If you have no floor space, choose a countertop dishwasher only if your worktop, power supply and drainage are suitable for the model. A compact 6-place-setting dishwasher also needs a suitable water supply; a mini model with a tank can work without one, but holds less washing-up and still needs to be drained. A 45 cm freestanding model is only an option if you can make room for it on the floor. If you can’t install an appliance safely, it’s better to carry on washing by hand.
If changing the plumbing is difficult, a mini model with a tank can save you from needing a fixed water connection. You’ll still need to arrange drainage and be happy with a small capacity, as Daan Tech’s Bob guides explain.
A countertop compact dishwasher with a 6-place-setting capacity can handle everyday washing-up without taking up floor space, provided your worktop and connections are suitable. UFC-Que Choisir describes this size as suited to smaller homes.
A 45 cm freestanding model is worth considering if your layout leaves you room to give it a place on the floor. Without that space, its extra capacity won’t solve the original problem.
If your kitchen has no floor space, start with what you can realistically install, then compare the capacity with the washing-up you usually have. A tank-fed appliance avoids the need for a fixed water supply, but still needs drainage. A 45 cm freestanding model, meanwhile, needs a place on the floor.
Consider it: if your worktop and connections are suitable and you want to load more than you could in a mini model.
Bear in mind: it takes up some worktop space, with hoses running nearby.
Consider it: if a fixed water supply is the main obstacle and you don’t have much washing-up.
Bear in mind: you’ll need to fill the tank by hand, the capacity is limited and you’ll still need to drain it.
Consider it: only if you can make room for it on the floor.
Bear in mind: this size isn’t a substitute for a dishwasher designed to sit on a worktop.
Stick with it: if you can’t confirm there’s a stable surface or a safe route for the drainage hose.
Bear in mind: washing-up won’t be automated, but you’ll avoid an improvised installation.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Water supply and drainage | Check whether the model uses a tank or a water supply connection, then check the route and securing of the drainage hose. | I don’t have a dedicated water supply and want to fill the appliance without improvising the drainage. Around 33% of consumers would prioritise this connection issue. |
| Size and support | Measure the width, depth and clearance needed; check the stability and weight limit of the support surface against the instruction manual. | I need to keep enough worktop space for preparing meals while making sure the appliance is accessible. Around 25% of consumers would put available space first. |
| Capacity and loading | Compare the stated capacity with the size of your plates and the space taken up by pans, dishes or containers. | If I cook with bulky utensils, the place-setting count alone won’t tell me whether everything will fit. Around 25% of consumers would prioritise usable capacity above all else. |
| Noise and consumption | Compare the stated noise level and the water and energy consumption of the Eco programme on a like-for-like basis. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to keep noise to a minimum without overlooking regular water and electricity use. Around 17% of consumers would prioritise noise and running costs. |
For Bob, Daan Tech says the tank means you don’t need a fixed water supply, but the drainage hose must still be connected or secured properly.
Find your drainage point and check the chosen model’s instructions for the hose route and any restrictions before ordering.
The depth, door opening, hoses and strength of the support surface can make an appliance impractical, even if the width fits.
Measure the full space and check the stability and weight requirements specified for your chosen model.
Frying pans, large bowls and serving dishes take up space that the capacity figure alone doesn’t account for.
Make a list of the washing-up you produce on a typical day, then check the size of items the dishwasher can fit and how its racks are arranged.
A slim freestanding model still needs to be installed on the floor, so it won’t work if you have no floor space at all.
Only consider this size once you’ve confirmed there’s room for it, checked the access dimensions and ensured the connections are suitable.
Bob is a mini countertop model to consider if a fixed water supply is difficult to arrange and you don’t have much washing-up.
The SKS2ITI00E is a useful reference for checking the specifications of a countertop compact measuring around 55 cm, but its features shouldn’t be assumed to apply to the whole Bosch range.
VALBERG models make it easy to distinguish between a countertop compact and a slim freestanding dishwasher if your layout changes.
The FLV0647DW is another 6-place-setting model to consider when comparing the stated specifications of compact dishwashers.
These models are designed to sit on a worktop. Some product titles mention a tank, while others state a capacity of 6 place settings. Compare how each one is supplied with water, and check the available space, support surface and drainage route for each model.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if a fixed water supply is difficult to arrange in your kitchen.
The title lists 5+1 wash cycles and a double-tempered glass door. Check the drainage route and make sure your worktop is strong enough.
Image unavailable
Consider it if you want to fit more washing-up on your worktop and have suitable connections.
The title lists 7 programmes, 47 dB and an energy rating of D. Check the appliance dimensions, support surface and hose route before buying.
Image unavailable
This compact size is worth considering if you have only a small amount of washing-up and can connect it to a tap.
The title lists a width of 34 cm. Daan Tech says Bob needs drainage, so check the hose route for this version.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for a small amount of washing-up if you want the choice of tank-fed or mains water supply.
The title lists 7 programmes, 56.3 dB and an energy rating of C. Check its dimensions, the stability of the support surface and whether drainage is possible in your home.
Image unavailable
Consider it if you’re looking for a compact appliance to sit on your worktop in this pack configuration.
Check exactly what’s included in the pack and the capacity stated in the manual for this version: specifications for another Bob won’t confirm either. You’ll also need a suitable drainage route.
Yes, for Bob as described by Daan Tech: you can fill its tank without a fixed water supply. You’ll still need to fit the drainage hose to a suitable outlet, so check the instructions for your chosen version.
BUT’s connection guide recommends not using an extension lead or multi-socket adaptor with a dishwasher. Check the electrical instructions for your model, and have your home’s installation checked if you don’t have a suitable socket.
A compact dishwasher with 6 place settings may suit one person or a couple, depending on what you need to wash. UFC-Que Choisir describes this size as suitable for smaller homes, and Electro Dépôt lists its VALBERG 6S47 D WAD929C V2 with this capacity. Above all, check that there’s room for your dishes, pans and large bowls.
The statutory guarantee of conformity applies to a new item sold by a professional to a private individual in France, according to the French Directorate General for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control. You have two years to claim under it; it covers faults relating to conformity, not a simple change of mind.