Which option is right for you?

You’re fitting an integrated kitchen

You want the dishwasher door to match your kitchen units. UFC-Que Choisir notes that a built-in dishwasher fits into a dedicated space. Measure it and check the door panel and opening clearance before choosing a model.

You have an open-plan kitchen

Dishwasher cycles run close to your living space. Compare the stated noise level in dB and the noise class on the energy label, rather than relying on the word “quiet” alone, as the criteria outlined by UFC-Que Choisir and ADEME suggest.

You’re short on space

A slimline or compact model may fit in a space that won’t accommodate a standard appliance. Weigh the space you’ll save against the number of place settings and the amount of washing-up you produce between cycles.

What should you check before buying?

The installation type determines which appliances will fit in your kitchen. Then compare noise, capacity and consumption to choose between the compatible options.

Built-in

Consider it if: you have a dedicated space and want a door panel that matches your kitchen units.

Bear in mind: installation depends on the dimensions, door panel and door mechanism of the exact model, according to UFC-Que Choisir and Bosch Électroménager.

Freestanding

Consider it if: you’re replacing an appliance without a dedicated space or want to keep your layout flexible.

Bear in mind: the appliance’s own exterior remains visible, without a door panel to match your kitchen units.

Compact

Consider it if: the available space won’t accommodate a standard or slimline appliance.

Bear in mind: a smaller capacity may mean running more cycles if washing-up builds up.

Criteria What to check What matters to shoppers
Installation Measure the space’s width, height and depth. If the appliance is built-in, check the door panel and hinges. I want to fit the appliance without finding out that the door or space prevents installation; around 31% of shoppers would prioritise this compatibility.
Noise Compare the stated dB and noise class on the label for models of a similar size. When a cycle runs near my living space, keeping things quiet matters more to me; around 31% of shoppers would put noise at the top of their list.
Capacity and space Compare the appliance’s full dimensions and number of place settings with the washing-up you need to do between cycles. In a small kitchen, I want an appliance that fits in its space without having to run extra cycles; around 23% of shoppers would prioritise this balance.
Consumption and repairability For similar capacities, check the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the model’s repairability index. Once I’ve chosen a size, I want to take water use, electricity use and repairability into account; around 15% of shoppers would make these their main priority.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Ordering a built-in model before measuring the space

    Width alone isn’t enough to confirm compatibility: height, the plinth, the door panel and the door’s opening clearance all matter too. An appliance that doesn’t suit your kitchen units may be difficult to install or open.

    Measure the space and compare the door panel and hinges with the installation diagram for the exact model before ordering.

  • Overlooking a small difference in noise level

    In an open-plan kitchen, the dishwasher runs close to conversations and time spent relaxing. ADEME points out that a three-decibel increase corresponds to almost double the sound intensity; how loud it seems also depends on the room.

    Compare the dB and noise class of models of the same size, and consider when you plan to run the cycles.

  • Focusing only on the energy rating letter

    The letter alone doesn’t tell you how much water the dishwasher uses or how long the Eco cycle takes. The figures on the label are for comparing this reference cycle, and may not reflect every programme you use.

    Look at the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration together, ideally comparing appliances with similar capacities.

  • Choosing a compact model without considering your daily load

    Saving space may mean running more cycles if your plates, dishes and utensils won’t fit in a single load.

    Think about how much washing-up you produce between washes, then check the capacity and all three dimensions of the compact model you’re considering.

Brands to explore

Bosch

A range of built-in models to consider when the dimensions of your space and the door mechanism determine your choice.

  • Bosch Électroménager offers 45 and 60 cm built-in models and recommends measuring the space before buying.
  • The stated size doesn’t replace checking the height, door panel and hinges of the specific model.

Electrolux

Freestanding and integrated models to compare by capacity, stated noise level and installation requirements.

  • For its fully integrated EES48321L model, Electrolux France lists 14 place settings, 60 cm and 44 dB.
  • These specifications apply to this model; check the required door panel and the details for the model you plan to buy.

Siemens

The range includes a compact tabletop model, worth considering when space is limited.

  • Siemens Électroménager France lists dimensions of 450 × 551 × 500 mm for the compact SK26E822EU.
  • These dimensions don’t apply to other Siemens models; also compare the capacity of your chosen model with your usual loads.

Dishwashers for different installations

These Joybuy models include freestanding, compact tabletop and built-in options. Start with the installation type that suits your kitchen, then compare the specifications listed for each appliance.

Grey Samsung DW60M6050FS freestanding dishwasher

Samsung DW60M6050FS freestanding, 14 place settings, grey

Consider this if you want a freestanding appliance for regular loads, provided you check the space and connections first.

The model name indicates a capacity of 14 place settings and 7 programmes.

View on Joybuy
Heinrich's HTG 8840 Schwarz tabletop dishwasher

Heinrich's HTG 8840 Schwarz tabletop, 6 place settings

Its tabletop size is worth considering if there’s no room for a larger appliance and six place settings suit your loads.

The model name indicates 7 programmes, 47 dB and a D energy rating. Check its full dimensions and connection requirements before deciding where to put it.

View on Joybuy
Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1 built-in dishwasher

Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1 built-in, 13 place settings

Consider this for a kitchen with a dedicated space, after checking the dimensions, door panel and door mechanism in the model’s manual.

The model name specifies 60 cm and a B energy rating. Confirm the installation measurements before ordering.

View on Joybuy
Whirlpool WFP5O41PLGX freestanding dishwasher

Whirlpool WFP5O41PLGX freestanding, 14 place settings

Worth considering if you’re looking for a 14-place-setting capacity without a kitchen door panel to fit.

The title states a size of 60 cm and a C energy rating, but the width details conflict. Check the actual width and installation dimensions in the manual before choosing a space for it.

View on Joybuy
Grey Indesit D2F HK26 S freestanding dishwasher

Indesit D2F HK26 S freestanding, 14 place settings, grey

Compare this if you want a freestanding model with a capacity of 14 place settings; check the available space and connections.

The model name specifies 60 cm and an E energy rating. To assess its consumption, also check the figures on the label for the exact model.

View on Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

What should I compare on a dishwasher’s energy label?

Compare the kWh per 100 cycles, litres of water per cycle, Eco programme duration, capacity and noise level with its noise class. To make these figures useful when choosing, compare appliances with similar capacities and dimensions.

Does a built-in dishwasher come with a door panel?

Don’t assume it does: a model designed to take a door panel that matches your kitchen units may need a suitable panel fitted. For the exact appliance, check the required panel, hinges, dimensions of the space and installation instructions.

What connections should I check before installation?

Check the position of the water inlet, waste outlet and electrical supply in relation to the chosen space. The permitted distances and connections vary by model, so check your kitchen against its manual before delivery.

How can I reduce water and electricity use day to day?

Use the Eco programme when its duration suits you, and run a full load without overloading the dishwasher. ADEME also recommends avoiding pre-rinsing dishes.