Which households is it for?

Households concerned about noise in an open-plan kitchen

You share your living space with the kitchen and want to run a cycle without the noise taking over during meals, while working from home or in the evening. Compare the dB rating and the label’s noise class rather than relying on the marketing term “quiet”.

People with limited width available

You have a narrow space or a small housing unit and need to choose between a compact model with fewer than 9 place settings, a 45 cm appliance that generally accommodates 9 to 10 place settings, or a higher-capacity 60 cm model.

Households fitting out an integrated kitchen

You have a housing unit and want to conceal the appliance behind a matching door panel. An integrated model may be suitable if the housing dimensions, door panel and installation requirements are compatible with your kitchen.

Key buying criteria

In a small open-plan kitchen, check the dimensions and installation type first, then match the capacity and noise level to your household’s actual routine.

Priority What to check Your needs
Noise in the living area Compare the noise level in dB and the label’s noise class on the energy label. ADEME identifies classes A or B as particularly quiet. UFC-Que Choisir points out that a 3 dB difference represents an almost twofold increase in sound intensity. I want to be able to run a cycle near the living room without it overpowering meals, work or the evening.
Size and installation Record the width, height and depth of the exact model. For an integrated model, also check the housing dimensions, the position of the connections and the door-panel requirements. I need to keep movement through the kitchen easy, and the appliance must fit the available space, not just a theoretical width.
Useful capacity 45 cm models usually accommodate 9 to 10 place settings, 60 cm models 12 to 17, while a compact model holds fewer than 9. Also examine the baskets and adjustable components of the model you choose. I’m looking for enough capacity for the plates, saucepans and dishes used between cycles, without choosing an unnecessarily large appliance.
Consumption and integration Compare the energy class, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per reference cycle, duration of the Eco programme and noise level. For an integrated model, budget separately for the door panel and installation. I want to compare the stated consumption figures using the same units and plan ahead for everything needed for the installation.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Choosing based solely on the word “quiet”

    Marketing labels do not replace hard figures. In an open-plan kitchen, noise can affect everyday comfort; UFC-Que Choisir states that a 3 dB difference represents an almost twofold increase in sound intensity.

    Compare the dB rating and noise class on the energy label for the exact model. Classes A or B are a useful benchmark if the appliance runs near the living room, according to ADEME.

  • Confusing a narrower width with sufficient capacity

    A 45 cm appliance usually accommodates 9 to 10 place settings, whereas a compact model may hold fewer than 9. A model that is too small may mean running cycles more often or leaving some utensils to be washed by hand.

    Estimate the plates, saucepans and dishes used between cycles, then check the number of place settings and the internal layout of the specific model.

  • Buying an integrated model without checking the housing and door panel

    An integrated model is not installed like a freestanding appliance: it must fit into a compatible housing and requires a suitable door panel.

    Measure the width, height and depth, consult the manufacturer’s installation diagram and ask for details of any necessary plumbing or electrical alterations.

    UFC-Que Choisir recommends allowing at least an additional 100 € for the door panel and installation of an integrated model; confirm this benchmark with a quotation based on your kitchen.

  • Comparing running costs without checking the reference cycle

    The label states energy consumption in kWh per 100 cycles and water consumption in litres per reference cycle, usually Eco. The energy class or width alone is not enough to compare the stated consumption figures.

    Compare the energy class, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, capacity, Eco cycle duration and noise level simultaneously between appliances suited to the same installation requirements.

Brand benchmarks

Bosch

Worth considering for a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher in a narrow kitchen. The French SPS2HMI02E model is listed as measuring 845 × 450 × 600 mm.

  • For the SPS2HMI02E, Bosch states 8.9 L per Eco cycle, energy class D and noise class C.
  • These specifications apply to this specific model and do not describe the Bosch range as a whole.

Electrolux

Worth considering for small kitchens, with a range that includes 45 cm appliances and a 55 cm compact integrated model listed for 6 place settings.

  • The 45 cm models reviewed are listed for 9 or 10 place settings and between 44 and 45 dB.
  • The compact ESL2500RO takes up less space, but is rated at 49 dB, energy class F and a capacity of 6 place settings.

Siemens

Worth considering for a fitted kitchen requiring a 45 cm integrated model with a visible control panel or under-counter installation.

  • The SR55ZS10ME is listed as measuring 815 × 448 × 573 mm, with energy class C, noise class B and 8.9 L per Eco cycle.
  • It requires a compatible housing, and its specifications do not represent the Siemens range as a whole.

Beko

Worth considering for a space-saving 45 cm integrated model, particularly when a 45 cm housing is already available.

