If several people want to wash their dishes together, consider a 60 cm dishwasher first if you have room for one: UFC-Que Choisir lists a capacity of 12 to 17 place settings for built-in models of this width, compared with 9 to 10 for 45 cm models. However, size isn’t the only factor to consider in an open-plan kitchen. Compare the stated noise level, Eco cycle duration and options for scheduling the start. A compact model is best suited to situations where space is very limited, provided its capacity is enough for your daily load.
When several people eat at home, usable capacity and the layout of the racks matter just as much as the space available. For built-in models, UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between 60 cm and 45 cm formats in particular by their stated capacity.
If you talk, work or relax next to the appliance, compare the dB(A) rating and noise class of each model. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise levels are in an open-plan kitchen.
When people aren’t available at the same time, agreeing a start time means the decision doesn’t fall to whoever happens to be home last. Check that your chosen model has the delay start and cycle information you need; Miele, for example, lists a delay start function on the G 5790 SCVi SL.
Start by measuring the space and estimating how much washing-up you want to do in one load. Then compare noise levels and cycle specifications with the times when the living area is in use.
Consider it: if there’s room and several people want to wash their dishes together. UFC-Que Choisir lists a capacity of 12 to 17 place settings for 60 cm built-in models.
Bear in mind: it’s wider than a 45 cm model, but there’s no guarantee that the model you choose will be quieter.
Consider it: when the available width rules out a 60 cm model. UFC-Que Choisir lists a capacity of 9 to 10 place settings for 45 cm built-in models.
Bear in mind: there’s less room to fit in all the washing-up after a meal together.
Consider it: when the space available and the amount of washing-up suit a small appliance.
Bear in mind: check the capacity carefully before relying on a single cycle for several people; a Joybuy listing for a Bob compact model states a capacity of two place settings.
| Criteria | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | Stated number of place settings and rack layout, particularly for large dishes. | After meals together, I want to fit all the washing-up into one load rather than keep running the machine; around 31% of consumers prioritise capacity. |
| Noise | dB(A) level and noise class on the label for the exact model. | When the machine runs near people talking or relaxing, I want to minimise disruption in the living area; this is a priority for around 25% of consumers. |
| Size and installation | Available width, height and depth; installation type and clearance needed to open the door. | If my alcove or floor space is limited, I first need to find a format that will fit; around 25% of consumers prioritise this compatibility. |
| Timing and Eco cycle | Eco cycle duration, water per cycle, energy use in kWh per 100 cycles and whether it has a delay start function. | With different schedules, I want to agree a start time without having the machine unavailable at the wrong moment; around 19% of consumers make this their top criterion. |
In an open-plan kitchen, a marketing claim doesn’t help you compare the potential noise disturbance from two appliances. ADEME recommends checking the noise information on the label.
Compare the dB(A) ratings and noise classes of the models you’re considering, then check the conditions for any Silence programme.
A small tub may mean people have to split their washing-up across several cycles.
Work out how much washing-up you’ll have after a meal together, then confirm the capacity, model variant, dimensions and connections for the compact model you’re considering.
The duration of the Eco programme is separate from its consumption figures. Miele, for example, lists a duration of 210 minutes for the Eco cycle on the G 5790 SCVi SL.
Compare the duration, water per cycle and energy use on the same programme basis, then check that the start time works for everyone.
The stated width alone isn’t enough to confirm that an integrated model will fit your existing kitchen.
Measure the space and check the required dimensions, door clearance and the parts needed for installation.
You’ll also need to plan ahead for a suitable door panel and any fitting work.
The range includes 45 cm dishwashers, worth considering when space is limited.
Models in different widths let you compare both size and scheduling features.
The range includes freestanding, built-in and fully integrated appliances, giving you options to compare with your existing kitchen.
Consider these standard models if you want to wash dishes from several people together. The selection includes freestanding appliances and a fully integrated model, so measure the space before comparing their other features.
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Worth considering if you want to wash dishes from several people together and have room for a freestanding appliance.
The title lists a width of 60 cm and a C rating, but the dimensions shown elsewhere for this model don’t match that width. Ask for the measurements and required space to be confirmed before buying.
If you need to schedule cycles around shared timings, check the Eco programme duration too.
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This model is for people looking for a freestanding appliance to handle a shared load of washing-up.
The title lists seven programmes. To plan when to run it, confirm the Eco cycle duration and delay start settings for the model being sold.
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For an open-plan kitchen, this model lets you compare a capacity of 14 place settings with the noise level stated in its title.
The title lists a width of 60 cm, a noise level of 41 dB and a C rating. Check the Eco cycle duration and energy consumption if these factors affect when you’ll run the dishwasher.
If you use the automatic door opening feature listed for this model, be aware of hot steam at the end of the cycle and keep the space in front of the appliance clear.
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Worth considering if your kitchen has a suitable space for a fully integrated appliance and several people share the washing-up.
The title lists a width of 60 cm and a C rating, but a different width appears in the dimensions associated with this model. Ask for the dimensions, required space and door panel compatibility to be confirmed before buying.
When agreeing a shared time to run it, take the Eco cycle duration of 240 minutes listed for this model into account.
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This freestanding model is worth considering if you want to wash a shared load, with a stated capacity of 14 place settings.
The title lists a D rating. Before choosing this model for an open-plan kitchen, check its dimensions and stated noise level, as well as the duration and consumption figures for the Eco cycle.
Compare the dB(A) ratings and noise classes shown on each model’s label. ADEME notes that classes A and B are particularly quiet; you should also consider when the dishwasher will run and how close it is to your living area.
Yes, if the amount of washing-up you want to do in one load is within its capacity. UFC-Que Choisir lists 9 to 10 place settings for 45 cm built-in models, compared with 12 to 17 for 60 cm models; also check that the racks can hold the dishes you usually use.
Agree a time slot, then check whether the model has the features you need to stick to it. Miele lists a delay start of up to 24 hours on the G 5790 SCVi SL, but this feature depends on the model you choose.
Compare water per cycle, energy use and duration on the same Eco programme basis, taking the capacity of each appliance into account. Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/2017 defines the Eco programme as the basis for measuring or calculating this information; the figures don’t necessarily apply to another programme.
Only if the space and the components needed for installation are suitable for the model you choose. Measure the space, check the clearances and confirm the door panel requirements before replacing a freestanding appliance.