid clearance, socket, water inlet, drainage and floor stability. Que Choisir recommends asking a qualified professional to carry out any connections that don’t meet the requirements.
What should I do with my old washing machine when I replace it?
ADEME says a replaced large appliance can be handed to the retailer or delivery driver, or taken to the appropriate collection point. Before delivery, ask the retailer how to arrange collection and make sure there’s access to your home.