Right to repair for household appliances: what changes for washing machines, vacuum cleaners, bicycles and smartphones

On July 31, the European Union’s directive against planned obsolescence officially came into force, marking a major shift in consumer rights across member states. The rule mandates that manufacturers must repair products even beyond their legal warranty period, provided they are technically serviceable. This applies to a wide range of goods including washing machines, vacuum cleaners, electric bicycles, and smartphones. The directive aims to combat the practice of designing products with limited lifespans to encourage frequent replacements, often referred to as planned obsolescence. The directive was adopted two years ago and requires EU countries to implement national laws aligning with its principles. Under the new rules, consumers who wish to have their appliances repaired can expect either free or reasonably priced services. If a product is still under warranty, the guarantee will automatically extend by one year. For products manufactured outside the EU, the obligation falls on importers or distributors within the bloc. Manufacturers are also required to provide genuine spare parts and technical manuals to third-party repairers, ensuring greater accessibility for independent technicians. Elisa Nicoli, an environmental advocate known online as Eco Narratrice, highlights common concerns among consumers. She notes that many individuals feel unable or unwilling to repair their devices, citing high costs, lack of knowledge, or difficulty finding qualified professionals. The directive addresses these issues by setting clear guidelines for repairability and affordability. It also introduces a structured framework for extending warranties, which should help reduce the financial burden on consumers seeking sustainable alternatives to buying new. A key component of the directive is the launch of an online platform set to debut on July 31, 2027. This platform will serve as a centralized database for repair information, enabling users to locate certified repair services and access necessary resources. Alongside this digital initiative, the concept of “Repair Cafés” is being promoted, community-run spaces where volunteers assist with fixing household items that would otherwise end up in landfills. These cafés aim to foster a culture of sustainability and self-repair, reducing electronic waste and promoting circular economy practices. In Italy, the implementation process has been extended to allow more time for adaptation. A legislative decree modifying the Consumer Code has had its deadline postponed by three additional months. While the draft legislation ensures that contracts signed from today onward will be protected under the new rules, the Senate’s Industry Committee has proposed a transitional period to ease the burden on small businesses. This adjustment recognizes the challenges faced by local repair shops in meeting the new standards, particularly in terms of sourcing spare parts and updating training programs. As the directive takes effect, stakeholders are preparing for increased demand for repair services and potential shifts in market dynamics. Consumers are likely to see more options for affordable repairs, while manufacturers may need to rethink production strategies to comply with the new obligations. The success of the policy will depend on how effectively governments and industry players collaborate to support both consumers and repair professionals. With the launch of the online platform and the expansion of Repair Cafés, the EU is taking a significant step toward making repair a viable and accessible option for all.