Start by choosing a size that fits a spot with the necessary connections, then weigh up the space available against how much washing-up you have. According to UFC-Que Choisir, a countertop compact dishwasher typically holds 6 place settings, a 45 cm freestanding model 9 to 10, and a 60 cm freestanding model 12 to 17. A compact model takes up worktop space; freestanding models need floor space and room to open the door.
If floor space is limited and you don't have much washing-up, a countertop compact dishwasher is worth considering. UFC-Que Choisir describes 6-place-setting models designed for the worktop: check how much space they will take up, that the surface is stable and that the connections are accessible.
A 45 cm freestanding model can handle more than a compact dishwasher, if you can make room for it on the floor. UFC-Que Choisir puts the capacity of this size at around 9 to 10 place settings. Remember to measure the depth and space needed to open the door, too.
If the width, depth and door clearance allow, a 60 cm freestanding model offers greater capacity. UFC-Que Choisir gives a range of 12 to 17 place settings for this size; compare it with the amount of washing-up you have before giving up that much space.
Worth considering: if you have a small load of washing-up and a stable worktop that can accommodate the appliance.
The trade-off: it saves floor space, but takes up worktop space, and its capacity of 6 place settings may mean running frequent cycles.
Worth considering: if you have a narrow space on the floor and regularly have more washing-up than a compact model can handle.
The trade-off: this size, with a capacity of 9 to 10 place settings, also needs enough depth and height; a small family may need to run it every day.
Worth considering: if you can open and load the appliance without blocking the way around the kitchen, and its capacity matches the amount of washing-up you have.
The trade-off: its 12 to 17 place settings take up more floor space and may leave you with less storage.
| Consideration | What to check | Who it's for |
|---|---|---|
| Connections | Check where the water supply, waste outlet and suitable electrical supply are in relation to the planned location. | If I want to avoid making changes to my home, I need to know whether the appliance can be connected where I plan to put it. Around 36% of consumers rank this as their top requirement. |
| Space and capacity | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the space needed for the door to open; then compare them with the stated capacity. | When every centimetre counts, I want a size that can fit my washing-up without blocking the kitchen. This is the priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Noise | Compare the stated noise levels in dB(A) of the models you're considering, and take their location into account. | With an open-plan kitchen, I want to be able to run a cycle without the noise bothering me too much. Around 21% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Consumption and cycles | Check the litres per Eco cycle and kWh per 100 cycles; estimate how many cycles your load of washing-up will need. | If my washing-up means I have to run a small appliance frequently, I want to compare its water and electricity use based on how often I use it. Around 14% of consumers put this ahead of other considerations. |
A freestanding model also needs enough depth and height, plus room in front for the door to open. A compact model frees up floor space, but takes up room on the worktop.
Measure the space where the appliance will go, along with the room needed to load it, then compare these measurements with the dimensions of the exact model you're considering.
UFC-Que Choisir points out that a dishwasher needs a water supply, a waste outlet and an electricity supply.
Check that these are accessible before choosing where to put it. If you're renting and the project involves altering the property or its fixtures, ANIL says you'll need the landlord's written permission.
Installing or altering a connection may mean extra work before the appliance can be used.
Promotelec recommends plugging the dishwasher directly into a dedicated circuit, rather than using an extension lead, to help avoid overloading it.
If you're unsure about the planned socket or circuit, ask a suitably qualified professional to assess the installation.
An appliance that's too small for your daily washing-up may need to run more often. UFC-Que Choisir notes that a 9-place-setting model may be used every day by a small family.
Compare your usual load with the model's capacity, then check its water and electricity consumption for the programmes listed.
The range includes countertop compact models as well as 45 and 60 cm freestanding dishwashers.
A 45 cm freestanding model may suit households with limited floor space.
The range's 60 cm freestanding models are worth considering if that width and the door clearance work in your kitchen.
The range includes a 45 cm freestanding model for kitchens where width is limited.
No. A compact size doesn't remove the need for the right connections. UFC-Que Choisir says a dishwasher needs a water supply, a waste outlet and an electricity supply; check that these are available where you plan to put it.
No. Promotelec recommends plugging it directly into a wall socket connected to a dedicated circuit, rather than using an extension lead. If you're unsure about the existing installation, have it checked before plugging in the appliance.
As ANIL points out, you'll need your landlord's written permission if the project involves altering the property or its fixtures. Check the existing connections, your tenancy agreement and any planned work before deciding whether your installation requires alterations.
You'll generally get more capacity, but you'll need to make room on the floor and check that the door can open. UFC-Que Choisir gives 6 place settings as a guide for a countertop compact, 9 to 10 for a 45 cm freestanding model and 12 to 17 for a 60 cm freestanding model. Measure the space you have and compare these capacities with your usual load of washing-up.