When replacing your washing machine, first rule out any models that won’t fit in the space available, then choose a capacity to suit your usual laundry loads. Next, compare the durability rating of models that meet those needs. The rating tells you about repairability and reliability, but it does not guarantee your appliance’s lifespan or washing performance.
You’re replacing your washing machine and want to compare how easy it is to repair and how reliable it is. Once you’ve identified models that will fit your home, check their durability rating and, where available, the breakdown of the criteria behind it.
Your laundry loads or how often you wash have changed. The stated capacity refers to dry laundry, but the maximum load can vary by programme. Compare it with the items you actually wash.
Limited width, depth or access for loading can rule out a model before you even compare its ratings. Also measure the clearance needed to open the door and install the appliance.
When replacing your machine, check the installation requirements and your usual laundry loads before comparing models for durability. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a top-loading washing machine is generally narrower than a front-loader, while a slim front-loader mainly takes up less depth. So whichever format you choose, you’ll still need to measure the space.
| Criteria | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Repairability and reliability | Compare the durability rating out of 10 for the exact models you’re considering and, where available, check the details behind the criteria. Separately, make sure the programmes suit your needs. | If I plan to keep my next washing machine and want to be able to maintain or repair it, these factors matter more than secondary features; around 45% of consumers prioritise repairability and reliability. |
| Capacity | Compare the capacity in kg of dry laundry with your usual loads, and check the maximum loads for the programmes you use. | When laundry piles up or loads are often small, I want a drum that suits the volume of my washing; capacity is the main concern for around 33% of consumers. |
| Installation and loading | Measure the width, depth, height and clearance. Check that there’s room to open a front-loader’s door or enough space above a top-loader. | In a narrow room or under a worktop, the appliance must be possible to install and load in the first place; around 22% of consumers put this compatibility first. |
In France, the government departments responsible for the environment describe the durability rating as a score out of 10 for the products covered. For domestic washing machines included in the scheme, the criteria include repairability and reliability. The rating helps you compare these aspects, but it cannot tell you on its own whether the drum capacity, installation or washing performance will suit your household.
A durability rating out of 10 does not guarantee that your appliance will never break down or that it will wash well. It reflects repairability and reliability criteria defined for the French scheme.
Compare the ratings for the exact models you’re considering, after checking their format, capacity and programmes.
A front-loader needs space in front of the door, while a top-loader needs clear space above it. A model with a shallow stated depth may still be too wide for your space.
Measure the space, the route to it and the clearance required before choosing a model.
According to UFC-Que Choisir, a capacity that doesn’t suit your needs can lead to excessive water and electricity use. The stated maximum load does not apply to every programme in the same way.
Start with your usual loads and check the limits for the cycles you use, especially for delicate fabrics.
A drum that’s too small for your loads could also mean running more cycles.
In France, the Ministry of the Economy explains that the legal guarantee of conformity applies to refurbished goods sold by a professional to an individual, but not to private sales.
If you’re considering a refurbished appliance, check the seller’s status, the description of its condition and any work carried out, as well as whether it’s compatible with your installation.
These front-loading models offer a range of capacities and washing features to consider when replacing an existing appliance. Before choosing, confirm the dimensions and clearance required for the exact model, then check its French durability rating and any available details. A retailer’s rating with a similar name should not be confused with this official rating.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for an 8 kg front-loader for your usual laundry loads.
The product name indicates a white finish. Measure your space and check the durability rating that applies to this model before comparing it with other options.
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This 8 kg front-loader is worth comparing if that capacity suits your laundry needs.
The product name mentions SensiCare, Steam Hygiene and a 1400 rpm spin speed. Check there’s enough space in front of the door, and don’t confuse any durability rating shown on the product page with the official French rating.
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Consider this model if you’d like to compare several 8 kg front-loaders before replacing your machine.
The product name indicates an Inverter motor and a 1400 rpm spin speed. Check its dimensions, the clearance required and the durability rating for this exact model.
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Its stated 7 kg capacity gives you another drum size to compare with your usual laundry loads.
The product name indicates 16 programmes, a 1200 rpm spin speed and a dark grey finish. Check the full dimensions, door clearance and durability rating for this model.
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Compare it with the 7 kg CHiQ model if your laundry loads call for a stated capacity of 8 kg.
The product name mentions 16 programmes, a steam function, a 1400 rpm spin speed and a dark grey finish. Confirm the dimensions required for installation and check the durability rating for this specific model.
No. According to the government departments responsible for the environment, the score out of 10 provides information about the durability of products covered by the scheme, based on criteria that include repairability and reliability. Compare the exact models, but don’t take the rating as a guarantee of an individual appliance’s lifespan or washing performance.
For domestic washing machines covered by the French scheme, the durability rating replaced the repairability rating on 8 April 2025, according to the government departments responsible for the environment. Check the rating for the specific model you’re considering.
Compare the stated kg of dry laundry with your usual loads, bulky items and how often you wash. Then check the maximum load for the programmes you plan to use; it may be lower than the stated maximum capacity.
In France, yes, when an individual buys a refurbished appliance from a professional seller. The Ministry of the Economy explains that the legal guarantee of conformity also covers these goods. This guarantee does not apply to private sales, so check who the seller is before comparing appliances.
ADEME recommends regularly descaling your washing machine and cleaning its filters and door seals. Also follow the maintenance instructions for your model. These steps won’t replace a repair if a fault develops.