Start with your existing cabinet space and door: a fully integrated dishwasher is hidden behind a matching kitchen door, while a semi-integrated model leaves its control panel visible. If the door or its opening can’t be adapted, a freestanding model comes with its own finished exterior, so you won’t need a decorative door. To fit it beneath a worktop, check that its top panel can be removed. In every case, check the dimensions, plinth and connections before choosing a model.
The cabinet space, plinth and sometimes the kitchen door are already in place. Measure them and identify how the door is fitted before choosing a new appliance: the same stated width doesn’t guarantee it will fit.
A fully integrated dishwasher sits behind a door that matches your kitchen cabinets. For this option, the door, hinges and clearance above the plinth all need to be suitable for the model you choose.
A freestanding dishwasher comes with its own finished exterior and doesn’t need a decorative door, as Que Choisir explains. If you’re considering fitting it beneath a worktop, check its dimensions and whether the top panel can be removed.
First decide whether your kitchen door should completely conceal the appliance, leave the controls visible or not be used at all. Then check the installation requirements for the specific model.
Consider this if: you want a seamless finish and have a cabinet space and decorative door that are suitable.
Bear in mind: the door must be able to attach and open without catching on the plinth. The controls are hidden when the door is closed.
Consider this if: you have a cabinet space and want to keep the control panel visible.
The trade-off: the control panel breaks up the seamless look, and you’ll still need a compatible decorative door below it.
Consider this if: you can’t fit a suitable kitchen door or want more flexibility in your layout.
Check that: the model will remain visible, and will only fit beneath a worktop if its dimensions and removable top allow it.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet space and size | Measure the available height, width and depth. Compare them with the model’s dimensions and installation diagram, as well as the clearance beneath the worktop. | I’m replacing an appliance without altering the cabinets: the new model must genuinely fit in the space. |
| Kitchen door and opening | Check the door’s dimensions and fixings, the hinge type and the clearance in front of the plinth. Bosch, for example, distinguishes between fixed hinges and sliding hinge systems. | My kitchen door needs to line up with the cabinets and open fully. |
| Connections | Check access to the water supply, waste outlet and electricity supply. Promotelec states that a dishwasher needs a dedicated circuit protected by a 16 A circuit breaker; if you’re unsure, have the installation checked. | I want to know whether the space can accommodate the appliance before arranging installation. |
| Door fitting and installation | Work out whether you’ll need a kitchen door, suitable fixings or changes to the plumbing or electrical connections. Check exactly what’s included in the installation service you’re considering. | If I’m keeping my kitchen, I need to plan for any parts to fit and work that may be needed, not just choose the appliance. |
An appliance described as a 45 or 60 cm model may not fit if its height, depth or door opening isn’t right for your kitchen.
Measure all three dimensions of the cabinet space, then compare the plinth and kitchen door with the installation diagram for the exact model.
IKEA France says its BEHJÄLPLIG kit isn’t suitable for dishwashers from several brands, including Bosch, Brandt, Beko, Candy and Miele. You’ll therefore need to confirm that a kit is compatible with both your appliance and kitchen.
Check the kitchen and dishwasher instructions before choosing fixings or a sliding mechanism.
The installation services described by Darty and Boulanger don’t include changes to water or electrical connections. If these need altering, you’ll need to arrange this separately.
Check the condition and accessibility of the existing connections, then confirm which work is included before arranging installation.
If the decorative door can’t be adapted, insisting on a built-in model could make installation more complicated. According to Que Choisir, a freestanding model comes with its own finished exterior and doesn’t need this door.
Compare its overall dimensions and possible location with the constraints of your cabinet space. If you’re fitting it beneath a worktop, also check whether its top panel can be removed.
These examples show different sizes and door mechanisms to compare with your kitchen. A feature of one model won’t necessarily apply to an entire range.
Bosch offers fully integrated dishwashers, including models designed for taller cabinet spaces.
The range includes 60 cm fully integrated models with the VarioHinge system.
Electrolux also offers a 45 cm fully integrated model for kitchens with a narrow cabinet space.
These models are options to consider if you want a fully integrated dishwasher behind a kitchen door. For each one, compare the installation instructions with your existing cabinet space and kitchen door before deciding.
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This fully integrated model is worth considering if you want to keep a seamless finish in your fitted kitchen.
The title lists a 60 cm width, 13 place settings and energy class B. Check the installation dimensions, kitchen door fixings and clearance above the plinth for this model.
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This model is described as fully integrated and could be considered for installation behind a kitchen door.
The title lists a 60 cm width, 14 place settings, a white finish and energy class E. Check its installation diagram to confirm the order of the dimensions, the fixings and the door mechanism.
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This fully integrated model is worth considering if your plans include a decorative door in front of the appliance.
The title lists 14 place settings and energy class C. The dimensions in the title and description don’t match, so check the FSB34707Z installation diagram to confirm its measurements before choosing it for your cabinet space.
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This built-in model is worth considering for a kitchen where the cabinet space and door can accommodate this specific model.
The title lists a 60 cm width, 13 place settings and energy class C. The information about its hinge doesn’t match, so confirm the door mechanism, dimensions and fixings before checking whether it’s compatible with your plinth.
Measure the internal height, width and depth of the cabinet space, then check the plinth, kitchen door and clearance needed to open it. Compare everything with the installation diagram for the exact model: the width in its name isn’t enough.
Choose a mechanism that suits your kitchen door, its opening path and your kitchen’s plinth. Bosch distinguishes between these two door systems, so check compatibility in the dishwasher and kitchen furniture instructions. If you have an IKEA METOD kitchen, also check IKEA’s exclusions for the kit you’re considering.
Yes, if the model’s top panel can be removed and the resulting dimensions suit the space. Check the instructions for your chosen model to confirm this, and make sure you can access the connections.
Check the electricity supply available where the dishwasher will go. Promotelec says it needs a dedicated circuit protected by a 16 A circuit breaker. If a circuit needs to be installed or altered, ask a qualified electrician to check your installation.
Not with the installation services described by Darty and Boulanger: they exclude changes to these connections. If existing connections need to be moved or new ones installed, ask separately what work is required before arranging installation.