Start by choosing a format that fits the space available. A dedicated housing unit and compatible door panel point towards an integrated or semi-integrated model, while a kitchen without a dedicated space is better suited to a freestanding dishwasher. If space is limited, a compact model is only a good choice if its capacity is enough between washes. Also compare the dimensions, connections and specifications of the exact model.
If your kitchen units include a space for a dishwasher, make sure its dimensions and door panel are compatible with the model you’re considering. Que Choisir explains that an integrated dishwasher must be installed in a dedicated space; a semi-integrated model also needs a space designed to accommodate it.
A freestanding dishwasher has its own visible exterior, so you can choose a position without needing to match it to a kitchen door panel. You’ll still need to check the space available and the connections.
Capacity matters just as much as the space an appliance takes up. Que Choisir features compact worktop models with 6 place settings and slimline 45 cm models with 9 place settings. Compare these formats based on how much washing-up builds up between cycles and the space you actually have.
First, decide where the appliance can go, then check that its capacity suits your household’s washing-up needs. Next, compare energy and water use and noise levels using the information for the exact model.
Consider this if: your kitchen has a dedicated space and a door panel to conceal the appliance when it’s closed.
Bear in mind: you’ll need a compatible door panel, which should be planned alongside the kitchen units.
Consider this if: you have a dedicated space but want the control panel to remain visible at the front.
Bear in mind: the control panel stays visible, and the appliance still needs a dedicated space and a compatible door panel.
Consider this if: your kitchen doesn’t have a dedicated space, or you’re replacing an appliance that’s already on show.
Bear in mind: the appliance remains visible, and whether it can fit under a worktop depends on the model.
Consider this if: space is very limited and a smaller capacity will handle your washing-up between washes.
Bear in mind: if the capacity is too small, you may need to run more cycles. It’s worth comparing a slimline model as well.
| Criteria | What to check | Relevant consumers |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen units and door panel | Measure the space and appliance; check the door panel and its fixing system. | I want the appliance to fit neatly with my kitchen units, without finding out too late that the door panel or space isn’t suitable. Around 36% of consumers would prioritise this integrated look. |
| Freedom to position | Identify which sides will remain visible; if installing under a worktop, check whether the top panel is removable and measure the height with it removed. | Without a dedicated space, I’m looking for an appliance that will fit into my existing kitchen. This flexibility would be the main priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Space and capacity | Compare the space available, the stated number of place settings and how often you’re likely to run a cycle. | In a small space, I don’t want to save room at the expense of having enough capacity for the washing-up I do each day. Around 21% of consumers would put this trade-off first. |
| Use and service life | Check the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and noise level. Also look at repairability information and any work needed to connect the appliance. | I want to understand an appliance’s energy use and maintenance needs before buying one I’ll use regularly. This would be the main concern for around 14% of consumers. |
ADEME explains that the energy rating label shows energy use in kWh per 100 cycles and water use in litres per cycle. Compare these figures on the labels of the models you’re considering, bearing in mind that capacity and installation requirements can vary.
According to Que Choisir, an integrated dishwasher must fit into a dedicated space and have a compatible door panel, which isn’t supplied with the appliance.
Measure the available width, height and depth, then check how the door panel attaches and where the connections are before choosing a model.
Capacity can become an issue if washing-up piles up between washes. The 6-place-setting compact models featured by Que Choisir don’t hold as much as a slimline model with 9 place settings.
Think about how much washing-up you usually have, and compare a 45 cm appliance too if you have enough space.
Just because an appliance is freestanding doesn’t mean it can be slotted under a worktop.
Check whether the top panel of the model you’ve chosen can be removed, then measure the appliance in that configuration.
The rating letter alone doesn’t tell you about capacity, noise or what’s needed to install the appliance.
Compare the full labels for the appliances and check whether your existing connections are suitable or if any work is needed.
Bosch’s French catalogue features freestanding, integrated, slimline and compact dishwashers.
Siemens features integrated and freestanding ranges in its French catalogue.
Whirlpool features 45 cm and 60 cm models, including integrated and freestanding options.
Miele’s French catalogue distinguishes between freestanding appliances and several types of integrated models.
These Joybuy models illustrate three options: an integrated dishwasher for a fitted kitchen, a freestanding model for a kitchen without a dedicated space, and a compact worktop appliance. First choose a format that fits your space, then check the specifications of the model you’re interested in.
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Worth considering for a fitted kitchen with a compatible dedicated space and door panel.
Energy rating A, as stated in the product name. Measure the space and check the connections and door panel before installation.
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Worth considering for a kitchen without a dedicated space for an integrated dishwasher.
Energy rating E, as stated in the product name. If you plan to install it under a worktop, check that the top panel can be removed and measure the appliance in this configuration.
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Worth considering if you’d prefer a freestanding appliance rather than one concealed behind a door panel.
The product name states a noise level of 41 dB and an energy rating of C. If you plan to install it under a worktop, check the available height and exact dimensions after any adjustments.
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Worth considering for a very small space if three place settings are enough between washes.
The product name states that it has seven programmes and an energy rating of D. Before deciding where to put it, check its dimensions, how it’s filled and how it drains.
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Worth considering if your kitchen has a dedicated space and door panel for a fully integrated appliance.
The product name states an energy rating of C and a width of 60 cm, but the dimensions listed for this model don’t match. Confirm the exact measurements before choosing it for your kitchen space.
No. According to Que Choisir, an integrated dishwasher must be fitted into a dedicated space and have a compatible door panel. If your kitchen isn’t set up for this, consider a freestanding appliance instead.
Some models can, provided you check whether the top panel is removable and whether the appliance will fit into the available space once it’s removed. Check these details for the model you’ve chosen before deciding where to put it.
Both fit into a dedicated space with a suitable door panel, but the control panel on a semi-integrated model remains visible at the front. On a fully integrated model, the controls are on the top edge of the door, and the appliance is concealed when the door is closed.
A compact model is enough if its capacity suits the amount of washing-up that builds up between washes. Que Choisir features compact models with 6 place settings and 45 cm models with 9 place settings. Compare these options if a smaller appliance would mean running more cycles. Some worktop models have an even smaller capacity.
Compare the energy and water use of the models you’re considering, along with the noise level and any other details relevant to how you’ll use it. ADEME explains that energy use is shown in kWh per 100 cycles and water use in litres per cycle. Also check the capacity and make sure each appliance is compatible with your kitchen.