A clothes washer comes with a cluster of figures on the spec sheet, the front panel, and the energy label. Read them in a set order. Fit comes first, because a machine that does not fit the room is out of the running no matter how good the other figures look.
Step one: confirm the space
Measure the width, depth, and height of the alcove or closet. Then measure the doorway and any hallway the unit must pass through on delivery. Add room for the water hoses, the drain hose, and the power cord behind the machine. Look at the door swing too, because a front-loader door needs clearance to open fully. The dimensions on the spec sheet are the figures to compare, not the marketing photo.
Step two: read the capacity
Capacity is usually stated in cubic feet of drum volume. Compare the same measure across models. Keep in mind that a larger drum is not always the right choice for a small household, because a large drum that runs half empty uses the same cycle. Match the drum to the loads you wash most often.
Step three: read the spin speed
Spin speed is usually given in revolutions per minute. A higher spin figure generally removes more water before the dryer, which affects drying time. Compare spin speed only between machines of the same type, because top-loaders and front-loaders are built to different spin profiles.
Step four: read the energy label
The energy label lists estimated yearly energy use, and often estimated water use. Read these as estimates under a standard test, then compare them side by side. Check whether the figures assume a particular load size or water heating setup, since those assumptions change the result.
Step five: confirm the connections
Check the location of the water inlets, the drain, and the power outlet against the spot where the machine will sit. Note whether the machine needs a dedicated outlet and what water pressure range the manufacturer lists. These details are often on the installation page, not the front of the box.
Step six: check the warranty and parts terms in writing
Ask the seller which parts are covered, for how long, and what must be done to keep the terms valid. Ask whether replacement parts are stocked locally. A label set that reads well means little if the parts take weeks to arrive. The clothes washer page shows typical service life so you can weigh these terms against the planning date.