First, choose a dishwasher that will genuinely fit in your kitchen. An integrated model needs a compatible space, door panel and installation, while a freestanding model gives you more flexibility when planning your layout. In an open-plan kitchen, compare the noise level shown on the energy label. If the available width means you need a slimline or compact model, check its capacity against the amount of washing-up you produce to avoid running it too often.
If the dishwasher runs near your living room or home-working space, check the dB level and noise class for each model. ADEME explains that the noise class appears on the energy label, while UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise levels are when the kitchen shares your living space.
If you’re replacing an integrated appliance or fitting a door panel to match your cabinets, check the space, door and hinges before comparing programmes. Bosch recommends consulting the installation diagram for the model you’re considering.
When space is tight, a slimline model can help you avoid rearranging your kitchen. UFC-Que Choisir notes that 45 cm dishwashers with a capacity of 9 place settings may suit a small family, although you may need to run a cycle every day. Beko also lists 45 cm models with a stated capacity of 10 place settings. Compare these capacities with the amount you usually load.
First check the available space and installation options, then weigh up noise, capacity and consumption based on how you’ll use your dishwasher.
| What to consider | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in your living space | Compare the dB level and noise class on the energy label, rather than relying on a marketing term. | If the kitchen opens onto the living room, I want to run a cycle without disturbing conversations or anyone working nearby too much; around 31% of consumers would put noise first. |
| Fits your kitchen layout | For an integrated model, measure the space and check the model’s installation diagram, especially the door and its panel. For a freestanding model under a worktop, check the available height. | I need to replace an appliance in a fitted kitchen without discovering too late that its door or height won’t fit; compatibility would be the main concern for around 31% of consumers. |
| Space and capacity | Compare the available width and place-setting capacity with the amount of washing-up you produce and how often you’re likely to run a cycle. | In a small kitchen, I want to save space without having to run the dishwasher after every meal; around 25% of consumers would prioritise this balance. |
| Water and energy | For models with similar formats and capacities, check the kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle for the Eco programme on the energy label. | Once I’ve chosen a size, I want to compare how much water and energy each cycle uses; around 13% of consumers would put consumption first. |
The right width doesn’t guarantee that the height, depth or door mechanism will fit the space.
Measure the entire space and compare it with the model’s installation diagram. Also check which door panel you need and how the appliance should be installed.
A decorative door panel and professional installation may also be part of the project.
A marketing term alone won’t help you compare how noisy two appliances will be in an open-plan kitchen.
Check the dB level and noise class on each model’s energy label. ADEME says that class A or B models are particularly quiet.
If a slimline dishwasher doesn’t have enough capacity for your washing-up, you may have to run it more often.
Think about the loads you usually wash before choosing between a slimline model and a wider appliance, if you have room for one.
Extra cycles also take time and use resources, so consider how you’ll use the appliance rather than looking only at the figures per cycle.
A range worth exploring if the available space and type of installation are key to your choice.
A freestanding range to consider if the available width points you towards a 45 cm model.
An integrated range where you can compare capacity, fit and noise levels across specific models.
An integrated range to explore for a fitted kitchen project.
These countertop or space-saving models are designed for kitchens where room is limited. Compare their capacity with the amount of washing-up your household produces. If you have an open-plan kitchen, also check the noise level on the model’s energy label.
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Consider this model if you have space on your worktop and usually have small loads. The title lists a capacity of 3 place settings and a width of 34 cm. Before choosing a spot for it, check the full dimensions, noise level and consumption figures in the product documentation.
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This countertop model is worth considering if you want a stated capacity of 6 place settings without needing space for an integrated dishwasher. Its title lists 7 programmes, 47 dB and a D energy class. Check the full dimensions and energy label figures before buying.
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For smaller loads, this countertop model lists a capacity of 3 place settings and 7 programmes. Its title states a noise level of 56.3 dB and a C energy class. If it will run near your living room, compare the noise level on the energy label and consider how often you’ll need to run a cycle.
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The stated built-in tank may be useful if you’re considering a spot on your worktop. The title lists 9 programmes and a D energy class, but the dimensions don’t fully match across the product information. Check them before measuring for space, and confirm the noise level and capacity will suit your household.
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This worktop model, with a stated 5 L tank, is worth a look if you’re not planning to install an integrated appliance. Its title lists 6+3 programmes and a D energy class. Check the place-setting capacity, dimensions and noise figures before deciding whether it’s suitable for an open-plan kitchen.
Measure the width, height and depth of the space, then compare them with the installation diagram for the specific model. Also check the door clearance, door panel, hinges and connection requirements in the manual. Bosch notes that installation requirements vary by appliance.
Check both the dB level and noise class on each dishwasher’s energy label. ADEME describes class A or B models as particularly quiet. The dB figure can help you fine-tune your choice if the dishwasher will run near your living room.
Yes, if its capacity suits the amount of washing-up you produce and how often you’re happy to run a cycle. UFC-Que Choisir says that 45 cm models with a capacity of 9 place settings may suit a small family, although you may need to run them every day. Check your usual loads before ruling out a wider model.
The European Commission says that dishwasher energy labels show, among other things, energy use per 100 Eco cycles, water use per cycle, capacity and noise emissions. Compare these figures across models of a similar size and capacity. ADEME notes that water consumption can vary depending on the model and programme used.
Depending on your kitchen and the model, you may need a decorative door panel and professional installation. Before choosing your appliance, check with your kitchen supplier or installer what’s included for the door panel, hinges and connections.