Who should consider this?

People living in a studio or small flat

If your washing machine is in or near your living area, spin-cycle noise and dimensions are two factors to consider together. Les Numériques lists studios and cramped flats among the homes affected.

People whose bedroom is next to the bathroom

If the appliance runs near a bedroom, distinguish between its stated noise level and the vibrations transmitted through the floor. Bosch and Miele’s installation advice shows, in particular, why adjusting the feet is worth paying attention to.

People with an uneven floor or a tricky space

On an uneven floor or in a tight space, check before buying whether the machine can be levelled and read the installation instructions. Bosch, Miele and Electrolux note that the floor, installation and distribution of the laundry can all contribute to vibrations.

Which criteria should you check?

Start with the spin-cycle noise level, then check whether the machine can be installed securely in the space you have. According to the European Commission, the energy label gives information about airborne noise emissions; this figure alone doesn’t describe the vibrations you’ll feel in a room.

Criterion What to check Who this matters to
Spin-cycle noise Compare the stated dB levels during the spin cycle for machines with similar capacities and spin speeds; also look for an independent test, if available. If the spin cycle runs next to the living room or bedroom, my main priority is to keep audible noise down; around 42% of consumers would prioritise this.
Stability and vibrations Check that the floor is level and read the model’s instructions on removing the transit bolts and adjusting the feet. On a delicate floor, my first priority is to avoid vibrations travelling through the area around the machine; around 33% of consumers would prioritise this.
Space and everyday use Measure the space, access and room needed for connections; choose a capacity that suits your usual laundry loads. In a small bathroom, the machine needs to fit without making it awkward to load; around 25% of consumers would prioritise this balance.

What should you avoid?

  • Assuming the stated decibel level means the machine will be silent

    The label value is measured under specific conditions; the floor, load and room can all affect what you hear. Les Numériques draws a distinction between the stated figure and real-world conditions.

    Use the dB figure to narrow down your options, then consult an independent test of the model, if one is available, and take your installation location into account.

  • Relying on anti-vibration pads to fix poor installation

    Bosch, Miele and Electrolux support information lists incorrect levelling and an unbalanced load among the possible causes of shaking. An accessory is no substitute for installing the appliance as instructed.

    First, follow the instructions to remove the transit bolts and adjust the feet. Then check whether the support you’re considering is suitable for the model and your floor.

  • Choosing based on noise without measuring the space

    A promising noise rating doesn’t mean a machine will fit in a narrow alcove, leave enough room for loading or allow access to the connections.

    Measure the available space and access route, then compare the dimensions and capacities of models that will actually fit.

Brands to consult about installation

Bosch

Bosch France support can help you prepare for installation and understand spin-cycle vibrations; also consult the instructions for the model you’ve chosen.

  • Bosch advises removing the transit bolts and levelling the appliance by adjusting its feet.
  • This advice doesn’t tell you how noisy each Bosch model is or allow you to compare the entire range with another brand.

Miele

Miele France support covers useful stability checks if the type of floor is influencing your choice.

  • Miele says that a washing machine must sit horizontally on all four feet and explains how to tighten the locknuts.
  • Installation instructions don’t provide a noise measurement for every Miele model.

Electrolux

Electrolux France support covers possible causes of shaking and offers anti-vibration pads to consider alongside your washing machine’s instructions.

  • Electrolux recommends checking the appliance’s level, the floor and the load, among other things, if your washing machine vibrates.
  • The claim that its pads reduce noise and vibrations is made by the brand; it doesn’t guarantee results in every home.

Joybuy products related to this topic

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Is the decibel rating on the label enough to help me choose?

No. It gives you a starting point for comparing stated noise levels, but it can’t predict on its own how noisy a machine will be near your living area. The European Commission says the label provides information about noise emissions; an independent test and the installation conditions help round out the picture.

Why might a new washing machine vibrate during the spin cycle?

Transit bolts that haven’t been removed, incorrect levelling, an unsuitable floor or an unbalanced load can all contribute, according to Bosch, Miele and Electrolux support information. Follow the installation instructions for your model and also check how the laundry and hoses are arranged.

Should I buy anti-vibration pads straight away?

Not before checking your washing machine’s instructions and the type of floor it will stand on. Electrolux describes its pads as being designed to reduce vibrations, but this claim by the brand is no substitute for stable installation and doesn’t guarantee results in your home.