For an existing fitted kitchen, first choose a dishwasher that fits the space and, if you’re keeping the existing cabinet door, is compatible with it. A fully integrated model conceals the controls, a semi-integrated model leaves the control panel visible, and a freestanding model doesn’t need a decorative door; a slimline model may be the answer if width is limited. Before choosing a model, check its installation instructions against the dimensions of the opening, the plinth, the door fitting and the available connections.
If you want to keep the decorative door and maintain the line of your kitchen units, check the opening, plinth and door fixings. Bosch, for example, distinguishes between fixed-door and sliding-hinge systems, so you’ll need to check compatibility for the specific model.
A semi-integrated model could work if your kitchen has a suitable opening and partial cabinet door. The control panel remains visible, but the door still needs to be fitted correctly.
If the width, clearance beneath the worktop or lack of a cabinet door makes integration difficult, consider a slimline and a freestanding model separately. A freestanding model will only fit beneath a worktop if its dimensions are suitable and the manufacturer permits this installation.
The installation type determines what kind of cabinet door or panel you’ll need. Then check the installation diagram for the exact model: two appliances with the same stated width may have different height, door or plinth requirements.
Consider this if: you want a continuous run of kitchen units and the controls concealed when the door is closed.
You’ll need: a decorative door and fittings that work with the mechanism of your chosen model.
Consider this if: your kitchen is designed for a partial cabinet door and you want the control panel to remain visible.
You’ll need: a suitable opening and cabinet door beneath the control panel.
Consider this if: you’re happy for the appliance to be visible and have a suitable space with access to the connections, without a decorative door.
You’ll need to allow for: a different look from your integrated kitchen units and, if installing beneath a worktop, checking the dimensions and whether the top can be removed.
| What matters | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions of the opening | Measure the usable width, height and depth, then compare them with the installation diagram for the exact model. Allow for the pipes and plinth. | If the appliance needs to fit in the old space without altering the kitchen units, I want to be sure it will fit and that the door will open properly. Around 36% of consumers would prioritise this fit. |
| Cabinet door and hinges | Check the dimensions of the cabinet door and the required fixing system, which may be fixed or sliding depending on the model. | If I want to keep a door that matches my kitchen units, I need a fitting that lets me reuse it without restricting its movement. This compatibility would be the priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Integration work | Confirm with the installer what’s included: connections, fitting the cabinet door, and adjusting the door or plinth. | If I want to avoid modifying the existing panels, I may be happy to leave a freestanding appliance visible. Around 21% of consumers would put limiting this work at the top of their list. |
| Limited space | Check the dimensions of a 45 cm model or, for a freestanding model beneath a worktop, whether the manufacturer permits removing the top. | When space is tight, I look for a model that will genuinely fit the opening, while making sure its stated capacity will meet my needs. Around 14% of consumers would put a smaller format first. |
The stated width won’t tell you whether the appliance will fit beneath the worktop, in the available depth or around the plinth. Bosch recommends comparing the actual measurements with the installation diagram for the model in question.
Measure all three usable dimensions and check how much room the connections behind the appliance will take up before choosing a model.
If there isn’t enough space, installation may require changes to the kitchen unit or the route taken by the connections.
An integrated model needs a suitable cabinet door. Bosch offers models with fixed-door and sliding-hinge mechanisms, so you can’t assume the old fitting will work.
Before planning to reuse the door, compare it and its fixings with the installation instructions for the new appliance.
You may need a different door or new fittings if the existing ones aren’t suitable.
Connecting the appliance doesn’t necessarily include fitting the cabinet door or adjusting the plinth. These steps are important if you want everything to line up properly.
Ask for a written description of the work included, including removal of the old appliance, connections, levelling and fitting the cabinet door.
A 45 cm appliance may suit a narrow space, but its capacity also needs to meet your household’s needs. For example, Electrolux lists its 45 cm EES42210L fully integrated model as having capacity for 9 place settings.
Once you’ve confirmed it will fit, check the stated capacity of the model you’re considering.
Bosch offers 45 and 60 cm integrated dishwashers, with guidance on the opening, plinth and hinges.
Electrolux offers, among other options, 45 cm fully integrated and 60 cm semi-integrated models.
Whirlpool offers integrated, semi-integrated and freestanding appliances, so you can compare different installation types.
Measure the usable width, height and depth of the opening, as well as the height of the plinth. Compare these measurements with the installation diagram for the exact model; Bosch notes that its detailed diagrams show dimensions in millimetres.
Yes, if its dimensions and fixing system are suitable for the new appliance. Check the instructions before reusing the door: Bosch, for example, distinguishes between fixed hinges and sliding systems.
It needs a water supply, an electrical supply and a waste-water outlet, as UFC-Que Choisir points out. Check their positions against the installation instructions for your chosen model.
Yes, for some models, provided the dimensions are suitable and the manufacturer permits this installation. Bosch says that removing the top reduces the height of some of its freestanding models from 84,5 cm to 81,5 cm. Check whether this is possible for the model you’re considering.