First, check the space and connections. Then choose a capacity that suits the amount of washing-up you generate and compare noise levels in dB on the energy label, especially if your kitchen opens onto a living space. A freestanding model avoids the need for a fitted appliance space; an integrated model requires a compatible space and door panel. A compact model is better suited to limited space than to a high volume of washing-up. If the connections cannot be installed, ask someone to confirm that installation is possible before choosing an appliance.
If several people cook regularly, assess capacity based on the dishes and pans you use, not just the advertised number of place settings. UFC-Que Choisir includes capacity among the factors to consider when choosing a dishwasher.
If the dishwasher runs near conversations or a work area, compare the dB rating and the noise class of the exact model. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise levels are in an open-plan kitchen.
Before choosing between a freestanding, integrated or compact model, measure the space and check the water supply, drainage and power supply. If installation would involve building work, check what is permitted in your home.
Your installation options determine which formats will work. Then compare compatible models by capacity, noise and Eco cycle figures.
| Factor | What to check | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Noise | Compare the dB rating and noise class on the exact model’s label. Also check whether the end-of-cycle alerts suit your routine. | If the dishwasher runs while I’m working or talking in the living space, I want to keep things peaceful. Around 28% of consumers would put this need first. |
| Capacity | Compare the advertised place settings with the number of dishes and pans you usually use, and check how the racks are arranged. | When several people cook every day, I want to avoid washing-up piling up between cycles. Capacity would be the top priority for around 28% of consumers. |
| Installation | Measure the space and door clearance. Check the connections and, for an integrated model, the appliance space and door panel. | In a home where space or connections are limited, I need to be sure I can install the appliance I choose. Around 22% of consumers would put this first. |
| Use and maintenance | Compare kWh per 100 cycles and litres per Eco cycle, then check the model’s repairability index. | If I run the dishwasher frequently, I want to understand its energy and water use and plan for maintenance over time. This would be the main concern for around 22% of consumers. |
A freestanding model suits a space with the necessary connections but no fitted appliance space. An integrated model must fit the space and accommodate its door panel. A compact model is mainly worth considering when space is limited and you have a small amount of washing-up. If you cannot confirm the water supply, drainage or power supply, make temporary arrangements for washing up rather than planning an uncertain installation.
An integrated model must fit a compatible appliance space and accommodate the door panel designed for its type of installation.
Measure the space and check the installation diagram for the exact model. Confirm the door panel and installation requirements before ordering.
UFC-Que Choisir describes compact models with space for 6 place settings that can sit on a worktop. This capacity may mean running more cycles if several people cook often.
Think about the meals, large dishes and pans you use on a typical day before choosing this format.
The energy rating alone does not tell you about noise, capacity or water use during the reference cycle.
For models with a capacity that suits your household, compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per Eco cycle, cycle duration and the noise figures on the labels.
Your choice also affects day-to-day use and any repairs you might need. In France, the Ministry of the Economy says that a repairability index must be displayed for the dishwashers covered by the rules.
Check the index and find out about repair arrangements and parts for the model you are considering.
Worth considering if you’re looking for a 60 cm freestanding appliance and noise and energy use are important to you.
The EES47400L gives you an idea of what to expect from a 60 cm fully integrated model in a fitted kitchen.
The W8F HS61BS MaxiSpace is a useful comparison if rated capacity is a priority.
The brand’s freestanding models can be compared by their listed noise levels and rack layouts.
These freestanding and fully integrated models let you compare two installation types for an open-plan or shared kitchen. Before choosing, check the dimensions, connections and energy label for the model you have in mind.
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Worth considering if several people use a space designed for a freestanding appliance. The title lists 14 place settings and 7 programmes. Before choosing it for an open-plan kitchen, compare the noise and energy use on the exact model’s label.
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Worth comparing if your household needs a freestanding dishwasher with space for 14 place settings. The title lists a width of 60 cm, 41 dB and energy rating C. Check the dimensions and noise class in the documentation for the exact model.
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Worth considering for a freestanding space if rated capacity matters to you. The title lists a width of 60 cm, 14 place settings and energy rating E. Check the label to compare noise levels and kWh per 100 cycles.
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Worth considering if your kitchen has a space designed for a fully integrated appliance. The title lists 14 place settings and energy rating C, but its stated width differs from the dimensions in the description. Check the measurements, hinges and door panel in the manual before choosing.
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Worth considering for a fitted kitchen if 13 place settings suits the amount of washing-up you generate. The title lists a width of 60 cm and energy rating C. Check the installation dimensions, door panel and energy figures in the documentation for the exact model.
Measure the space and door clearance, then check that the model has the necessary water supply, drainage and power connections. Read its installation manual. If the connections or any building work are uncertain, have the layout assessed before you buy.
Compare the dB rating and noise class on the energy label for each model, rather than relying on the word “quiet” alone. ADEME says that an increase of three decibels almost doubles the noise level. Also consider when the dishwasher will run in relation to the living space.
Yes. The French Ministry of the Economy says the index must be displayed for dishwashers covered by the rules. The score out of 10 helps you compare repairability factors. You should also find out about repair arrangements for the model you’re considering.
For household electric dishwashers covered by EU ecodesign rules, the European Commission requires certain parts to remain available for ten years after the model is withdrawn from the market. This does not guarantee how long a particular repair will take or how much it will cost, so check the terms that apply to the model you choose.