For one or two people, start by considering the space available, the connections you can use and how much washing-up builds up between cycles. A mini model with a water tank can save you from needing a permanent water supply, but you’ll need to fill it and arrange for the water to drain away. The 45 cm slimline models mentioned here offer more capacity, provided you have the right space and connections. Then compare the full dimensions, noise levels and energy label details.
If you can’t add a water supply connection, you could consider a mini dishwasher with a water tank. You’ll still need to be able to fill it, plug it in and drain the water, as explained in the model’s instructions. The ANIL states that changes to a rented home or its fixtures require the landlord’s written permission.
If three place settings aren’t enough for your usual washing-up, compare a six-place-setting countertop appliance with a slimline model that has a suitable floor space or alcove. The 45 cm models mentioned by Beko and Electrolux are rated for ten and nine place settings respectively. Also check that there’s room for the dishes you use.
If you have an open-plan kitchen or often run a cycle, check the noise level and usage figures before choosing. ADEME recommends looking at the energy use per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, capacity and Eco programme duration on the label.
Consider this if: you don’t have a permanent water supply connection and small, regular loads suit you.
Bear in mind: you’ll need to fill it by hand and arrange suitable drainage. The Bob described by Daan Tech and its retailers is rated for three place settings.
Consider this if: three place settings aren’t enough, but you have a suitable worktop rather than floor space.
Bear in mind: it takes up more worktop space. Check the water supply and drainage requirements for each model.
Consider this if: you have floor space and want to fit more washing-up in between cycles.
Bear in mind: it needs the water and drainage connections of a standard installation, as well as enough space in front of the door.
Consider this if: you already have a compatible cabinet space and connections, or can have them fitted.
Bear in mind: the door panel and installation requirements. The ANIL states that changes to a rented home or its fixtures require the landlord’s written permission.
| Factor | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Check the water supply, drainage route and access to a plug socket. If you need to make changes in a rented home, ask your landlord for written permission. | I don’t have a water supply connection and want to install the appliance without altering the kitchen, while still being able to drain the water. For around 36% of consumers, installation options are the main priority. |
| Capacity | Work out how much washing-up builds up between cycles and check that your plates and dishes will fit in the racks. | We’d rather run cycles less often than use a very small appliance frequently. Capacity is the main concern for around 29% of consumers. |
| Size | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the door clearance. For an integrated model, check the cabinet space and door panel too. | I need to keep my worktop clear or find a space in the cabinetry without getting in the way of using the kitchen. This is the top priority for around 21% of consumers. |
| Noise and running costs | Compare decibels, litres per cycle, kWh per 100 cycles and Eco programme duration on a like-for-like basis. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to know the noise level and stated consumption for the cycle I plan to use. Around 14% of consumers put this first. |
The models mentioned here vary in capacity: the Bob featured by Daan Tech and its retailers is rated for three place settings, Candy offers six-place-setting countertop models, while the 45 cm models mentioned by Beko and Electrolux are rated for ten and nine respectively. An appliance that’s too small could mean running more cycles or washing dishes by hand.
Keep an eye on how much washing-up builds up over a few days, then check the rack layout and the maximum dimensions for your plates and dishes.
Filling the tank by hand can save you from needing a permanent water supply connection, but the Bob model still needs electricity and a way to drain water into the sink.
Use the appliance dimensions to check your planned position, and make sure the surface is stable, the plug socket is accessible and the drainage hose can reach.
A 45 cm-wide cabinet space doesn’t guarantee a fit: you’ll also need to check the height, depth and door panel. Electrolux states that the EES42210L is supplied without a door panel. According to the ANIL, changes to a rented home or its fixtures require the landlord’s written permission.
Measure the cabinet space in all three dimensions, check the door panel requirements and get permission before making any changes.
You may need to factor in extra installation steps for a door panel or cabinet alterations.
The water and energy figures on the label relate to reference cycles, so you need to consider the capacity and programme duration when comparing them. ADEME states that energy use is shown in kWh per 100 reference cycles.
Compare labels on a like-for-like basis, and check the Eco programme duration and noise level instead of assuming the figures for one programme apply to every use.
Daan Tech makes the Bob, a mini countertop dishwasher for smaller loads and kitchens where worktop space is limited.
The Rapido range includes countertop dishwashers for households looking for a mid-sized capacity without needing floor space.
The BDFS26041XQ is an example of a slimline freestanding dishwasher for kitchens with available floor space.
Bosch offers slimline freestanding and integrated models, so choose according to the space already available in your kitchen.
The EES42210L is a 45 cm integrated model to consider if your kitchen has a compatible cabinet space and door panel.
These countertop models could suit anyone looking for an appliance for a small household with worktop space to spare. Before choosing, compare the stated capacity with your washing-up and check the water supply and drainage requirements for each model.
Image unavailable
Consider this if you’re looking at options that don’t need a permanent water supply connection. The product details list a built-in 5 L tank and several wash cycles. Check that your worktop can support the appliance and that the drainage setup suits your space.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’re looking for a countertop appliance with a manually filled tank. The title lists seven programmes and a D energy rating. Check the instructions for its usable capacity and drainage method before choosing it for your usual washing-up.
Image unavailable
Its countertop size could suit small, regular loads if worktop width is limited. The product details list three place settings and a width of 34 cm. Check the instructions for this version to confirm its water supply and drainage requirements.
Image unavailable
Worth a look if you want a countertop appliance for six place settings and can accommodate its connections. The title lists seven programmes and 47 dB. Measure the space and check that the inlet and drainage hoses are compatible with your kitchen.
Image unavailable
Consider this for smaller loads if a countertop appliance suits your space. The title lists three place settings. Check the dimensions and water supply and drainage requirements before planning its installation.
Yes, if the model has a tank you can fill by hand, like the Bob described by Daan Tech and its retailers. You’ll still need a plug socket, a stable space and a way to drain the water. Check the instructions for the specific model.
Base your choice on how much washing-up builds up between cycles and how much room your items take up in the racks. The models mentioned here include the Bob for three place settings, some six-place-setting Candy countertop models, and 45 cm Electrolux and Beko models for nine to ten. The place setting rating doesn’t guarantee that a large dish or your plates will fit.
Compare capacity, energy use in kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, Eco programme duration and noise level. ADEME states that energy use is measured using reference cycles, so bear this in mind when comparing appliances.
According to the ANIL, changes to a rented home or its fixtures require the landlord’s written permission. If your plans involve drilling, a fixed connection or plumbing alterations, get permission before starting work. Check the specific installation requirements for an appliance that simply plugs in and sits on a surface.
Read the instructions for your chosen model, check the maintenance guidance and after-sales service options, and keep your proof of purchase. In France, the Ministry of the Economy states that you can claim the legal guarantee of conformity for two years on both new and second-hand goods. Any commercial guarantee is in addition to this, not a replacement for it.