Start by choosing a size that fits the space you’ve measured and has enough capacity for your dishes. A countertop dishwasher, a 45 cm model and a 60 cm integrated appliance each solve a different space constraint. In an open-plan kitchen, compare the stated noise level and noise class too. And remember that every dishwasher needs an electricity supply and a suitable water supply and drainage solution.
If your dishwasher runs close to your living area, its noise may interrupt conversations or evening activities. UFC-Que Choisir specifically lists noise as a factor to consider in an open-plan kitchen and measures it in its tests.
A narrow alcove or limited worktop space means you’ll need to compare width, depth, height and door clearance. A 6-place-setting countertop appliance and a 45 cm freestanding model take up different amounts of space and offer different capacities.
If you have accessible connections but no unit designed to house the appliance, a freestanding model means you won’t need to plan for a matching door panel. With an integrated model, you’ll need to check the niche and make sure the door panel is compatible.
First, check the available space and connections. Capacity, noise and installation type will then help you choose between the models that can actually be installed in your home.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in your living space | Compare the stated dB(A) and noise class. Where available, check test results that measure actual noise levels. | If I run a cycle while people are using the living area, I want to keep noise disruption to a minimum. Around 33% of consumers would make this their priority. |
| Space and capacity | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as door clearance, then compare these with the capacity in place settings. | I need to keep enough worktop space or fit the appliance into a niche without having to run multiple cycles for my dishes. This would be a priority for around 27% of consumers. |
| Installation and connections | Locate the water inlet, power socket and drainage point. For an integrated model, also check that the niche and door panel are compatible. | If my kitchen doesn’t have a unit designed for an integrated appliance, I’d prefer a model that suits the existing layout. Around 20% of consumers would prioritise this. |
| Running costs | Check the energy consumption per 100 Eco cycles and the water consumption per Eco cycle. Don’t confuse these with figures for another programme. | If I expect to run regular cycles, I want to compare water and energy use while still having enough capacity. This would be the main concern for around 20% of consumers. |
According to Candy France, the countertop Candy CP 6E51LS measures 550 × 501 × 443 mm and holds 6 place settings. Its low height doesn’t mean it won’t take up worktop space.
Measure the available width, depth and height, check the door clearance and allow room for connections before choosing this type of model.
A niche with the right dimensions isn’t enough if the cabinet door, its fixings or the clearances aren’t suitable for the appliance.
Check the model’s installation instructions and make sure the door panel is compatible before ordering.
The water and energy figures on the EU energy label apply to the Eco programme; they don’t necessarily describe a quick cycle.
Compare appliances using the same Eco figures, then look separately at the duration and features of other programmes.
Installation requires an electricity supply, a suitable water inlet and drainage. UFC-Que Choisir highlights all three requirements in its installation advice.
Before the appliance arrives, check that these connections are accessible and find out what the installation service includes.
Worth considering if you’re choosing between a countertop appliance and a freestanding model.
Worth a look if you need a narrow freestanding model and width is limiting your options.
A brand to consider when comparing a narrow freestanding model with a countertop appliance.
These models include countertop appliances for smaller spaces and 60 cm integrated models for kitchens with a suitable niche. Compare capacity and installation requirements before weighing up the noise information.
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Worth considering if you want a countertop appliance with a tank rather than a fixed water supply. The title lists a 5 L tank and 5 + 1 wash cycles. You’ll still need a power socket and a suitable place for the drainage outlet. If noise matters, check the model’s noise level before buying.
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Worth a look if you need to wash smaller loads on a worktop. The title lists 7 programmes, a delay start of up to 24 hours and an energy rating of D. Check that the stated capacity suits your needs, and make sure the drainage and noise level are suitable before installing it in an open-plan kitchen.
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Consider this model if you have a niche for a 60 cm appliance and need space for 13 place settings; the title lists an energy rating of B. Check that the door panel is compatible. In an open-plan kitchen, find out which noise rating applies to the programme you’ll use: the product details list 42 and 44 dB(A) without clearly linking them to specific programmes.
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Worth considering if 6 place settings are enough for your dishes and you’d prefer a countertop appliance. The title lists 7 programmes, 47 dB and an energy rating of D. Measure the available space and check that the stated noise level is suitable for an open-plan kitchen.
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Worth considering if you have a 60 cm niche for an integrated model with room for 14 place settings; the title lists an energy rating of A. Check the niche dimensions, door panel and clearances. In an open-plan kitchen, compare the stated noise level with the times you usually run the dishwasher.
Some models have a tank, which means they may not need a fixed water supply, but they still need electricity and a suitable drainage solution. For a specific model, check its instructions to see how water enters and drains from the appliance. For example, Candy specifies a direct water supply for the CP 6E51LS.
Choose a 45 cm model if you have enough floor space and need greater capacity. Go for a countertop appliance if it suits the space you have and the amount of washing up you generate. UFC-Que Choisir says 45 cm freestanding models hold between 9 and 10 place settings, while the countertop Candy CP 6E51LS holds 6 and measures 550 × 501 × 443 mm, according to Candy France.
Compare the stated dB(A) and noise class across models, then look for independent measurements where available. UFC-Que Choisir considers noise an important factor when buying for an open-plan kitchen and assesses it in its tests, so the word “quiet” alone isn’t enough to compare two appliances.
The EU energy label lets you compare factors including the efficiency class, energy use per 100 Eco cycles and water use per Eco cycle. According to the European Commission, these figures are based on the Eco programme. If you expect to use a quick programme often, check its specifications separately.