If your washing machine will be near your living room, compare the spin noise levels for each model and check any available test results. Then make sure the machine and its door will fit in the space you have. The energy label helps you compare models, but the results in your home will also depend on installation and levelling.
If your washing machine runs close to a room you use, compare the stated spin noise level with any available test results. Don’t assume the energy label will predict exactly how loud it will seem in your home. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between test measurements and assessments based on everyday use.
Choosing between a front-loading and a top-loading machine depends on the available width and depth, as well as the clearance needed to open the door. UFC-Que Choisir describes slim front-loading models as machines with a reduced depth.
Consider capacity, spin efficiency and energy and water consumption together, based on your usual loads and the space available for drying clothes. ADEME recommends checking the energy label to compare these features.
First measure the space and allow for clearance. Then compare spin noise levels and choose a capacity that suits your washing loads. ADEME recommends checking the energy label to compare the features it lists.
| Criteria | What to check before buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Spin noise | The noise level and noise class shown on the label for the exact model, along with any available independent test results. | If the machine will run near my living room, I want to compare its spin noise rather than rely on a vague “quiet” claim. Around 29 % of consumers put keeping noise levels down near their living space first. |
| Dimensions and door opening | The model’s width, depth and height; access to connections and the space needed to open the door or lid. | When space is tight, I want to be able to install and open the machine without blocking the way. Around 23 % of consumers prioritise a practical layout. |
| Vibration and installation | The instructions in the manual, removal of transit bolts, contact of the feet with the floor and levelling; compatibility of any anti-vibration pads. | If the machine moves during the spin cycle, I want to check the installation before considering a different model or an accessory. Around 18 % of consumers prioritise controlling vibration and getting the installation right. |
| Capacity and drying | A capacity suited to your usual loads, spin efficiency and the noise level for the exact model. | If I dry clothes at home, I want to choose a capacity that suits my washing without automatically opting for the biggest drum or fastest spin. Around 18 % of consumers focus first on the amount of washing and how it will be dried. |
| Energy and water use and durability | Water and electricity consumption according to the basis stated on the label; the durability index applicable in France. | When several models fit the space, I also want to compare their consumption and durability information. Around 12 % of consumers prioritise running costs and durability. |
The label lets you compare the figures declared for different models, while tests offer further insight into spin noise. The noise you hear may also depend on your home and the installation.
Compare exact models on the same basis and check any available independent test results.
A suitable width doesn’t guarantee that the lid will open freely. A front-loader may fit beneath some worktops, but it needs space in front to open.
Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the clearance needed to open the machine, before choosing a style.
Transit bolts left in place or incorrectly adjusted feet can cause noise and banging, especially during the spin cycle. Anti-vibration pads are no substitute for installing the machine according to the instructions.
First check the transit bolts, make sure the feet are firmly on the floor and level the machine. If needed, consider compatible anti-vibration pads afterwards.
Capacity, spin efficiency, noise and consumption meet different needs, particularly if you dry clothes indoors.
Compare the capacity with your usual loads, and consider spin efficiency and noise together for the model you’re looking at.
The front-loading WAN2827FFR is worth considering if your space can accommodate a door-opening model.
The PerfectCare 600 EW6T1265CA top-loader could be an option if width is limited and there’s room to open the lid above it.
The front-loading F92SR50WHS is worth considering if depth is a key factor.
The TDLR 6247 FR/N is a top-loading option if you have enough clearance above the machine.
This selection features front-loading washing machines to compare based on the dimensions of your home, your usual washing loads and the spin noise listed for each model.
Image unavailable
Compare its front-loading design and stated capacity with your available space and usual washing loads.
Capacity: 7 kg. Maximum spin speed: 1 400 rpm. Stated spin noise: 72 dB, noise class A. Dimensions: 59,8 × 84,8 × 59 cm. Energy efficiency class A and spin-drying efficiency class B.
Image unavailable
Compare its stated width with your available space and check the spin noise for this model before choosing.
Capacity: 9 kg. Maximum spin speed: 1 400 rpm. Stated width: 465 mm. BLDC motor.
The installation instructions say to remove the transit bolts and level the machine.
Image unavailable
Consider its capacity alongside the size of your washing loads and the dimensions of the space available.
Capacity: 10 kg. Maximum spin speed: 1 400 rpm. 16 programmes.
Image unavailable
Compare its 10 kg capacity with the size of your washing loads and the space available.
Capacity: 10 kg. 16 programmes. The model title mentions a pet hair programme and a steam function.
Image unavailable
Compare its stated depth with the space available, and allow enough clearance to open the door.
Capacity: 8 kg. Stated depth: 48 cm. 16 programmes. The model title mentions a pet hair programme and a steam function.
No. It helps you compare the figures declared for different models, but it can’t predict on its own how loud a machine will seem in your home. If possible, check an independent test of the exact model and take its installation into account.
Follow the instructions for your model: remove the transit bolts, check that the feet are firmly on the floor and level the machine. Compatible anti-vibration pads may be worth considering as an extra, but the noise reduction claimed by their manufacturer isn’t guaranteed to be the same on every floor.
Compare the consumption figures on the energy label and check the French durability index applicable to the model. This information can help you make your choice, but it won’t tell you how noisy the machine will seem in your home.
Check the energy label that applies to the household washing machine in question, as well as the French durability index. For washing machines, this index has been gradually replacing the repairability index since 8 April 2025; it doesn’t indicate how quiet the machine will be in your home.