Without a dedicated space or cabinet front, start by looking for a freestanding dishwasher rather than an integrated model. Then choose between a full-size 60 cm model, a slimline 45 cm model and a compact countertop dishwasher, depending on the space available and how much washing-up you have. Whatever you choose, check the connections and the model’s instructions before ordering.
You have floor space, but no dedicated recess or cabinet front. A freestanding model, finished on its visible sides, can be installed without fitting it into a cabinet. You’ll still need to choose the right width and check the connections. Que Choisir makes this distinction between freestanding and integrated models.
If you can fit a floor-standing appliance but not a 60 cm model, consider a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher. Beko and Whirlpool model specifications illustrate this format, with a stated capacity of 10 place settings. Be sure to check the height and depth of your chosen model too.
A compact countertop dishwasher may be an option if you have a suitable worktop or another suitable surface. Que Choisir describes models with a capacity of 6 place settings that can be placed on a worktop. Compare this capacity with your needs, and check the support and connections.
For a kitchen without a dedicated space, first decide where the appliance can go, then make sure its capacity suits your needs. Whichever of the three formats you choose, you’ll still need to check the water supply, waste outlet, power socket and installation instructions for your chosen model.
Consider this if: you have around 60 cm of floor width available and want a capacity suited to a regular amount of washing-up.
Bear in mind: this format takes up more width than a 45 cm freestanding model. Check its height and depth too, and allow room for the hoses.
Consider this if: you want a floor-standing appliance but a 60 cm model is too wide.
Bear in mind: the stated capacity is generally lower. Beko and Whirlpool models in this width offer 10 place settings, so compare this with your actual needs.
Consider this if: you’re short on floor space but have a suitable surface.
Bear in mind: the capacity is more limited, and you’ll need to check that the surface is stable, the connections are suitable and there’s enough clearance as specified in the instructions.
| Factor | What to check before buying | What matters to different shoppers? |
|---|---|---|
| Practical installation | Confirm the installation type, then check that a water supply, waste outlet and power socket are nearby, in line with the instructions. | Without a dedicated space or cabinet front, I want to install the appliance without having to fit it into a cabinet. Around 50% of shoppers would make this their priority. |
| Capacity and width | Measure the available width and compare the stated place-setting capacity of 45 cm and 60 cm models. | If my floor space is limited, I want a capacity that suits my washing-up rather than automatically choosing a compact model. Around 30% of shoppers would prioritise this balance. |
| Smallest footprint | For a compact model, check its dimensions and stated capacity, and make sure the surface is suitable. | When I don’t have floor space, I’d rather use a suitable surface, even if that means accepting a smaller capacity. Around 20% of shoppers would put a small footprint first. |
Matching dimensions alone doesn’t make it suitable for freestanding installation: Que Choisir explains that an integrated model is designed to fit into a dedicated kitchen recess.
Without a dedicated space or cabinet front, look specifically for a freestanding or compact countertop model.
An appliance may be narrow enough but still too tall or deep, or leave too little room for the connections and opening the door. Don’t assume its top panel can be removed either.
Measure all three dimensions of the space and compare them with the specification and instructions for the exact model, allowing room for the hoses.
A countertop model takes up less floor space, but its capacity may not suit the amount of washing-up in your household. It also needs a suitable surface and workable connections.
Compare its stated capacity with that of a 45 cm freestanding model before choosing a surface and location.
The space required around the appliance and the connection instructions depend on the installation and the model’s instructions.
Check the clearance specified for your chosen model before allocating a space beneath a worktop or beside other appliances.
Worth considering for 60 cm or 45 cm freestanding models and, depending on the model, installation beneath a worktop.
Worth considering if the available width points towards a 45 cm freestanding model.
Worth considering if you want to compare a slimline freestanding model with your kitchen dimensions.
Worth considering for a slimline floor-standing appliance rather than a compact countertop model.
An integrated model isn’t designed to simply stand in this space: Que Choisir says it needs to be fitted into a purpose-built recess. Without a dedicated space or cabinet front, look for a freestanding or compact countertop model.
Check that there’s a water supply, a waste outlet and a power socket within reach of the planned location. Whirlpool France’s installation guidance and the Bosch instructions cover these connections. Then check the specific requirements in the instructions for your chosen model, allowing room for hoses and cables.
Yes, if the model’s dimensions and instructions allow for this installation. Some Bosch freestanding models have a removable top panel, but this feature isn’t available on every model. Before buying, check the actual height, connections and required clearance.
Before making any changes, check your tenancy agreement and the condition of the existing installations, then contact your landlord to discuss the work you have in mind. ANIL distinguishes between routine maintenance and major or structural repairs; this distinction alone doesn’t give you permission to alter the plumbing or electrics in your home.