In a kitchen without an alcove or cabinet door, a freestanding dishwasher is the most straightforward choice if the space and connections are suitable: according to Que Choisir, it doesn’t need a cabinet door. A 45 cm or compact model can work where space is limited, but you’ll need to check there’s enough room for your dishes. An integrated model requires suitable cabinetry, while hand-washing remains an option if you can’t install a plumbed-in appliance.
If the water supply, waste outlet and electrical supply are suitable, a freestanding model lets you equip your kitchen without adding a cabinet door. You’ll still need to measure the space and check the connections against the instructions for your chosen model.
If limited width or height narrows your options, it’s worth comparing 45 cm freestanding and compact models. Make sure their dimensions also leave enough room to open the door and load your everyday dishes.
An appliance that can use existing connections is different from an installation that requires changes to the property. For any such changes, ANIL advises that you get your landlord’s written permission before work begins.
First, find out whether you can install a plumbed-in appliance, then measure the space you actually have. If none of the available sizes will fit, consider whether the cabinetry can be adapted, or stick with hand-washing and make sure you have suitable space for drying and storing your dishes.
| Factor | What to check | What matters to consumers |
|---|---|---|
| Connections | Compare the water supply, waste outlet and electrical supply with the installation diagram for the model. If connections need to be added or altered, get details of the work required. | I want to install an appliance without discovering later that my kitchen needs work. Around 36% of consumers may prioritise the connections. |
| Size | Measure the width, height and depth, as well as the space needed to open the door. Don’t forget the pipes and skirting boards. Que Choisir lists freestanding models in both 60 cm and 45 cm sizes; check the dimensions of each model. | In a small kitchen, I need to be able to open and use the appliance without blocking the way. Space may be the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Capacity | Check the stated place-setting capacity and basket layout against the dishes you use regularly. According to Que Choisir, 60 cm freestanding models generally hold 12 to 17 place settings, compared with 9 to 10 for 45 cm models. | If I use large dishes every day, I don’t want to run extra cycles because there isn’t enough room in the baskets. Capacity may come first for around 21% of consumers. |
| Noise and consumption | Compare the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and noise level on the labels of the models you’re considering. Also check what’s involved in installing them. | In an open-plan kitchen, noise and energy and water use matter in everyday use. Around 14% of consumers may put these factors first. |
Having an appliance installed won’t solve the problem if there’s no suitable water supply, waste outlet or electrical supply.
Check the connections available in your kitchen against the instructions for your chosen model. If work is needed, find out exactly what it involves before you order.
According to Que Choisir, a freestanding model already has its own finished exterior, while an integrated appliance needs a suitable housing space and cabinet door.
Only consider an integrated model once you’ve confirmed that your cabinetry, door panel and connections are compatible.
An appliance may fit between two cabinets but still not leave enough room to open the door. Place-setting capacity also doesn’t tell you whether your large dishes will fit in the baskets.
Measure the space needed with the door open, and compare the interior layout with the dishes you use regularly.
Adding or altering a connection may affect the property or its fittings. ANIL advises that such changes require the landlord’s written permission.
Set out the work you’re planning and get permission before it begins.
Bosch offers 60 cm and 45 cm freestanding dishwashers, with dimensions listed for each model.
Beko’s French range includes 45 cm freestanding dishwashers worth considering when width is limited.
Whirlpool offers 45 cm and 60 cm freestanding models. Consider a wider model if the space and your dishwashing needs allow.
No. According to Que Choisir, a freestanding model already has its own finished exterior and doesn’t need a cabinet door. If you want to place it under a worktop, check the dimensions and whether the top can be removed on your chosen model.
Measure the available width, height and depth, as well as the space needed to open the door. Allow for pipes and skirting boards, then compare your measurements with the model’s specifications rather than relying on standard dimensions for that size.
If the work changes the property or its fittings, ANIL advises that you need your landlord’s written permission. Get details of the proposed work and ask for permission before going ahead.
Compare the figures given for each model, including kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and noise level, rather than looking at the energy rating alone. Noise is particularly worth considering if your kitchen is open-plan.
Set the water softener according to your water hardness, following the appliance instructions. Que Choisir recommends adjusting this setting to make sure you use the right amount of dishwasher salt. Follow the model’s instructions for rinse aid and detergent, too.