Choose a larger capacity if you regularly wash large loads of dry laundry, rather than just to accommodate an occasional duvet. UFC-Que Choisir points out that a drum that is too large and regularly underfilled can lead to wasted energy and water. If your loads vary considerably, compare the consumption figures and features of the specific model too, rather than assuming that load detection will always make up for an oversized drum.
How often you wash large loads matters just as much as their size: an occasional need calls for a different choice from a drum filled several times a week.
There’s a steady stream of bedding, towels and household linen to wash. The aim is to avoid extra cycles without buying a drum that’s larger than you need for your regular laundry. UFC-Que Choisir also highlights this balancing act.
Large loads alternate with small, urgent washes. Check the model’s consumption figures and confirm which load-adjustment features are available on that specific model, rather than relying on its maximum capacity alone.
The capacity you want won’t help if the appliance is difficult to get through the doorways or gets in the way when its door is open. Dimensions published by Bosch, LG and Electrolux apply to specific models, so measure the space before choosing.
Start with the dry laundry loads you actually wash, then compare models based on your smaller loads, available space and how much time you can spare for a cycle.
| Feature | What to check | Who should consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Compare your usual large loads with the rated capacity, given in kg of dry laundry. For bulky items, also check the care label and the recommended programme. | If bedding and towels regularly fill the drum, avoiding extra loads becomes a priority; around 33% of consumers prioritise this need. |
| Varying load sizes | Compare the kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle on the energy label. If load adjustment is advertised, check that it applies to the model you’re considering. | If small washes follow large ones, you’ll want to avoid frequently running a large appliance when it’s only partly full; nearly 27% of consumers put this adaptability first. |
| Space required | Measure the access route and the space where the machine will go, then check its full dimensions, including with the door open, and the model’s installation instructions. | When space is limited, you need to be able to get the machine in and open its door before you can benefit from its capacity; for around 20% of consumers, this comes before other considerations. |
| Cycle times | Check the duration of the Eco 40-60 programme, the spin speed and the programmes suited to your fabrics. Check the maximum load for quick cycles. | If you need to get through several loads without disrupting your day, programme times and spin speed come first; around 20% of consumers prioritise this aspect of using their machine. |
According to the European Commission, the energy label shows, among other things, energy consumption per 100 cycles and water consumption per cycle for the Eco 40-60 programme. These figures let you compare models on a like-for-like basis, but they don’t tell you everything about the other programmes you’ll use.
UFC-Que Choisir says that a machine with an unsuitable capacity can mean more cycles, or excessive consumption if it’s often underfilled. Electronic load adjustment also has its limits.
Choose a machine to suit the dry laundry loads you wash regularly, rather than an exceptionally bulky item you only wash occasionally.
The energy rating alone doesn’t tell you how much water a cycle uses, how long the programme takes or how noisy the machine is. ADEME and the European Commission list these indicators separately on the energy label.
When comparing two models, check the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and other Eco 40-60 programme figures on their respective labels.
Dimensions vary between models, even when they have similar capacities. A machine may fit across the available width, but still be unsuitable if its depth or door swing makes installation difficult.
Measure the route to the installation space and the room around the appliance, then compare these measurements with the installation instructions for the model you’ve chosen.
Load detection and programmes for bulky fabrics are specific to certain models. You can’t assume they’re included based on the brand name or the stated capacity.
Check the product information and manual for the version you’re considering, as well as the fabrics and load sizes allowed for each programme that could be useful for your household.
These ranges give you a starting point for comparison. Check the capacity, dimensions and features of the specific model you’re considering.
Bosch Électroménager France offers front-loading washing machines with a 10 kg capacity, including models for households that regularly wash large loads.
LG France offers 11 kg front-loading models that are worth considering if you regularly wash large loads of dry laundry.
Electrolux’s SensiCare 600 series includes 10 kg front-loading models that combine a large capacity with advertised load adjustment.
Miele France offers washing machines with capacities from 6 to 9 kg, worth considering if you wash frequently but don’t always need a very large drum.
These models are suited to frequent washing, with capacities of 9 or 10 kg. Some also cater for varying load sizes. The washer-dryer is for a different type of use, and its drying capacity should be considered separately.
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Worth considering if you regularly wash large loads and want to look into how the cycle adjusts for smaller loads.
The model name indicates a 10 kg capacity, a maximum spin speed of 1 400 rpm, an A energy rating, AutoDose, steam and Wi-Fi. Check the manual for details of the load detection advertised for this model, and make sure there’s enough room to open the door.
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Compare it with your usual loads if 9 kg is enough and the size of your loads varies from wash to wash.
The model name indicates front loading, a 1 600 rpm spin speed, SteamCare, SmartSelect and a connected feature. Check how SensiCare works on this model, the duration of the Eco 40-60 programme and the clearance needed for the door.
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A capacity worth considering if you regularly wash large loads, rather than only needing the extra space for the occasional bulky item.
The model name indicates front loading, a 10 kg capacity, TimeSave and an Inverter motor. If you often wash small loads, check whether this model adjusts the cycle to their weight. Also check the dimensions required for installation.
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Worth considering for frequent, large loads, as long as its dimensions suit the space available.
The model name indicates front loading, freestanding installation, a 10 kg capacity, a 1 400 rpm spin speed and an A energy rating. Compare the consumption figures on this model’s energy label and check its full dimensions before ordering.
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Worth considering if you want to wash and dry with the same appliance, as long as you bear in mind that the maximum wash load differs from the drying capacity.
The model name indicates a 10 kg wash capacity, a 6 kg drying capacity and a D energy rating. If you plan to run a combined wash-and-dry cycle, check its maximum load and the energy label for the intended use.
It refers to the maximum weight of dry laundry, according to the manufacturer’s instructions, not the weight of wet laundry. A bulky duvet won’t necessarily fit: check its care label and the limits of the programme you want to use.
Compare their energy labels using the same Eco 40-60 programme figures: kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and programme duration. The European Commission explains that these figures relate to the reference programme; they don’t predict the consumption of every other cycle you use.
No. It doesn’t guarantee that a large-capacity washing machine will suit every small load. Electrolux, for example, advertises cycle adjustment on some SensiCare models, while UFC-Que Choisir points out the limits of electronic adjustment. Check the feature on the model you’re considering and base your choice on the loads you wash most often.
Measure the appliance, the access route and the space needed to open the door, then check the manual for water, drainage and electrical connections. If your existing installation looks old or you’re unsure about it, ask a professional to inspect it rather than assuming it’s compatible based on the washing machine’s product information alone.