If you don’t have a built-in space, choose a freestanding dishwasher if you have room for a floor-standing model. A 45 cm or compact model may be a better fit when space is tight, although capacity will be more limited. Only consider a semi-integrated model if you already have a compatible space and cabinet door. Whatever you choose, measure the available space and check the connections required in the manual for your chosen model.
If you don’t want to modify your kitchen units, a 60 cm freestanding model is worth considering, provided its width, depth and connections suit your space. It offers more room for dishes than a compact model, but also takes up more floor space.
A 45 cm freestanding model takes up less width, while some compact models can sit on a worktop. UFC-Que Choisir, for example, features compact models with a capacity of 6 place settings. Check that the capacity suits the amount of washing-up you typically have.
A semi-integrated model may be an option if the space, cabinet door and installation requirements are compatible with the model you choose. UFC-Que Choisir points out that this type of appliance is designed for a space intended for built-in installation.
Start with the space available, then choose a capacity that suits your everyday washing-up. Built-in installation is only an option if the space and cabinet door are genuinely compatible with the appliance.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Installation without building in | Measure the finished space and check the manual for the water inlet, drainage and electrical supply requirements. | “I don’t have a built-in space and want to install an appliance without changing my kitchen units, while still choosing a capacity that suits my household.” Around 46% of consumers would make this type of installation their priority. |
| Size | Compare width, depth, height and place settings; check the space available on the floor or worktop. | “In a narrow kitchen, I’d rather save space, even if that means accepting a smaller capacity.” Size is said to be the top criterion for around 36% of consumers. |
| Fitting under a worktop | Confirm the dimensions of the space, the cabinet door’s compatibility and the model’s installation requirements. | “If I already have a built-in space, I’d like to keep a matching cabinet door rather than install a freestanding appliance.” This type of integration would be the main consideration for around 18% of consumers. |
A freestanding appliance doesn’t need a cabinet door, but it does need a suitable space and the connections specified in its manual.
Before ordering, measure the available space and check the model’s water, drainage and electrical requirements.
According to UFC-Que Choisir, a semi-integrated model is designed to be built in and fitted with a cabinet door. It isn’t a freestanding appliance that you can simply place against a wall.
Only consider this format once you’ve confirmed that you have a suitable space, a compatible cabinet door and the right installation conditions.
A smaller capacity may mean running more frequent cycles if your household uses a lot of dishes. The compact models featured by UFC-Que Choisir have fewer than 9 place settings.
Think about the amount of washing-up you typically have and check all the dimensions before choosing between a 45 cm and a compact model.
The energy rating letter doesn’t tell you everything about an appliance’s energy use or capacity. ADEME says energy consumption is shown in kWh per 100 reference cycles.
Compare the label information for appliances with a capacity and format that suit your kitchen.
Worth a look if you want to check the connection requirements in the manual for a freestanding model.
Freestanding models to consider if capacity is important to you.
Browse Miele France’s range of freestanding dishwashers, which includes 45 cm models.
Consider 45 cm freestanding models if you can fit a floor-standing appliance but have limited width.
A 45 cm model to consider if you’re looking for a freestanding appliance or one that can fit under a worktop, as permitted by the model.
No. A semi-integrated model isn’t simply an alternative to a freestanding one; it’s designed for a suitable built-in space and cabinet door. Check these requirements and the model’s manual before choosing this option.
Compare the kWh per 100 reference cycles, in particular, between models with a capacity that suits your needs. ADEME specifies this energy consumption unit. Also look at the other information on the label, rather than comparing the rating letter alone.
Check your tenancy agreement and inventory to see which appliances are included in the property. ANIL points out that a fitted kitchen isn’t always provided in a rental property.
The manual helps you check whether the model can be installed in your chosen space. For example, Bosch’s manual covers wastewater drainage, the mains water inlet and the electrical connection separately. You’ll need to follow the requirements for the appliance you choose.