Shoppers concerned about spin-cycle noise
You want noise data for the exact model, rather than relying on a motor’s marketing name. EPREL publishes spin-cycle noise emissions for some models.
Who is this guide for?
People living in homes with noise-sensitive floors
You need to install a washing machine on a wooden floor or a surface that may transmit vibrations. Miele recommends checking the type of surface and choosing an installation suited to the specific layout.
Tenants with limited space
You need to consider the appliance’s actual dimensions and the space available for its feet or any accessory you might use. Dimensions listed in EPREL and on product pages can help you check how much room it will take up.
What to look for
Distinguish between airborne noise from the spin cycle, vibrations transmitted through the floor and the constraints of your space.
| What matters to you | What to check before buying | Who should consider this? |
|---|---|---|
| Spin-cycle noise | Compare the spin-cycle noise emissions for the exact model. Distinguish the declared figure from independent measurements taken using specific programmes. | If you’re concerned that the spin cycle could disturb your neighbours or people in adjoining rooms, noise should be your priority; around 34% of consumers put it first. |
| Stability and flooring | Check that the transit bolts have been removed, adjust the feet and check the type of floor, following the instructions. An accessory is no substitute for these checks. | On a floor that transmits vibration, stable support matters more than a simple promise of quiet operation; around 33% of consumers prioritise stability and flooring. |
| Space available | Check the appliance’s overall dimensions, as well as the footprint and thickness of any accessory you plan to use. | When space is limited, you need to be able to fit the appliance and accessory without obstructing the walkway; around 20% of consumers prioritise this compatibility. |
| Scheduling and running costs | Look at the programming options, cycle times and energy consumption information, comparing like with like. | If you need to plan your laundry around the constraints of your building, scheduling options and running costs can guide your choice; around 13% of consumers make these their top priority. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Buying a mat before checking the installation
A washing machine that isn’t level or still has its transit bolts fitted can vibrate. Samsung highlights the floor, the feet and the distribution of the laundry as factors to check.
Follow the instructions to check the installation and make sure the feet are firmly in place before adding an accessory.
Buying an accessory and moving the machine again may be unnecessary if adjusting the installation is all that’s needed.
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Assuming a motor claim guarantees quiet operation
A marketing name is no substitute for the model’s spin-cycle noise emission figure, and it does not prove that vibrations won’t be transmitted through the building.
Compare the spin-cycle data for the exact model in EPREL and distinguish it from independent tests, which apply only to the appliances and programmes tested.
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Confusing cabinet depth with overall depth
For the LG F94X71WHST, LG lists a cabinet depth of 565 mm and an overall depth of 620 mm. These measurements are not interchangeable.
Check the model’s overall dimensions and installation diagram before confirming that it will fit your space.
An appliance that’s too deep may mean you have to rethink your planned layout.
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Presenting an anti-vibration mat as a guaranteed way to reduce noise
Accessory manufacturers may claim that their products reduce vibration, but this does not predict the results in every home.
Check the dimensions, stated load capacity and compatibility with your washing machine and flooring. These specifications alone do not tell you how much noise will be reduced.
Brands to consider in your search
Bosch
The WGG244Z0FR is an example of a range of front-loading washing machines with a motor the brand describes as quiet.
- Bosch advertises a 10-year motor warranty for this model.
- This claim and motor warranty do not prove that spin-cycle noise or vibration transmitted through the building will be low. They may not cover the entire appliance.
LG
The French product page for the F94X71WHST front-loading washing machine lists spin settings and installation details.
- The page distinguishes cabinet depth from overall depth, and mentions adjustable feet and a vibration sensor.
- The presence of a sensor is not an acoustic test result. The page also states that this model does not have the Centum system.
Miele
Miele’s installation advice can help you check how a washing machine is supported, particularly on a wooden floor.
- The brand explains how to check that an appliance is level and how to adapt the support for specific layouts.
- This advice does not prove that all Miele appliances vibrate less than those from other brands.
Whirlpool
For the TWB721CBSILENCEFR, EPREL lists a 7 kg capacity, a width of 40 cm and spin-cycle noise emissions of 72 dB.
- This declared data can help you assess a model when width is a constraint.
- EPREL data does not measure noise in a block of flats or prove that the model is commercially available in France.
Wpro
Wpro offers installation accessories, including the ANT100 anti-vibration mat, reference 484010678176.
- Whirlpool states that the ANT100 is made from recycled rubber and has a maximum load capacity of 150 kg.
- The noise-reduction claim comes from the manufacturer, with no quantified improvement published on the product page. The page also says the product has been discontinued.
Products available on Joybuy
This selection includes stabilisation mats and washing machines. For mats, compare the stated size and thickness with the space available; for appliances, look for spin-cycle noise data for the exact model. The listed specifications alone cannot predict how much noise your neighbours will hear.
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Floordirekt Premium anti-vibration mat, recycled rubber, 60 × 60 × 0,5 cm
Worth considering if you’re looking for a mat for a washing machine or tumble dryer and its size suits the space.
Recycled rubber; stated size: 60 × 60 cm; stated thickness: 0,5 cm.
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Floordirekt Premium anti-vibration mat, recycled rubber, 60 × 60 × 1,0 cm
Worth considering if you’re looking for a mat for a washing machine or tumble dryer and its size suits the space.
Recycled rubber; stated size: 60 × 60 cm; stated thickness: 1,0 cm.
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Floordirekt Premium anti-vibration mat, recycled rubber, 60 × 60 × 1,97 cm
Worth considering if you’re looking for a mat for a washing machine or tumble dryer and its size suits the space.
Recycled rubber; stated size: 60 × 60 cm; stated thickness: 1,97 cm.
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CHiQ JW95883G front-loading washing machine, 9 kg, 1 400 rpm
Worth considering if you’re looking for a front-loading washing machine and want to compare its specifications with the stated spin-cycle noise levels of other models you’re considering.
Stated capacity: 9 kg; BLDC motor; stated maximum spin speed: 1 400 rpm.
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Comfee’ CF10EWP05W-HR washing machine, 10 kg
Worth considering if you’re looking for a 10 kg washing machine with a programme for pet hair.
Stated capacity: 10 kg; pet hair programme and steam function. The word ‘Quiet’ in the title is not a measurement of spin-cycle noise.
Frequently asked questions
Does the dB figure tell you what your neighbour will hear?
No, not on its own. EPREL records airborne noise emissions during the spin cycle, while manufacturers also identify the floor and installation as factors that can affect vibration. So this figure does not guarantee that your neighbours won’t be disturbed.
What should you check when installing a washing machine?
Check that the transit bolts have been removed, the machine is level and the feet are properly supported, following the instructions. Samsung also lists an excessive or unevenly distributed load as a possible cause of vibration. Keep the transit bolts for a future move.
Can a soft mat or carpet replace a dedicated anti-vibration mat?
Don’t assume they’re equivalent: Samsung warns that soft mats or floor coverings can make a washing machine move during the spin cycle. If you’re considering a dedicated accessory, check that it’s compatible with the appliance instructions and the type of floor.
Is Miele’s wooden support solution suitable for every floor?
No. Miele’s recommendation is for a specific setup where the support rests on several joists and is fixed to them, not a board simply laid on top of the flooring. It should be assessed for the washing machine and floor in question. If you rent your home, don’t carry out work without permission.
Will running the washing machine during the day automatically prevent disturbance?
No. Service Public states that an unreasonable disturbance can occur during the day or at night. Take account of the rules that apply in your building and local area: running the machine during the day does not, by itself, guarantee that it won’t cause a nuisance.