For everyday washing-up, choose a size based on the space available and how much you need to wash in one go: a compact model suits a small load, a 45 cm model takes up less kitchen width, while a 60 cm model gives you more room for dishes and utensils. Then check the installation type, basket layout and energy-label figures for the same Eco cycle. The stated capacity alone won’t tell you whether your usual dishes will fit inside.
If you need to fit plates, utensils and dishes into one load, look at the capacity as well as the basket layout. UFC-Que Choisir’s guide describes 60 cm built-in models as holding 12 to 17 place settings, depending on the model.
If you’re short on width or worktop space, compare the load a compact model can handle with that of a 45 cm dishwasher before deciding where to put it. UFC-Que Choisir describes worktop compact models that hold 6 place settings and 45 cm models that hold 9 to 10.
If you run the dishwasher often, particularly near a living area, check the noise level, water and energy use, and the Eco cycle duration. ADEME lists these among the details to check on the energy label. You’ll also need to factor in dishwasher detergents for regular use.
Consider one if: space is very limited and your daily load is small; UFC-Que Choisir describes models that hold 6 place settings.
Bear in mind: large dishes or saucepans may mean you need to arrange your washing-up differently or run more cycles.
Consider one if: width is limited, but you need a dishwasher for daily use that can hold more than a compact model. UFC-Que Choisir lists capacities of 9 to 10 place settings for built-in models, depending on the model.
Bear in mind: larger loads may mean running more frequent cycles.
Consider one if: your kitchen has room for this width and dishes, saucepans and cutlery pile up every day. UFC-Que Choisir’s guide lists capacities of 12 to 17 place settings for built-in models of this size.
Bear in mind: the extra width doesn’t mean you can skip measuring the entire space or comparing the energy use of the model you choose.
| Factor | What to check | What matters to consumers |
|---|---|---|
| Daily capacity | Compare the stated place-setting capacity with the space actually available in the baskets for your dishes and saucepans. | When washing-up piles up every day, I want one load to fit bulky utensils too. Capacity would be the top priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Space and installation type | Measure the width, height, depth and door clearance. For a built-in model, check the niche and door-front fixings too. | In a small kitchen, the dishwasher needs to fit in its space first. If it’s integrated, it also needs to work with the kitchen door front. Around 27% of consumers would prioritise the space it takes up and how well it integrates. |
| Energy use and noise | On the energy label, compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per Eco cycle and the noise level in dB. | If the dishwasher runs often near a living area, I want to keep noise and energy use under control. This would be the main concern for around 20% of consumers. |
| Washing, drying and maintenance | Look at the available washing and drying test results, then check the basket layout and the model’s repairability index. | I want to avoid having to wash things again and choose a dishwasher that could be repaired if needed. Results and repairability would come ahead of other factors for around 20% of consumers. |
Two dishwashers of the same width can differ in depth, height and basket layout. A stated capacity doesn’t guarantee that your large dishes will fit.
Measure the whole space and check the baskets against your usual load, including saucepans and dishes. For a built-in model, measure the niche too.
The energy rating letter doesn’t tell you everything about water and energy use, the Eco cycle duration or noise. ADEME explains that the label shows energy use per 100 cycles and water use per reference cycle.
Compare the same Eco programme details for each model you’re considering, then factor in the capacity your household needs.
A built-in dishwasher needs to fit its niche and door, and work with the available connections. You may also need a door front or an installation service.
Before ordering, confirm the dimensions, fixing system and services actually included with your installation.
Remember to budget for detergent too, as well as rinse aid and dishwasher salt, depending on the products you use, as noted by UFC-Que Choisir.
Washing and drying results can vary depending on the model, programme and dishes. A feature described by the manufacturer isn’t enough to prove what results you’ll get.
If drying performance matters to you, look for independent test results where available and check the programmes and baskets on the exact model you’re considering.
A brand to consider if you’re comparing 45 and 60 cm models, freestanding or built-in. Check each model individually.
A brand to consider for a 45 cm model when width is your main constraint.
A brand to consider if you’re comparing different basket layouts and integrated or freestanding models.
These 60 cm models, listed as holding 13 or 14 place settings, let you compare freestanding and fully integrated dishwashers for everyday washing-up. First choose an installation type that suits your kitchen, then compare the specifications of each model.
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Worth considering for larger daily loads if your kitchen has a niche that’s suitable for a fully integrated dishwasher.
The product name states that it holds 14 place settings and has an A energy rating. Check the niche dimensions, door front and fitting requirements before choosing this model.
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Worth considering for regular loads if you’re looking for a freestanding dishwasher rather than a model hidden behind a kitchen door front.
The product name states that it operates at 41 dB and has a C energy rating. Check the available space if you plan to fit it under a worktop.
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Worth considering if washing-up piles up and your kitchen doesn’t have a niche for a fully integrated model.
The product name states that it has seven programmes. Check the dimensions, connections and Eco cycle figures to compare it with other models.
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Worth considering for regular loads if a freestanding dishwasher suits your kitchen layout.
The product name states that it has an E energy rating. Measure the whole space, particularly if you’re thinking of installing it under a worktop.
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Worth considering if you want to fit the dishwasher into a fitted kitchen while still accommodating a daily load of washing-up.
The product name states that it has a B energy rating. Before ordering, confirm the niche dimensions and that the door front and hinges are compatible.
Compare figures for the same Eco programme: energy rating, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, duration, capacity and noise. ADEME explains these details; also check the stated capacity against the washing-up you usually load.
Yes, if your usual load and larger dishes fit in the baskets without making you run the dishwasher more often than you’d like. UFC-Que Choisir says that 45 cm built-in models generally hold 9 to 10 place settings. If dishes pile up, compare a 60 cm model too.
Allow for water, electricity and detergent, as well as rinse aid and dishwasher salt, depending on the products you use. UFC-Que Choisir lists these consumables. To compare two dishwashers, start with the Eco cycle figures on their energy labels.
It helps you compare how easy it is to repair the models covered. ADEME says dishwashers are among the appliances that must display this information in France. Check the score out of 10 for the model you choose, along with details about spare parts.
According to the French Ministry of the Economy, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to new, used and refurbished goods sold by a business to a private individual. It covers cases such as an appliance not matching its description. Some installation problems may also be covered if installation is the seller’s responsibility or the instructions provided are inadequate.