If the washing-up piles up after meals, start by choosing a size that suits the amount of washing-up you have and the space available: freestanding, built-in, 45 cm or compact. If you have relatively little washing-up and an appliance would make your kitchen layout more difficult, washing by hand may still be the right choice. Either way, check the connections and running costs, and, for an open-plan kitchen, the noise level.
If several meals regularly leave your sink full, compare the place settings with the space available for plates and pans. A dishwasher that’s too small could mean running more cycles or washing some items by hand.
If you live alone or as a couple, the available width alone won’t tell you whether to choose a 45 cm model, a compact dishwasher or handwashing. Check the location of the water inlet and waste outlet too, especially if you’re considering a countertop appliance.
If the dishwasher will be running while you’re using the living space, compare the decibel level and noise class. Que Choisir highlights how important noise can be in an open-plan kitchen; the energy label shows both figures.
Start by matching the amount of washing-up you have to the available space and connections. Then compare the figures on the energy label and consider noise at the times you plan to run the dishwasher. If these practicalities mean an appliance wouldn’t be useful in your day-to-day life, washing by hand is still an option.
| Factor | What to check | What matters to consumers |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Number of place settings and space in the racks for plates and pans. | When several meals leave me with lots of washing-up, I want to avoid running another cycle or finishing the job by hand; around 33% of consumers say capacity is their top priority. |
| Space and connections | Dimensions, door clearance, water inlet and waste outlet; for a built-in model, check that it fits the housing and door panel. | In a small kitchen, I need to be able to install and open the appliance without getting in the way; around 27% of consumers put fitting the available space ahead of other considerations. |
| Running costs and maintenance | kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, eco cycle duration and expected maintenance. | If I run cycles often, I want to compare water and electricity use and plan for maintenance; around 20% of consumers prioritise these running costs. |
| Noise | Noise level in dB and noise class on the label, bearing in mind when you usually run cycles. | With an open-plan kitchen, I want to minimise disruption during conversations or quiet times; around 20% of consumers say quiet operation is their main priority. |
A 45 cm or compact model takes up less space, but its capacity could mean running cycles more often or washing larger utensils by hand.
Look at how much washing-up you get through in a day or two, including plates and pans, then consider the racks as well as the stated number of place settings.
In an open-plan kitchen, a difference in noise can matter at mealtimes or during quiet periods. ADEME says that an increase of three decibels corresponds to almost twice the noise level.
Compare the dB figures and noise classes shown on the labels rather than relying solely on the word “quiet”.
A compact dishwasher on a worktop also needs a suitable water supply and waste outlet, or a nearby sink, depending on the model. A built-in model must also fit its housing and door panel.
Measure the space, locate the connections and check the model’s instructions. If the electrical circuit needs to be installed or modified, ask a qualified professional to assess the installation.
Worth considering if leak protection is one of your priorities. Check that it’s included on the model you choose.
Worth considering for a kitchen designed for an integrated appliance, if the dimensions and loading features you’re looking for are available on the model.
Worth considering if adjustable racks or programming features are important for everyday use.
Worth considering if specific wash options or access to documentation and parts by model number are important to you.
These models are suited to kitchens that can accommodate a 60 cm freestanding dishwasher or a built-in appliance. To compare them, start with the space you have, then check the capacity and the information available for each variant.
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For a kitchen with floor space for a freestanding appliance and a large amount of everyday washing-up. The model name indicates a C energy class and a stainless-steel finish; check the exact dimensions and door clearance before deciding where to put it.
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For a large everyday load, if a freestanding appliance suits your kitchen. The model name indicates 41 dB, a C energy class and a white finish; check its energy label to compare electricity consumption too.
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For a household looking to fit the washing-up from several meals into a freestanding model. The listed finish is grey; check the model’s energy label before comparing consumption.
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For a kitchen with a housing and door panel designed for a built-in appliance. The model name indicates a B energy class; check the installation dimensions and don’t confuse the Extra Silence programme’s noise level with the figure used to compare appliances.
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For a fitted kitchen where the housing, door panel and connections are suitable for a built-in model. The model name indicates an E energy class and a white finish; compare its water and electricity consumption using the energy label.
No. Having space on the worktop isn’t enough: a compact dishwasher also needs suitable connections. For the compact model it reviewed, Que Choisir notes that a water inlet and waste outlet are needed, or a nearby sink. Check the instructions for the model you’re considering to find out exactly what it requires.
A 45 cm model is worth considering when there isn’t enough width for a 60 cm one, provided its capacity suits the amount of washing-up you have. Que Choisir features 45 cm models with a capacity of 9 place settings; check there’s enough room for your plates and consider how often you’re likely to run cycles before choosing this size.
Compare the dB level and noise class shown on the energy label, bearing in mind when you’ll be running cycles. According to ADEME, an increase of three decibels corresponds to almost twice the noise level; also check whether a figure applies only to a particular programme.
Don’t assume the existing socket and circuit are suitable: this depends on the installation and the appliance. Before installing or modifying a circuit, ask a qualified professional to assess the location and electrical supply, then follow the model’s instructions.
Yes. If the index is shown for the dishwasher you’re considering, it gives you another point of comparison. ADEME says dishwashers are among the appliances covered; consider the index alongside the documentation and availability of parts for the specific model.