Replacing an existing integrated dishwasher
If you are keeping the existing space and kitchen door panel, first check the width, height, depth, plinth, door panel and hinge. These details take priority over comparing programmes.
Which households is it for?
Narrow space or moderate load
A 45 cm format may be suitable when space is limited or the amount of daily washing-up is moderate. UFC-Que Choisir states that 9- to 10-place-setting models may suit a small family, sometimes with more frequent cycles.
Households needing plenty of capacity
With a 60 cm space and lots of plates, utensils or dishes to wash, look at high-capacity models. UFC-Que Choisir puts 60 cm integrated models at between 12 and 17 place settings, depending on the model.
How to choose
Fully integrated
Choose this if: you want the door panel to conceal the appliance completely and the space, plinth and door panel are compatible with the exact model.
Bear in mind: the controls are hidden behind the door, and the installation instructions must confirm the hinge, sliding mechanism and required dimensions.
Semi-integrated
Choose this if: you want to match the door panel to your units while keeping the control and display panel visible.
Bear in mind: the control panel remains visible; the height and depth of the space, along with the door panel section beneath the controls, must match the model.
Freestanding
Choose this if: the layout provides a standalone position without a furniture door, and the appliance’s external dimensions are suitable.
Bear in mind: a freestanding dishwasher cannot automatically replace an integrated model: a kitchen designed for an integrated door panel requires a layout check.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Space and door-panel compatibility | Measure the width, height and depth of the space. Compare the door-panel type, plinth height and hinge or sliding system specified for the exact reference. | I want to avoid choosing an appliance with the right width that blocks the door from opening or does not fit the existing unit. |
| Width and capacity | For 45 cm models, check the number of place settings and how often you expect to run a cycle. For 60 cm models, also check how plates, glasses and utensils are arranged, not just the stated capacity. | The fixed space determines the width first. I need enough room for my everyday washing-up without running the dishwasher unnecessarily often. |
| Energy consumption and noise | Compare the energy class, kWh per 100 cycles, water consumption per Eco cycle and noise level on the models’ labels. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition states that dishwashers are subject to an energy label. | In an open-plan kitchen, I pay attention to the noise level. I also prefer to compare Eco programme figures on a like-for-like basis. |
| Overall cost and maintenance | Allow for the door panel and installation if your project requires them. Add the necessary consumables, including detergent, rinse aid and dishwasher salt. | I want to budget for the costs of integration and everyday use, rather than comparing the appliance alone. |
Mistakes to avoid
-
Choosing based on width alone
Two 60 cm appliances may have different heights, depths, space dimensions, plinths or door mechanisms. A compatible width therefore guarantees neither that the appliance will fit into the unit nor that the door will open correctly.
Measure the entire space and compare it with the installation diagram for your chosen reference. Check the door panel and hinge separately.
-
Confusing fully integrated and semi-integrated models
A fully integrated model conceals the controls behind the door panel, whereas a semi-integrated model leaves the control panel visible. The visual finish and required door panel are different.
First decide whether the control panel should remain visible, then limit your search to the corresponding configuration.
Depending on the configuration, a door panel or unit modification may be required.
-
Assuming a 45 cm model is always cheaper or always sufficient
UFC-Que Choisir points out that 9-place-setting models are not necessarily cheaper and may need to be run every day for a small family.
Let the space determine the width, then compare your actual load, cycle frequency and internal layout before deciding.
-
Comparing the purchase price alone
The budget includes integration components and recurring consumables. Energy-label and Eco programme data allow you to compare appliances on a common basis.
Add the items required for your kitchen to the initial budget and compare the label figures rather than relying on a single consumption claim.
Running costs may include detergent, rinse aid and dishwasher salt.
Integrated dishwasher brand guide
Bosch
The French range includes 45 and 60 cm integrated models, in fully integrated and semi-integrated versions, with heights of 81 cm or 86 cm depending on the model.
- Bosch features VarioHinge on certain references to accommodate plinth restrictions or installation clearances.
- The presence of this hinge does not confirm compatibility with every space or door panel: check the exact reference.