  • Beko states that the BDIS38042Q and BDIS48E041Q models in the range reviewed offer 10 place settings in a width of 45 cm.
  • Check the listing for the model you choose for its dimensions, noise class and whether it includes the functions advertised by the brand.

Whirlpool

Worth considering as a point of comparison when a household can accommodate a 60 cm freestanding model and is looking for a stated moderate noise level.

  • The W2F HD624 combined a width of 60 cm, 14 place settings, 44 dB and a half-load programme.
  • This model is no longer in the Whirlpool catalogue and is not a current buying recommendation.

Dishwasher options on Joybuy

These Joybuy options cover compact, integrated and freestanding dishwashers, making it easier to compare size, capacity and noise in a small open-plan kitchen.

Heinrich's HTG 8840 Schwarz table-top dishwasher

Heinrich's HTG 8840 Schwarz, 6-place-setting table-top dishwasher

Worth considering for a worktop or very compact kitchen when 6 place settings match your usual volume of washing-up.

Energy class D, 49 kWh/100 uses, 6.5 L per cycle, 7 programmes, automatic door-opening drying and delayed start listed.

The stated noise level is 47 dB; check the external dimensions and the noise class on the label before buying.

Joybuy
Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1 integrated dishwasher

Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1 integrated 60 cm, 13 place settings

Suitable for an integrated kitchen with a 60 cm housing and a household that produces a substantial amount of washing-up.

Energy class B, 13 place settings, three-level adjustable baskets and automatic door opening listed.

The stated noise level is 44 dB; the Extra Silence programme is listed at 42 dBA. The stated housing measures 820–900 mm high, 600 mm wide and 555 mm deep.

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Comfee' CDWMTO201D(W) countertop dishwasher

Comfee' CDWMTO201D(W), countertop dishwasher

A compact option for a small worktop or an installation without a permanent connection, provided suitable drainage is available.

Stated dimensions of 420 × 435 × 435 mm, built-in 5 L tank, 6 programmes, energy class D and ventilated storage for up to 72 hours.

The tap adaptor is not included according to the description. Check the noise level and place-setting capacity before deciding whether it is suitable for an open-plan kitchen.

Joybuy
AEG FSB34707Z fully integrated dishwasher

AEG FSB34707Z fully integrated 60 cm, 14 place settings

Worth considering for a fitted kitchen with sufficient width and a household that generates a large amount of washing-up.

14 place settings, energy class C, 10.5 L and 0.75 kWh per Eco cycle, five programmes and cutlery drawer listed.

The stated noise level is 44 dB. Check the housing, door panel, sliding hinges and actual dimensions before installation.

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Indesit D2F HK26 S freestanding dishwasher

Indesit D2F HK26 S freestanding 60 cm, 14 place settings

Suitable for a household with a full 60 cm of available width and a substantial amount of washing-up to process.

14 place settings, six programmes, stated water consumption of 9.5 L, adjustable upper basket, delayed start and removable worktop.

Stated net dimensions of 85 × 60 × 59 cm, noise level of 46 dB and noise class C; compare this level with class A or B models if the appliance runs near the living room.

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Frequently asked questions

What noise level should you aim for in an open-plan kitchen?

Compare the dB level and noise class shown on the energy label. ADEME states that classes A or B are particularly quiet, while UFC-Que Choisir points out that a 3 dB difference represents an almost twofold increase in sound intensity. Comfort also depends on your tolerance for noise and how close the appliance is to the living room.

Is a 45 cm dishwasher enough for a small kitchen?

A 45 cm model generally offers 9 to 10 place settings, compared with 12 to 17 for a 60 cm model. It is suitable if this capacity covers your washing-up between cycles; also check that the internal layout accommodates saucepans, dishes and tall glasses.

What is the practical difference between freestanding and integrated models?

A freestanding model has its own outer casing and offers more flexibility when arranging your kitchen. An integrated model must be installed in a housing with a suitable furniture door; to install a freestanding model under the worktop, check in particular whether its top panel can be removed.

Which energy-label details should you compare?

Compare the energy class, kWh per 100 cycles, water consumption per cycle, place-setting capacity, Eco cycle duration and noise level together with its class. ADEME recommends comparing these figures between models of a format and capacity suited to your kitchen.

Should you budget for an additional cost with an integrated model?

Yes, a matching door panel and installation may be required in addition to the appliance itself. UFC-Que Choisir recommends allowing at least an additional 100 € for the door panel and installation; ask for a quotation, as the amount depends on the kitchen and installer.