First, choose an appliance that fits your kitchen and can handle the dishes you use regularly. An integrated model needs a suitable cabinet space and door panel, while a freestanding model doesn’t need to be fitted into your kitchen units. If space is limited, consider 45 cm or compact models, then check that their racks can also accommodate your dishes and pans. To compare your shortlist, look at the Eco cycle figures on each model’s energy label.
If pans and large dishes are left in the sink after meals, look at the rack layout and the space actually available, not just the advertised place-setting capacity. Que Choisir lists capacity and loading among the factors to consider.
Limited width may point you towards a 45 cm model. If you already have a cabinet space, you’ll also need to check its height, depth and door panel. Que Choisir notes that an integrated appliance must fit into a suitable cabinet space.
If you run your dishwasher often, compare the kWh per 100 cycles and litres per Eco cycle, as well as programme duration and capacity. ADEME and the European Commission present these figures as key points on the energy label.
First decide between a freestanding and an integrated model based on your kitchen, then check that the appliance size suits the amount of washing-up you produce each day.
| Factor | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Loading dishes | Number of place settings, dimensions of large dishes the appliance can take, and adjustable racks. | If you often have to wash pans and dishes by hand, usable rack space should be a priority; around 31% of consumers say loading capacity is their main concern. |
| Installation type | For an integrated model, check the cabinet space dimensions and door-panel compatibility; for any installation, check the position of the connections. | In a fitted kitchen, you’ll want the appliance to slot in without obstructing the door or plinth. Around 25% of consumers put this compatibility ahead of other factors. |
| Available space | Check the width, height and depth of a 45 cm or compact model, then make sure its capacity suits your usual load. | If there’s no room for a standard-size appliance, a smaller model may make installation possible, as long as it can handle your everyday dishes. This is the main concern for around 25% of consumers. |
| Use per cycle | Check the label for kWh per 100 cycles, litres per Eco cycle and programme duration. | If you run the dishwasher often, you’ll want to compare the energy, water and time required on a like-for-like basis. Around 19% of consumers prioritise running costs. |
Width and capacity are separate from installation type: a 45 cm model can also be integrated. Que Choisir describes integrated models designed to fit into a cabinet space; Siemens also offers compact models for places where a standard-height appliance won’t fit. Whatever the size, check the dimensions and connections for the specific model you’re considering.
This figure doesn’t tell you whether your large plates, pans and dishes will all fit at once. If there isn’t enough room for a full load, you may still have to wash some items by hand.
Think about the bulkiest items you use regularly, then check the maximum dimensions the appliance can take and the rack positions on the specific model.
An integrated model needs to fit the unit it will go into. The door, plinth or connections could prevent installation, even if the stated width seems right.
Measure the cabinet space and check that the door panel and hinges are compatible with the instructions for your chosen model.
Remember to allow for a cabinet door panel and, if your setup requires it, an installation service.
The rating doesn’t replace the other information on the label. ADEME and the European Commission highlight energy use per 100 cycles, while water use and Eco programme duration also matter in everyday use.
Compare models using the same Eco figures, rather than treating figures for a quick programme as equivalent to those for this reference programme.
The location needs to allow for a water supply, a waste outlet and a suitable electrical connection. A compact model with a water tank may have different requirements, so follow the instructions supplied with it.
Check your planned installation before ordering. If you’re unsure, ask a professional to assess it.
Adapting the connections or electrical installation may require additional work.
Bosch’s range includes freestanding and integrated models, including 45 cm and 60 cm options.
Siemens offers compact models as well as 45 cm dishwashers, which are worth considering when space is limited.
The Beko BDFS26040X is a 45 cm freestanding model worth considering if width is limited.
Whirlpool offers freestanding and integrated dishwashers in both 45 cm and 60 cm widths.
Miele may be worth comparing if finding compatible parts for a specific model is important to you.
This selection includes freestanding dishwashers for larger everyday loads, as well as a compact tabletop model for smaller loads. Before choosing, check that the dimensions and capacity suit your kitchen.
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Worth considering if your household produces a large everyday load and you have space for a freestanding model. The listing states 14 place settings and 7 cycles; check that the racks can also accommodate your dishes and pans.
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Consider this for a large everyday load if you can confirm the available width before ordering. The listing states 14 place settings and energy class C, but the dimensions given for this model differ: 60 cm in the title versus 67.5 cm in the specifications. Don’t assume your large dishes will all fit at once.
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An option to consider for everyday washing-up if you have space for a 60 cm model. The listing states 14 place settings and energy class E. Check that the racks have enough usable space for your utensils, and look at the kWh per 100 cycles on the label before comparing energy use.
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Compare this model if you’re looking for a 60 cm freestanding dishwasher for a sizeable everyday load. The listing states 14 place settings, 41 dB and energy class C. Check the kWh per 100 cycles on the label and make sure there’s room for the door to open. It opens automatically after some hot cycles, with a warning about steam and children.
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Worth considering for smaller loads when there isn’t room for a standard-height appliance. The listing states 7 programmes and energy class D; check that its capacity suits your dishes. Its water tank needs to be filled by hand, so using it is different from having an appliance permanently connected to the water supply.
Compare the energy efficiency class, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco programme duration, capacity and noise level. ADEME and the European Commission present these figures on an Eco programme basis, so don’t confuse them with the consumption of a quick programme.
Yes, if its capacity and racks suit your actual load, including large dishes. Que Choisir lists 45 cm models with 9 place settings that may suit a small family, while noting that you may need to run them every day. Some Beko models list a capacity of 10 place settings.
Measure the width, height and depth of the cabinet space, then check the clearance needed to open the door, along with the plinth and the door panel you plan to use. Que Choisir notes that an integrated model must fit into a cabinet space; also check the connections against the instructions for your chosen model.
Check the water supply, waste outlet and that the electrical connection is suitable for the appliance and your home. Legrand recommends a dedicated circuit for a dishwasher. If you’re unsure about the existing installation, ask a professional to check it before delivery.