For a fitted kitchen, first choose between a fully integrated model, one with a visible control panel or a freestanding appliance, depending on the space and cabinetry you have. Then check the dimensions, plinth and door clearance. Finally, compare capacity, noise levels and declared energy and water consumption. A compact model can take up less space, but it also offers less capacity.
The cabinet space, door panel, plinth and door clearance all need to suit the new model. Que Choisir’s guides and Bosch’s installation advice highlight how important it is to check these details for a built-in appliance.
A freestanding appliance has its own finished exterior. If you want to slide it under a worktop, check that the top panel is removable and that there’s enough height, as recommended by Que Choisir.
You’ll need to balance space, capacity and noise. Que Choisir highlights the importance of noise levels in an open-plan kitchen. A compact model isn’t necessarily quiet, or designed to be installed without a cabinet door.
Start by deciding which installation type and finish will work with your kitchen. Then check the dimensions and door clearance before comparing the capacity, noise levels and consumption figures of the models you’re considering.
| Criteria | What to check before buying | Who should pay particular attention ? |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet space, door panel and door | Measure the available width, height and depth. Check the door panel fixing, plinth and door clearance in the model’s instructions. | If you’re replacing a built-in appliance, you’ll want the door panel to fit and the door to open without catching on the plinth. Around 29 % of consumers prioritise this compatibility. |
| Installation type and finish | Check whether the appliance is freestanding, semi-integrated or fully integrated. For installation under a worktop, confirm that the top panel is removable. | If you don’t have a kitchen door panel to fit, you may prefer an appliance with a finished exterior and more flexible placement options. Around 24 % of consumers prioritise this freedom of installation. |
| Size and capacity | Compare the dimensions and number of place settings with the space available and the amount of crockery you usually wash. Also check whether a compact model needs a door panel. | In a small kitchen, you’ll want to save space without choosing a capacity that’s too limited for your needs. Around 18 % of consumers put the appliance’s footprint first. |
| Noise | Compare the declared noise levels in dB(A) for the exact models and check the acoustic class on the label too. | If your kitchen is open to your living space, you’ll want to consider the noise made during cycles. Around 17 % of consumers make this their priority. |
| Consumption and repairability | Compare the kWh per 100 Eco cycles, water use per cycle and programme duration. Also check the model’s repairability index. | If you’re choosing based on consumption and repair options, look at these details once you’ve checked the installation type. Around 12 % of consumers put these criteria first. |
The figures on the EU energy label relate in particular to the Eco programme. They don’t, on their own, predict the consumption of your other programmes or your bills.
The nominal width alone doesn’t confirm that the appliance and its door panel will fit the cabinet space, or that the door will open without hitting the plinth.
Compare your kitchen measurements with the installation dimensions for the exact model, then check the door panel, its fixings and the door clearance.
A suitable door panel or changes to the installation may involve extra costs.
A freestanding model keeps its finished exterior, while a fully integrated appliance needs a cabinet space and a suitable door panel. For a freestanding model under a worktop, the top panel must also be removable, as specified by the manufacturer.
First decide which finish you want, then check which installation options are allowed for the exact model.
A compact appliance may be built in and need a door panel. For example, the Electrolux ESL2500RO is described as fully integrated, with 6 place settings and a declared noise level of 49 dB(A).
Check the installation type, capacity and declared noise level separately.
The label provides information about the Eco programme, and the appliances you’re comparing may have different capacities. An energy class on its own doesn’t tell you everything you need to make your choice.
Consider electricity and water consumption, programme duration and capacity together. Also check the model’s repairability index.
The SMV25EX06F is an example of a fully integrated dishwasher designed for a fitted kitchen.
The WBC3C26B is an example of a 60 cm semi-integrated model with a visible control panel.
The ESS68600SX and ESL2500RO represent two different configurations: a freestanding model with a removable top panel and a compact, fully integrated model.
The G 5740 SC SL is a 45 cm freestanding model to consider if you’re looking for a narrow appliance rather than a built-in or countertop model.
This selection includes compact countertop appliances and built-in models for different kitchen configurations.
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This countertop model is a compact option for a kitchen with limited space.
This model is listed as having two storage levels, five programmes, a built-in 5 l tank or tap connection, three spray arms and a delay start of up to 12 h.
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For a limited space, this tabletop model offers a stated capacity of 3 place settings.
The product title lists 7 programmes, a noise level of 56,3 dB and an energy class of C.
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This model is listed as a 60 cm appliance for a fitted kitchen with space for a built-in dishwasher.
The title lists a capacity of 14 place settings and an energy class of D. Check the installation dimensions and the door panel required for your kitchen.
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This model is described as fully integrated, with sliding hinges, for a fitted kitchen with an integrated door panel.
The description lists 14 place settings, 44 dB, an energy class of C and 10,5 l of water per Eco cycle. Check that the installation is compatible with your kitchen’s cabinet space and plinth.
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For a fitted kitchen with an integrated door panel, the description presents this model with a Kitchen Fit sliding door.
The description lists 13 place settings, 44 dB and an energy class of C. Check the cabinet-space dimensions and that the door is compatible with your installation.
No. The door panel needs to be suitable for both the model and your installation. A semi-integrated model leaves its control panel visible, while a fully integrated one hides the controls behind a suitable door panel. Check the fixings, plinth and door clearance in the installation instructions.
Follow the instructions for your model, including setting the water softener to suit your water hardness and preparing the specified reservoirs. Que Choisir says you can find out your water hardness from your water bill or by contacting the relevant local service.
No. It provides declared information mainly for the Eco programme, including kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, duration, capacity and noise level. According to the European Commission’s information on dishwasher labels, your usage and other programmes may differ from these figures.
If you’re buying as an individual from a professional seller, the legal guarantee of conformity can be applied for two years from delivery of the goods, according to the DGCCRF. A commercial guarantee is separate and optional. When buying a new appliance, the free take-back of an equivalent used appliance is covered by the “one-for-one” principle. Ask the seller how this works in practice.
For dishwashers covered by the rules in France, the authorities say that a repairability index is mandatory. The Ministry of the Economy explains that the durability index introduced in 2025 applies in particular to televisions and washing machines, not dishwashers.