If your new kitchen has no fitted appliances, start by considering a freestanding dishwasher if you want flexibility over where it goes. An integrated model needs a suitable housing unit and matching cabinet door; a compact model is better suited to a lack of space, provided its capacity meets your needs. In every case, measure the space and check the water supply, drainage and electrical supply before ordering.
If you don’t have a housing unit or cabinet door and want the option to change your layout, a freestanding model is the first type to consider. Que Choisir distinguishes this installation from that of an integrated model.
An integrated model could be an option if the housing unit, cabinet door and door movement are suitable for the model you choose. Bosch Électroménager explains that the fitting method for the cabinet door varies by appliance.
A compact countertop model is worth considering if you’re happy with a smaller capacity. Also check how much room you’ll need to install it and what connections are required, as set out in the instructions.
First, choose the type of installation your kitchen allows. Then check that the dimensions and connections required by your chosen model suit the space you have.
Consider it: if your kitchen has no dedicated housing unit or you’d like the option to move the appliance.
Bear in mind: the appliance will be visible; installation under a worktop is only possible if the model and its instructions allow it.
Consider it: if your kitchen already has a suitable housing unit and cabinet door.
Bear in mind: installation also depends on the plinth and the cabinet door opening system, not just the stated width.
Consider it: if there isn’t room for a standard appliance and you don’t have many dishes to wash.
Bear in mind: capacity is more limited; you’ll also need to set aside a surface for it and plan for the drainage specified in the instructions.
| What matters to you | What to check | Consumers concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible positioning | Measure the available width, height and depth; locate the water supply and drainage. | Without fitted cabinetry, I want to install an appliance without needing a cabinet door and have the option to move it later. Around 50% of consumers put flexible positioning at the top of their list. |
| Fitting with kitchen units | Compare the housing unit, cabinet door, plinth and door opening with the diagram for the exact model. | If my kitchen already has a housing unit, I want the appliance to fit and the cabinet door to work properly. For around 20% of consumers, compatibility comes before other criteria. |
| Small footprint | Check the surface it needs, clearance for the door and stated capacity. | When space is limited, I’d rather wash smaller loads than make room for a standard appliance. Reducing the space needed is the main priority for around 30% of consumers. |
The height and depth of the housing unit, the plinth and the movement of the cabinet door can also prevent installation. Que Choisir points out that an integrated model needs to fit into a housing unit designed for it.
Measure the inside dimensions and check the door configuration, then compare them with the installation diagram for the exact model.
Que Choisir recommends checking that the top panel is removable before considering this type of installation. Don’t assume it can be removed on every model.
Check the product details and instructions, then compare the permitted under-worktop height with your measurements.
For installations in France, Promotelec says the dishwasher socket must be on a dedicated circuit. Using an extension lead won’t tell you whether the existing installation is suitable.
Check which circuit is available before buying. If you’re unsure about the socket or consumer unit, have the installation checked by a qualified professional.
Adapting the electrical installation may require an electrician.
Its footprint won’t tell you whether the capacity is right for the number of dishes you generate between cycles. Que Choisir describes countertop compact models with a capacity of 6 place settings, although this doesn’t apply to every model.
Compare the stated capacity with how you’ll use it, then check the instructions for the required surface, water supply and drainage.
This selection includes freestanding models for kitchens without a cabinet door, a countertop compact model for smaller spaces, and an integrated model to consider if your kitchen has a compatible housing unit.
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Worth considering for a kitchen without a cabinet door and if you need space for 14 place settings. The product name states 60 cm, 41 dB and a C rating. If you’re planning to install it under a worktop, check the instructions to confirm whether the top panel can be removed, what the resulting dimensions will be and which connections are required.
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Worth considering if you want an appliance that doesn’t need a dedicated cabinet door. The product name states an E rating. Measure the space and check the door clearance, then read the instructions before considering installation under a worktop.
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This freestanding model is worth considering for a kitchen without an integrated cabinet door. Its name states that it has seven cycles. If the space is under a worktop, check the instructions to confirm that this installation is permitted, along with the required height and clearance.
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Worth considering when there isn’t room for a standard appliance. The product name mentions 5+1 cycles and a built-in 5 L tank. Check the usable capacity, make sure the surface is stable enough and consult the instructions for the required drainage method.
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Only consider this model if your housing unit and cabinet door can accommodate it. The product name states a C rating. Compare the installation diagram with the dimensions of the housing unit, the plinth and the door-opening system.
Measure the width, height and depth of the space, as well as the clearance needed to open the door. Locate the water supply, drainage and electrical supply, then compare your measurements with the requirements of the model you’ve chosen. Bosch Électroménager recommends measuring all three dimensions of the intended space.
Yes, provided the specific model is designed for this type of installation and the available space meets the requirements in its instructions. Que Choisir advises checking before you buy that the top panel is removable. Only remove it in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Check that there’s a suitable dedicated circuit for the dishwasher. Promotelec says the appliance’s socket must be on such a circuit. If you’re unsure about the existing installation, have it checked by a qualified electrician.
No, the permitted connection depends on the model. Bosch Électroménager explains that, for its appliances, the choice between hot and cold water varies by model and the instructions in the manual. Always check the instructions for the dishwasher you’re considering.