In a cramped rented kitchen, start by checking the available space and usable connections. Choose a compact model if you have a suitable surface, a freestanding model if you have floor space, or a built-in model only if the existing unit is suitable. A water tank can save you from connecting to a water supply, but you’ll still need somewhere for the waste water to go. If none of these options will fit, washing up by hand remains an option.
You’re looking for an appliance that can be filled without a permanent connection, while still providing a suitable way to drain the water. Daan Tech describes Bob as having an integrated water tank, but you’ll still need to deal with the waste water.
You’ll need to weigh up the worktop space and floor space the appliance will take up, then check that its baskets can hold the dishes you use regularly. Slimline and tabletop models come with different space requirements.
You want to use an existing space without assuming its door panel, fixings and connections will suit every built-in appliance. Check the manufacturer’s guidance for the specific model and unit.
Consider this if: you have floor space and compatible connections, without needing to create an appliance space.
Bear in mind: a slimline model can still be deep, and you’ll need space to open the door.
Consider this if: your worktop can accommodate the appliance and its capacity suits your dishes.
Bear in mind: it takes up food-preparation space, and a model with a tank still needs somewhere to drain the water.
Consider this if: you already have a compatible appliance space and door panel.
Bear in mind: a fully integrated appliance may be supplied without a door panel and may have installation restrictions.
Consider this if: no appliance will fit, or you don’t have enough washing up to justify a machine.
Bear in mind: you’ll still have to wash and dry everything yourself.
To compare the different types, first check that installation is practical, then look at usable capacity and day-to-day requirements.
| What matters | What to check | Who should consider this? |
|---|---|---|
| Position and connections | Measure the space and check for obstacles, room for the hoses, and access to the tap and socket. Check the instructions for the exact model. | If your water supply, drainage or access to connections limits your options, prioritise a compatible solution rather than relying on changes to the property. Around 39% of consumers put compatibility first. |
| Capacity and available space | Compare the stated place settings with the dishes you use regularly, and check how much room will be left on the worktop, on the floor and along walkways. | If you need to wash everyday dishes without losing essential worktop space or a clear walkway, usable capacity and overall size are key. Around 31% of consumers prioritise this balance. |
| Noise in the room | Check the noise level and programme duration on the model’s label. The ADEME says this information is shown there. | If your kitchen is next to your living area or somewhere you rest, take the noise during cycles into account. Around 15% of consumers put it ahead of other considerations. |
| Use, maintenance and running costs | Compare kWh per 100 cycles and litres per eco cycle on the same basis, then check consumables and maintenance information. | If you want to manage running costs and plan for maintenance, these details matter once you’ve confirmed the appliance can be installed. Around 15% of consumers make these costs their top priority. |
Daan Tech says Bob’s tank supplies the water, but waste water still needs to be drained through a hose.
Before choosing a model with a tank, decide where and how you’ll drain the water.
Plan for drainage and make sure you have a suitable surface for the appliance.
Electrolux says the EES42210L is supplied without a door panel and cannot be installed at height.
Before ordering, check that the unit, door panel and planned installation are compatible. Don’t rely on modifications that haven’t been approved.
You may need a compatible door panel and installation setup if these aren’t already in place.
The Bosch SPS4EMI17E measures 845 × 450 × 600 mm, height × width × depth. Its 45 cm width alone isn’t enough to confirm it will fit.
Measure all three dimensions available and allow for hoses, obstacles and the door opening.
Label figures need to be considered alongside capacity and the number of cycles you’ll actually need. An appliance may also be unsuitable for your installation.
Compare capacity, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per eco cycle and programme duration. Then factor in how often you’ll use it and your tariffs.
If the capacity doesn’t suit your needs, you may end up running more cycles or needing suitable extra consumables.
The brand offers a mini dishwasher with a tank to consider if a permanent water supply is your main obstacle.
The models covered here illustrate a slimline freestanding option and a connected compact model; their specifications don’t represent the whole range.
The BDFS26040XA is an example of a slimline freestanding model for larger everyday loads, provided you have enough floor space and suitable connections.
The EES42210L is an example of a slimline fully integrated dishwasher. Consider it only if your existing units are suitable.
This selection features compact tabletop dishwashers, including models with a tank for kitchens where a permanent water supply is difficult. You’ll still need to check how you’ll drain the water.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a compact appliance with a tank and a stated capacity of 4 place settings.
The description lists 7 programmes and two ways to supply water. The size is given as 37 × 50 cm; check the full dimensions and the space needed for installation. You’ll still need to drain the water into a sink or container.
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Consider this if you need a tabletop model with a stated capacity of 4 place settings.
The title lists 5+1 wash cycles and a tempered glass door. The description gives the dimensions as 45.8 × 42.8 × 42.5 cm. You’ll need to be able to drain the water through the hose into a sink or container.
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Worth considering if a stated capacity of 3 place settings suits the amount of washing up you have.
The title lists 7 programmes and a 5 L tank or direct water connection. The description states a consumption of 4.2 L per cycle. Check that the water supply and drainage options work for your kitchen.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a tabletop appliance with a stated capacity of 6 place settings.
The title lists 7 programmes, a noise level of 47 dB and automatic door opening for drying. A water inlet hose is mentioned, so check that the space allows for a compatible connection.
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Consider this if you have only a small amount of washing up and want to fill the tank by hand, without connecting it to a tap.
The title lists 7 programmes. The description gives the dimensions as 420 × 436 × 465 mm. Check that the appliance and its drainage route will fit in your kitchen.
Check the requirements for positioning, water supply, drainage and electrical connections for the exact model. If a connection or access point could be an issue, compare these requirements with your kitchen setup. A product listing is no substitute for the instructions.
Not in Bob’s case. Daan Tech says its tank lets you supply water without a mains water connection, but the drain hose is still required. The brand’s guide also says this connection must be secured with the supplied clip.
Don’t assume so. Electrolux says the EES42210L is supplied without a door panel and cannot be installed at height. Check the installation requirements for the specific model and unit.
Factor in any installation, water, electricity, detergent and maintenance costs. Check exactly what an installation service includes; don’t assume it covers changes to the plumbing or electrical connections.
Keep the appliance’s model reference and serial number to hand. Beko’s repair portal says parts can change and that the serial number may be needed to identify the right one.