For everyday washing up, first choose a format that fits your kitchen space and connections, then pick a capacity that suits the amount of washing up you accumulate between cycles. According to Que Choisir, 60 cm models usually hold 12 to 17 place settings, compared with 9 to 10 for 45 cm models; a compact dishwasher is an option when space is especially limited, but check its capacity carefully. Then compare the energy and water consumption, noise, drying performance and repairability of each model. Don’t assume that the installation type alone determines how well it washes.
If your options are limited by the space, worktop or connections, start by checking the measurements and installation type. Que Choisir’s guides outline, in particular, the different requirements for freestanding and integrated appliances.
Compare the advertised place settings with the plates, dishes and saucepans you use regularly. Que Choisir gives different capacities for 45 cm and 60 cm models; basket layout also matters when you need to fit larger items.
If your dishwasher is near a living area, check the noise level of the exact model. To compare day-to-day use, ADEME and the European Commission also recommend checking the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration shown on the energy label.
Consider it: if you don’t have a dedicated space or want to keep your kitchen layout flexible.
Bear in mind: the appliance will be visible. If you plan to put it under a worktop, check whether the top panel can be removed from the model you’ve chosen.
Consider it: if you have a suitable space and want the appliance to blend in with your kitchen units.
Bear in mind: the space, door panel, fixings and plinth must all be suitable for the model you choose. An integrated design doesn’t guarantee better washing performance.
Consider it: if there isn’t room for a 45 or 60 cm appliance and you usually have smaller loads.
Bear in mind: a smaller capacity may mean running cycles more often. Also check how the water supply and drainage work.
| Criteria | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Size and installation | Measure the space and check whether you need a door panel, as well as the water supply, drainage and socket. | If my kitchen has a dedicated space or a narrow opening, I need to know which appliance will actually fit. Around 31% of consumers make this a priority. |
| Usable capacity | Compare the advertised place settings with the space in the baskets for your dishes and saucepans. | When washing up builds up between meals, I want to avoid running a cycle just because larger items won’t fit. Around 31% of consumers put capacity first. |
| Energy use, water use and noise | Compare the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco programme duration and dB on the energy label, using models with similar capacities. | In an open-plan kitchen or when I run frequent cycles, I pay attention to noise as well as water and electricity use. Around 23% of consumers prioritise these aspects of everyday use. |
| Drying and lifespan | Check how well it dries on the programme you plan to use, whether it has leak protection and the details of its repairability index. | If I want to put the washing up away quickly and keep the appliance for a long time, I look at the features of the specific model without overlooking its installation requirements. Around 15% of consumers put these concerns first. |
An integrated model needs to be fitted into a suitable space; simply placing it on the floor isn’t a substitute for installation. The door panel and plinth can also affect your choice.
Measure the space and check that the door panel, fixings and plinth are compatible before choosing a model.
If the capacity is too small, you may have to run more cycles. Que Choisir says that a 45 cm model may suit a small family, though it might need to be run every day.
Think about the washing up from several meals, including dishes and saucepans, then decide how often you’re happy to run a cycle.
A product name doesn’t tell you the noise level shown on the energy label or the conditions for using a particular feature. Miele, for example, says that AutoOpen is only available on certain programmes.
Check the dB rating, noise class and manual for the exact model, especially for the programme you plan to use.
According to Bosch, AquaStop detects certain leaks and shuts off the water supply on models that have it; it can’t prevent every leak from occurring.
Check that the model has this feature, follow its installation instructions and, as Bosch recommends, turn off the tap if you’ll be away for an extended period.
These brands offer different formats, with features and specifications that vary by model.
Bosch offers freestanding, integrated, compact and under-counter dishwashers.
Beko offers, among other options, 60 cm freestanding dishwashers; its range includes models with Selfdry.
Miele offers freestanding and integrated models, including 45 and 60 cm widths.
Whirlpool offers integrated and freestanding models, with features that vary by model.
These Joybuy models include freestanding options, a dishwasher for fitting into a fitted kitchen and a compact worktop model for small loads. Before choosing, compare their specifications with your available space and the washing up you usually have.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a freestanding model for regular mealtime loads.
The product name lists a width of 60 cm, 14 place settings and an energy class of E. Check the full dimensions and connections against your available space.
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Consider it if your kitchen has a suitable space for an integrated dishwasher.
The product name lists a width of 60 cm, 13 place settings and an energy class of C. Check the dimensions of the space, door panel and connections before installation.
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Worth considering for larger mealtime loads if a freestanding appliance suits your kitchen.
The product name lists a width of 60 cm, a noise level of 41 dB and an energy class of C. If you use a high-temperature programme, take care of the steam when opening the door and wait before unloading the appliance.
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Worth considering for regular loads if you have space for a freestanding appliance.
The product name lists a width of 60 cm and an energy class of C. The detailed dimensions don’t clearly match this width, so confirm the exact measurements before setting aside space for it.
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Worth considering for small loads when limited space makes a worktop model a better fit.
The product name mentions a built-in 5 L tank and 5+1 wash cycles. Check that it can fit the dishes you use every day and plan where to drain the water, including when using the tank.
Yes, if its capacity of 9 to 10 place settings suits your washing up and how often you want to run a cycle. Que Choisir says a 9-place-setting model may suit a small family, but it might need to run every day. Also check that there’s room for your dishes and saucepans.
Compare their energy labels on a like-for-like basis, and choose capacities that suit your needs. ADEME and the European Commission list the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco programme duration and noise level. The energy class letter alone doesn’t tell you everything about how an appliance performs in everyday use.
Check the water supply, drainage and electrical socket at the intended installation point. Then consult the manual for your chosen model to confirm the connection requirements and the length of the hoses needed.
It helps you compare how easy it is to repair the models you’re considering, rather than judging an appliance on capacity alone. According to the French Ministry of the Economy, this score out of 10 takes account of factors including documentation, ease of dismantling and parts availability. Check the details of the index for the specific model.
No. It doesn’t replace correct installation or sensible precautions. Bosch says AquaStop can detect certain leaks and shut off the water supply on models that have it, and recommends turning off the tap if you’ll be away for an extended period.