Choose the capacity to suit the loads your household usually washes, then check that both the machine and its door will fit in the available space. A front-loading model often offers a larger capacity, while a top-loader or compact model may be better suited to a tight space. A larger capacity is only worthwhile if you regularly wash large loads. Finally, compare the energy and spin-noise figures on the energy label for each model.
Between small loads, washing for several people and household linens, think about how often you wash large loads before choosing a capacity. As Que Choisir points out, the wrong capacity can lead to unnecessary energy use or more frequent washes.
In a small bathroom or utility room, the machine’s dimensions aren’t the only thing to consider : check the route into the room and the space needed to open the door or lid.
If the spin cycle could disturb others in a shared building, compare the noise levels stated for each model. You should also make sure the machine is installed so that vibrating pipes don’t touch it or nearby furniture, as Electrolux Support advises.
Start with the amount of laundry you actually wash, rule out any models that can’t be installed properly, then compare the specifications of the remaining options.
| Criteria | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Compare the kg capacity for dry laundry with your usual loads and how often you wash larger loads. ADEME says that 7 kg is usually enough ; Que Choisir notes that the wrong capacity can mean more cycles or unnecessary energy use. | I often wash small loads, so I don’t want to choose a large drum just for the occasional bulky wash. |
| Size | Measure the width, height and depth of the space, then allow room for the door or lid to open. For a top-loader, make sure the space above it is accessible ; for a front-loader, check which way the door opens. | The washing machine needs to fit in the room without blocking a piece of furniture or the walkway when I load it. |
| Spin-cycle noise | Compare the dB(A) rating and noise class for the specific model on its label; don’t judge noise by rpm alone. According to Electrolux Support, poorly positioned pipes can also cause vibrations. | I live in a flat, so I want to be able to check the spin-cycle noise before buying and avoid vibration from contact during installation. |
| Energy use and durability | Check the water, energy, spin and noise figures on the energy label, as ADEME recommends. For a machine sold in France, also compare its durability index : the French Ministry for Ecological Transition says this replaced the repairability index for washing machines on 8 April 2025. | I want to compare models based on their usage information and durability, not just their energy rating. |
According to Que Choisir, choosing the wrong capacity can lead to unnecessary energy use or, if the drum is too small, more frequent washes.
Estimate the size of your dry laundry loads and how often you wash larger loads before comparing capacities and energy labels.
A front-loader may fit in its space but still block the walkway when the door is open. A top-loader needs enough room to open and load from above.
Check the overall dimensions, which way the door opens and how much clearance you’ll need to use your chosen model.
The maximum spin speed alone doesn’t tell you how noisy a model is rated to be. Electrolux Support also notes that the position of the pipes can cause vibrations.
Compare the dB(A) rating and noise class during the spin cycle, and follow the installation instructions.
The energy rating doesn’t tell you everything about durability. In France, the Ministry for Ecological Transition says the durability index replaced the repairability index for washing machines on 8 April 2025.
Compare the index shown for the models you’re considering alongside their energy labels.
These features apply to the models named, not to every product from each brand.
Bosch Électroménager France lists the Bosch WAN24209FR as a 9 kg front-loader with a spin speed of 1 200 tr/min.
The Electrolux EW6T3365BCZ is a 6 kg top-loader. According to Electrolux France, its SensiCare system adjusts the cycle duration to the weight of the load.
Miele France lists the WED385 WCS as having a 9 kg capacity and a spin-cycle noise level of 72 dB.
These options include 8 kg and 9 kg front-loaders, and a 7 kg top-loader. Match their capacities to your usual loads, then check the door clearance and label information for the model you’re interested in.
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Worth considering if your usual loads suit an 8 kg capacity and you have enough clearance in front of a front-loader. The model name specifies 1 400 tr/min and a C energy rating ; check which way the door opens and review the label details before choosing.
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A top-loader is worth considering if an opening front door would get in the way. This model is listed as having a 7 kg capacity, a spin speed of 1 200 tr/min and an A energy rating ; measure the available space above the lid and compare its spin-cycle noise level.
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An 8 kg capacity may suit a range of household loads if it matches how often you do the washing. The model name specifies 1 400 tr/min and SensiCare ; check the clearance needed for the door and the water, energy and noise figures on its product label.
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Consider the 9 kg capacity if you regularly wash large loads, rather than only occasionally. The model name specifies 1 600 tr/min ; compare its stated spin-cycle noise level and measure the space needed to open the door.
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Consider the 9 kg capacity in relation to the loads you wash regularly; don’t assume a larger drum will use less energy. This black model is listed with an A energy rating ; check the depth needed with the door open and the figures on its energy label.
Often, yes: ADEME says a 7 kg washing machine is usually enough. Still, check your actual loads : if you regularly fill the drum with laundry for several people and household linens, compare larger capacities too.
Measure the space and the room needed to load the machine. For a front-loader, check which way the door opens and allow enough clearance in front of it ; for a top-loader, make sure the lid can open and the top remains accessible.
Compare the spin-cycle noise level listed for each model, and make sure the machine is installed properly. Electrolux Support explains that poorly positioned pipes, or pipes touching the machine, can cause vibrations ; follow the installation instructions in the manual.
ADEME recommends comparing the water, energy, spin and noise figures. Use them to weigh up the models you’re considering, bearing in mind that the figures shown are based on the label’s standard test conditions.
Check the durability index for the model sold in France. According to the French Ministry for Ecological Transition, it has replaced the repairability index for washing machines since 8 April 2025.