When choosing a washing machine for a flat, first compare the noise rating and noise level during the spin cycle, along with the spin-drying efficiency class, on each machine’s label. However, the label cannot guarantee that vibrations won’t travel through the building: installation and how the laundry is distributed in the drum matter too. The durability index can help you choose a replacement appliance, but it doesn’t tell you how noisy it is.
If you can hear the spin cycle in your home or your neighbours’ homes, the energy label lets you compare the machines’ noise figures. Also check the installation requirements: the figure on the label doesn’t, by itself, show how much vibration travels through the floor.
If you dry your laundry in your flat, check the spin-drying efficiency class rather than choosing solely by the maximum spin speed in revolutions per minute. ADEME recommends using the energy label to compare spin-drying performance.
When choosing between machines that meet your washing and noise requirements, also check their durability index in France. This indicator relates to the appliance’s durability, not its noise level.
Start with the noise and spin-drying information for the exact model, then check whether it can be installed suitably in your home. If you’re replacing an appliance, consider its durability too.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Spin-cycle noise | Compare the noise rating and dB level for the exact model on its label. Gifam states that washing machine noise ratings range from A to D; a “quiet” claim is no substitute for these figures. | I want to compare the stated noise level before installing a washing machine near living areas or other homes, without assuming the label can predict how noisy it will sound to my neighbours. |
| Spin-drying efficiency | Check the spin-drying efficiency class on the label and the maximum speed in tr/min on the model’s product page. Don’t treat spin speed alone as a measure of how much water is removed. | If I dry my laundry indoors, I want to compare the machines’ spin-drying performance without basing my choice solely on the number of revolutions per minute. |
| Installation and vibration | Check the manual for instructions on removing the transit bolts, adjusting the feet and levelling the machine. If it moves during the spin cycle, also check that the load is evenly distributed; Bosch includes these checks in its installation advice. | If the machine vibrates or moves, I’d rather check the installation and load before buying an anti-vibration accessory. |
| Durability | Check the durability index for the washing machine in question, as well as model-specific information about parts and maintenance. According to the French ministry responsible for ecology, the durability index has been gradually replacing the repairability index for washing machines in France since 8 April 2025. | If I’m replacing an appliance, I want to consider its durability as well as its noise and spin-drying performance. The index doesn’t tell me whether it will be quiet in my building. |
A marketing claim doesn’t provide the same basis for comparison as the noise figures on the label. The maximum spin speed alone doesn’t tell you how efficiently the machine spins either.
For every model you’re considering, compare its noise rating and level with its spin-drying efficiency class, then check that its capacity meets your needs.
Transit bolts left in place, incorrectly adjusted feet or an unevenly distributed load can all contribute to the machine moving. An accessory doesn’t remove the need to correct these issues.
Follow the manual to remove the transit bolts and level the machine. Also check that the laundry is evenly distributed before considering a mat or pads.
In France, the durability index provides information about the durability of the washing machine in question. It doesn’t measure spin-cycle noise or vibrations travelling through a building.
Use it alongside the energy label: check the index for durability and the noise figures to compare the stated noise levels.
These examples relate to specific models or brand-specific information; their features don’t apply to every model in a range.
Bosch’s product information for the WAJ28077FF lists a 7 kg capacity and a maximum speed of 1 400 tr/min. The brand also describes this model as having an AntiVibration design; this name doesn’t tell you its measured noise level.
Whirlpool’s product information for the W7X 89R SILENCE FR lists an 8 kg capacity, 1 400 tr/min and 65 dB. These figures apply to this specific model, not to all Whirlpool washing machines.
LG’s product information for the F14R31WHSA lists an 11 kg capacity and a maximum spin speed of 1 360 tr/min. These two features aren’t enough to assess how noisy it is.
These three washing machines illustrate different capacities and loading styles for a flat. To decide which one to consider, compare the energy label for the exact model and check whether it can be installed suitably in your home.
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If you’re considering this 10 kg capacity, compare its noise rating and spin-drying efficiency class with those of the other models on your shortlist. The product name lists Direct Motion, AutoDose, steam and Wi-Fi features; check the manual for installation requirements in your home.
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To compare this front-loading washing machine with other 10 kg models, check the noise and spin-drying figures on their labels. The product name mentions steam, TimeSave and an Inverter motor; these features don’t replace the model’s noise data.
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If you’d prefer a top-loading machine with a 7 kg capacity, check that its dimensions will fit the space you have in mind. Its stated maximum speed is 1 200 tr/min; check the spin-drying efficiency class and noise figures separately to assess these features.
First compare the noise rating and level during the spin cycle, then the spin-drying efficiency class. The label also includes information about the Eco 40-60 programme: the European Commission links requirements concerning efficiency, duration and water use, among other things, to this programme. Don’t confuse these figures with the results of another programme.
No. The noise figure doesn’t guarantee that vibrations won’t travel through the building. Installation and how the load is distributed can also make a difference. Bosch’s installation advice includes removing the transit bolts and levelling the machine; follow the manual for your model before considering an accessory.
No, it relates to durability, not spin-cycle noise. According to the French ministry responsible for ecology, the durability index has been gradually replacing the repairability index for washing machines in France since 8 April 2025. To check noise, look at the rating and level for the exact model.