In an open-plan kitchen, start by comparing each dishwasher’s decibel rating and noise class, then choose a capacity that suits your dishes and the space available. A 60 cm model can handle larger loads if you have room for it; a 45 cm or compact model can work when space is limited, but it won’t necessarily be quieter. Check the Eco programme duration, quick programmes and drying features separately to see which matter to you.
If a cycle might run while you’re eating or working nearby, start by comparing the models’ decibel ratings and noise classes. UFC-Que Choisir includes noise among its test criteria, particularly for open-plan kitchens.
For large daily loads or regular entertaining, look at the capacity and basket layout. Whirlpool’s guide gives up to 10 place settings as a guide for 45 cm models, compared with at least 12 for 60 cm models. Always check the capacity of the specific model.
A 45 cm or compact appliance may suit a smaller amount of washing up or a more restricted space. Even so, measure the space and check the capacity, connections and noise level of the model you’re considering. A smaller size alone doesn’t guarantee it will suit an open-plan kitchen.
Start with the noise level during the hours when you’re using the living space, then weigh up capacity and dimensions against your habits. The energy label lets you compare the Eco programme figures; check other programmes separately.
Worth considering: if you have a suitable space and regularly wash a large load.
Bear in mind: the appliance will be on show. Its width alone tells you nothing about its noise level or drying performance.
Worth considering: if you have a compatible housing unit and want the door to match your kitchen furniture.
Bear in mind: check the required door panel, dimensions and connections before ordering.
Worth considering: if your space and amount of washing up call for a smaller capacity.
Bear in mind: a compact size doesn’t guarantee low noise or a short Eco programme.
| Criteria | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Noise | Compare the dB rating and noise class on each model’s label. Don’t confuse the noise class with the energy efficiency class. | My kitchen opens onto the living area, so I want to choose when to run a cycle with its stated noise level in mind. According to ADEME, noise classes A and B are for particularly quiet appliances. |
| Capacity | Check the number of place settings, the width and the basket layout. See whether there’s room for large dishes and tall glasses. | I often wash up after several people, so usable capacity matters as much as the space the appliance takes up. If my loads are smaller, I can consider a more compact size. |
| Programmes and consumption | Check the Eco programme duration, water use per cycle and kWh per 100 cycles on the energy label. Look up the durations and conditions of quick programmes separately. | A cycle started in the evening needs to fit my schedule. I don’t want to assume a quick programme’s duration based on the Eco programme. |
| Installation | Measure the available height, width and depth. For a built-in model, check the housing unit, door panel, water supply, electrical supply and waste connection. | I want to know whether the appliance will actually fit in the space, without assuming that the stated width alone confirms it can be installed. |
| Drying | Check the features listed for the specific model and the conditions of the programmes that use them. Distinguish automatic door opening from a general claim about drying. | If I put the dishes away soon after a cycle, I want to know which programme and drying feature I can use. |
This claim is no substitute for the model’s decibel rating and noise class. A good energy efficiency class doesn’t tell you how noisy an appliance is.
Compare the noise information on the labels side by side, then compare capacity, Eco programme duration and consumption on their respective terms.
The specifications for the Electrolux ESL2500RO and Whirlpool W8F HS61BS state 49 dB for 6 place settings and 41 dB for 15 place settings respectively. These examples show that size alone can’t predict a particular model’s noise level.
Compare each compact model with the other options you’re considering, looking at its decibel rating, noise class, capacity and dimensions, rather than size alone.
Bosch explains that a fully integrated model is covered by a kitchen furniture door. You’ll need to check that the door panel and housing unit are compatible, as well as the water, electricity and waste connections.
Take measurements and consult the installation instructions for the exact model. Also confirm which door fittings are required.
This figure helps you compare sizes, but it doesn’t show how large dishes, glasses and utensils will fit in the baskets.
Use it to shortlist a size, then check the layout and usable dimensions of the model you’re interested in.
A brand to explore when comparing built-in and fully integrated models.
Its 45 cm and 60 cm size guides can help you start comparing capacity.
Compact and slim models to consider when space is limited.
This selection includes freestanding dishwashers for larger loads and a countertop model for smaller amounts of washing up. Compare their stated noise levels and capacities, then confirm the features that matter to you on each product page.
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Its capacity of 14 place settings is worth considering for a household that regularly washes a lot of dishes. The title lists 41 dB and energy efficiency class C; also check the model’s noise class and Eco programme duration on its label.
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This freestanding model could make your shortlist if you’re looking for a capacity of 14 place settings. The title states 60 cm, while the dimensions also list 67.5 cm: confirm the exact width before deciding where it will go. Check the noise class, Eco programme duration and drying features if they’ll influence your choice.
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The countertop design and capacity of 6 place settings are worth considering if you have smaller loads. The title lists 47 dB, seven programmes and energy efficiency class D; check the exact dimensions and noise class before deciding where to place it in an open-plan kitchen.
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Its capacity of 14 place settings makes it worth shortlisting for larger loads. To decide whether it suits an open-plan kitchen, compare its stated noise level with your preferences and check the Eco programme duration. The energy efficiency class E in the title doesn’t tell you about either of these.
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This 14-place-setting model can be compared with other freestanding appliances for regular loads. If noise or a particular drying feature is important to you, check the information for this specific model rather than assuming what it offers based on its size.
Compare the decibel ratings and noise classes on each model’s label, rather than relying on marketing claims alone. ADEME says appliances in noise classes A or B are particularly quiet; also check that the capacity suits your needs.
No. The Eco programme duration appears on the energy label alongside water use per cycle and energy consumption per 100 cycles, as ADEME and the European Commission point out. If you plan to use quick programmes, check their durations and conditions in the model’s product information.
Choose based on the space available and how much washing up you need to do. Whirlpool’s guide gives up to 10 place settings as a guide for 45 cm models and at least 12 for 60 cm models; then check the capacity, baskets and dimensions of the model you choose.
Measure the housing unit and confirm the required door panel and existing connections. Bosch explains that a fully integrated model is covered by a kitchen furniture door and needs suitable water, electrical and waste connections; follow the instructions for the model you choose.