If you regularly eat together as a household, first choose a dishwasher that can accommodate the dishes and pans you use most often, then pick a format that suits your kitchen. A freestanding model doesn’t need a cabinet recess, an integrated model requires a purpose-built space, and a compact one is best suited to homes where space is tight and there’s less washing up. Then compare the figures for the Eco programme, the stated noise level and the basket layout: the number of place settings alone doesn’t tell you everything you need to know.
After a meal, you want to avoid running several cycles. Look at the space actually available for dishes, pans and containers, as well as the stated number of place settings. UFC-Que Choisir’s loading test takes these everyday items into account.
If the appliance runs near your living space, compare the stated noise level and noise class of the models you’re considering, rather than relying on their marketing names.
An existing cabinet recess, a narrow space or a free worktop can determine which format is right for you. Measure the space and check the connection options before choosing an appliance.
For regular washing up in a household, first choose a format based on the space available and the amount of washing up; then look at the features of each model.
Consider this if: you don’t have a cabinet recess to work around or you’re replacing a freestanding appliance.
The trade-off: the appliance remains visible and still needs compatible connections, as Bosch Home Appliances explains in its installation guidance.
Consider this if: you have a suitable recess where the appliance can be fitted into your kitchen units.
The trade-off: the recess dimensions, door panel and installation requirements must all be compatible with your chosen model, as UFC-Que Choisir explains.
Consider this if: space is limited and you don’t have much washing up after each meal.
The trade-off: a smaller capacity may mean running more cycles after meals with several people. UFC-Que Choisir includes worktop models with 6 place settings.
| Criteria | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Compare the stated place settings and basket layout with your bulkiest items. | When dishes and pans pile up after meals, I want to load them without running several cycles. Around 36% of consumers prioritise this need for usable capacity. |
| Noise | Check the model’s dB rating and noise class; if it has a noise-reduction function, see which programmes it applies to. | If the kitchen opens onto the living space, I want to be able to run a cycle without disrupting conversations too much. Around 29% of consumers prioritise quiet operation. |
| Installation | Measure the space and door clearance, then check the connections and, for an integrated model, the recess and door panel against the instructions. | With a fitted kitchen, I mainly need to find an appliance that will fit and connect properly. Around 21% of consumers put this compatibility first. |
| Consumption | Compare the figures shown for the Eco programme and check its duration separately. | If I can wait for a longer cycle to finish, I mainly want to keep an eye on the water and electricity it uses. Around 14% of consumers prioritise using their appliance efficiently. |
This figure doesn’t tell you whether your pans, dishes or tall glasses will fit in the baskets. UFC-Que Choisir’s loading test specifically includes different types of dishes.
Look at the loading plan, available height and baskets, keeping your bulkiest items in mind.
A freestanding appliance doesn’t need a cabinet recess, but it still needs to be connected to water, drainage and electricity.
Before ordering, check the location and available connections against the instructions for the exact model.
If the connections aren’t compatible, you may need to arrange work before the appliance can be used.
A marketing name is no substitute for the stated noise level, which is particularly important to check if your dishwasher is near a living space.
Compare the dB rating and noise class. If you’re interested in a quiet mode, check which programmes it applies to.
According to ADEME, the Eco programme uses a lower temperature and takes longer. Its consumption figures don’t necessarily apply to other programmes.
Compare Eco consumption figures across models, then check separately how long the cycles you plan to use take and what their features are.
Bosch offers freestanding, integrated and compact dishwashers, giving you a range of formats to compare.
Beko offers freestanding models as well as different options for fitting an appliance into your kitchen units.
Miele offers freestanding, integrated and fully integrated appliances.
Whirlpool offers freestanding 60 cm models that are worth considering for regular household use.
Brandt is among the brands represented in appliances recently tested by UFC-Que Choisir.
These models include freestanding and fully integrated appliances listed as having 14 place settings. First choose a format that suits your kitchen, then check the loading layout and features of the specific model. There are no compact models in this selection.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a freestanding appliance for regular household use. Check that the baskets can hold your dishes and that the space and connections are suitable for this model.
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Worth considering for a kitchen with a suitable recess. Check the installation dimensions, door panel and connections before choosing this fully integrated model.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a freestanding model for meals with several people. Compare the basket space with your dishes and check the model’s energy label before comparing its Eco consumption figures.
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Worth considering for a fitted kitchen, provided you have a compatible recess. The stated width is 60 cm, but the detailed dimensions given for this model don’t appear to match that figure clearly. Check the installation diagram before ordering.
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Worth considering for regular loads if you don’t have a cabinet recess. The stated width is 60 cm, but the detailed dimensions given for this model don’t appear to match that width clearly. Check the technical specifications and instructions before deciding where to put it.
Compare the stated capacity with the dishes you usually use, particularly dishes, pans, containers and tall glasses. UFC-Que Choisir includes these types of items in its loading test. When buying, also look at the baskets and loading layout of the specific model.
No. Freestanding means you don’t need a cabinet recess, not that you can skip the connections. Check the water supply, drainage, electricity, dimensions and door clearance against the model’s instructions. Bosch Home Appliances also highlights these connection requirements in its installation guidance.
No. An integrated dishwasher needs a suitable recess, as UFC-Que Choisir explains. Measure the space and check the installation diagram, any required door panel and the door clearance for the model you’re considering.
No. ADEME says the Eco programme uses a lower temperature and runs for longer to reduce consumption. Check how long it takes separately if you need your dishes back quickly.
ADEME recommends avoiding pre-rinsing and waiting until the dishwasher is full before starting a cycle. Also follow the manufacturer’s loading and maintenance instructions for your appliance.