Choose a size based on the dishes you wash regularly and the space available. UFC-Que Choisir generally gives a capacity of 12 to 17 place settings for a 60 cm appliance and 9 to 10 for a 45 cm model; a 6-place-setting compact is suited to smaller loads. Before buying, check the full dimensions, water supply, drainage, electrical socket and the noise level shown on the energy label. If suitable connections cannot be made, it is better to stick with washing up by hand than to improvise an installation.
If dishes pile up every day and you have room for one, compare standard models with the amount of washing up you actually do. UFC-Que Choisir gives a typical capacity of 12 to 17 place settings for this size; also check that there is enough room for larger dishes.
A 45 cm model is worth considering if you are short on width but have more dishes than a compact can hold. UFC-Que Choisir gives a typical capacity of 9 to 10 place settings and notes that a small family may need to run a cycle every day.
A compact model can handle smaller loads without taking up the width of a standard appliance. UFC-Que Choisir includes countertop models with a capacity of 6 place settings; check that your plates and pans will fit, and that your kitchen has the connections required by the model.
Start with your usual load and the available space, then compare usage information for appliances that can accommodate your dishes.
| Criteria | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Count the dishes you use in a day and check the basket layout for larger items. UFC-Que Choisir gives a typical capacity of 12 to 17 place settings for a 60 cm model and 9 to 10 for a 45 cm one; it also features compact models with a capacity of 6 place settings. | I want to fit my plates, glasses and pans without running unnecessary extra cycles or regularly leaving the appliance almost empty. |
| Space and connections | Measure the width, height and depth, and allow for clearance. Check the water supply, drainage, electrical socket and floor stability against the model’s instructions; Whirlpool covers these points in its installation advice. | The appliance needs to fit in my kitchen and connect up safely, without improvisation. If that isn’t possible, I’ll stick with washing up by hand for now. |
| Water and energy | According to ADEME, the energy label shows electricity use in kWh per 100 standard cycles and water use in litres per cycle. Compare these figures with the capacity and eco-cycle duration of appliances that meet the same needs. | I want to understand the stated energy and water use, and know whether the eco-cycle duration suits my household’s routine. |
| Noise | Check the noise level in dB and its class on the energy label. Compare models with a suitable capacity rather than relying on the word “quiet”; UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important this is in an open-plan kitchen. | With an open-plan kitchen or one close to a bedroom, I want to choose a noise level that suits the times I run the dishwasher. |
| Maintenance | Check the manual for instructions on adjusting the water softener to suit your water hardness, as well as for routine maintenance. Whirlpool explains that there is no single water-softener setting that works for all water types. | I can plan for the necessary settings and maintenance instead of judging the appliance on its programmes alone. |
The stated capacity won’t tell you whether your pans or dishes will fit easily in the baskets. A 45 cm model may also need to run frequently if you have a large daily load.
For a few days, make a note of what you actually wash, then compare it with the appliance’s dimensions and basket layout.
Having enough space isn’t the only consideration: the appliance must also be connected to the water supply, drainage and electricity in line with its instructions. Incorrect installation can cause leaks.
Check the connections, measure the full space and read the instructions for your chosen model. If you’re unsure about the plumbing or electrics, ask a professional to assess it.
Depending on your home, installation may also require suitable accessories or a professional fitter.
The energy rating is no substitute for checking the energy and water use, capacity and standard-cycle duration shown on the label.
For appliances suited to your load, compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the duration of the eco programme. ADEME lists these as key details on the energy label.
According to Whirlpool, the water-softener setting depends on the hardness of your local water. Not following the manual can make routine maintenance more difficult.
Check your water hardness and follow the model’s instructions for settings and cleaning.
Also allow for any consumables specified in the manual and suited to your water.
These manufacturer models give you an idea of the available sizes and installation types. Their features won’t apply to every appliance from the same brand.
Bosch offers slimline and standard built-in models, making it easier to compare the space they need in your kitchen.
Whirlpool offers 45 cm and 60 cm models, which you can compare with the width available in your kitchen.
Electrolux built-in models include both partially integrated designs with a visible control panel and fully integrated models with a concealed front.
Miele’s range includes slimline and standard freestanding appliances.
These options are for households considering either a standard dishwasher for larger everyday loads or a compact model for smaller amounts of washing up and limited space. Check the product details and your installation before choosing.
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Worth considering if your household regularly fills a standard dishwasher. The product name lists a noise level of 41 dB, a C energy rating and a white finish. Measure the full space and check the connections before buying.
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Consider this for everyday loads that call for a capacity of 14 place settings. The product name lists 7 cycles and a grey finish. Check the dimensions, clearance and connections required for installation.
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A countertop model to consider for smaller amounts of washing up. The product name lists 7 programmes, a noise level of 47 dB and a D energy rating. Check that you have enough space, as well as the water supply and drainage requirements.
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Worth considering for very small loads when space is limited. The product name lists 7 programmes, a delay start of up to 24 hours and a D energy rating. The description mentions a tank that you fill by hand; check that this setup and the drainage work for your kitchen.
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A compact model to consider if you wash only a few dishes per cycle. Check that its capacity and loading space suit your dishes; the product details specify access to a compatible cold water tap and drainage.
Start with the dishes you use each day and the width available. UFC-Que Choisir gives a typical capacity of 12 to 17 place settings for a 60 cm model and 9 to 10 for a 45 cm one, and features compact models with a capacity of 6 place settings. Then check that your usual dishes will fit in the baskets of the model you’re considering.
Check the dimensions of the space, the water supply, drainage, electrical socket and floor stability. Whirlpool highlights these installation requirements; the instructions for your chosen model set out the connections you need to follow.
Compare appliances suited to the same load, looking in particular at kWh per 100 standard cycles, litres of water per cycle, capacity and noise. ADEME lists these as key details on the energy label; also check whether the eco-cycle duration suits your routine.
Compare the noise level in dB and its class on the energy labels of appliances with a suitable capacity. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise is in an open-plan kitchen; a marketing claim such as “quiet” is no substitute for these figures.
Yes, if the model has an adjustable water softener: follow its instructions and set it according to your water hardness. Whirlpool explains that there is no preset setting that works everywhere.