When choosing your first dishwasher, start by considering how much washing-up builds up between cycles and how much space you really have. A 60 cm model is worth considering for larger loads; a 45 cm model takes up less width but has a lower capacity. A compact model is best suited to smaller loads, provided its filling and draining arrangements work for your kitchen. Then check the connections and compare energy labels for models with a similar capacity.
If plates, glasses and serving dishes pile up before the next cycle, check that they’ll fit in the racks without needing to run several washes. According to Que Choisir, freestanding 60 cm models generally hold 12 to 17 place settings, making this a size worth considering if you have enough room.
The available width may point you towards a 45 cm model. Que Choisir puts its capacity at around 9 to 10 place settings; compare this with the dishes and pans you use, as well as how often you’re happy to run a cycle.
A worktop model may be an option if you don’t have much washing-up. Que Choisir describes compact models that sit on a worktop and hold 6 place settings. Before choosing one, check that you have enough space, a suitable power supply, and a practical way to fill and drain the specific model.
Start with the size of your typical load and the space available, then compare the key indicators for everyday use. ADEME explains that the energy label shows information including water and electricity consumption, the Eco programme duration and the noise level.
| What matters | What to check | Who should consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Count the dishes that build up between cycles, including serving dishes, then check the stated capacity and rack layout. | When meals quickly fill the sink, I want to avoid running an extra cycle for pans and plates; around 31% of consumers put capacity first. |
| Space and installation | Measure the space, including with the door open, and check the manual for the connections required or, for a compact model, how it fills and drains. | In a narrow or already fitted kitchen, I need to be able to install and use the appliance without blocking the way; space and installation are the top priority for around 31% of consumers. |
| Water and energy | For models with a similar capacity, compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per Eco cycle and the duration of that programme. | If the washing-up builds up every day, I want to choose a model based on the cycles I’ll actually run; around 25% of consumers put water and energy first. |
| Noise | Check the noise level in dB on the label and consider when the appliance will be running. | With an open-plan kitchen or evening cycles, I want to keep noise to a minimum; this is the main concern for around 13% of consumers. |
The stated place-setting capacity alone won’t tell you whether your dishes and utensils will fit in the racks. Que Choisir gives a typical capacity of 9 to 10 place settings for a 45 cm model, compared with 12 to 17 for a 60 cm freestanding model.
Gather together the washing-up from a typical day and check the rack layout before deciding on a size.
If everything doesn’t fit in one load, you may need to run cycles more often.
A small footprint doesn’t mean you can overlook the power supply and drainage. The product information for the Comfee’ CDWMTO201D (W) specifies a built-in 5 L water tank, but not all compact models have this feature.
Check the manual for your chosen model to confirm how to fill it, connect the drain hose and position the appliance.
Depending on the model, filling a tank or setting up the drain hose each time may involve extra steps.
The rating doesn’t tell you how much water a cycle uses, how long the Eco programme takes or how many cycles you’ll need for your load.
As ADEME’s energy label guidance suggests, compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the Eco programme duration across models with similar capacities.
An integrated appliance must fit the housing and door system. Que Choisir distinguishes this type of installation from the washing process, which is not inherently different from that of a comparable freestanding model.
Check the manual, housing dimensions, compatible door panel, connections and any parts needed for installation.
The door panel and fitting can add extra steps to installation.
A brand to consider if you’re looking for a slim freestanding model.
Worth considering for freestanding appliances and questions of capacity or installation.
Worth considering if your kitchen has a housing unit for a slim integrated appliance.
Worth considering for a fitted kitchen that can accommodate a 60 cm fully integrated appliance.
This selection from Joybuy includes freestanding dishwashers for floor-standing installation and an integrated model for a fitted kitchen. Compare their stated capacities with your usual load, then check the dimensions and manual for the model you choose.
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Worth considering if several meals create a large load and you have space for a freestanding model.
The product title states 14 place settings and 7 programmes. Check the dimensions, connections and energy label for the model being sold.
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Worth considering for a large everyday load if your kitchen can accommodate a freestanding appliance.
The title states 14 place settings, a 60 cm size and an E rating. The measurements listed for this model are inconsistent: confirm its actual width before ordering, then check its energy label to compare consumption.
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Worth considering for a large load if noise levels are also important in your kitchen.
The title states 60 cm, 41 dB and a C rating. Check the figures on the label for the exact model. The description notes that hot steam is released when the door opens automatically at the end of a cycle. Bear this in mind, particularly if children could approach the appliance.
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Worth considering for large everyday loads, provided you first confirm that it will fit in your kitchen.
The title states 14 place settings and a C rating. It describes the model as 60 cm wide, while other listed dimensions give a width of 67.5 cm. Check the actual measurement in the model documentation before ordering.
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Worth considering if your fitted kitchen has a compatible housing unit and a stated capacity of 13 place settings suits your meals.
The title states a 60 cm size and a B rating. Check the manual for details of the housing, door, door panel and connections; consult the label for the exact model to see its consumption and noise level.
Not necessarily: your actual load and the space available matter more than the number of people in your household. Que Choisir gives a typical capacity of 9 to 10 place settings for a 45 cm model and also features 6-place-setting worktop models. Compare these capacities with the washing-up from several meals, including serving dishes.
A plumbed-in dishwasher needs a water inlet, a drain and an electricity supply, as Whirlpool explains in its installation advice. Some compact models have a water tank; check the manual for the exact model to see how it fills and drains.
When comparing dishwashers with similar capacities, look at energy use in kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, the Eco programme duration and the noise level. ADEME lists these as information shown on the energy label; the energy efficiency rating alone doesn’t tell you about every aspect of day-to-day use.
The installation type alone doesn’t tell you whether a dishwasher will wash better. Que Choisir explains that integrated and freestanding models can have comparable washing performance and features. Choose based on the housing unit, the door panel you want and the specifications of the model itself.