For an open-plan kitchen, first choose a size that fits the available space and suits the amount of washing-up you usually have. Then compare the noise level and noise class of the models you’re considering, along with their energy label figures. A lower noise figure can help you narrow down your options, but the perceived comfort will also depend on the cycle, the time of day and the room’s acoustics.
If your dishwasher runs during meals, conversations, working from home or while you’re relaxing, noise matters more than it would in a separate kitchen. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of this factor in a shared living space. Compare the noise figures for the exact model rather than relying on claims that it’s quiet.
An alcove, floor space or worktop will each suit a different size of appliance. Before choosing between a freestanding, integrated or compact model, check the appliance dimensions against the available space, the clearance needed to open its door and the connections required.
To keep track of water and electricity use, compare the energy label figures for models with a suitable capacity. ADEME says the label includes energy use per 100 cycles and water use per cycle. The Eco programme’s duration is also worth considering if the dishwasher will be running while you’re using the living room.
In an open-plan kitchen, the format determines how the appliance can be installed, but not how noisy it will be. Choose a suitable location and capacity, then compare the noise figures and energy use of the exact models you’re considering.
Consider this if: you have space on the floor and don’t need a matching cabinet door.
Bear in mind: the appliance will remain visible, and this format says nothing about its noise level.
Consider this if: a suitable alcove lets you maintain a seamless run of kitchen units.
Bear in mind: check that the alcove, door and cabinet front are compatible with the exact model. An integrated design doesn’t guarantee quieter operation.
Consider this if: there isn’t room for a standard appliance and you don’t have a large volume of washing-up.
Bear in mind: a smaller capacity may mean running more cycles. UFC-Que Choisir describes worktop models with a capacity of 6 place settings.
| Criterion | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Noise disturbance | Compare the dB figures and noise class on the exact model’s label. Also consider the cycle you’ll use at the times you normally run the appliance. | If I run a cycle while we’re talking or working in the living room, I want to minimise noise-related interruptions. Around 36% of consumers would put a quiet environment first. |
| Installation location | Check the dimensions and door clearance. For an integrated model, check the alcove and cabinet front too, and confirm the connections required. | When my kitchen offers limited installation options, I need to find an appliance that fits the space I actually have. Around 29% of consumers would make this their top priority. |
| Consumption | Check the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration on the label, for a suitable capacity. | I want to keep an eye on water and electricity use without finding out that an Eco cycle takes longer than expected while we’re using the living room. Around 21% of consumers would make everyday use their main consideration. |
| Capacity and results | Compare the stated place-setting capacity with the dishes and pans you use. Where available, check comparable washing and drying test results. | If my usual washing-up won’t fit in one cycle, a compact design isn’t enough on its own; I also want effective washing and drying. Around 14% of consumers would put capacity and results first. |
A marketing claim or Silence mode doesn’t tell you how noisy every cycle will be. Bosch notes that you may also hear the appliance filling and draining.
Compare the dB figures and noise class for the exact model, then check the manual for details of the programme and its conditions of use.
An appliance designed to be integrated must fit the cabinet and its door. The product category alone doesn’t confirm that it will.
Measure the space and check the type of cabinet front, then confirm the existing connections and what’s included in the installation service you’re considering.
If the space needs modifying, you may need to arrange separate work before the appliance can be installed.
A smaller footprint comes with a lower capacity. If your usual dishes and pans won’t fit, you may need to run several cycles.
Think about the washing-up you do every day, then compare the compact model’s usable capacity with the other sizes that can realistically be installed in your home.
These product ranges offer a useful basis for comparing sizes and features, but the specifications vary from one model to another.
The Bosch range includes freestanding, integrated, slimline and compact models.
Siemens offers freestanding and integrated appliances, with scheduling and connectivity features available on selected models.
Miele offers, among other options, freestanding and fully integrated appliances.
The Beko range includes freestanding and integrated dishwashers.
These freestanding and compact models offer two options for an open-plan kitchen. First check the space available and the capacity you need, then compare the noise and energy figures for each model.
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Worth considering if you have space for a freestanding appliance and need capacity for 14 place settings.
The product name lists a D rating and a stainless steel finish. Before choosing it for an open-plan living space, compare its noise level and class, full dimensions and the duration of the cycle you’ll use.
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A countertop model is worth considering when floor space is limited, provided a capacity of 6 place settings is enough for your usual washing-up.
The product name lists 47 dB, a D rating, 7 programmes and a 24-hour delay start. Check the noise class, dimensions and connections required for your chosen location.
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This freestanding model is worth considering if its capacity of 14 place settings suits your washing-up and the space you have available.
The product name lists a D rating. To compare it with other models for an open-plan kitchen, check the noise and energy figures for the exact model, along with the dimensions required for installation.
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This 14-place-setting freestanding model is worth considering if you have room for an appliance 60 cm wide.
The product name lists 41 dB, a C rating and a white finish. Compare the noise class and the conditions attached to the stated figure. You’ll also need to allow enough clearance in front of the door.
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This countertop model is worth considering if space is tight and a capacity of 3 place settings really is enough for your washing-up.
The product name lists a width of 34 cm and a metallic grey and white finish. Check how the appliance is supplied with water, which connections are required and the noise figures for the exact model.
Compare the dB figures and noise class shown on the energy label for each exact model. Bear in mind that these figures may not describe every stage of the cycle. When you run the appliance and the acoustics of your living room can also affect how disruptive it feels.
No. The figures shown are intended to compare appliances under standard conditions, rather than describe every available cycle. ADEME lists energy use per 100 cycles and water use per cycle, among other details. For the programme you usually use, also check the manual and, where possible, test results carried out under comparable conditions.
For an integrated model, check the alcove dimensions, door compatibility and connections. For a compact model, check the space on your worktop and the capacity you need. The countertop models covered by UFC-Que Choisir include appliances with a capacity of 6 place settings, but always check that the capacity suits the specific model you’re considering.
The statutory legal guarantee of conformity may cover installation of an appliance bought from a professional seller if installation was included in the contract or was the seller’s responsibility. The Ministry of the Economy clarifies this condition. A separate commercial guarantee does not replace it and is subject to its own terms.
According to the European Commission, it links to information about the model, registered by the supplier in the European EPREL database. It’s a way to check that the label you’re looking at matches the dishwasher variant you’re considering.