If you have a suitable space, a 45 cm dishwasher is worth considering first. Its capacity may suit a small household, although you might need to run it every day. If you have no floor space to spare, a compact countertop or mini dishwasher takes up less room on the floor, but holds fewer dishes per load and may have installation or connection requirements to check. In an open-plan kitchen, also consider the noise level and Eco cycle duration alongside the times you plan to use it.
If the connections are within reach, compare 9- to 10-place-setting models with the amount of washing-up you generate each day. Que Choisir says a 9-place-setting model may suit a small family, although it might need to run daily.
A countertop appliance leaves your lower cabinets and walkways clear, but takes up worktop space. Before choosing this size, check its capacity, how much room it needs with the door open, and its water supply and drainage requirements.
If the dishwasher will run during mealtimes, while you work or in the evening, compare the dB rating and noise class shown on the energy label. ADEME lists both as factors to consider when choosing.
In a small open-plan kitchen, first check where the appliance can sit or be built in, then consider whether its capacity and noise level suit your lifestyle.
| Factor | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space required | Measure the width, depth and height, and allow enough room to open the door. A countertop model frees up floor space but takes up worktop space. | When every centimetre counts, I want to keep the walkway clear and have enough worktop space to cook. Around 36% of consumers would put the appliance’s position at the top of their list of needs. |
| Capacity and cycles | Compare the number of place settings with a typical day’s washing-up, including larger items. Que Choisir warns that a 9-place-setting, 45 cm model may need to run every day. | If I cook regularly, I don’t want to run extra cycles just to get through the washing-up. Capacity would be the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Noise | Compare the dB rating and noise class on the label, then check how long the Eco cycle takes if you plan to run it while the living area is in use. | If I’m working or relaxing near the kitchen, I need a cycle with a noise level I can live with. This would be the top concern for around 21% of consumers. |
| Installation | Check the manual for the water inlet, drainage, plug socket and clearance requirements, as well as the cabinet space and door panel if needed. Don’t assume a “mini” model works without a water connection. | With a fitted kitchen, I need to know whether the appliance can be installed in the space available. Around 14% of consumers would make this their main requirement. |
A slim appliance can still be deep or obstruct the walkway when its door is open. An integrated model must also fit the cabinet space and door panel you have planned.
Check the overall dimensions, door clearance and installation instructions for the exact model.
Some countertop appliances need a direct water connection, while a model with a tank still needs a suitable drainage solution.
Before choosing where to put it, check the manual for the water supply, drainage, plug socket and installation requirements.
In an open-plan kitchen, the name of a programme alone doesn’t tell you how noisy every cycle will be. According to ADEME, a 3 dB increase almost doubles the noise level.
Compare the dB rating, noise class and duration of the programmes you plan to use.
A small appliance may fit your everyday dishes, but you could need extra cycles for pans or after a bigger meal.
Make a list of the items you wash on a typical day and check how the racks are arranged, rather than looking only at the stated number of place settings.
The range includes freestanding and integrated 45 cm models. The right choice depends on the space available and the specifications of the exact model.
The brand offers freestanding 45 cm dishwashers, among other options, for kitchens with floor space available.
Its range includes countertop appliances to consider if you’re short on floor space, provided you have a suitable surface to put one on.
A compact integrated model may suit a different cabinet space from a full-height 45 cm appliance.
The range includes integrated 45 cm dishwashers for kitchens with a compatible cabinet space.
These countertop appliances are worth considering if you’re short on floor space. Their capacities and water supply options vary, so compare them with your everyday washing-up and the space available.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for a small household with space on the worktop. The product title lists 6 place settings, 7 programmes and a noise level of 47 dB. Compare this noise level with what you’re comfortable with in your living area. Check the dimensions, door clearance and connections in the manual.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for smaller loads if a permanent water connection is an issue: the product information describes a tank that you fill by hand. The title mentions 7 programmes. Check that the stated capacity of 3 place settings suits your routine, and also look at drainage, noise level and Eco cycle duration.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for smaller loads if you’re looking for a countertop appliance. The title lists 8 programmes, while the product information says it can be supplied from a tank or a direct connection. Check the manual for drainage requirements, then look at the dimensions and noise level before making space for it in your open-plan kitchen.
Measure the width, depth and height, and allow enough space in front for the door to open. Then compare these measurements with the appliance’s overall dimensions and the clearances specified in the manual. A “45 cm” width or “compact” label alone doesn’t confirm that it will fit.
It may be, if the racks fit your usual dishes and you’re happy with how often you’ll need to run it. Que Choisir says a 9-place-setting model may suit a small family, although it might need to run every day. Also check how much room there is for pans and other larger items.
Compare the dB rating and noise class on the label, then check how long the cycles you plan to use take when the living area is occupied. According to ADEME, an extra 3 dB almost doubles the noise level. A programme called “Silence” is no substitute for these figures.
No: the water supply option depends on the model. For example, Candy describes the CP 6E51LS as having a direct water connection, while other appliances have a tank. Check the manual to confirm the water supply, drainage, plug socket and installation requirements for the model you choose.