Start by choosing a capacity that suits the loads you actually wash together. A drum that’s too small can mean more cycles, while a large drum that’s rarely full won’t automatically save energy. A front-loading machine gives you more choice for larger loads if you have enough width; a top-loader is mainly a solution when space is tight, provided its capacity is sufficient. Then compare models using the figures on the Eco 40-60 programme label, and don’t overlook the durability index for the specific model.
If you wash everyday clothes, sheets or towels together, base your choice on the weight of your usual loads rather than simply picking the largest capacity available. UFC-Que Choisir points out that choosing the wrong capacity can lead to more washes or excessive consumption.
A top-loader may be a good fit if width is limited, but check that its capacity is right for the loads you wash together. According to UFC-Que Choisir, top-loaders are generally 40 to 46 cm wide, with capacities ranging from 5 to 8 kg.
Look beyond the energy rating letter: compare the figures on the label, then check the durability index and repair terms for the model you’re considering. These details answer different questions: energy use during cycles, reliability and repairability.
First, check that the washing machine fits the space available and can handle your usual loads. Then compare the Eco 40-60 programme figures for models that meet both requirements.
Consider it: if you regularly wash larger loads together and have around 60 cm of width, as UFC-Que Choisir notes is typical for standard front-loaders.
Bear in mind: you’ll need sufficient width, and a larger capacity won’t automatically save energy when you wash smaller loads.
Consider it: if width is the deciding factor. UFC-Que Choisir says top-loaders are generally between 40 and 46 cm wide.
Bear in mind: according to UFC-Que Choisir, capacity is generally between 5 and 8 kg, so check this against the weight of the loads you wash together.
| Criterion | What to check | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Compare the stated kg capacity for dry laundry with the weight of your usual loads; check the manual for the load limits of the programmes you use. | If I wash sheets, towels and everyday clothes together, I want to avoid regularly splitting my laundry into separate loads. Around 29% of consumers say getting the capacity right is their top priority. |
| Water and electricity | On the Eco 40-60 label, check the kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle, then compare models with capacities suited to your loads. | I want to compare how much cycles use without relying on the energy rating letter alone; for around 29% of consumers, this is their main priority. |
| Size | Measure the width, depth and height, then allow for the space needed to open the door or lid. | When space is limited, my main concern is being able to install and load the machine without compromising on the capacity I need. This is the top consideration for around 21% of consumers. |
| Durability and spin performance | Check the model’s durability rating, repair terms and the spin-drying efficiency class shown on the label. | I want to consider reliability and repairability before convenience features, while also understanding the spin performance information. Around 21% of consumers say this is their main concern. |
The European Commission explains that the energy use, duration, noise and spin-drying information on the label relate to the Eco 40-60 programme. They don’t necessarily reflect the performance of quick or delicate programmes. In France, ADEME says the durability index has applied to washing machines since April 2025; its score out of 10 takes repairability and reliability into account.
UFC-Que Choisir reminds shoppers that the wrong capacity can mean more washes or excessive consumption when your loads aren’t suited to the machine.
Weigh or estimate your usual dry laundry loads, especially when they include sheets and towels, before choosing a capacity.
The letter alone doesn’t tell you the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle or Eco 40-60 programme duration shown on the EU label.
Compare these figures for machines whose capacity and dimensions already suit your needs.
Its width may make installation easier, but UFC-Que Choisir says top-loader capacities are generally between 5 and 8 kg.
Check that this capacity suits the laundry you put together for each cycle, and make sure you have enough room to open the lid.
A warranty covering just one component or a statement from the manufacturer isn’t a substitute for the official rating, which takes reliability and repairability into account.
Check the durability index for the specific model and the extent of its commercial warranty before making your decision.
These models show some of the formats and capacities you can compare; the features of one range won’t necessarily apply to every machine from the same brand.
The French product page for the Bosch WUU28T6MFR lists a 9 kg front-loader measuring 845 × 598 × 590 mm.
The French product page for the Whirlpool TWB 721 SENSE WASH FR lists a top-loader that’s 40 cm wide, with a capacity of 7 kg.
The French product page for the Miele WWG880 WCS lists a 9 kg front-loader with an A energy rating, using 40 kWh per 100 cycles and 50 L per cycle.
This selection includes front-loaders in a range of capacities for larger loads, as well as a top-loader to consider when width is the main concern. For each model, check that the capacity suits your laundry and consult the label and durability index for that specific machine.
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Worth considering if you regularly wash large loads together; check that this capacity suits your usual laundry.
The stated capacity is 11 kg. Check the model’s label and durability index before comparing cycles.
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A capacity to compare with the loads your household puts together before starting a wash.
The title lists a 9 kg capacity. Check the Eco 40-60 cycle figures on the label and the model’s durability index.
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Worth considering if the loads you wash together regularly justify this capacity, rather than choosing a machine based only on occasional large washes.
The title lists a 10 kg capacity. Before comparing this model with others, check the Eco 40-60 duration on its product page and its durability index.
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Check whether its capacity suits the loads you wash together and whether its dimensions fit the space available.
The title lists a 9 kg capacity and 1 600 rpm; spin speed isn’t a substitute for the spin-drying efficiency class. Also check the Eco 40-60 duration and the model’s durability index.
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A top-loader is worth considering if width is limited, provided your combined loads fit within its 6 kg capacity.
The title lists 1 400 rpm and a B energy rating. Check the dimensions, Eco 40-60 figures and the model’s durability index before choosing.
Compare the energy rating, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, programme duration, noise level and spin-drying efficiency class. According to the European Commission, these label figures relate to the Eco 40-60 programme, so compare machines on the same basis and choose capacities that suit your loads.
No. The stated capacity refers to dry laundry for the cotton or Eco 40-60 programme. Other programmes may have lower load limits, so check the manual if you often wash synthetic fabrics or wool.
Yes, if its capacity is enough for your usual loads and its narrower width suits your installation needs. UFC-Que Choisir says top-loader capacities are generally between 5 and 8 kg. Compare this range with the weight of your laundry before choosing a slim model.
Yes. ADEME says the durability index has applied to washing machines since April 2025, and the French government departments responsible for ecology describe it as a score out of 10 that takes repairability and reliability into account. Check the rating for the model you’re considering, rather than relying on a warranty that covers only the motor.