In a kitchen without a dedicated space or an integrated door front, choose a freestanding dishwasher size based on where it will go and how much washing up you need to do: a 60 cm model offers more capacity, a 45 cm model takes up less width, and a compact model is suitable for smaller loads when floor space is limited. Whichever size you choose, you’ll still need to check the connections and electrical supply. You should only remove the top panel to fit a dishwasher under a worktop if the model is designed for this, there’s enough clearance and the required protection remains in place.
If you have enough floor space and regularly wash a lot of dishes, consider a 60 cm freestanding model. UFC-Que Choisir generally gives this size a capacity of 12 to 17 place settings. Then check the model’s dimensions and make sure the connections are accessible where you plan to install it.
If keeping the walkway clear is your main concern, compare a 45 cm freestanding model with a 60 cm one before opting for a compact dishwasher. UFC-Que Choisir gives this size a typical capacity of 9 to 10 place settings, so compare it with the amount of washing up you do each day.
A compact model may suit a modest load in a studio flat or very small kitchen. Measure the surface it will stand on and allow for the door to open, then check that the water inlet and drain will still be accessible.
If your kitchen doesn’t have a designated space for a dishwasher, first check where the appliance can be installed and connected. Then compare its usable capacity and dimensions, followed by the energy and noise information for the models that fit your needs.
| Consideration | What to check before you buy | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Connections | Locate the water inlet and drain, then check their positions and the electrical supply against the model’s instructions. Promotelec states that a dishwasher must be plugged into a dedicated circuit. | If I can’t connect the appliance where I plan to put it, choosing a different size won’t solve the problem. Around 33% of shoppers would make installation feasibility their priority. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated number of place settings with your daily load, including saucepans and glasses, and consider how often you’re happy to run a wash. | When washing up builds up every day, I mainly want enough capacity to avoid running multiple cycles. Nearly 27% of shoppers would prioritise this. |
| Dimensions | Measure the width, height and depth, and allow for the door to open. If you’re placing it under a worktop, check that the top panel can be removed on the exact model you’re considering. | If the walkway or available surface limits the space, I first need an appliance that fits without getting in the way of using the kitchen. Around 27% of shoppers would prioritise its dimensions. |
| Energy use and noise | Once you’ve found models with a suitable capacity, compare the label figures for kWh per 100 cycles, water per cycle and noise level in dB. | In an open-plan kitchen or if I run frequent washes, I want to take noise and energy use into account. Around 13% of shoppers would make these their top criteria. |
A kitchen without a fitted space won’t necessarily have a usable water inlet, drain and electrical supply where you want to put the dishwasher. Beko’s instructions say to check that these connections are suitable for the appliance, while Promotelec states that it must be plugged into a dedicated circuit.
Note down the measurements and take photos of the available connections and sockets. Then compare their positions with the installation diagram for the model you’re considering.
Whether the top panel can be removed depends on the model. Bosch explains that this panel also protects the appliance from splashes, so having enough clearance isn’t the only thing to consider when fitting a dishwasher under a worktop.
Check the product details and instructions for the exact model before measuring the required height with or without the top panel. Don’t remove a part unless the instructions say it can be taken off.
A small appliance may need to run more cycles if it can’t hold your usual amount of washing up. The Candy CP 6E51LS has a stated capacity of 6 place settings and needs to be connected directly to the water inlet.
Before choosing a compact model over a full-size freestanding one, think about how much washing up you produce in a day or two, including saucepans.
Two dishwashers won’t necessarily be suitable for the same load. ADEME says the label also gives information about energy use, water consumption, noise and capacity.
First shortlist appliances with enough capacity, then compare the other label information to find the right one for your needs.
Bosch offers 60 cm and 45 cm freestanding dishwashers in France, as well as models with removable top panels to consider for fitting under a worktop.
Beko’s freestanding range includes 60 cm models to consider if your space and washing-up load call for this size.
Candy’s French range gives you the choice of a compact worktop model or a larger freestanding dishwasher.
The Electrolux ESG42310SW is an example of a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher to consider if width is a limiting factor.
Measure the space and allow enough clearance to open the door, then make sure you can access the water inlet, drain and a suitable electrical supply. Check all of this against the installation instructions for your chosen model. Promotelec states that a dishwasher must be plugged into a dedicated circuit.
Yes, provided the model is designed for this and the dimensions and connections are suitable. Bosch says that removing the top panel can reduce the height of certain compatible models from 84,5 cm to 81,5 cm. Check the instructions, especially the requirements for protection from splashes.
Start with the space you actually have and the amount of washing up you need to do. UFC-Que Choisir gives a typical capacity of 12 to 17 place settings for a 60 cm freestanding model and 9 to 10 for a 45 cm one. A compact model may suit a smaller load, but check its capacity and connections rather than judging by size alone.
Compare energy use, water consumption and noise between models with a capacity that suits your needs. ADEME says energy use is shown in kWh per 100 reference cycles and water use in litres per reference cycle. The capacity is also shown on the label.