For an open-plan kitchen, start by considering the space available, the connections and how much washing-up you need to deal with. Then compare the stated noise levels of appliances that will fit the space. An integrated model is a good choice if you want a seamless look, provided the housing and door panel are suitable. A compact model handles smaller loads, while washing up by hand remains an option if you don’t have much to wash. If people use the living area while the dishwasher is running, check the dB rating for each model: according to ADEME, an increase of 3 dB represents an almost doubling of noise.
If people are still using the living area while the dishwasher is running, compare the stated noise levels rather than relying on claims that a model is “quiet”. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise can be in an open-plan kitchen.
An integrated dishwasher can blend in with your kitchen units, provided the housing, door panel, door system and connections are suitable. Measure the space before choosing a model.
If you don’t build up much washing-up, compare the space taken up and capacity of a slimline or compact model with the option of continuing to wash by hand. Also check where your dishes and pans will go, rather than relying only on the stated number of place settings.
For an open-plan kitchen, first work out whether you can install an appliance and how much washing-up it will need to handle. A freestanding model will be on show; an integrated one needs a suitable housing and door panel, while a compact model offers less capacity. If you choose to wash by hand, you’ll be handling all the washing-up yourself.
| Criteria | What to check | What matters to consumers |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in the living area | Compare the dB ratings and noise classes of the models you’re considering, as well as whether you can schedule the cycle. | If the dishwasher needs to run during conversations or in the evening, I want to keep the shared living space peaceful; around 33% of consumers put low noise first. |
| Capacity and loading | Check the number of place settings and how much room there really is for your dishes and pans. | When washing-up builds up every day, I want to cut down on the chore without running lots of cycles; around 27% of consumers prioritise the amount they need to wash. |
| Space and integration | Measure the space and check the connections. For an integrated model, also check the housing, door panel and door. | If my kitchen is already fitted or short on space, the appliance needs to fit in; around 20% of consumers make this their priority. |
| Consumption and cycle time | Compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the duration of the reference programme on the same basis. | If I run frequent cycles, I want to understand the resources used without overlooking how long each wash takes; energy consumption is the main concern for around 20% of consumers. |
In an open-plan kitchen, even a small difference in the stated dB rating is worth noting: according to ADEME, an increase of 3 dB represents an almost doubling of noise. A marketing claim is no substitute for a comparable figure.
Check the dB ratings and noise classes of models that will fit your space, then find out what conditions the stated figures are based on.
An integrated appliance needs to fit a space designed for it and take a compatible door panel. The door and connections can also affect installation.
Measure the space, check the door system and have the connections assessed if any preparation is needed.
Pans and large dishes take up basket space differently from plates and glasses. A compact or slimline model gives you less flexibility when loading a large load.
Think about the items you wash most often and check the basket layout of the model you’re considering.
Figures for a reference programme don’t necessarily apply to every programme or reflect how much time you have in your day-to-day routine.
Compare water use, energy use and cycle time for the same programme, then check that it suits the way you’ll use the appliance.
Worth considering for integrated, freestanding or compact dishwashers, depending on the space available.
Worth considering if the cutlery and basket layout is an important factor when choosing an integrated or freestanding appliance.
Worth considering if you want to compare the programmes and options available across different models.
Worth considering if the available width and how you load a small amount of washing-up will influence your choice.
Worth considering for freestanding, integrated or slimline appliances, depending on the space available.
These freestanding and integrated appliances give you a choice of capacities and formats for everyday washing-up. Before choosing, check that each model will fit your space. If people use the living area while the dishwasher is running, also check its stated noise level.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for a fitted kitchen with a large daily load, provided you have a compatible housing and door panel.
Stated width of 60 cm; rated class A for this model.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you have space for a freestanding appliance and want to handle a large daily load.
Stated width of 60 cm, stated noise level of 41 dB, class C and white finish. Check the dimensions if you plan to fit it under a worktop.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for a fitted kitchen if the space can accommodate this model. Check the dimensions before making a decision.
Rated class C for this model. The product title gives the width as 60 cm, but the description says 68 cm. Ask the retailer to confirm the actual dimensions and check that the housing and door panel are compatible.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’re looking for an integrated appliance for everyday washing-up and have a suitable housing.
Stated width of 60 cm and class C. Check the door panel, door system and dimensions of the space.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for a fitted kitchen if 14 place settings suits your usual load, once you’ve checked the housing and door panel.
Stated width of 60 cm, class E and white finish. If the dishwasher will run while people are in the living area, compare the noise and consumption figures for this model.
Compare the dB rating and noise class of models that will fit your space. According to ADEME, an increase of 3 dB represents an almost doubling of noise, so a marketing claim such as “Silence” is no substitute for checking the stated figures.
Measure the housing and check that the door panel, door system and connections are compatible with your chosen model. An integrated appliance needs a space designed for it. If the space needs to be prepared, have this assessed before you buy.
Yes. Check that the proposed location has a water supply, drainage and electrical supply that meet the requirements in the model’s instructions. If the existing installation needs to be altered, ask a suitably qualified professional to confirm what work is required.
No. Compare the water and energy figures in light of the cycle they refer to. Check how long it takes too, before deciding whether the programme suits your day-to-day washing-up routine.