Siemens
Siemens offers fully integrated and integrated dishwashers in 45 and 60 cm formats, with different control-panel configurations depending on the model.
- According to Siemens, varioHinge can reduce the space beneath the door panel to 5 cm on the relevant models.
- Connected features, baskets and cycles vary by reference; consult the product details for the model you are considering.
Whirlpool
The French range includes semi-integrated and freestanding 60 cm models, making it useful for comparing a visible-control-panel installation with a standalone setup.
- The W3PFD636B is specified for a space measuring 82/90 × 60 × 56 cm and offers 14 place settings as a semi-integrated model.
- These dimensions and this capacity apply to this model, not to the entire Whirlpool range.
Electrolux
Electrolux offers slim fully integrated models, including 45 cm appliances suited to kitchens where the width of the space limits the available options.
- The EES42210L is described as a 45 cm fully integrated model with 9 place settings, supplied without a door panel.
- The SatelliteClean and AirDry features highlighted by the brand are manufacturer claims and should be distinguished from independent test results.
Miele
Miele offers fully integrated 60 cm dishwashers, XXL versions and 45 cm models, depending on the available space beneath the worktop.
- The brand offers 81 cm models for standard spaces and 85 cm XXL versions for higher worktops.
- The specifications stated for the G 7260 SCVi, including 14 place settings and 43 dB(A), apply specifically to this reference.
Joybuy selection
Joybuy options for a fitted kitchen: three 60 cm fully integrated models and one freestanding model to consider only if the layout can accommodate an independent appliance.
Image unavailable
Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1 60 cm integrated dishwasher, 13 place settings, class B
For a fitted kitchen with a stated space of 820–900 × 600 × 555 mm and a need for family-sized capacity.
Fully integrated, with 13 place settings and a stated noise level of 44 dB(A). Check the installation diagram, door panel, plinth and hinge before buying; also compare the energy label and Eco data.
Image unavailable
Samsung DW70H72WCB0U1 60 cm integrated dishwasher, 13 place settings, class C
A fully integrated option for a complete door panel, with a stated Kitchen Fit sliding door.
Stated capacity of 13 place settings and a noise level of 44 dB(A). Check the space dimensions, available depth and door-panel compatibility; consult the energy label for the Eco figures.
Image unavailable
Whirlpool W2I HD526 A 60 cm integrated dishwasher, 14 place settings, class E
For a fitted kitchen looking for a fully integrated appliance with a stated capacity of 14 place settings.
Stated net dimensions: 60 × 82 × 56 cm; stated noise level: 46 dB. Check the space, door-panel fixing system and hinge using the installation instructions.
Image unavailable
Hotpoint H4FD641A 60 cm freestanding dishwasher, 14 place settings, 41 dB
Consider this for a standalone position that can accommodate a freestanding dishwasher, rather than a complete integrated door panel.
Stated external dimensions: 600 × 590 × 850 mm; 14 place settings, 41 dB and approximately 9.5 L on the Eco cycle. Check the clearances and under-worktop installation requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Which measurements should you check before choosing an integrated dishwasher?
Measure the width, height and depth of the space, then compare them with the product information and installation diagram for the exact model. Also check the door-panel type, plinth height and hinge system: the 45 cm or 60 cm format alone is not enough to confirm compatibility.
Should you choose a 45 cm or 60 cm model?
The space determines the width first. According to UFC-Que Choisir, 45 cm integrated models generally offer 9 or 10 place settings and may suit a small family with more frequent cycles; 60 cm models are suitable for approximately 12 to 17 place settings.
Can a freestanding dishwasher directly replace an integrated model?
Not automatically. An integrated dishwasher is designed for a fitted space and should not simply be placed on the floor; a freestanding model is suitable only if the layout provides an independent position compatible with its external dimensions.
Which energy-label details should you compare in France?
The French Ministry for Ecological Transition states that dishwashers must carry an energy label. Compare the class, consumption per 100 cycles, Eco programme water consumption and noise level, using the figures from the same label.
What costs should you expect after buying an integrated dishwasher?
Depending on your project, allow for a door panel and possible installation. For everyday use, UFC-Que Choisir recommends including detergent, rinse aid and dishwasher salt in your budget.