Start by choosing the format based on the space you actually have available and the amount of washing-up produced between cycles: a 60 cm model is generally suitable for larger daily loads, while a 45 cm or compact model is primarily designed for kitchens where space is limited. Then compare the capacity, kWh per 100 Eco cycles, litres per cycle and noise level on the energy label. Finally, check the dimensions, connections and the model’s repairability index. The European Commission, ADEME and UFC-Que Choisir all present these criteria as useful benchmarks for comparing dishwashers.
The capacity should match the actual load between meals, rather than simply the number of people in the household. UFC-Que Choisir states that 60 cm models generally accommodate 12 to 17 place settings, compared with 9 to 10 place settings for many 45 cm models.
A 45 cm appliance may be suitable when the available width, housing unit or worktop cannot accommodate a 60 cm model. Compact models offer a capacity of fewer than 9 place settings, so make sure that the washing frequency remains practical for everyday use.
In an open-plan kitchen or when running frequent cycles, compare the standardised Eco programme data: water consumption, electricity consumption, capacity and airborne acoustical noise emissions, rather than relying on a simple marketing name.
Worth considering: if your kitchen cannot accommodate a standard appliance and a capacity of fewer than 9 place settings or more frequent cycles would still be acceptable.
Key consideration: the space-saving design reduces capacity; the values shown on the specific model’s label remain decisive.
Worth considering: for your first appliance or a replacement, when you want to retain flexibility in your kitchen layout without a cabinet door panel.
Key consideration: if installing it beneath a worktop, check the removable top, water inlet, waste connection and electrical supply in particular.
Worth considering: if your fitted kitchen already has a housing unit and suitable door panel in place.
Key consideration: the housing dimensions, door and installation requirements must be checked for each model.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Daily capacity | Compare the number of place settings, the basket layout and the space available for dishes, saucepans and large glasses. A 60 cm model commonly accommodates 12 to 17 place settings, while a 45 cm model accommodates 9 to 10. | I want to be able to build up washing-up from regular meals without running incomplete cycles or running out of room for bulky utensils. |
| Consumption in use | Compare the kWh per 100 Eco cycles and litres per cycle between appliances of a similar format and capacity. The energy class alone does not describe overall consumption. | I want to limit the water and electricity used by frequent cycles, without choosing based solely on the energy-class letter. |
| Noise level | Check the noise emissions in dB(A) and the noise class on the label. Compare them for similar use and placement conditions. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to be able to run a cycle without disturbing meals, working from home or sleep. |
| Installation and repairability | Check the H × W × D dimensions, housing unit, any required door panel, water inlet, waste connection and electrical socket. Also check the French repairability index for the specific model. | I want to avoid an appliance that is incompatible with my kitchen and be able to assess its repairability beyond the initial purchase. |
An appliance that is too small may mean running more cycles, while a large model run only partly full may not suit the household’s routine. UFC-Que Choisir generally puts 45 cm models at 9 or 10 place settings and 60 cm models at 12 to 17.
Take stock of the washing-up produced over one or two typical days, including saucepans and dishes, then check the capacity, baskets and full dimensions.
Consumption also depends on capacity, kWh per 100 Eco cycles, litres per cycle and the programme used. Two appliances in different formats will not necessarily handle the same load.
Compare the complete energy-label data for the Eco programme between models suited to your preferred format and volume of washing-up.
A freestanding model can only be installed beneath a worktop if its top panel is removable. A built-in model also requires a housing unit and, depending on the model, a suitable door panel.
Before ordering, check the technical specifications, removable top, housing dimensions, any required door panel and the water, waste and electrical connections.
Depending on the format selected, adapting the installation or adding a door panel may be necessary.
Service life also depends on maintenance, access to spare parts and servicing conditions. The French decree of 22 April 2022 covers household dishwashers, including integrated and built-in appliances.
Check the repairability index for the model sold in France and review the conditions for parts, labour and warranty cover before buying.
A brand worth comparing for 60 cm freestanding dishwashers and built-in appliances, with French product pages detailing the dimensions, energy class, water consumption per Eco cycle and noise class for specific references.
Worth considering for a slimline 45 cm dishwasher when kitchen width is limited, particularly as a freestanding appliance.
An option for a built-in project, with a French integrated range that includes 60 cm and 45 cm models.
Joybuy options for a household that cooks every day, including 60 cm freestanding and built-in models designed for larger loads.
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Designed for a fitted kitchen with a large daily load, this fully integrated model offers 14 place settings and a cutlery drawer.
It is listed as class C, with 10.5 l and 0.75 kWh per Eco cycle, plus a noise level of 44 dB. Check the housing dimensions, compatible door panel, connections and repairability index before buying.
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This freestanding model is suitable for a household with plenty of daily washing-up, thanks to its stated capacity of 14 place settings, adjustable basket and third drawer.
The manufacturer lists 41 dB(A), 9.5 l per Eco cycle and 75 kWh per 100 cycles. As the installation information differs between sources, check the technical specifications, dimensions and connections.
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For a fitted kitchen with a housing unit available, this fully integrated dishwasher offers 13 place settings, a three-level adjustable basket and fold-down tines.
Class B with a stated noise level of 44 dB. The listed housing dimensions are 820–900 × 600 × 555 mm; also check the door panel, fixed hinge, connections and energy label.
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This 60 cm freestanding model offers 14 place settings for handling a large amount of washing-up between meals.
It is rated at 41 dB and 9.5 l on the Eco cycle. The removable top panel and height adjustment up to 820 mm may help when assessing installation beneath a worktop, subject to the required clearances and connections.
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With 14 stated place settings, this 60 cm freestanding dishwasher is aimed at households that build up washing-up between meals.
It offers 9.5 l per cycle and 46 dB, with a removable top, dimensions of 85 × 60 × 59 cm and adjustable feet. Check the energy label, connections and the model’s repairability index.
Compare the energy class, kWh per 100 cycles for the Eco programme, litres per cycle, capacity in place settings and noise emissions. The European Commission and ADEME present these figures as a common basis for comparing dishwashers.
It may be enough if the actual load fits between two cycles. UFC-Que Choisir states that 45 cm models generally accommodate 9 to 10 place settings, compared with 12 to 17 for 60 cm models; also check the available space for dishes and saucepans.
Confirm the water inlet, waste connection and electrical supply intended for the appliance, then follow the model’s manual. Bosch states that a dishwasher must be connected to all three and recommends professional installation for a built-in model.
Yes, provided that the model has a removable top and there is sufficient remaining height. Also check the clearances specified by the manufacturer, the full dimensions and the connections before installation.
ADEME recommends not pre-rinsing dishes, waiting until the appliance is full and using the Eco programme when its longer duration is suitable. Consumption depends on the model and programme; ADEME gives an average of 10 to 20 litres per cycle for dishwashers.