First, measure the available height at the lowest point, then compare all the dimensions of the space with the installation requirements for the dishwasher you’re considering. The appliance’s external height alone isn’t enough to confirm that it will fit. The Bosch and Whirlpool product details cited here give heights of 815 or 820 mm for some integrated models. If your space doesn’t meet the requirements in the installation instructions, consider a compact model suited to your washing-up needs or a freestanding dishwasher elsewhere, rather than relying on the top panel being removable.
You want to keep the existing cabinet door and integrated look. Start by measuring the space and checking how the door opens. Choosing a narrower appliance won’t necessarily solve a lack of height.
You may be happy with a smaller capacity or a different location. Make sure you distinguish between a compact model designed for integration and a tabletop model: their installation requirements aren’t interchangeable.
You could consider putting a freestanding dishwasher somewhere other than beneath the worktop that’s too low. Check that there’s enough room to open the door and access the connections. If you still plan to put it beneath a worktop, check the instructions for the exact model.
Consider this if: the instructions confirm that the model can be installed in your existing space, including with the planned cabinet door and appliance door. This option keeps the fitted look.
Bear in mind: a 45 cm model is narrower, but not necessarily shorter.
Consider this if: a smaller capacity would suit your washing-up needs. Compare compact integrated models and tabletop appliances separately.
Bear in mind: a tabletop model needs a different location, while a compact integrated model must still fit the dimensions of its housing.
Consider this if: you have space elsewhere, as the low height of the existing space will no longer be the only factor determining your choice.
Bear in mind: the alternative location must allow the door to open and provide access to the necessary connections.
| Feature | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and cabinet door | Measure at the lowest point, then compare the height, depth and cabinet-door dimensions with the requirements in the instructions, with the feet adjusted as directed. | I want to keep my dishwasher behind the existing cabinet door without obstructing the appliance door. Around 33% of consumers would make this compatibility their priority. |
| Connections and installation | Check the route for the hoses, the drainage, the power supply and the clearances specified for the model. | There seems to be enough space, but I need to be able to connect and install the appliance as directed. Around 27% of consumers would put this practical consideration first. |
| Compact model | Distinguish between a compact integrated model and a tabletop model. Compare their capacity with your washing-up needs and check that they’ll fit in the intended location. | I’d rather have a smaller appliance, even if it means washing fewer dishes at a time. A compact model would be the priority for around 20% of consumers. |
| Location outside the existing unit | Find a separate space and check its dimensions, whether the door can open and whether the connections are accessible. | I can install the dishwasher elsewhere and avoid having my choice depend on the low space beneath the worktop. Around 20% of consumers would prioritise moving the appliance. |
Official product details give a height of 815 mm for the Bosch SMH4EVX08E and SPV4EMX17E, and 820 mm for the Whirlpool WH8IA15AM3TU0. These external heights alone don’t confirm how much room is needed for the feet, door and connections.
Before ordering, compare the dimensions in the installation instructions with your measurements in the kitchen, particularly at the lowest point beneath the worktop.
If the space or door dimensions aren’t suitable, you may need to adapt the unit, plinth or cabinet door.
45 cm refers to the width. Bosch’s product details for the SPV4EMX17E give an appliance height of 815 mm, so choosing a narrower model won’t automatically solve a height restriction.
Check the width and height separately, then confirm the required space dimensions for the model you’ve chosen.
Bosch says that removing the top panel from some freestanding models can save 2 to 3 cm. This may not apply to other models, and the extra clearance alone doesn’t confirm that the appliance can be installed beneath a worktop.
Check that the manufacturer allows you to remove the top panel from the exact model, then compare its resulting height and the required clearances with the space available.
Joybuy’s listing for the Comfee' CDWMTO201D mentions a built-in 5 L water tank. This doesn’t tell you how the appliance drains or how much space you’ll need to use it.
Before choosing a tabletop model, check the instructions for drainage, the power supply and the space needed, as well as whether its capacity suits your washing-up needs.
A brand to look at if you’re comparing a 60 cm integrated model, a slimline option or a freestanding model with a potentially removable top panel.
A useful comparison for a 60 cm integrated model when every millimetre of height matters.
A brand to explore when comparing compact models with 45 cm slimline options.
An example of a tabletop model to consider if you can install the appliance outside the existing unit.
Measure the usable height at the lowest point, along with the width, depth and space for connections. Then compare these measurements with the space, door and cabinet-door dimensions in the model’s instructions. Knowing the appliance’s height alone isn’t enough to confirm that it can be installed.
No, not by itself: 45 cm refers to the width. For example, Bosch gives a height of 815 mm for its 45 cm SPV4EMX17E. Check the required space height separately for the model you’re interested in.
Only if the manufacturer allows it for that exact model. Bosch says that removing the top panel from some freestanding models can save 2 to 3 cm. Then check that the resulting height and all other installation requirements are suitable for your space.
A tabletop model could work outside the existing unit if its capacity suits your washing-up needs, but it won’t automatically fit or install like an integrated model. For the Comfee' CDWMTO201D, listed on Joybuy with a 5 L tank, check the instructions for the location, drainage and power supply.