First, choose a size that fits your space and the amount of washing up you need to do. A freestanding model suits frequent loads, an integrated one needs to fit your planned kitchen layout, while a compact model is better for smaller loads. In an open-plan kitchen, compare the noise level in dB and the noise class, then check energy consumption and the Eco cycle duration on the energy label. Before ordering, check the dimensions and connections for the exact model in its manual.
If your dishwasher runs near the dining area or a space where you work from home, compare the dB level and noise class on the label. Simply describing a model as ‘quiet’ isn’t enough to tell you how it compares with others.
When several people load the dishwasher, compare its stated capacity with the space available for plates and the layout of the racks. A smaller model may mean running cycles more often.
A compact model is worth considering if your loads are small and its dimensions leave enough room to use it comfortably. Check how it connects, too: a small format doesn’t mean it won’t need plumbing.
For an open-plan or shared kitchen, first rule out any formats that can’t be installed in your space, then choose a capacity that suits your usual loads. You can then compare the noise and Eco cycle details of the models still under consideration.
Consider it: if you want to combine frequent loads from several people and have the space and necessary connections.
Bear in mind: the appliance will remain visible and take up space in your kitchen.
Consider it: if your kitchen unit, any required door panel and the connections are suitable for your chosen model.
Bear in mind: fitting it into your kitchen adds installation requirements, and you’ll still need to compare noise levels and capacity.
Consider it: for regular, smaller loads when there isn’t room for a standard appliance.
Bear in mind: its smaller capacity may mean more frequent cycles; some compact models need a direct water connection.
Stick with it: if you can’t confirm a suitable space or connection for an appliance.
Bear in mind: it can’t be compared with the per-cycle consumption figures on a dishwasher’s energy label.
| Criteria | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in your living space | dB level and noise class on the energy label; whether you can delay the start, if the model allows it. | If I eat or work near the appliance, I want to avoid a cycle interrupting conversation. Around 29% of shoppers put quiet operation at the top of their list. |
| Usable capacity | Place settings, rack layout and room for the dishes you use every day. | When several people generate washing up every day, I want to keep it from piling up without running extra cycles. Capacity is the top priority for around 29% of shoppers. |
| Installation options | Dimensions and door opening; the water inlet, drainage and power supply specified in the model’s manual. | In a fitted kitchen, I need to know whether the appliance can actually be installed or integrated before I choose it. Around 24% of shoppers put suitability for their space first. |
| Consumption and cycle times | kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the Eco programme duration shown on the label. | If I need clean dishes at particular times, I want to balance the cycle duration with the stated consumption. Around 18% of shoppers put this consideration first. |
In a living space, even a small difference in noise level can matter during meals or when you’re working from home. According to ADEME, an increase of 3 dB corresponds to almost twice the noise level.
Compare the dB levels and noise classes of the models you’re considering, then choose a start time that suits everyone in your household.
The Candy CP 6E51LS is a freestanding appliance, but Candy specifies a direct connection to the water supply. Requirements vary by model.
Before ordering, check the manual for details of the water inlet, drainage, power supply, dimensions and clearance requirements.
A particular connection may also require professional installation: Bosch recommends this for its AquaStop system.
The stated capacity doesn’t tell you by itself whether your saucepans, serving bowls and large dishes will fit. A compact model with 6 place settings, for example, may not be practical for larger shared loads.
Check the rack layout and compare it with the dishes that build up between cycles.
The stated consumption and duration allow you to compare models using the reference cycle, usually Eco; they don’t describe every programme.
Compare water and energy use, Eco cycle duration, noise and capacity together, then check that the cycle you plan to use suits your household’s routine.
Bosch offers compact, freestanding and integrated dishwashers, giving you a range of formats to compare.
Electrolux offers freestanding and integrated appliances, highlighting their noise levels for open-plan kitchens.
Miele’s range includes freestanding and integrated formats to consider if a seamless look matters in your kitchen.
Candy offers countertop models as well as larger formats, which are worth comparing when space is limited.
These freestanding models are worth considering for regular loads in an open-plan or shared kitchen. Compare their stated capacities, then check the noise level, energy label and space needed for each model.
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Worth considering if you want to combine washing up from several people while comparing noise levels for an open-plan kitchen.
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Worth considering for shared loads, provided you confirm there’s enough space before you buy.
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Worth considering if several people’s washing up calls for a stated capacity of 14 place settings.
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Worth considering for regular loads in a shared household, provided you have a suitable space.
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Worth considering if you want to combine frequent loads; bear the noise in mind if the appliance will run near your living space.
Compare the dB levels and noise classes of appliances that suit your space, rather than relying on the word ‘quiet’. ADEME states that an increase of 3 dB corresponds to almost twice the noise level; however, no single figure guarantees the same level of comfort in every kitchen.
It may be suitable if your loads are small or you’re happy to run cycles more often. The Candy CP 6E51LS is rated for 6 place settings. Compare this with your everyday washing up, especially saucepans and dishes, before ruling out a standard-size model.
Not necessarily: Candy specifies a direct water connection for its compact CP 6E51LS. Check the manual for the model you’re considering to find out about the water inlet, drainage, electricity supply and space needed for installation.
Follow the instructions for the specific system and model. Bosch recommends having its AquaStop system connected by a professional; this doesn’t automatically apply to every dishwasher.