Homes without a built-in space
If you don’t have a cabinet designed for a dishwasher, a freestanding model comes with its own finished exterior. You’ll still need to find a suitable place for it, with the right connections.
Who are these sizes suitable for?
Smaller households with limited space
If you can’t fit a 60 cm model, a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher offers more capacity than a small countertop model, provided you have enough room and suitable connections.
People living alone or couples with smaller loads
A countertop dishwasher is worth considering if it can handle the washing up you build up between cycles, including dishes and pans.
What should you check before choosing?
First measure the space available, then check that the capacity suits the washing up you typically have before comparing usage figures and installation requirements.
| What to consider | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Space | Measure the width, depth and height, and check that the door can open fully. If placing it under a worktop, confirm that the top panel can be removed on the model you’re considering. | I want to place the appliance without a dedicated space, and avoid finding out after delivery that it blocks a walkway or won’t fit under the worktop. |
| Capacity | Compare the number of place settings and the space needed for larger dishes. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between 60 cm and 45 cm models, and compact models with fewer than 9 place settings. | Will a small model hold my washing up between cycles, or do I need the capacity of a wider appliance? |
| Energy use and noise | Compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco programme duration and noise level in dB. ADEME says these details are shown on the energy label. | In an open-plan kitchen, noise matters to me just as much as energy use and the length of the programme I use. |
| Installation | Check the instructions for the water inlet, drainage and electrical supply required for the model. If changes to your home are needed, find out what can be done before you buy. | I’m looking for a spot with suitable connections, without assuming that “freestanding” means it can be installed straight away. |
What mistakes should you avoid?
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Assuming “freestanding” means “no checks needed”
The appliance doesn’t need a cabinet door, but its dimensions and connections still need to suit your kitchen.
Measure the space, the delivery route and the door clearance. Check the instructions for the exact model, and use a professional if any connections or electrical wiring need to be changed.
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Choosing a countertop model based on size alone
A smaller capacity could mean running more cycles if you often have bulky dishes to wash. UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes compact models with fewer than 9 place settings from wider sizes.
Think about the washing up you produce between cycles, then compare how it would fit in a countertop, 45 cm or 60 cm model.
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Relying on the energy rating alone
The letter on its own doesn’t tell you the energy use shown for the reference cycle, how long it takes or how noisy the appliance is.
Compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco programme duration and the dB figure on the energy label. ADEME recommends looking at these details when comparing appliances.
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Assuming a freestanding model will fit under the worktop
Whether the top panel can be removed depends on the model. For a furnished rental, ANIL says you need the landlord’s written permission before making changes to the property or its fixtures.
Check the product details and instructions to confirm whether the top panel can be removed and to find the installation dimensions. If your plans involve changing a rented property, get written permission before going ahead.
Which brands and models should you compare?
Bosch
Bosch’s freestanding range includes 45 and 60 cm models to consider, depending on the width available.
- For the SMS4EVW36F, Bosch lists a width of 600 mm, an energy rating of B and water use of 9,0 l per Eco cycle.
- These details apply to this model, not the entire range.
Beko
The freestanding DVS05024X is a 45 cm model to consider if space is limited.
- Beko lists 10 place settings, 49 dB and a half-load function for this model.
- Check that its capacity and energy label details suit your usual loads; they don’t apply to other Beko models.
Candy
Candy offers freestanding appliances, as well as a countertop model to consider when space is tight.
- Candy’s product details for the CP 6E51LS list 6 place settings and a direct connection to the water supply.
- This model is suited to smaller loads; it isn’t equivalent to a 45 or 60 cm appliance.
Electrolux
The ESG88600SX is a freestanding model to consider if you’re planning to install your dishwasher under a worktop.
- Electrolux lists a removable top panel, a width of 60 cm, 14 place settings and a noise level of 44 dB for this model.
- You’ll still need to check the dimensions of your space. Don’t assume other models have a removable top panel.
Which freestanding and countertop models should you consider on Joybuy?
These models suit two different needs in a kitchen without a dedicated dishwasher space: a freestanding appliance for larger loads, and a countertop model for smaller loads. Compare each model’s capacity with your washing up and check the installation requirements for the one you choose.
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Hotpoint H4FD641A freestanding dishwasher, 60 cm, 14 place settings, white
Worth considering if you have enough room and enough washing up to justify a 60 cm model. The product name lists a noise level of 41 dB and an energy rating of C. If you plan to install it under a worktop, confirm the dimensions with the top panel removed and check the instructions for the connections.
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Indesit D2F HK26 S freestanding dishwasher, 60 cm, 14 place settings, grey
Another 60 cm model to compare with your available space and the amount of washing up you have. The product name lists an energy rating of E. Check the installation dimensions and connections in the instructions before positioning it.
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Samsung DW60M6050FS freestanding dishwasher, 14 place settings, grey
Its stated capacity of 14 place settings makes it suitable for larger loads; the product name lists 7 programmes. If you want to fit it under a worktop, confirm the dimensions and whether the top panel can be removed rather than assuming it can.
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AIRMSEN countertop dishwasher, 5 l tank
Compare this countertop model with larger appliances if you usually have small loads. The product name lists a 5 l tank and 5+1 cycles. Check that you have enough space for it, and confirm the water supply and drainage needed for your chosen way of using it.
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GORGENOX DW5-D40A countertop dishwasher, 3 place settings
Its stated capacity of 3 place settings makes it suitable for very small loads, rather than a straightforward replacement for a 45 or 60 cm appliance. Check that it can fit the dishes you usually wash, then confirm the dimensions, water supply and drainage required for this model.
Frequently asked questions
Can you install a dishwasher without a dedicated kitchen space?
Yes. A freestanding dishwasher doesn’t need a built-in space or a cabinet door. You’ll still need to find a spot with the right dimensions and check the connections and instructions for the model.
Can a freestanding dishwasher fit under a worktop?
Yes, if the model is designed for this type of installation and the dimensions work. For example, Electrolux lists a removable top panel for the ESG88600SX; this doesn’t automatically apply to other freestanding models.
When should you choose a countertop dishwasher instead of a 45 cm model?
Choose a countertop model if space limits you to this size and its capacity can handle your usual loads. UFC-Que Choisir classifies compact models as having fewer than 9 place settings, while 45 cm appliances typically have around 9 to 10. Also compare the space needed for dishes and pans.
What should you compare on the energy label?
Compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, the Eco programme duration and the noise level, as well as the energy rating. ADEME says this information is shown on the label, giving you a more useful comparison than the letter alone.
Can you alter the kitchen to install an appliance in a furnished rental?
ANIL says you need the landlord’s written permission before making changes to a furnished rental property or its fixtures. If the work could affect existing kitchen equipment, check your tenancy agreement and inventory before making plans.