If there’s no space built in for one, start by looking at freestanding dishwashers. If you have a suitable recess and cabinet door, an integrated model could work; if space is tight, consider a compact dishwasher with a capacity that suits your needs. In an open-plan kitchen, compare the noise data on the energy label too. Whichever type you choose, check the dimensions, door clearance and connections before deciding where to put it.
If there’s no cabinet to house the appliance, start by looking at freestanding models. UFC-Que Choisir explains that these have finished sides and don’t need a cabinet door. Still, measure the space and check that you can reach the connections.
If the appliance will be running while you’re using the living space, compare the dB rating and noise class of each model. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of noise in an open-plan kitchen, while ADEME explains where to find this information on the energy label.
A compact model is worth considering if a standard-sized dishwasher won’t fit in your kitchen and you can manage with a smaller capacity. For a countertop model, check that you have a stable surface, enough room to open the door, and the water supply and drainage required for your chosen model.
First, work out what type of space your kitchen can accommodate, then compare the dimensions and connections for the specific model. If your kitchen is open-plan, check the noise level too.
Consider this if: you don’t have a dedicated recess or cabinet door.
Bear in mind: the appliance will be visible and needs to be positioned close to the necessary connections.
Consider this if: your cabinets include a suitable recess and compatible cabinet door.
You’ll need to: fit the appliance into the cabinetry rather than simply placing it on the floor; the cabinet door and its fixings are part of the installation.
Consider this if: there isn’t room for a standard-sized model and a smaller capacity will do.
Bear in mind: saving space doesn’t mean you can skip planning for the water supply and drainage required by the model.
| Consideration | What to check | Depending on your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Space and cabinetry | Measure the width, height and depth, as well as the clearance in front of the door. If fitting it under a worktop, check the manual to see whether the top panel of a freestanding model can be removed and how much height you’ll have once it is. | I want to install the appliance without blocking a walkway or assuming a freestanding model will fit under my worktop. For an integrated model, my kitchen also needs a suitable recess and cabinet door. |
| Noise | Compare the dB rating and noise emission class on the energy labels for the models you’re considering, as recommended by ADEME. Don’t assume that one declared figure reflects the noise level of every programme. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to be able to run the appliance without causing too much disruption in the living room. |
| Connections | Check the water supply, drainage and electricity supply. Consult the manual for hose routing and installation requirements; a countertop model also needs to sit on a stable surface. | The space I choose must allow for the required connections and drainage, without relying on an improvised connection after delivery. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated place settings with the space available and the amount of washing-up you usually have. For a compact model, also check how it fills and drains. | If space is limited, a smaller capacity may suit me; if I wash more dishes at a time, I need to make sure it won’t be too small. |
| Water and energy | According to ADEME, the energy label shows the energy rating, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per reference cycle and the duration of the Eco cycle. Compare these figures on a like-for-like basis. | As well as choosing a model that fits my kitchen, I want to take account of water and electricity use and the duration of the reference cycle. |
According to UFC-Que Choisir, a built-in dishwasher is designed for a recess and is supplied without a cabinet door, top panel or side panels. It can’t simply be placed on the floor.
Measure the recess and find out what cabinet door and fixings you’ll need. If you don’t have suitable cabinetry, consider a freestanding model instead.
You may need to budget for the cabinet door and its installation separately.
In an open-plan kitchen, you’ll also hear the appliance running from the living area. A marketing label alone won’t tell you the noise level of a specific model.
Compare the dB rating and noise class on the energy label, then consider which programmes you’ll use.
An appliance may be the right width but still be too tall to fit under the worktop, too deep to accommodate the hoses or have too little room for the door to open.
Measure the full space and the clearance in front of the appliance, then check these against the specifications and manual for the exact model.
A countertop model takes up less space than a standard-sized one, but it still needs a suitable water supply and a way to drain wastewater. UFC-Que Choisir describes a compact model that needs a water inlet and outlet, or a sink nearby.
Check the capacity, support surface, filling method and drainage route for the model you choose.
Depending on its design, you may need to fill it by hand or position a drainage hose.
These ranges offer a useful starting point when comparing configurations, but you’ll need to compare noise, dimensions and energy use for the specific models.
Bosch’s French range includes freestanding, built-in and compact dishwashers, including 45 cm and 60 cm freestanding models.
Beko’s French range includes freestanding models, built-in models with a visible control panel and fully integrated models.
Whirlpool’s French range includes freestanding and built-in dishwashers in 45 cm and 60 cm sizes.
Miele’s French catalogue includes freestanding, built-in and fully integrated appliances.
This selection from Joybuy includes freestanding dishwashers, some of which may be worth considering for fitting under a worktop, as well as a countertop model for smaller spaces. First choose a configuration that suits your kitchen, then check the manual and energy label for each model.
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Worth considering if you have room for a freestanding appliance without a cabinet door. The product description lists 14 place settings and 7 programmes; check the dimensions and connections before deciding where to put it. If you plan to fit it under a worktop, confirm in the manual that the top panel can be removed and that the resulting height will fit.
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Worth considering if you have a suitable space for a freestanding model. The product description lists a noise level of 41 dB and an energy rating of C. If you’re thinking of fitting it under a worktop, check the manual for details on removing the top panel, the resulting dimensions and the connections required.
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A freestanding option to consider if you’re looking for the 14 place settings stated in the product description. It lists an energy rating of E. Before choosing a spot under the worktop, check the available height, the model’s dimensions and the installation requirements in the manual.
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The product description lists a freestanding appliance with a C energy rating and a stainless steel finish. Confirm the exact dimensions before checking whether it will fit: the measurements in the product information don’t clearly match the stated width of 60 cm. Also consult the manual for connection requirements.
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Worth considering if there isn’t room for a standard-sized appliance. The product description lists a 5 L tank and 5+1 wash cycles. Check that the capacity suits your needs, that you have a stable surface and that the hose can drain the wastewater. If your kitchen is open-plan, check the noise information for this model too.
Yes, but only with some models. UFC-Que Choisir recommends checking whether the top panel can be removed. Then check the available height, depth with the hoses in place, door clearance and the installation requirements in the manual.
Make sure the space allows for the water supply, drainage and electrical connection required by the appliance. Connections, hose lengths and installation requirements vary by model, so consult the manual and have the installation assessed if changes to your kitchen are needed.
Compare the dB rating and noise class on the energy labels of the models you’re considering, rather than relying on marketing terms. ADEME says that noise classes A and B indicate particularly quiet appliances; your choice will also depend on when you plan to run the dishwasher.
When comparing dishwashers, look at the energy rating, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per reference cycle and noise information. ADEME explains that the label also shows the capacity and Eco cycle duration. Compare these figures in light of the space available and how you plan to use the appliance.
No. Some countertop models use a tank, while others need a water inlet; either way, check how the model you choose drains wastewater. You’ll also need a stable surface and a capacity that suits the amount of washing-up you have.