Start by identifying your main constraint: limited depth, restricted width or the clearance needed to open the door. Then choose a capacity that suits your usual laundry loads. Compare the dimensions with the appliance closed and open, and allow space for the connections. ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that meets your needs, rather than running extra cycles with an underfilled drum.
If the machine might obstruct a walkway, compare its depth without the door, with the door closed and with it open. Then allow extra room for the connections. Que Choisir Ensemble and the Bosch WAN28258FR product sheet distinguish between these measurements.
If cupboards or other obstacles limit access, check the loading type, the clearance needed for the door or lid, and whether the exact model can be installed under a worktop. Que Choisir Ensemble covers choosing a washing machine for small spaces.
If the machine is near your living room, choose a capacity to suit your loads and compare the spin-cycle noise level rather than assuming the motor name tells you how quiet it is. ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that meets your needs.
Worth considering: if your alcove has enough width and depth, and you want to keep a worktop above the appliance.
Check: that the model is approved for under-worktop installation and that there is enough clearance to open the door.
Worth considering: if depth is your main constraint and you have enough room in front of the door.
Bear in mind: the term ‘slim’ doesn’t guarantee a specific overall depth or reduced width. Compare the dimensions of each model.
Worth considering: if width is limited and the lid can open fully.
Check: a top-opening lid needs clear space above the machine, so this style won’t fit under a fixed worktop that covers it.
| Feature | What to check before buying | Who should prioritise it |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions and connections | Depth with the door included, pipe positions and clearance when the appliance is open. | If the appliance might restrict the walkway, measure the space with the connections and door opening in mind. Around 36% of consumers prioritise the space the machine takes up once installed. |
| Door opening and layout | How the door or lid opens, access to the drum and whether it fits around the furniture. | If I need to load laundry in an alcove or beside a cupboard, I check that I can open the machine easily. Around 29% of consumers prioritise access to the laundry and the room layout. |
| Suitable capacity | Your usual laundry load, the maximum load for each programme and the consumption details on the energy label. | If my laundry loads are small or infrequent, I look for a capacity that suits them rather than choosing the largest option. Around 21% of consumers put laundry capacity first; ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that meets your needs. |
| Spin-cycle noise | The stated noise level during the spin cycle, programme duration and installation instructions. | If the machine is near the living room or bedroom, I compare its stated spin-cycle noise level. Around 14% of consumers make noise their top priority. In its survey of 4,350 newsletter respondents, conducted from 15 to 24 May 2025, Que Choisir found more mixed opinions about spin-cycle noise. |
A depth measurement that excludes the door may underestimate the space required, especially if the appliance needs to sit further forward to accommodate the connections.
Ask for the dimensions with the door closed and open, along with an installation diagram for the exact model.
Electrolux’s service in France excludes plumbing, electrical and carpentry work.
Before placing your order, ask your chosen retailer to confirm in writing which connections are available and exactly what its service includes.
ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that meets your needs, to avoid running extra cycles with underfilled drums.
Think about your usual loads and check the maximum load for the programmes you plan to use.
The examples below refer to specific models. Their features don’t necessarily apply to every product in each brand’s range.
The WAN28258FR shows how the depth of a standard front-loader can be measured in several ways.
The ProWash 550 BP 48SBL6-S is an example of a front-loader with a stated reduced depth.
The PerfectCare 600 EW6T1265CA is an example of a top-loading washing machine.
This selection includes top-loaders and front-loaders. Compare the installation dimensions of your chosen model with your available space and laundry needs.
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Worth considering if you’re short on width and have enough clearance to open the lid.
Stated capacity: 6 kg. Listed width: 40.5 cm. Stated spin-cycle noise level: 79 dB(A). The title also lists 1,400 rpm and 17 programmes.
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Consider this model if a 10 kg capacity suits your laundry loads and your space can accommodate its dimensions.
The title lists a 10 kg capacity, 16 programmes, a steam function and a pet hair programme.
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Worth considering if depth is your main constraint. Remember to check the space needed for the connections and to open the door.
Stated capacity: 8 kg. The title lists 16 programmes, while the description gives a depth of 48 cm. Check what this measurement includes for installation.
No. Think of it as the maximum capacity available, and choose a machine to suit your usual needs. ADEME recommends choosing a capacity that meets your needs. Also check the maximum load for the programmes you plan to use.
Not necessarily. For its service in France, Electrolux states that its installers don’t carry out plumbing, electrical or carpentry work. Check exactly what’s included in the service offered by your chosen retailer.
Check the delivery route, including doorways, stairs and lifts, and let the retailer know about any access difficulties. Electrolux’s guide also asks customers to clear the route on delivery day. These instructions apply to its service and don’t set the terms for other retailers.
Follow the instructions for your model. Electrolux says to unplug the appliance before carrying out maintenance. For routine care, also check the manufacturer’s guidance on the water supply and any water left in the machine. Leave technical work to someone suitably qualified.
According to the French Ministry for Ecological Transition, the durability index replaced the repairability index for washing machines on 8 April 2025. Don’t compare an older repairability rating with a current durability rating as if they measured exactly the same thing.