In a kitchen without a dedicated space or a cabinet front designed to accommodate a dishwasher, a freestanding model lets you keep your existing kitchen layout, as long as the chosen spot has the necessary connections and suitable flooring. Choose between 45 and 60 cm based on the space available and how much washing up you usually have: a slimline model takes up less room, while the 60 cm models featured here offer more place settings. An integrated appliance means rethinking your kitchen units and installation before you buy.
You’re fitting out a kitchen without a unit designed to house a dishwasher. A freestanding model has its own finished exterior, but it still needs to be positioned where it can connect to the water supply, waste pipe and electricity, as UFC-Que Choisir points out.
You’re choosing between 45 and 60 cm to preserve space for walkways or storage. Consider the width alongside the depth, door clearance and the amount of washing up you need to fit into each cycle.
If you have an open-plan kitchen or run frequent cycles, compare the stated noise level, water use per Eco cycle and energy use per 100 cycles for the specific models you’re considering. The basket layout also matters for the dishes you use most often.
First, make sure the appliance can be installed in your chosen spot. Then decide on the size and compare the features that matter for everyday use across suitable models.
| What matters | What to check | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Make sure there’s access to a water supply, a waste outlet and a suitable socket. Check the manual for required clearances and instructions on levelling the appliance. | Without a dedicated space, I first want to know whether the chosen spot will actually allow me to connect the appliance. Around 33% of consumers would prioritise this. |
| Dimensions and capacity | Measure the width, height, depth and door clearance. Check that the place-setting capacity suits the dishes you usually use. | When space is limited, I need an appliance that fits in my kitchen without making everyday loads difficult to arrange. This would be a priority for around 27% of consumers. |
| Noise | Compare the stated noise levels of the models you’re considering and make sure the door can open without obstructing the walkway. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to be able to start a cycle without noise becoming my biggest compromise. Around 20% of consumers would put quiet operation first. |
| Energy and water use, and maintenance | Compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per Eco cycle and the repairability information for the exact model. | If the appliance is used often, I want to understand its running costs and maintenance options over time. This would be the main concern for around 20% of consumers. |
The finished exterior means you don’t need a cabinet front, but you still need a water supply, waste outlet and electricity. UFC-Que Choisir identifies all three connections as necessary for installation.
Check where they are, measure the available space and read the model’s connection and levelling instructions before ordering.
If connections need to be installed or adapted, factor this work into your kitchen plans.
A slimline model frees up width, but its capacity may mean you need to run cycles more often. UFC-Que Choisir says a slimline appliance can suit a small family, potentially with daily use.
Measure the finished space, then check that the baskets can accommodate your large plates, serving dishes and saucepans.
The rating alone doesn’t tell you how much water is used per cycle or how the Eco programme fits into your daily routine. Product listings may also combine information from different energy labels.
For each exact model, compare the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco programme duration and noise level shown on its current label and product details.
Creating a space in an existing kitchen can affect the support for the worktop. This issue came up in a discussion published on ForumConstruire; the answer depends on how the kitchen is actually built.
If you’re considering an integrated model, have the worktop support and planned space checked before altering the kitchen units.
The freestanding SMS4HAW48E is a 60 cm model worth considering.
The ESS47410SW is a 60 cm freestanding model to consider for under-worktop installation.
Two Beko models illustrate the choice of width, but their specifications shouldn’t be taken to represent the whole range.
The WSFO 3T223 P is a slimline freestanding model to consider when space is limited.
This 14-place-setting freestanding dishwasher is worth considering if you’re looking for plenty of loading capacity without needing a cabinet front. Check its dimensions and installation manual against your kitchen layout.
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Worth considering if you want to fit up to 14 place settings without needing a cabinet front. The product name lists seven programmes and a grey finish. Before buying, measure the space, check door clearance and make sure the necessary connections are available.
You’ll need a water supply, a waste outlet and an electricity supply, as UFC-Que Choisir explains. Check that they’re accessible, and read the chosen model’s manual for connection requirements and levelling instructions.
Yes, if the model is designed for this type of installation. For example, Electrolux describes the ESS47410SW as an under-worktop model with a removable top. For any appliance you’re considering, check the height, clearances, worktop stability and instructions in the manual.
Start with the width you actually have available, then consider the amount of washing up you need to fit inside. A 45 cm model saves space but may mean running cycles more often. If a 60 cm model fits without obstructing the walkway, compare its capacity and baskets with those of slimline models. Remember to measure the depth, height and door clearance too.
If the water supply, waste outlet or electricity supply needs to be installed or altered, have the necessary work assessed before deciding where to put the appliance. Even if the connections are already in place, follow the model’s manual for connection and levelling instructions.