First, choose a capacity that suits your usual loads, then compare the water and electricity use, spin performance and noise levels shown on the label. A front-loading machine is a good choice if you have enough room in front of it; a top-loading model may suit a narrow space or make loading easier if you’d rather not bend down. Whichever type you choose, measure the delivery route and check the connections too.
Choose a drum size that suits your usual loads to avoid running partially filled cycles, while keeping an eye on water and electricity use and spin performance. ADEME recommends matching capacity to your actual needs.
Your washing machine needs to fit through the access points, into its space and open properly once installed. Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the room needed in front of the door or above the lid.
If the machine will be near a living area, check its spin noise level and make sure it will sit on a suitable floor and be carefully levelled. Miele points out that an incorrectly levelled appliance can move while in use.
Start with the loads you wash regularly and the space available. These two factors determine which capacities and formats will work for you.
| Feature | What to check | Who it suits |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity and consumption | Compare your usual loads with the capacity in kg, then check the energy use in kWh per 100 cycles and water use per cycle on the label. | If the laundry is piling up, I want a drum that’s large enough without regularly running half-full cycles. Around 31 % of consumers prioritise this match between capacity and everyday loads. |
| Size and access | Measure the space, access points and clearance for the door or lid; also check access to the connections. | In a narrow space, I need to be able to get the machine in and open it easily once it’s installed. This is the top priority for around 31 % of consumers. |
| Noise and spin performance | Check the dB level and noise class during the spin cycle, as well as the spin efficiency class; make sure the floor is hard and level. | Near a living area, I want to minimise disruption during the spin cycle while getting laundry that suits the way I dry it. Noise, vibration or spin performance is the top priority for around 23 % of consumers. |
| Durability and maintenance | For the exact model, check the French durability index, warranty terms and information about spare parts and after-sales service. | If I plan to keep the appliance for a long time, I want to understand how to maintain it and whether it can be repaired. Around 15 % of consumers put this need first. |
A larger capacity will only reduce the number of cycles if you use it regularly. According to ADEME, 7 kg is enough for most needs.
Start with your usual loads, then compare the water and energy use shown for models with a capacity that suits you.
Maximum spin speed alone doesn’t tell you how effectively a machine spins or how noisy it is. Bosch notes that an unbalanced load can cause the spin speed to be reduced.
Check the spin efficiency class, dB level and noise class during the spin cycle, then make sure the machine is correctly levelled.
A machine that fits in its space may still be difficult to deliver, open or connect.
Before ordering, check access points, clearance, the water supply, drainage, electrical supply and flooring.
Adapting the installation may require plumbing, electrical or carpentry work.
A warranty covering a part or a period stated by a manufacturer doesn’t prove that every appliance will be reliable. Nor can you judge longevity by capacity alone.
Compare the durability index for the exact model, read the warranty terms and, where available, look for independent tests of that model.
A range of front-loading washing machines worth considering if you’re looking for a capacity of 7 to 9 kg, for example. Check the dimensions of each model.
The brand offers both front-loading and top-loading models, which you can compare according to the width available and capacity you need.
Its top-loading models are worth considering when space is limited widthways. Check the dimensions and installation documents for the model you choose.
A range of front-loading machines worth exploring. Compare each model’s specifications and features, and check the terms of the manufacturer’s commitments.
These top-loading and front-loading washing machines offer a range of capacities to consider for regular laundry. Before choosing one to suit your space and loads, compare its dimensions and the label for the exact model.
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Worth considering if your usual loads call for 7 kg and you prefer a top-loading design. The model name lists a 1 200 rpm spin speed, an A energy rating, a steam function and Wi-Fi. Check there’s enough room to open the lid.
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A capacity to consider if your usual laundry loads fill an 8 kg drum and the door can open in the space available. The model name lists a 1 400 rpm spin speed and SensiCare. Check the dimensions and label information for the exact model.
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Worth considering if 6 kg suits your regular loads and you prefer a top-loading design. The model name lists a 1 400 rpm spin speed, a B energy rating, Wi-Fi and 17 programmes. Leave enough clearance above the lid.
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A capacity to compare with your usual loads if you have enough space for a front-loading machine. The model name lists a 1 400 rpm spin speed and an A energy rating. Measure the available depth, including the clearance needed in front of the door.
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A 10 kg capacity is only worthwhile if your regular loads genuinely need it. Check there’s enough room to install the machine and open the door, then compare its energy and water use and noise level on the label for the exact model.
Often, yes. ADEME says a 7 kg washing machine is enough for most needs. Choose based on the size of your usual loads rather than an exceptionally large wash.
A top-loading machine may suit a narrow space, but you’ll need room above it to open the lid. For these specific models, the Whirlpool TDLR6247FR/N top-loader is 40 cm wide and 60 cm deep, while the Bosch WAN2827TFR front-loader is 598 mm wide and 590 mm deep. Remember to measure access points and opening clearance too.
Compare the capacity, energy use in kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, spin efficiency class, and the noise level and noise class during the spin cycle. ADEME recommends considering these factors rather than choosing based on capacity alone.
Measure the appliance, the route to its intended space and the clearance needed to open it. Check the floor, water supply, drainage and electrical supply too. If the connections need adapting, have the work assessed before installation.
Yes. According to the French ministry responsible for ecological transition, the display requirement has applied to the washing machines covered since 8 April 2025. Compare the index for the exact model, but don’t mistake it for a guarantee of service life.