Start with the cabinet rather than the advertised width: the usable dimensions of the opening, the plinth, the door front and the door system must match the installation plan for the exact model. A fully integrated dishwasher hides the controls completely behind the door front, while a semi-integrated model retains a visible control panel. A freestanding model is worth considering when the cabinet door or opening does not allow for reliable integration.
You have a new or planned cabinet opening and need to choose between a fully integrated, semi-integrated or freestanding model, depending on the cabinet, plinth and door front. UFC-Que Choisir points out that a built-in appliance must be installed in an opening designed for that purpose.
If you are keeping the cabinets and, in some cases, the existing door front, take the actual measurements, check the opening system and inspect the connections. The same nominal width does not guarantee compatibility with the existing cabinet.
A narrow opening may point you towards a 45 cm format rather than 60 cm. Check the available width first, then choose the capacity and interior layout that suit your dishes.
The three solutions are suited to different projects: full integration prioritises a uniform kitchen look, while freestanding installation reduces the constraints associated with the door front and cabinet.
Choose this if: you have a dedicated opening and a compatible door front, and want the appliance to be completely concealed when the door is closed.
Check: the plinth, door-front movement and door system must match the instructions; Bosch explains that these requirements depend on its own systems.
Choose this if: you want a built-in appliance with a visible control panel on the front.
Check: a separate furniture door may be required; its fittings and appearance alongside the existing cabinets must be confirmed for the chosen model.
Choose this if: no suitable opening or compatible door front can be prepared.
Allow for: the appliance remains visible, but a water supply, waste connection and electrical supply are still required, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
| Priority | What to check | Your requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Opening dimensions | Measure the internal width, height and depth. Compare them with the installation drawing, adjustable feet and space beneath the worktop. | I want to be able to fit the appliance without putting pressure on the cabinet or door. The advertised width of 45 cm or 60 cm does not replace measurements of the opening. |
| Door front and plinth | Identify the fixed or sliding-door system, plinth height, fittings and any weight or dimensional limits for the door front stated in the instructions. | I want the door to open without catching on the plinth and the door front to match the existing furniture. |
| Connections | Check the water inlet, waste connection and electrical supply, as well as future access to the connections. Promotelec specifies a dedicated circuit for a dishwasher. | The connections must remain accessible after installation, particularly for maintenance or any future repair work. |
| Format and loading | Choose the format after measuring the opening, then consider the number of place settings, adjustable baskets and space for large items. | For a narrow opening, I can consider 45 cm; UFC-Que Choisir indicates around 9 to 10 place settings, depending on the model. For 60 cm, the source refers to 12 to 17 place settings, depending on the model. |
An appliance may appear suitable at 45 cm or 60 cm but still cause problems with the available height, plinth or door-front movement. UFC-Que Choisir and Bosch recommend measuring the opening before buying.
Take the actual internal measurements of the opening and compare them with the installation drawing for the model, not just its commercial description.
Installation requires a water inlet, waste connection and electrical supply. An appliance that is not properly level may also increase the risk of overflowing or leaking.
Check all three connections before installation, ensure realistic access to them and have the electrical installation inspected when creating or renovating the circuit.
A built-in dishwasher is designed for a compatible opening and door front; it cannot simply be installed like a freestanding appliance. A freestanding model remains an alternative when proper integration cannot be prepared.
If the cabinet or door front has not been approved before ordering, also compare freestanding models and only choose a built-in dishwasher once the installation plan has been confirmed.
In France, Bosch offers 45 cm, 60 cm and XXL built-in dishwashers, with fixed-door or sliding-door solutions on some fully integrated models.
The French range includes fully integrated and semi-integrated models. The EES47310IX model cited by Electrolux is semi-integrated and retains a visible control panel.
In France, IKEA sells built-in dishwashers compatible with its kitchen system, particularly in 45 cm and 60 cm formats.
These Joybuy options are fully integrated 60 cm dishwashers for a fitted kitchen with a dedicated cabinet opening. Compare each model with the cabinet measurements, door front and installation plan before ordering.
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Worth considering for a dedicated opening when the minimum installation dimensions and door front can be compared with the model’s plan.
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This fully integrated model may suit a project with limited plinth clearance, subject to checking the installation diagram.
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An option to compare with your opening if your household needs an advertised capacity of 14 place settings.
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This model is aimed at an integrated kitchen project requiring a moving door front, after checking the official dimensioned drawing.
No. A nominal width of 60 cm is not enough: measure the usable width, height and depth of the opening, then check the adjustable feet, plinth, door system and installation plan. Bosch specifically states that an XXL model may have a different height from a standard model.
A fully integrated model is hidden behind a complete door front, with the controls positioned along the top edge of the door. A semi-integrated model is also built in, but retains a visible control panel and has a furniture door fitted beneath it.
It can determine how the door front can move. Bosch states that a sliding door is particularly suitable for certain installations with a plinth of 9 cm or less; this guidance applies to the Bosch systems mentioned, so check the instructions for the exact model before buying.
You will need a water inlet, electrical supply and waste connection. UFC-Que Choisir also recommends keeping the connections accessible, which is generally easier when the appliance is installed close to the sink.
Promotelec states that the dishwasher socket must be connected to a dedicated circuit. If you are renovating or are unsure about the existing installation, have the circuit checked by a qualified professional before fitting the appliance.