Start by checking what installation options you have. A mini dishwasher with a water tank may save you from needing a permanent water supply, but you’ll still need somewhere for the waste water to drain, and you’ll have to accept a limited capacity. A 6-place-setting compact countertop model or a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher may be more suitable for shared washing-up, provided the space and existing connections are right. Before buying, measure the depth, door clearance and hose route, and check that a suitable power supply is within reach.
If you have only a small amount of washing-up and want to avoid a permanent connection, a small model with a water tank is worth considering. You’ll still need a stable surface, a suitable drain and an appropriate power supply.
If a water supply and waste-water outlet are already accessible, you could consider a compact countertop model with more room than a mini model. Check that its capacity can also accommodate the plates and pans you use regularly.
If several people will be sharing cycles, a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher may offer the capacity you need, as long as you have suitable floor space and compatible connections.
Your choice will mainly depend on whether you have a usable water supply, how much washing-up you need to deal with and how much space is really available. A water tank addresses the water supply for the model in question, but not the need to drain waste water.
Worth considering: if you have only a small amount of washing-up and can’t easily use a permanent water supply.
You’ll need to allow for: filling the tank, arranging a drain and limited capacity for shared use.
Worth considering: for a small household with an existing, compatible water supply and waste-water outlet.
You’ll need to allow for: space on the worktop and an installation that depends on existing connections.
Worth considering: for shared washing-up if your kitchen has a suitable space on the floor.
You’ll need to allow for: the appliance’s depth and height, as well as its connection requirements.
| Consideration | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Installation without modifications | How the appliance gets its water and where the waste water will drain throughout the cycle. | I can’t use a permanent water supply without modifying the property, so avoiding that work matters more than capacity. Around 36% of consumers prioritise this. |
| Usable capacity | Number of place settings and space for your usual plates, serving dishes and pans. | When several people use the kitchen, I want to avoid washing-up piling up between cycles. Capacity comes first for around 29% of consumers. |
| Actual size | Width, depth, height and clearance for the door when it’s open. | In a kitchenette that’s already short on space, my main concern is being able to open and load the appliance without blocking the way. Around 21% of consumers prioritise where it will fit. |
| Noise and cycle timings | Noise level for the specific model and programme duration in relation to your household’s routine. | In a studio flat or shared kitchen, I need to be able to run a cycle without disturbing anyone else. Noise and timing are priorities for around 14% of consumers. |
On models fitted with a tank, it removes the need for a permanent water supply, but waste water must still be dealt with using the drainage method specified by the manufacturer.
Before buying, work out where the hose will sit during the cycle and make sure the appliance will rest on a stable surface.
A dishwasher that’s 45 cm wide can also be 60 cm deep, as with the Bosch SPS2HKW55E featured by Bosch Électroménager France. You’ll also need to make room for the open door and hoses.
Measure the available height and depth, then check access to the door, racks, connections and socket.
Promotelec recommends plugging a dishwasher directly into a dedicated circuit rather than a multi-socket adaptor, due to the risk of overloading.
If the existing power supply isn’t suitable, have the installation checked before choosing that location; don’t alter the circuit yourself.
Reviews collected by Darty for the Moulinex Studio MINID3SL may flag noise or the need to place it near the sink. They can’t tell you whether another model will suit your kitchen.
Use these comments to guide your checks, then consult the dimensions, noise level and instructions for the model you’re considering.
With Bob, Daan Tech offers a mini countertop dishwasher worth considering if a permanent water supply is a problem.
The Candy Rapido CP 6E51LW is an example of a connected countertop model for a small household looking for a capacity of 6 place settings.
The Bosch SPS2HKW55E is a 45 cm freestanding option for a shared kitchen with space on the floor.
These countertop models are mainly intended for kitchens where space is limited. Some are described as having a water tank; for every model, check how it gets its water, how it drains and where it will go before choosing an installation without a permanent connection.
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Worth considering if you want to fill the appliance without a permanent water supply; the product title mentions an integrated 5 L tank and 5+1 wash cycles.
Make sure you have drainage that complies with the instructions and check that your worktop and power supply are suitable.
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Its stated capacity of 3 place settings makes this model more suitable for a small amount of washing-up than for busy shared cycles.
The product title lists 7 programmes and 56,3 dB. Check the dimensions, water supply method, drainage and socket requirements for your installation.
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Worth considering for one person or a small household whose washing-up fits within the stated capacity of 3 place settings.
The product title lists 7 programmes and automatic door opening. Check the drainage, dimensions and power supply before setting aside a space for it.
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This countertop format may be worth considering when space is limited, provided its dimensions suit your worktop.
The product title lists 8 programmes and an integrated water softener. Check the instructions to confirm how this model gets its water and drains waste water before relying on an installation without a permanent connection.
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Its stated capacity of 3 place settings makes it worth considering for a small amount of everyday washing-up.
For this Deep Black version, check the instructions for the specific model before planning to use a water tank: the usage instructions mention connecting it to a tap. Also check the drainage and socket.
No. The tank may replace the need for a permanent water supply, but it doesn’t deal with waste water. Daan Tech says Bob uses a drain hose that should be directed into the sink or another suitable drainage system; check the setup required for the version you choose.
No. A multi-socket adaptor isn’t a substitute for a suitable power supply for a dishwasher. Promotelec recommends connecting it directly to a dedicated circuit. If you’re unsure about the existing installation, have it checked rather than using an extension lead or multi-socket adaptor.
If installation involves modifying the property or its fittings, ask your landlord for written permission before any work begins. This is the condition specified by ANIL for such modifications. If the appliance is simply freestanding, check the terms of your tenancy and the property rules; don’t assume that a permanent connection or alteration is allowed.
The Eco programme is a good choice when you can wait for a longer cycle and want to reduce water and electricity use. That’s the benefit highlighted by ADEME; check the duration and guidance in the instructions for the model you plan to use.