In a studio flat, choose a compact model if you have small loads and the worktop, drainage and power supply suit the appliance. For a house share where the kitchen is used regularly, consider a 45 or 60 cm freestanding model for greater capacity, provided you have a suitable space for it. An integrated model is only suitable for a compatible kitchen: according to ANIL, any alteration to rented premises or equipment requires the landlord’s written permission.
If you wash small loads, a countertop dishwasher can save you from having to give up floor space for an appliance. Still, measure your worktop and check the connections and drainage requirements for the model you choose.
If you want to combine several people’s washing-up, compare the capacity of 45 or 60 cm freestanding models. Then check that there’s enough room for the door to open and for you to access the connections.
If a wash cycle could disturb people who are resting or working, compare the noise level shown on the energy label. In a rented home, also check whether the proposed installation would alter the kitchen: ANIL reminds tenants that such alterations require the landlord’s written permission.
Start by choosing a size to suit the available space and the amount of washing-up. The connections and installation requirements may then rule out a model, even if it looks like the right size.
Worth considering: for small loads, if you have room for the appliance on your worktop.
Bear in mind: it has less capacity than larger freestanding models, and the water supply method varies by model.
Worth considering: for a shared kitchen with floor space and suitable connections.
Bear in mind: measure the floor space it will take up and allow room for the door to open before you buy.
Worth considering: if your kitchen already has a suitable space and the proposed installation is permitted.
Bear in mind: you’ll need to check the fit carefully. According to ANIL, any alteration to rented premises or equipment requires the landlord’s written permission.
| Consideration | What to check | Who is this important for? |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Measure the space and check the instruction manual against the available water supply, drainage and power connections. If installation would alter the rented premises or equipment, ANIL says you’ll need the landlord’s written permission. | In a rented home, I want to install the appliance without making unauthorised changes to the kitchen. Around 31% of consumers would put installation compatibility first. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated place settings with the space for your plates and saucepans, and how often you want to run a cycle. Models from Candy, Beko and Bosch illustrate how capacity varies between types. | When several people cook, I’d rather combine their washing-up than run more cycles. Capacity would be the top priority for around 25% of consumers. |
| Noise | Check the decibel rating and noise class on the label, and see whether the model lets you delay a cycle. ADEME recommends taking an appliance’s noise level into account when choosing one. | Near a bedroom or workspace, I want to minimise disruption during wash cycles. This would be the top priority for around 19% of consumers. |
| Size | Check all the dimensions, the clearance needed to open the door and how much washing-up you usually have. A countertop compact will also take up some worktop space. | In a small studio flat, I want to keep the space clear for moving around and preparing food, while still handling small loads. Around 25% of consumers would prioritise a compact footprint. |
The size doesn’t determine how the appliance gets its water. Candy says its CP 6E51LS needs a direct connection, while the Comfee’ CDWMTO201D(W) featured on Joybuy has a built-in water tank.
Check the manual for the exact model to confirm the water supply, drainage, plug and space requirements separately.
Worth considering when comparing 60 cm freestanding and countertop compact models, depending on the capacity and noise level you need.
Worth considering for a freestanding dishwasher in a shared kitchen where capacity and cycle scheduling matter.
Worth considering when choosing between a countertop compact and a slimline freestanding model.
This selection includes freestanding models to consider for shared loads, as well as countertop compacts for smaller kitchens. Choose according to the space you have, the washing-up you need to do and the installation options in your home.
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Worth considering for combining the washing-up from a shared kitchen, if you have floor space available.
Listed as 60 cm wide; energy rating E. Check the depth, door clearance and connections in your home.
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Worth considering for a shared kitchen where both capacity and noise matter.
Listed as 60 cm wide, with a noise level of 41 dB and energy rating C. Check the space and connections before buying.
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Worth considering for small loads if you have room for the appliance on your worktop.
The product name lists 5 + 1 programmes and a built-in 5 L water tank. Check the drainage and noise level, especially if it will be near a bedroom.
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Worth considering for a shared household’s washing-up, provided you have a suitable space for it.
Energy rating C. The dimensions in the title and description differ, so check the exact measurements for this model before measuring the space you need.
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Worth considering for a small kitchen if a compact model with a water tank better suits the space available.
The product name lists a built-in 5 L water tank, 6 + 3 programmes and energy rating D. Check the usable capacity, drainage and noise level for your needs.
ANIL says you need your landlord’s written permission if the installation alters the rented premises or equipment. For an appliance that simply plugs in or sits in place, check what work is actually needed, your tenancy agreement and the inventory before buying. The type of appliance alone doesn’t determine the answer.
No, it depends on the model. Candy France says the CP 6E51LS needs a direct connection, while the Comfee’ CDWMTO201D(W) featured on Joybuy has a built-in 5 L water tank. Also check the drainage and power supply requirements in the manual.
Compare capacity, water and energy use, and noise level, taking note of the units and programme shown on the label. ADEME highlights how useful this information is when choosing a dishwasher. If your kitchen is near bedrooms, pay particular attention to the decibel rating.
If a product doesn’t match its description, it may be covered by the legal guarantee of conformity. The Ministry of the Economy says this guarantee applies to new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a trader to a consumer. Keep a copy of the product description and contact the seller.