First, check where the appliance can be placed and where its wastewater can drain, then check the water and electrical connections required by the model. A model with a water tank may save you from needing a permanent water connection, but you’ll still need a suitable drain and socket. Then choose the capacity to suit the dishes you usually wash and the space available.
You want to avoid plumbing work, while still being able to arrange drainage and connect the appliance according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Daan Tech and HAVA describe models with water tanks, but you’ll still need to arrange drainage.
You can connect the water supply and drain, but need to keep some usable kitchen space and check that the dishwasher can fit your dishes. Candy’s product information and HAVA’s FAQ give examples of different formats and capacities.
You have accessible connections and want more capacity than a tabletop model, provided you measure the available space first. Candy, for example, offers a 10-place-setting freestanding model.
In a small kitchen, start by ruling out any formats that can’t be positioned or connected properly. Then compare usable capacity and energy-use criteria on a like-for-like basis, as ADEME recommends when choosing a dishwasher.
| Criteria | What to check before buying | Who should pay particular attention ? |
|---|---|---|
| Water supply, drainage and socket | How the model is supplied with water, where the drain hose should go and how it should be secured, as well as the voltage and socket specified by the manufacturer. | If I don’t have a dedicated water connection, I want to know whether I can fill the tank and drain wastewater safely. Around 31 % of consumers prioritise connections. |
| Usable space | Measure the width, depth and height, then check the door clearance and the route for the hoses. | If my worktop is already cluttered, I want to keep a clear space for cooking and still be able to load the appliance. Around 31 % of consumers prioritise the space available. |
| Usable capacity | Check whether the rack can fit your larger plates, bowls and utensils; distinguish the stated place settings from examples of individual items that can fit inside. | If I want to wash my usual dishes without running multiple cycles, I check what will actually fit in the dishwasher. Around 25 % of consumers put capacity at the top of their list. |
| Consumption and comfort | Compare water use per Eco cycle, electricity use per 100 cycles and the stated noise level on a like-for-like basis. | If the appliance will be used in a living area, I want to take its noise level and stated consumption into account. Around 13 % of consumers prioritise running costs or quiet operation. |
A water tank can save you from needing a permanent water connection, but the wastewater must still be drained to a destination approved by the manufacturer.
Check the route for the hose and how to secure it before choosing a mini dishwasher.
The depth and height can also prevent installation. If you’re placing the dishwasher on the floor, you’ll also need enough room to open the door and load it.
Measure the space in all three dimensions and check the clearance needed to open the door.
Large plates, saucepans and utensils all share the available space. HAVA’s FAQ, for example, distinguishes two full place settings from other examples of individual items that may fit.
Compare the rack layout with your largest dishes before settling on a format.
Consumption figures are based on a reference programme and may not reflect every cycle you use day to day.
Compare the stated water and electricity use on the same basis, then check which detergents and maintenance are required.
These examples illustrate different formats and configurations described by the manufacturers; their inclusion here does not guarantee availability.
Bob is an example of a mini dishwasher with a water tank, designed for kitchens without a dedicated water connection.
The European R01 is an example of a countertop appliance with manual filling, designed for small loads.
The French CP 6E51LS and Brava CDPH 2D1047W-01 models are examples of a connected tabletop appliance and a slimline freestanding model.
The 45 cm freestanding dishwasher range is an example of a slimline option for a floor space.
This selection features tabletop dishwashers with water tanks, for kitchens where you’re looking for a compact appliance with a tank-fed water supply. Check the drainage instructions and dimensions for each model.
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Its stated tabletop format may suit a small kitchen where space is limited.
The title lists a 5 L water tank, 9 programmes, a 37 × 50 cm format and energy class D.
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Its countertop format and built-in water tank make it a possible choice if you’re looking for a small appliance to place in your kitchen.
The title lists a built-in 5 L water tank and a two-tier rack.
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Its stated countertop format may appeal if you’re looking for a compact appliance for a small kitchen.
The title lists 8 programmes, a built-in water softener and a child lock.
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A built-in water tank may suit you if you’re looking for a tabletop appliance without a permanent water connection, provided you arrange suitable drainage.
The title lists a 6-litre water tank and 5 programmes.
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Its countertop format and built-in water tank are worth considering if you’re looking for a compact tank-fed appliance.
The title lists a built-in 5 L water tank and 6+3 programmes. Secure the supplied drain hose correctly to prevent leaks.
No. A water tank can save you from needing a permanent water connection, but you’ll still need suitable drainage and an electrical supply. For the European HAVA R01, the manufacturer specifies drainage into a sink or container and a 220–240 V supply. Daan Tech says Bob must be fitted with a drain hose.
Measure the width, depth and height of the space, then check the door clearance and the route for the hoses. The manufacturer’s stated dimensions alone aren’t enough to confirm that the connections will work in your kitchen.
No. Compare the rack layout with your largest plates, saucepans and utensils. Examples of individual items that can fit inside don’t necessarily correspond to the same number of full place settings.
Compare the stated water and electricity use for the same reference programme, particularly the Eco programme. Check the stated noise level too if the appliance will be in a living area. These label figures alone can’t predict the actual consumption in every household.
Follow the manual for the model you’ve bought to install the hoses and complete the initial settings. Bosch recommends cleaning the filter and spray arms on its dishwashers, for example. Check the maintenance instructions and schedule for your own appliance.