Used washing machines: Our advice before buying a used washing machine

Need a washing machine that's as good as new and doesn't come with a hefty price tag? Whether it's a simple purchase or an urgent need, second-hand appliances are multiplying day by day. Second-hand household appliances are evolving thanks to their attractive prices, but not only that. Today, the vast majority of people opt only for second-hand appliances for ecological reasons. Buying second-hand is becoming a new way of consuming. But beware: these large items are still fragile, and it's easy to miss certain problems that could end up bothering you.

Your needs

It's important to compare value for money so that you don't end up with an offer that isn't very attractive. Ask yourself the right questions: What do you need?

Tired of the traditional washing machine that never stops making noise when you turn it on? Just looking for a change? Looking for a second-hand washing machine just for a temporary fix?

Different needs, but the desire remains the same: a washing machine that will last over time and reduce consumption.

To do this, avoid older models, which consume more energy and indirectly increase your energy bill. It's not always easy to find spare parts if you need to repair your second-hand appliance. The cost of repairing these parts is far too high when they are too old.

It is advisable to opt for appliances that are between 4 and 8 years old.

The 7 criteria

There are 7 criteria to consider when buying a second-hand washing machine.

1. Types of appliance: An appliance with a top opening so you don't have to bend down, a built-in appliance due to lack of space? Or a tumble dryer to save time? The choice is yours.

2. The brand: various brands are available, including Electrolux, Miele, Siemens and Bosch. These 4 brands are recognised as extremely reliable in terms of durability, safety and robustness.

3. Energy class: choose the energy class of your choice, A+, A++ or A+++. These consume much less energy than those rated C and D. You can see a preview of the label below.

4. Washing capacity: choose the drum volume you need based on the size of your household.

Here is a table describing the drum capacity according to the size of the appliance.

5. Spin speed: machines that spin at 1,200 rpm wash clothes and leave them slightly damp, whereas machines that spin faster than 1,200 rpm have a stronger drying effect.

6. Noise level: noise level is defined according to the labels on the appliance. Class A and B appliances are quieter than class C or D appliances. See below. There are two distinct noise levels: the first, when washing, and the second, when spinning. Spin is the noisiest programme, so it's the "spin noise level" that you'll be looking at and comparing.

Noise levels are expressed in decibels. Generally speaking, if you're hoping to enjoy a quiet washing machine, we recommend you opt for a model with a spin speed of less than 73 dB.

Most of these machines have a noise level of 75 and 79 dB when spinning. These machines tend to be noisier when they are less expensive. Generally speaking, the lower the decibels, the more expensive the machine.

7. Programmes: these vary according to the fragility of your clothes and the programme capacity of your future washing machine. See below.

Curious to find out more about second-hand products? Check out our articles on used Macs, used consoles and used electric vehicles.

The test

You've chosen the best second-hand appliance for you, but have you examined it? If you're buying from a private individual, you can inspect the appliance yourself.

The various elements to be checked and tested are as follows:

- The different sides

- Openings

- The condition of the joints

- Buttons

- The electrical socket

- Shock absorbers

- The engine

- No holes in the tank

- Connections

- The presence of rust or mould

Tests should also be carried out on the opening system of second-hand appliances.

Secure your second-hand washing machine purchase with Obvy

If you want to buy your second-hand washing machine on resale platforms, we advise you to use Obvy to secure your transaction.

Obvy is a secure payment platform that helps you avoid the scams that are common in transactions between private individuals. When you make a transaction on Obvy, the funds are only credited to your seller when the buyer certifies that the goods purchased are in order. If this is not the case, you are automatically refunded and the item is returned to the seller.