Households with large daily loads
You want to fit in all the dishes and serving dishes that pile up between cycles, rather than choosing based on the stated width alone.
Who is this guide for ?
People sharing a small kitchen
You need to make the most of the available space and keep walkways clear, while still having enough capacity for regular use.
Households with an open-plan kitchen
You sometimes run the dishwasher while people are using the living space, so you want to compare noise levels without overlooking capacity and running costs.
Which criteria should you compare for frequent use ?
Before choosing a width, consider how many dishes and large serving dishes build up between cycles, then check the installation requirements and noise level. ADEME says the energy label includes information such as capacity, water and energy consumption, and noise level. Use these details to compare models.
| What matters | What to check | Who it matters most to |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Number of place settings, basket layout and space for the serving dishes and pans you use regularly. | If I want to leave longer between cycles without having to leave large serving dishes out, I check the layout as well as the stated capacity. Around 36 % of consumers prioritise fitting a large load between washes. |
| Installation | Appliance and space dimensions, any cabinet door, door clearance and connections. | If the kitchen is narrow or already fitted, I check that the model and installation type will suit the space. Around 29 % of consumers prioritise a model that fits their kitchen. |
| Noise | The noise level in dB and the noise class stated for the specific model. | If the dishwasher runs while people are using the open-plan kitchen, noise level matters alongside the capacity you need. Around 21 % of consumers prioritise quiet operation. |
| Water, energy and repairability | kWh per 100 cycles, litres per Eco cycle, programme duration and repairability index. | When comparing compatible models, I check the reference figures and repair options to assess resource use. Around 14 % of consumers prioritise these criteria. |
Mistakes to avoid before you buy
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Choosing based on place settings alone
The standardised capacity figure doesn’t tell you whether your large serving dishes, pans and glasses will fit easily. Que Choisir recommends checking the basket layout of the specific model.
Before choosing between 45 cm and 60 cm models, check the dimensions of the items you wash regularly and how they fit in the baskets.
If serving dishes don’t fit, you may need to run extra cycles or wash some items by hand.
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Assuming the energy rating applies to every programme
The label figures are based on reference conditions and the Eco programme; they don’t automatically reflect the consumption of a quick wash or any other programme.
Compare models on the same basis, then check the manual for the programmes you plan to use.
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Forgetting the cabinet door and installation requirements for an integrated model
An integrated dishwasher must fit the cabinet space and suit the type of door panel you need. The right width doesn’t guarantee that the door panel or depth will be suitable.
Check the dimensions of the space, the door panel and the installation services included in your kitchen plans.
You may need to make extra arrangements for the door panel and installation as part of your kitchen project.
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Assuming a compact model’s water tank means no drainage is needed
With the Bob model, the tank means you don’t need a fixed water supply, but wastewater still needs to be drained through a hose, according to the manufacturer’s product details.
Before choosing a compact model, check where the hose can go and whether you have enough worktop space.
A compact countertop model takes up worktop space, and you’ll need to manage either the water tank or the drain hose.
Brands and models to consider by format
Bosch
The SMS4EVW36F is an example of a 60 cm freestanding model for a suitable space.
- Bosch’s product details confirm the model’s format and reference.
- Check the energy label, full dimensions and basket layout of this specific appliance.
Beko
The BDFN16431W is an example of a 60 cm freestanding model, rated for 14 place settings by Beko.
- Its stated capacity makes it worth comparing if your household regularly builds up a lot of washing-up.
- Check there’s room for your larger items and that the layout suits you. Don’t assume the same capacity applies across the whole range.
Electrolux
The fully integrated EES42210L and KEQC7200L models illustrate two widths designed for a kitchen door panel.
- Electrolux’s product details give the EES42210L a width of 45 cm and capacity of 9 place settings, and the KEQC7200L a width of 60 cm and capacity of 13 place settings.
- Neither model comes with a cabinet door panel, so you’ll need to provide a compatible one.
Whirlpool
The W3PFD636B is an example of a 60 cm semi-integrated model with a visible control panel.
- Whirlpool specifies a cabinet space of 82/90 × 60 × 56 cm for this model.
- Check your cabinet dimensions and make sure the door panel is compatible with this specific appliance.
Daan Tech
Bob is a compact countertop model to consider if you don’t have room for a full-size appliance.
- Daan Tech states that it holds three place settings under the European standard and can be filled from its tank or connected to a water supply.
- Its capacity may not be enough if several people generate a lot of washing-up between cycles, and you’ll still need to arrange wastewater drainage.
Dishwashers on Joybuy for frequent use
This selection includes 60 cm freestanding and integrated dishwashers, with different capacities and features to compare to suit your load and kitchen.
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Whirlpool WFP5O41PLGX, 60 cm, 14 place settings, C energy rating
This freestanding model’s stated capacity of 14 place settings may suit regular loads, provided the layout meets your needs.
It features 11 programmes, a half-load option, a 41 dB noise level and uses 9.5 L per Eco cycle.
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Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1, 60 cm, 13 place settings, B energy rating
This fully integrated model may suit you if you have a suitable cabinet space and want to compare its stated noise levels during cycles.
It offers 13 place settings, six programmes and a basket adjustable to three heights. The stated noise level is 44 dB(A), with an Extra Silence programme rated at 42 dBA.
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Samsung DW90H79JAI0U1 Bespoke AI, 60 cm, 14 place settings, A energy rating
Its stated capacity of 14 place settings may suit regular loads, as long as you have a suitable cabinet space for installation.
The model is rated at 42 dB and uses 54 kWh per 100 Eco cycles and 9.4 L per Eco cycle. It features a sensor that adjusts the programme duration according to how dirty the dishes are, and a delay-start function of up to 24 hours.
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Hotpoint H4FD641A, 60 cm, 14 place settings, C energy rating
This freestanding model is rated for 14 place settings and may be worth considering if your household runs cycles regularly.
It is rated at 41 dB and uses around 9.5 L per Eco cycle. The programmes listed include Eco, Auto, Intensive and Quick.
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Bosch SMV4HVX03E, 60 cm, 14 place settings, D energy rating
The stated capacity of 14 place settings and half-load option may be useful if you have a compatible cabinet space and loads of varying sizes.
The model is rated at 46 dB and uses 9.0 L per Eco cycle. Its upper basket adjusts to three heights, even when loaded.
Frequently asked questions about choosing a dishwasher
How should we compare energy use if we often run quick programmes ?
First compare the kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle for the reference programme, as well as its duration. These figures don’t measure quick programmes, so check the manual or test results for the programmes you plan to use.
How can we account for water hardness without choosing consumables first ?
Find out the water hardness from your water supplier or local council, then check the manual to see how to adjust the model’s softening system. Bosch recommends adjusting this setting for its appliances; the controls and instructions vary by model.
Does a compact dishwasher with a tank avoid the need for any installation ?
No. Daan Tech’s product details for Bob specify that it can be filled from a tank without a fixed water supply, but a drain hose must still be placed in a sink or other suitable outlet. Check the instructions for the compact model you choose.
Which French indicator should I check for a dishwasher’s repairability ?
The French Ministry for Ecological Transition says that the repairability index applies to dishwashers in France. It provides information about how repairable a model is, but doesn’t guarantee that it won’t break down.
Who should I contact if a new dishwasher bought from a business isn’t as described ?
In France, you can claim under the legal guarantee of conformity from the business that sold you the appliance. The DGCCRF states that the period is two years from the date the goods are delivered; any commercial guarantee is in addition to, not a replacement for, your legal rights.