People with lightweight flooring
If your washing machine will stand on wooden flooring or another sensitive surface, check that it can be installed securely and in line with the instructions.
When choosing a washing machine for a flat, first check that it can be installed properly in the available space. Then compare the stated spin-cycle noise levels using the same labelling standard. As ADEME points out, the label gives you an indication of noise; it cannot predict vibrations transmitted through flooring or the building. If you have a sensitive floor, the model’s instructions and installation requirements matter just as much as its noise specifications.
If your washing machine will stand on wooden flooring or another sensitive surface, check that it can be installed securely and in line with the instructions.
If the machine is near a room where people relax or another home, compare its stated spin-cycle noise level without confusing it with vibrations transmitted through the building.
If space is limited, compare the different formats by width, depth, door or lid clearance and the connections you actually have available.
In a flat where vibrations are a concern, first check the location and installation requirements. Then compare spin-cycle noise levels using specifications based on the same standard. Decibels describe airborne noise, not vibrations transmitted through the floor.
| What matters | What to check | Who should pay particular attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Stability and vibrations | Check the instructions for the permitted floor type, levelling requirements, foot contact and any conditions for using a support. | If my washing machine is going on wooden flooring or another sensitive surface, I want to be able to install it in line with the instructions. Around 33% of consumers prioritise stability on sensitive flooring. |
| Spin-cycle noise | Compare the dB(A) rating and noise class for the spin cycle, checking the exact model and the same European labelling standard. | If the machine is near a living area, I want to compare its stated noise level without confusing it with floor vibrations. Around 27% of consumers prioritise the noise they hear during the spin cycle. |
| Dimensions and access | Measure the width, height and depth, the delivery route and the clearance needed to open the door or lid; compare these with the installation diagram. | If my space is narrow, I want the appliance, its door or lid and its connections to fit properly. Around 27% of consumers prioritise fitting an appliance into a restricted space and having access to it. |
| Capacity and running costs | Compare the capacity with your usual loads, check the energy consumption figures on the label and see what installation services are included in the offer. | For my usual washing loads, I want a suitable capacity and useful information to help me compare running costs. Around 13% of consumers prioritise the balance between capacity and running costs. |
A stated noise figure concerns airborne sound, while a manufacturer’s claim does not measure vibrations transmitted through the floor of your home.
Compare noise figures for models rated using the same labelling standard, then check the installation instructions separately for the model you’re considering.
An appliance may seem to fit on paper, but its lid or door might not open properly, or there may not be enough room for the connections and installation.
Measure the delivery route and the clearance required too, then compare these with the installation diagram for the exact model.
Transport bolts, the adjustment of the feet, the stability of the floor or how the laundry is distributed can also affect how the machine behaves during the spin cycle.
Carry out the checks described in the instructions. If the machine still behaves abnormally, contact the manufacturer’s support team for advice rather than assuming you know the cause.
According to Bosch Electroménager France, the WAJ28057FF is a front-loading washing machine with a stated capacity of 7 kg and dimensions of 848 × 598 × 546 mm.
According to Electrolux France, the EW8T3653BA is a top-loading washing machine with a stated capacity of 6 kg and dimensions of 890 × 400 × 600 mm.
LG France gives the F82AV33WHS a capacity of 8,5 kg. It’s a front-loading model.
Hisense France lists the WF5I8043BWF with a capacity of 8 kg, a width of 595 mm, a height of 845 mm and a depth of 470 mm.
These models offer a range of capacities, dimensions and noise specifications to help you consider the options for a flat. Always check the exact model, its installation requirements and whether it’s suitable for your space.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a front-loading model with stated spin-cycle noise figures to compare.
Stated capacity: 7 kg. Spin speed: 1 400 rpm. The description gives a noise level of 72 dB and noise class A during the spin cycle; stated dimensions: 59,8 × 84,8 × 59 cm.
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Worth considering if width is limited and you have enough room to access the lid from above.
Stated capacity: 7 kg. Stated width: 405 mm. Spin speed: 1 200 rpm. The description gives a noise level of 77 dB(A) and noise emission class C during the spin cycle. Install on a stable, level surface.
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Worth considering if your household’s usual laundry loads make the stated 10 kg capacity suitable.
Stated capacity: 10 kg. Spin speed up to 1 400 rpm. The title lists 16 programmes and a steam function. Check the dimensions and installation requirements for your space.
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Worth considering if you need the stated 10 kg capacity and a front-loading format suits your available space.
The title lists 16 programmes and a steam function. Check the dimensions for the exact model and the clearances required in its instructions.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a front-loading model with a stated capacity of 8 kg and depth is an important factor in your space.
Stated depth: 48 cm. The title lists 16 programmes and a steam function. Check the connection and installation clearances in the instructions.
For washing machines covered by the same European labelling standard, compare each exact model’s airborne noise during the spin cycle. Regulation (EU) 2019/2014 sets out how this figure is measured; it does not measure vibrations transmitted through the floor.
Follow the instructions for the exact model and check, in particular, that the transport bolts have been removed, the feet are properly positioned, the machine is level and the floor is stable. Bosch Electroménager France and Electrolux France include these among the checks to make if the machine is noisy, moves or does not spin properly.
No. Their effect cannot be guaranteed for every floor and every model. First check whether the instructions allow their use and whether the surface meets the stated installation requirements. LG France and Bosch Electroménager France both highlight the importance of correct installation and a stable floor.
Check exactly what the offer includes for delivery, positioning and removal of your old appliance. Keep the model number and instructions so you can check the model-specific guidance or contact support if the spin cycle seems abnormal.
The National Noise Council’s opinion of 9 March 2026 does not set a national time period when disruptive spin cycles are automatically permitted. It points out that disturbance to neighbours is assessed in part according to the duration, frequency or intensity of the noise. You should also check the rules that apply in your building and local authority area.