If you do laundry frequently in a flat, start by measuring the space and choosing a capacity that suits the loads you actually wash. A front-loading machine needs room for the door to open, while a top-loader needs space above it; a compact model is mainly useful when depth is limited. If the spin cycle might disturb you or your neighbours, compare the noise level and noise class for the exact model on its energy label.
If the machine is near a living area or a neighbouring home, check how noisy it is during the spin cycle rather than judging by its spin speed alone. UFC-Que Choisir found that owners’ feedback on washing machine spin noise was more mixed.
If you live alone or with one other person, base your choice on the size of your usual loads rather than the largest capacity available. ADEME says that a 7 kg washing machine is enough in most cases, although your needs may vary depending on whether you wash bedding, towels and which programmes you use.
In a kitchen, bathroom or alcove, width isn’t the only thing to consider. Measure the depth, the space needed to open the door or lid, and the room required for the connections. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between narrow top-loaders and shallower slim front-loaders.
First rule out any designs that won’t fit in your home, then compare capacity and spin noise with the laundry you usually do.
Choose this if: you have around 60 cm of width and enough room for the door to open in front of the machine.
Bear in mind: you’ll need space in front, even if the machine fits in the available space.
Choose this if: width is your main constraint; UFC-Que Choisir describes models around 40 cm wide.
Bear in mind: the lid needs to open freely above the machine.
Choose this if: depth is limited; the slim front-loaders described by UFC-Que Choisir are 33 to 45 cm deep.
Bear in mind: these machines have a more limited capacity; a mini washing machine may mean running more cycles if you do laundry frequently.
| What matters | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Spin-cycle noise | Check the noise level in dB and the spin-cycle noise class on the energy label for the exact model. Make sure the machine is level as instructed in its manual. | If the machine runs near a living area or neighbours, my main priority is to minimise disruption during the spin cycle; around 36% of consumers would put peace and quiet first. |
| Drum capacity | Compare the weight of your dry laundry loads with the stated capacity, and check the limits for delicate or synthetic programmes. | If I often wash small loads as well as bedding, I need a drum I can fill without having to run extra cycles; around 36% of consumers would consider choosing a suitable capacity their top priority. |
| Space and installation | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the space needed to open the machine, including room for hoses. Check that you have a water supply, drainage and an electrical socket. | In a narrow alcove, I need to be able to position and open the machine without compromising its connections; around 28% of consumers would put finding a machine that fits their space first. |
A large capacity isn’t necessarily right if your loads are small. On the other hand, a machine that’s too small could mean running more cycles. The stated capacity in kg of dry laundry may not apply to every programme.
Think about your usual loads and check the limits for the types of laundry you wash regularly before opting for a larger capacity.
Regularly running underfilled cycles can waste water and electricity.
A slim front-loader is mainly designed for spaces with limited depth. A low-capacity mini washing machine, on the other hand, may not be practical as your main machine if you do laundry frequently or wash bulky items.
Compare the dimensions, the space needed to open the machine and the capacity that’s useful for your usual loads separately.
If the capacity is too small, you may need to run more cycles.
Maximum spin speed, stated noise levels and washing results are separate factors. Tests by UFC-Que Choisir show that results vary between models.
Compare the noise information on the energy label and, if possible, look for test results for the exact model number.
Poorly positioned connections can prevent installation. Bosch also reminds customers that the transit bolts must be removed before use; the machine should be levelled according to its instructions.
Check the water supply, drainage, electrical supply and available space before buying. If you’re unsure about the electrical installation in a bathroom, ask a professional to check it, then follow the instructions when installing the machine.
One option to consider for a front-loader in a small household: Bosch’s product details for the WGE02408FR state a 7 kg capacity and a maximum spin speed of 1,400 rpm.
A brand to consider if a top-loader is a better fit for the space you have available; UFC-Que Choisir lists the EW6T4613HA among its examples of this type.
One front-loader to compare: UFC-Que Choisir has tested the WCA132WCS and WED385 WCS models.
Another brand to consider for a top-loader; UFC-Que Choisir lists the LTR8C7331A among its examples of this type.
These two 7 kg front-loaders are worth considering if this design suits your space and regular laundry loads. Their inclusion here doesn’t mean that front-loaders are better than top-loaders or compact models for a more restricted space.
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Worth considering for regular loads that suit a 7 kg capacity, if you have enough space in front of the door. The product title gives a maximum spin speed of 1,400 rpm. Check the spin-cycle noise level on the label for this model separately, and make sure you have the required installation clearance.
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Worth comparing for a small household’s regular laundry, once you’ve measured the space available. The title lists a spin speed of 1,200 rpm, an A energy rating and 16 programmes. Check the spin-cycle noise level and the installation dimensions for this model.
Check the location before buying, particularly how close it is to the shower or bath and where the electrical supply is. Promotelec sets out specific requirements for installations in bathrooms. If you’re unsure about the location or electrical circuit, ask a qualified professional to check them.
No. It’s a useful guide, not a fixed requirement. ADEME says 7 kg is enough in most cases, but your actual loads, bulky laundry and the limits of programmes other than the reference cycle should all inform your choice.
A slim front-loader mainly takes up less depth, while a top-loader is designed for spaces where width is the main constraint. UFC-Que Choisir describes slim models that are 33 to 45 cm deep and top-loaders that are around 40 cm wide. Always measure the exact model and allow space for it to open.
Follow the instructions to remove the transit bolts and level the machine before using it for the first time. As Bosch points out in its installation advice, these steps help prevent the machine from moving or making unusual noises. They don’t replace comparing the stated noise levels of different models.
In France, the durability index is gradually replacing the repairability index for washing machines from 8 April 2025, according to the ministry responsible for the ecological transition. Check the index shown for the specific model you’re considering.