Start by choosing a washing machine that fits your available space: go for a front-loader if its width and door clearance work for you, a top-loader if width is limited, or a compact front-loader if depth is the main issue. Whichever type you choose, match the capacity to your laundry needs, compare the spin noise level for the exact model and make sure it’s installed securely and level.
First work out whether width or depth is limiting your installation options. Among the models listed by their manufacturers, the Whirlpool TDLR62667FR top-loader is 40 cm wide and 60 cm deep, while the compact Electrolux EW6S1064NA front-loader is 411 mm deep. Remember to check how much room you’ll need to open the lid or door.
Compare the noise level listed for each model, but don’t assume it guarantees there’ll be no vibration. UFC-Que Choisir identifies spin-cycle noise as one of the issues with washing machines. Electrolux recommends installing its machines on a hard, level floor to prevent them from rocking.
Before choosing a large drum, think about how much dry laundry you usually wash. According to UFC-Que Choisir, 5 to 7 kg is generally enough for one person or a couple. Also consider any bulky items you actually wash.
Measure the space and check access to the drum before comparing capacity, spin noise and the stated energy and water consumption.
Worth considering: if the width and space in front of the door work for you. According to Electrolux France, the Electrolux EW6FI4805AW has an 8 kg capacity and is 576 mm deep.
Keep in mind: the capacity should suit your usual laundry, and the machine’s depth isn’t the only space you’ll need for installation.
Worth considering: if width is the main constraint. The Whirlpool TDLR62667FR is 40 cm wide, according to Whirlpool France.
Keep in mind: this model is also 60 cm deep, needs clearance above the lid and has a stated spin noise level of 79 dB, according to Whirlpool France.
Worth considering: if a standard front-loader is too deep for the space. Electrolux France lists the EW6S1064NA as 411 mm deep.
Keep in mind: this model has a 6 kg capacity. Check that it suits your laundry needs and that the front-opening door works in your space.
| Consideration | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Measure the available width, depth and height. Allow for the door or lid to open, and make sure you can access the connections. | My space is narrow, or the machine could obstruct a walkway: I’ll choose a format based on the dimension I’m actually short of. |
| Noise and vibration | Compare the spin-cycle dB rating for the exact model. Install it on a hard, level floor: Electrolux says a machine that rocks can vibrate during the spin cycle. | I live close to neighbours and want to consider both the stated noise level and the installation conditions, without assuming a particular motor type will make the machine silent. |
| Capacity | Match the stated capacity in kilograms to the amount of dry laundry you usually wash and any bulky items. UFC-Que Choisir says one person or a couple will generally need between 5 and 7 kg. | I’d rather choose a capacity that suits how often I do laundry than a large drum simply because it has a higher maximum figure. |
| Consumption | Compare kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle using the same reference conditions. Consider the stated capacity and programme, not just the energy-efficiency rating. | I want to compare water and electricity figures on a like-for-like basis before deciding between the formats that fit my home. |
| Maintenance | Check that you can access the filter and read the care instructions in the manual. In France, also check the durability index if one is displayed for the washing machine you’re considering. | If the machine is installed in an alcove, I want to be able to reach the parts that need maintenance without getting in the way of everyday use. |
A narrow top-loader can still be deep and need plenty of clearance above it. A shallower front-loader still needs space in front of the door.
Measure all three dimensions of the space, then check the door or lid opening, connections and filter access for the model you’re considering.
The stated noise level alone doesn’t tell you how stable the machine will be once installed. Electrolux says a machine that rocks can vibrate during the spin cycle.
Compare the dB rating for the exact model and follow the installation instructions to position it on a hard, level floor.
A large capacity won’t necessarily suit a smaller household’s laundry needs. UFC-Que Choisir says 5 to 7 kg is generally enough for one person or a couple.
Estimate how much dry laundry you usually have and how often you wash it, then check the load limits for the programmes you plan to use.
In a flat, access to the space and the presence of an old appliance can complicate the planned installation.
Before ordering, check the delivery, installation, disconnection and old-appliance collection options available at your address.
Electrolux France’s range includes an 8 kg front-loader and a compact 6 kg front-loader, so you can compare them based on the space available.
The TDLR62667FR top-loader is an example of a top-loading format for a space where width is limited.
The Bosch WAJ28057FF is a useful reference when considering a standard-width front-loader for a flat.
These models include a top-loader and several front-loaders to compare based on the space available, the capacity you need and ease of access when loading.
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A top-loader is worth considering if the width of your space limits your options. The model name indicates a 6 kg capacity and a spin speed of 1,400 rpm. Before choosing this model, check its depth, the clearance needed to open the lid and its spin noise level.
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Consider its stated 8 kg capacity in relation to the amount of laundry you usually wash. To check whether it will fit in an alcove, look up the full dimensions, allow for the door to open and check the installation instructions in the model documentation.
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This front-loader has a stated capacity of 8 kg and a spin speed of 1,400 rpm. If space is tight, compare its full dimensions with your alcove and allow room for the door to open. Compare its spin noise level separately with those of the other models you’re considering.
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If your space can accommodate a front-loader, Electrolux France lists this model as having an 8 kg capacity and a depth of 576 mm. Its product information shows 47 kWh per 100 cycles and 43 L per cycle. Also check the space in front of the door and the machine’s stated spin noise level.
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This model is listed as an 8 kg front-loader with a spin speed of 1,400 rpm and 16 programmes. Before choosing it for a flat, check its full dimensions and the clearance needed for installation, along with the spin noise level and consumption figures on the exact model’s label.
No. Width alone doesn’t tell you how deep the machine is or how much room it needs to open. The Whirlpool TDLR62667FR top-loader is 40 cm wide, but 60 cm deep and 90 cm tall, according to Whirlpool France. If depth is the issue, compare the dimensions of compact front-loaders instead.
No. They give you a guide to noise when comparing models, but they’re no substitute for a stable installation. Electrolux says a machine that rocks can vibrate during the spin cycle. Follow the installation instructions and make sure the floor is hard and level.
Not necessarily. UFC-Que Choisir says 5 to 7 kg is generally enough for one person or a couple. Match the capacity to the amount of dry laundry you wash, while remembering bulky items and the limits for each programme.
Look for the durability index out of 10, where one is displayed for the model you’re considering. According to the French ministry responsible for ecology, it has been gradually replacing the repairability index for washing machines in France since 8 April 2025. It’s another factor to consider alongside dimensions, noise and consumption.