Start by looking at the space you actually have: choose a standard front-loader if there’s enough depth and room to open the door, a slim front-loader if depth is limited, or a top-loader if width or clearance in front of the machine is an issue. A mini washing machine is a back-up option if a standard machine can’t be installed. In every case, check the capacity you need, the connections and access to the drum.
If the machine will handle your everyday laundry, compare its capacity with your household’s laundry load. Don’t forget to check the available depth and whether you’ll be able to access the machine once it’s installed.
Limited width may make a top-loader a better fit, while limited depth could point you towards a slim front-loader. Either way, you’ll need enough room to open and load the machine.
If space or the connections make it impossible to install a standard machine, a mini washing machine can handle small, occasional loads. Don’t assume it will take care of all your laundry, though.
Measure the space and check access before comparing capacities. A machine that fits in the room must also be connectable, easy to open and accessible for loading.
| Priority | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions and opening | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the clearance needed for the door or lid. Que Choisir describes slim front-loaders as machines with a depth of 33 to 45 cm. A top-loader needs enough clear space above it. | In a fitted kitchen, I need to be able to open the door in front of the cupboards. If the room is particularly narrow, it’s worth considering a machine that opens from the top. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated load capacity with the laundry you actually wash, including sheets and towels. Que Choisir suggests 5 to 7 kg for one or two people. A drum that’s too small could mean more frequent wash cycles. | I want to be able to do my regular laundry at my own pace, without automatically choosing the smallest drum or a capacity I’m unlikely to use. |
| Installation | Check the water supply, drainage, suitable socket and floor stability. For a bathroom installation, Promotelec specifies conditions including placement outside the relevant electrical zones, earthing and 30 mA RCD protection. | There seems to be enough space, but I need to make sure the connections are suitable and, if the machine is near a shower or bath, that the electrical installation is safe. |
| Energy use and durability | For comparable appliances, the energy label shows details including energy use per 100 cycles and water use per cycle. ADEME states that, in France, washing machines have been required to display a durability index since April 2025. | I want to compare figures measured on the same basis and check the durability index for the new model I’m considering, rather than assuming its energy use based on size alone. |
A front-loader may fit between two units but still not have enough room for its door to open. A worktop above the machine could prevent you from opening a top-loader.
Measure the width, depth, clearance above the machine and space needed to open it separately. Then check the route to the installation space.
According to Que Choisir, a capacity that’s too small could mean you have to run more cycles, especially if laundry builds up between washes.
For one or two people, start with Que Choisir’s recommended capacity of 5 to 7 kg, then adjust it to suit the laundry you actually wash.
Extra cycles can also increase water and electricity use.
Its limited capacity, and possible limitations with spinning or heating water, can make it difficult to wash bulky items and some types of load.
Use it for small loads that are suitable for its specifications when you can’t install a standard machine.
A space may be the right size, but that won’t help if the water supply, drainage or electrical connection isn’t suitable. In a bathroom, the machine’s position in relation to the shower or bath matters too.
Check the installation space before delivery. If you’re unsure, ask a qualified professional to inspect the electrical circuit.
The Electrolux EW6T4613HA is worth considering if you’re looking for a top-loader.
The AEG LTR8C7331A is one top-loader to consider for a narrow space.
The Whirlpool TDLR6253BFR is another top-loader worth considering.
These models include top-loaders and front-loaders to suit different spaces. Compare their capacities with your usual laundry load, then check the installation dimensions and clearance for opening before you choose.
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Worth considering if a top-opening machine suits the layout of your room better. The model name indicates 7 kg, 1,200 tr/min and an A rating. Check there’s enough clearance to open the lid and that the connections are suitable.
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A top-loader is worth considering if space in front of the machine is limited. The model name indicates 6 kg, 1,400 tr/min and a B rating. Make sure the lid can open and that the machine can be connected in your chosen space.
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This front-loader is worth considering if the room has enough depth and space in front of the door. The model name indicates 8 kg and 1,400 tr/min. Compare this capacity with your usual laundry load, and check the depth required, including the connections.
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Worth considering for larger loads if there’s enough room to open the front door. The model name indicates 9 kg and an A rating. Check that this capacity suits your laundry needs, and measure the depth with the door and connections taken into account.
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This model is worth considering if the available depth is a key factor when choosing a front-loader. Its 8 kg capacity and 1,400 tr/min spin speed are shown in the name. Don’t assume it will fit in a space designed for a slim model measuring 33 to 45 cm deep, and check the clearance needed for the door.
Measure the available width, depth and height, then check how much space you need to open the door or lid and access the drum. Also check the route to the installation space and allow room for the connections.
No. Opening from the top can help when width or clearance in front of the machine is limited, but the lid needs space above it. If depth is the main issue and a front-opening machine will fit, consider a slim front-loader too.
It may be enough if your loads are small and you wash regularly. However, Que Choisir suggests 5 to 7 kg for one or two people. Consider sheets, towels and how much laundry builds up before choosing a smaller capacity.
It depends on the exact location and the electrical circuit. Promotelec states, among other requirements, that the machine must be outside zones 0, 1 and 2 and the concealed zone, earthed and connected to a circuit protected by a 30 mA RCD. If it’s near a shower or bath, ask a qualified professional to check the layout and connections.
Look for it on the model’s product page or in store. ADEME states that washing machines in France have been required to display the index since April 2025. It’s a score out of 10 based on repairability and reliability.