If you don’t have a dedicated space, a freestanding dishwasher is a good option if you have enough floor space and suitable connections. For a small amount of washing up, a compact model may be enough; if its capacity is too limited but space is tight, compare 45 cm freestanding models. An integrated model requires a compatible cabinet space and door panel, as well as checks on the plinth and door system.
A compact model can save you from having to allocate floor space to the appliance, provided its capacity suits the amount of washing up you build up between cycles. UFC-Que Choisir describes models that hold 6 place settings and sit on a worktop.
If the connections are accessible, a freestanding model lets you install a dishwasher without a dedicated cabinet. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how flexible it is to arrange compared with an integrated model.
You can consider an integrated model if the cabinet space, door panel and plinth are compatible with the one you choose. UFC-Que Choisir points out that it must be fitted into a space designed for that purpose.
Consider this if: you have floor space and suitable connections, but no dedicated cabinet space.
Bear in mind: the appliance will be visible; a 45 cm model could be useful if a 60 cm one won’t fit.
Consider this if: floor space is limited and you don’t have much washing up.
Bear in mind: a capacity of 6 place settings may mean running more cycles if washing up starts to pile up.
Consider this if: your kitchen has, or can accommodate, a suitable cabinet space and door panel.
Bear in mind: this model can’t simply be placed on the floor; the plinth and door system may also affect whether it will fit.
| Factor | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Connections | Locate the water inlet and waste outlet. For the electrical supply, Promotelec states that a dishwasher must have its own earthed circuit. | If the space is far from the connections, I want to know whether the appliance can be installed there without any unexpected alterations. Around 36% of consumers would make connection compatibility their top priority. |
| Space and capacity | Measure the entire space and compare the stated capacity with the amount of washing up you usually have. UFC-Que Choisir describes compact models with 6 place settings and 45 cm models with 9 place settings. | In a small kitchen, I don’t want to save space at the cost of having to run too many cycles; around 29% of consumers would prioritise a balance between footprint and capacity. |
| Kitchen layout | Check whether you really have a dedicated cabinet space. For an integrated model, also check that the door panel, plinth and door system are compatible. | If I want to keep my existing cabinets, I’m looking for a space that doesn’t need a dedicated unit; around 21% of consumers would put flexibility in their kitchen layout first. |
| Energy use and noise | Compare the values on the energy label: according to ADEME, electricity use is shown in kWh per 100 cycles and water use in litres per reference cycle. Check the stated noise level too. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to take everyday noise and energy use into account; around 14% of consumers would make these day-to-day considerations their top priority. |
It’s not enough for the appliance to fit in the available space: you also need to allow for the hoses, access to the water supply and waste outlet, and a stable position.
Measure the space, locate the connections, then check the installation diagram for the exact model.
If the connections or cabinets need adapting, you may need to arrange additional work.
A model with 6 place settings may need to run more often if the amount of washing up you build up exceeds its capacity.
Work out how much washing up and how many utensils you need to clean between cycles before comparing a compact model with a 45 cm one.
According to Promotelec, a dishwasher must be powered by its own earthed circuit; an extension lead does not replace this installation.
If you can’t identify the circuit intended for the appliance, have the electrical installation checked before you buy.
You may need electrical work before you can use the appliance.
Unlike a freestanding model, an integrated dishwasher needs a compatible cabinet space and door panel. Bosch states that some door systems aren’t suitable for every plinth height.
Check the dimensions of the cabinet space, door panel, plinth and door system against the specifications for the model you’re considering.
Bosch’s range in France includes freestanding, compact and integrated dishwashers.
Electrolux’s range in France includes 45 cm and 60 cm freestanding models.
In France, Whirlpool offers 45 cm and 60 cm freestanding and integrated dishwashers.
Miele’s range in France distinguishes between freestanding appliances and models designed to be integrated into kitchen cabinets.
Check the available space, that the appliance will be stable, and that there’s a water inlet, waste outlet and electrical supply. Promotelec states that a dishwasher must be powered by its own earthed circuit; then check the space against the instructions for your chosen model.
A compact model with 6 place settings may be suitable if you don’t build up much washing up between cycles. If you’d have to run it too often, compare 45 cm models too; UFC-Que Choisir lists models in this size with a capacity of 9 place settings.
An integrated dishwasher isn’t designed to simply stand on the floor: it needs a compatible cabinet space and door panel. Check the plinth and door system too, as requirements vary by model.
Follow the clearance requirements in the instructions and installation diagram for the exact model, rather than assuming one measurement suits every appliance. This is particularly important when fitting it under a worktop or between cabinets.
Compare the values on their energy labels on the same basis. ADEME states that electricity use is given in kWh per 100 reference cycles and water use in litres per reference cycle; also consider the capacity that suits the way you use your dishwasher.