First, choose a capacity that suits the amount of washing-up you produce between washes, then a format that will genuinely fit in your kitchen. A compact model is suited to smaller loads, while a larger-capacity appliance can help you avoid running multiple cycles when you have more to wash. To compare models that will fit, check the energy label for consumption and Eco programme duration, as well as capacity and noise level. The energy rating letter alone doesn’t tell you everything.
If you regularly cook at home, think about how much washing-up needs to fit between cycles, including saucepans. The stated place-setting capacity doesn’t tell you how the baskets are arranged; ADEME also recommends waiting until the dishwasher is full before starting a cycle.
The available width and depth, door clearance and, for an integrated model, the housing and cabinet door all determine which formats will fit. The water, drainage and electrical connections must also match the instructions for your chosen model.
If you have an open-plan kitchen or run cycles in the evening, compare the noise levels listed for each model. For water and electricity use, ADEME recommends checking the litres per cycle and kWh per 100 cycles on the energy label rather than relying on a general promise of savings.
Work out your usual load and the dimensions you can accommodate before comparing energy labels. ADEME says these show, among other things, energy use per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, capacity, Eco programme duration and noise level. These figures don’t automatically apply to other programmes.
| Criterion | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity and usage | Compare the stated place settings with the amount of washing-up you produce between washes, then check that saucepans will fit in the baskets. | When cooking at home creates larger loads, I want to wash everything without running multiple cycles. Around 31% of consumers prioritise finding a good match between capacity and usage. |
| Space and installation | Measure the space and door clearance. For an integrated appliance, also check the housing, cabinet door and connections specified in the instructions. | In a narrow or already fitted kitchen, the most important thing is finding an appliance that fits the available space. This is the top priority for around 25% of consumers. |
| Water and electricity | For models that suit your load, check the kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle for the Eco programme, as well as its duration. | If I want to manage my energy and water use, I need comparable figures for appliances that suit my household. This is the main criterion for around 25% of consumers. |
| Noise | Compare the dB level and noise emission class listed for each model. | With an open-plan kitchen or cycles running near bedrooms, I first look for a noise level that suits my home. Around 19% of consumers put noise first. |
The letter alone doesn’t tell you how much water the Eco cycle uses, how long it takes or whether the capacity suits your washing-up.
As ADEME advises, also check the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco programme duration, place settings and noise level for the exact model.
A compact model takes up less space, but its capacity may mean you need to run more cycles if you have larger loads. A 45 cm appliance doesn’t necessarily offer the same capacity as a mini dishwasher either.
Estimate how much washing-up you have between washes, then compare the energy labels for the formats that will fit in your kitchen.
The stated width alone isn’t enough to confirm that an appliance will fit. The housing, cabinet door, door clearance and connections must all meet the requirements in the instructions. Bosch Electroménager France points out that installation involves water, electricity and drainage.
Measure the space, and have the installation checked for compatibility if you’re unsure about the layout.
These habits affect the water and electricity you actually use, beyond the figures shown for the Eco programme alone.
ADEME advises against pre-rinsing dishes and recommends waiting until the appliance is full before starting a cycle, while following the loading instructions for your model.
Models to look at when comparing 60 cm freestanding and compact options, without assuming that the same features apply across the entire range.
A model to consider if your kitchen is designed for a fully integrated appliance and you’re looking for a generous capacity.
Narrow models to consider if a 60 cm appliance won’t fit but a mini format seems too small.
A compact built-in model to consider when limited space restricts the format you can install.
This selection includes 60 cm freestanding and integrated appliances with capacity for 13 or 14 place settings. If you have a smaller load or a kitchen that’s too narrow for this format, you’ll need to compare compact or 45 cm models separately. For the models below, always check the Eco cycle energy label and make sure the appliance will fit the space.
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Worth considering for regular loads if you have space for a 60 cm freestanding model. The product listing states 14 place settings, 41 dB and an energy rating of C. Check the energy label for consumption and Eco programme duration, then make sure you have the required clearance and connections.
If you choose the automatic door-opening feature mentioned in the product description, bear in mind that hot steam may escape when the door opens, especially if you have children.
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This freestanding model may suit you if 14 place settings are right for your loads and your kitchen can accommodate a width of 60 cm. The product listing states an energy rating of E. Before assessing its energy use, compare the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration on its energy label.
Also check the space needed to open the door and the connections.
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Worth considering for a kitchen designed for an integrated appliance and loads suited to 13 place settings. The product listing states an energy rating of B. Check the housing, cabinet door and connections, then look at the Eco programme figures on the energy label.
The product description gives a general noise level of 44 dB and a figure of 42 dBA for the Extra Silence programme. Check which setting each figure refers to before comparing noise levels.
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This built-in model is designed for a fitted kitchen, provided a capacity of 13 place settings suits your loads. The product listing states an energy rating of C. Check the Eco energy label for consumption and programme duration; you can’t infer these figures from the rating alone.
Check the housing dimensions, cabinet door and connections in the instructions before choosing.
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Worth considering if you’re looking to fit an appliance with capacity for 14 place settings in a kitchen suited to a 60 cm model. The product listing states an energy rating of E. Use the model’s energy label to compare consumption and Eco programme duration with other appliances suited to your loads.
Check the instructions for the housing dimensions, cabinet door and specified connections.
Compare the energy rating, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, capacity in place settings, Eco programme duration and noise level. According to ADEME and the European regulation on dishwasher energy labelling, the consumption figures refer to the Eco programme; they don’t automatically describe a quick or intensive cycle.
No. Its format tells you about its size and capacity, not how much energy it’s guaranteed to use. Compare the water and electricity figures on the energy labels for the exact models, then consider how many cycles you’d need for your usual amount of washing-up with each one.
Measure the housing and door clearance, then check the cabinet door and connections in the instructions for your chosen model. Bosch Electroménager France points out that installation requires a water supply, drainage and electricity. If you’re unsure about your setup, have the installation checked.
Yes. According to Légifrance, it applies to mains-powered domestic dishwashers covered by the French decree of 22 April 2022, including integrated and built-in models. You can check the index shown for the model you’re considering as an additional factor, but don’t confuse it with the appliance’s energy use or capacity.
ADEME advises against pre-rinsing dishes and recommends waiting until the dishwasher is full before starting a cycle. Remove any solid food scraps if necessary, and follow the manufacturer’s loading and maintenance instructions.