Without a space for a built-in appliance, start by measuring the space and checking which connections are available. A 60 cm freestanding dishwasher is a good choice if you have plenty of room and a lot of washing up, while a 45 cm model leaves more room to move around. A compact dishwasher with a water tank can avoid the need for a fixed water supply, but it has a smaller capacity and still needs to drain wastewater. If you want to fit a freestanding model under a worktop, check that its top can be removed and that there is enough clearance.
You have a space on the floor near a water supply, a drain and a suitable socket, but no housing for a built-in appliance. Choosing a 45 or 60 cm freestanding model then comes down to the space available and how much washing up you need to do.
If connecting to a water supply isn’t an option, a compact model with a water tank may be worth considering. You’ll still need a suitable way to drain it, a stable surface and an appropriate power supply. Its limited capacity makes it best suited to smaller loads.
You want to avoid making permanent changes to your home. Even with a portable appliance, check the connections. According to ANIL, written permission from the landlord is required to alter a rented property or its fittings.
Start by finding a suitable space and checking its connections. Then compare the available width with the amount of washing up you produce between cycles. Fitting a dishwasher under a worktop may be possible, but check the model’s specifications: it isn’t a feature of every freestanding appliance.
| Consideration | What to check | Who this suits |
|---|---|---|
| Installation without a built-in space | Find a stable spot with suitable connections. If placing it under an existing worktop, check for a “removable top” and measure the height once the top has been removed. | I don’t have a built-in housing and want to position the appliance without blocking the way. Around 31% of consumers prioritise this installation option. |
| No fixed water supply | For a compact model with a water tank, check the instructions for how to fill it and how wastewater should be drained. | If I can’t connect a water supply, I’m looking for a small appliance I can fill another way, while accepting that I’ll need to arrange drainage. This independence is the top priority for around 25% of consumers. |
| Width and capacity | Measure the width and depth, and allow room for the door to open. Then compare the model’s place settings and basket layout. | I need to keep the walkway clear, but I don’t want to run cycles too often when meals create a lot of washing up. Around 25% of consumers put this balance at the top of their list. |
| Connections and renting | Check that there’s a socket on a dedicated circuit, and don’t use an extension lead. If you rent, get written permission from your landlord before altering the property or its fittings. | Before choosing a size, I want to know whether the electrical supply is suitable and whether the changes I’m considering are permitted. These requirements are the top priority for around 19% of consumers. |
According to Promotelec, a dishwasher must be plugged directly into a dedicated circuit. An extension lead could become overloaded.
Check the socket and circuit at the intended location before ordering. If you’re unsure about the installation, have a professional check it rather than using multiple connections.
If there isn’t a suitable socket or circuit, electrical work may be needed before installation.
A “freestanding” design doesn’t guarantee that the top can be removed. The appliance’s height must also fit the available space.
Look for “under-worktop” or “removable top” in the specifications for the exact model, then check its dimensions and installation instructions.
A compact model with a water tank can work without a fixed water supply, but its wastewater still needs to be drained. Its small capacity also means it can’t handle the same amount of washing up as a 45 or 60 cm freestanding model.
Find out where the water drains, check the hose route and how it should be secured according to the instructions, then estimate how many place settings you’ll need to wash between cycles.
ANIL advises that tenants must not alter a rented property or its fittings without the landlord’s written permission. You may also be required to put things back as they were.
Choose a reversible installation where possible, and ask for permission before carrying out any permanent plumbing or electrical work.
These examples cover different formats. The features listed apply to the models named, not necessarily to each brand’s entire range.
The Bob is a compact option designed to sit on a worktop.
Two freestanding models let you compare a 45 cm width with a 60 cm width.
The BDFS26041XQ is a freestanding model to consider when space is limited.
The WFO3T242P is an example of a full-size freestanding model for when you have enough width.
The SMS4ETI16E is another 60 cm freestanding model to compare if basket layout matters to you.
No. A model connected to the water supply needs accessible water and drainage connections, as well as a suitable electrical supply. Also measure the space needed to open the door and keep the walkway clear.
A tank can remove the need for a fixed water supply, but you’ll still need to manage wastewater and provide an electrical supply. According to Daan Tech, the Bob can be filled using its 4 L tank. Check its instructions for a drainage solution that suits your setup.
Yes, but only if the model has a removable top or is designed for under-worktop installation, and its dimensions are suitable. Electrolux France lists this option for the ESA63200SX and ESM48210SX. Also check the height and installation instructions for the model you choose.
No. Promotelec says a dishwasher must be plugged directly into a dedicated circuit. If the socket or circuit at the intended location doesn’t seem suitable, have the installation checked before fitting the appliance.
According to ANIL, you need your landlord’s written permission if the installation involves altering the rented property or its fittings. Before creating or permanently changing a connection, explain the work you’re planning and ask for permission. Simply choosing a portable appliance doesn’t resolve any connection issues.