Start by considering where the dishwasher will go: a freestanding model suits a kitchen without a dedicated space, while an integrated model needs a suitable housing unit and door panel. If space is limited, compare a compact appliance with a 45 cm model, bearing in mind how much washing-up you need to do. Whatever you choose, check the dimensions and connections before comparing energy use and noise levels.
The space available and whether you can make changes to your kitchen will determine which format to choose before you even start comparing models.
A freestanding appliance, finished on its visible sides, can be placed without a dedicated housing unit or cabinet door. You’ll still need to check the connections, though. If installation involves altering the property or its fittings, France’s ANIL advises that tenants must get the landlord’s written permission.
If you’re replacing an integrated appliance, measure the existing housing unit before choosing an integrated or fully integrated model. According to Que Choisir, this type of appliance fits into a purpose-built space and has a door panel attached to the front, so the panel and its fixing system must be compatible with your kitchen.
If width is limited, compare a 45 cm model with a countertop appliance. A compact model takes up less room, but may also have a smaller capacity: Que Choisir, for example, features countertop models that hold 6 place settings.
First rule out formats that won’t fit your kitchen, then compare the capacity and usage figures of the models that can be installed there.
Consider this if: your kitchen doesn’t have a dedicated space, or you’d like more flexibility over where the appliance goes.
Bear in mind: the appliance will be visible and will still need to be connected.
Consider this if: you have a compatible housing unit and want the appliance to line up with your kitchen cabinets.
Bear in mind: you’ll need a suitable door panel and, depending on your kitchen, it may need to be fitted.
Consider this if: there’s no room for a standard-width appliance and you usually have smaller loads of washing-up.
Bear in mind: capacity is more limited and you’ll need a suitable spot for the model, particularly on your worktop.
| Priority | What to check | My needs |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Measure the width, height and depth of the space. For an integrated model, also check the housing unit, plinth and door panel. Locate the water inlet, waste outlet and electrical socket. | My kitchen doesn’t have a dedicated space, so a freestanding model is worth considering, provided I can connect it where I want to put it. |
| Size and capacity | Compare the full dimensions and the stated number of place settings. For a countertop appliance, also check that there’s enough room on your worktop. | I’m short on width, but regularly have a lot of washing-up. I want to compare a 45 cm model with a compact one before compromising on capacity. |
| Energy use and noise | When comparing like-for-like models, ADEME recommends checking the energy use in kWh per 100 reference cycles, water use in litres per reference cycle and noise level in dB on the label. | If my kitchen opens onto the living room, the stated noise level matters just as much to me as the energy and water use. |
According to Que Choisir, an integrated dishwasher needs to fit into a purpose-built space and have a door panel attached to the front. So the appliance alone won’t complete the look of your fitted kitchen.
Measure the width, height, depth and plinth, and confirm that the door panel and its fixings are compatible with the model you’ve chosen.
You may also need to budget for the door panel and fitting.
A freestanding model doesn’t need a housing unit or cabinet door, but it still needs a water supply, waste outlet and electricity to work.
Locate these connections before deciding where to put it. Bosch requires its appliances to be plugged directly into a mains socket, rather than an extension lead or multi-plug adaptor; always follow the instructions for your chosen model.
A small appliance may not hold the amount of washing-up you usually build up between cycles. Que Choisir’s comparison of smaller models includes countertop appliances that hold 6 place settings.
Think about the size of your usual load, and also compare a 45 cm model if you have room for one.
The energy rating letter alone won’t tell you how much water the appliance uses or how noisy it is — both of which can matter in everyday use.
Compare the figures on the label for equivalent reference cycles: ADEME lists energy use in kWh per 100 cycles, water use in litres per cycle and noise in dB.
These ranges give you an idea of the installation types available, but a brand name is no substitute for checking the dimensions of the model itself.
Bosch’s range in France includes freestanding, integrated, fully integrated and compact dishwashers.
Beko’s range in France includes 45 cm and 60 cm formats, as well as fully integrated models.
Miele’s French catalogue includes freestanding, integrated and fully integrated dishwashers, as well as 45 cm models.
These Joybuy models let you explore two options: a freestanding appliance for a kitchen without a dedicated space, and a compact model for a smaller area. If you’re replacing an integrated appliance, check the required housing unit and door panel separately.
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Worth considering for a kitchen without a dedicated space, provided there’s room for a 60 cm appliance and it can be connected. The model is listed as holding 14 place settings and rated E for energy efficiency. Check its full dimensions and energy label before deciding where to put it.
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Suitable for a space without a dedicated housing unit that can fit a 60 cm appliance. The product listing states a capacity of 14 place settings, a noise level of 41 dB and an energy rating of C. Also measure the space needed to open the door and check the connections.
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Another freestanding option for a kitchen without a dedicated space, listed as holding 14 place settings and offering 7 cycles. If you’re thinking of placing it under a worktop, check the dimensions and installation requirements in the model’s manual.
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Worth considering if floor space is limited and you usually have smaller loads of washing-up. The title states that it has a built-in 5 L tank and 5+1 cycles. Check there’s room on your worktop and that your kitchen can accommodate its drainage method.
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A good fit for a small space if a stated capacity of 6 place settings is enough for your usual load. The title lists 7 programmes, a noise level of 47 dB and an energy rating of D. Measure the space and check the connections before ordering.
No, not in the same way as a freestanding model. According to Que Choisir, an integrated dishwasher is designed to fit into a purpose-built space and has a door panel attached to the front. Check the installation requirements for your chosen model before replacing an existing appliance.
In France, ANIL advises that tenants must not alter the rented property or its fittings without the landlord’s written permission. If your plans involve changing a cabinet, water supply, waste outlet or electrical installation, clarify what work is involved and get permission before starting.
Make sure the space has a water supply, a waste outlet and an electrical connection. Bosch requires its appliances to be plugged directly into a mains socket, without an extension lead or multi-plug adaptor. Check the manual for the specific requirements of the model you’re considering.
When comparing new dishwashers, look at the energy rating, energy use in kWh per 100 reference cycles, water use in litres per reference cycle and noise level in dB. ADEME explains these figures; compare models that are suitable for your space first.