No space for a built-in model
If you can’t dedicate a base unit to a dishwasher, a countertop model could be a practical choice for everyday washing-up. You’ll need to set aside a permanent spot for it on your worktop, though.
Which type of installation is right for you?
Small household with limited floor space
If you have a narrow space available, it’s worth considering a 45 cm model if a countertop dishwasher can’t handle the amount of washing-up you usually have. Width alone won’t confirm whether it can be installed.
Keeping your fitted kitchen
If you want to use an existing housing unit, check all three internal dimensions, along with the door panel, hinges and installation diagram for the model you’re considering, before choosing an integrated dishwasher.
What should you check before buying?
First, decide where the appliance can go without getting in the way, then check that its capacity suits your everyday washing-up and that its connections work with your existing setup. Candy France, for example, lists a 6-place-setting countertop model, while Bosch Electroménager France distinguishes between 45 and 60 cm freestanding models. Always check the dimensions of the specific model you’re considering.
| Priority | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Keep a base unit free | Clear worktop space and depth; clearance needed for the door. | If I don’t have a space on the floor, I can accept a compact model taking up part of the worktop, as long as I can still cook. Around 29% of consumers make this their top priority. |
| Wash everyday dishes | Place-setting capacity and room for the household’s usual dishes. | When washing-up builds up every day, I’d rather check the capacity before reducing the appliance’s footprint at all costs. This is a priority for around 36% of consumers. |
| Keep the existing connections | How the model takes in water; the drainage setup specified in its instructions. | If changing the kitchen isn’t an option, I need to choose an appliance whose water supply and drainage suit the existing setup. Around 21% of consumers prioritise this requirement. |
| Fit the appliance in with the units | Internal dimensions of the housing unit; compatibility of the door panel and hinges. | To keep the look of my fitted kitchen, I can only choose an integrated model if it will work with the units already in place. This comes first for around 14% of consumers. |
Mistakes that can make installation more difficult
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Relying on the word ‘compact’ alone
A countertop dishwasher sits on your worktop and may get in the way when you’re preparing food or opening cupboards. The Candy CP 6E51LS, for example, measures 550 × 501 × 443 mm according to Candy France; these dimensions don’t apply to other compact models.
Measure the available width, depth and height, then check how much room the door needs to open on your chosen model.
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Assuming a width of 45 cm is all that matters
A slimline dishwasher also needs enough height and depth, as well as suitable access. Its connections must be installable in line with the instructions.
Compare all the dimensions with the available floor space or housing unit, and remember to allow room in front of the door.
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Ordering an integrated model before checking the door panel
A housing unit that’s wide enough doesn’t guarantee that the existing door panel and hinge system will suit the new appliance.
Check the installation diagram for the exact model and compare it with the dimensions of the housing unit, door panel and hinges.
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Assuming a dishwasher will fit under any hob
Compatibility depends on the appliances and their installation instructions. Bosch Electroménager France points out that installing a dishwasher can be complex or dangerous.
Check the instructions for both the hob and dishwasher, including their clearance requirements. If they’re not explicitly compatible in this arrangement, choose another location.
Brands to know when comparing sizes
There are no brand profiles to display in this section.
Countertop dishwashers on Joybuy
These countertop models are for kitchens where you can spare some worktop space. Before choosing, compare their capacity and dimensions with your setup, and check how they connect. They’re not a substitute for considering a slimline or integrated model if you have floor space available.
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AIRMSEN countertop dishwasher, 5 L tank
Worth considering if you don’t have floor space for a dishwasher but can set aside a stable spot on your worktop. The product title specifies a built-in 5 L tank; check the clearance needed for the door and the drainage instructions.
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Comfee’ CDWMTO201D(W), 5 L tank
Consider this for a smaller load if you can make room for it on your worktop. The title specifies a 5 L tank and 6 + 3 programmes; check the dimensions, drainage and any accessories you might need for your chosen connection setup.
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AIRMSEN 37 cm countertop dishwasher, 5 L tank
Worth considering if you have limited worktop width. The title specifies a width of 37 cm, a 5 L tank and nine programmes; check the exact depth and height before deciding where to put it.
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Heinrich’s HTG 8840 Black, 6 place settings
Compare this model if you’re looking for a countertop dishwasher listed with capacity for six place settings. The title mentions seven programmes; measure the space and check the instructions for the dimensions, water supply and drainage required.
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GORGENOX DW5-D40A, 3 place settings
Worth considering for a small amount of washing-up if a stated capacity of three place settings is enough for you. Before setting aside a space for it, check its dimensions and the water supply and drainage arrangements specified for this model.
Frequently asked questions
Can a countertop dishwasher work without a dedicated water supply?
Yes, if the model has a tank designed for this purpose; ‘compact’ doesn’t necessarily mean ‘tank-fed’. Candy France also lists a countertop model with a direct connection, while tank-fed models are available from Darty. Check the instructions for your chosen model to find out how it takes in water, drains and connects to the mains.
Can you slide a freestanding dishwasher under a worktop?
This may be possible with some models and kitchen layouts, but width alone isn’t enough to tell. If the top panel is removable, check that you’re allowed to remove it from the exact model. Then compare the resulting dimensions and the clearances specified in its instructions with the space available.