In a rented kitchen without a dedicated space or matching cabinet door, a freestanding dishwasher is usually the simplest option to consider. It comes with its own finished exterior and gives you more freedom to choose where to place it. If floor space is limited, compare a 45 cm model with a countertop dishwasher, taking capacity into account. An integrated model is only suitable if the kitchen and installation requirements allow for it. In every case, measure the space and check the connections specified in the model’s instructions.
If you have a space available but no suitable cabinet door, start by looking at freestanding models. UFC-Que Choisir explains that they already have a finished exterior and don’t need an additional door panel. However, check that installation won’t require changes to the rented kitchen.
A 45 cm appliance may suit a limited-width space, while a countertop model can free up floor space if you have room for it on your worktop. UFC-Que Choisir notes that some narrow models suit smaller kitchens, although you may need to run them more often.
If there’s already a dedicated space, you could consider an integrated model after measuring it and checking what type of door panel is needed. The Electrolux EES28400L product page is a case in point: this fully integrated model is supplied without a cabinet door.
First, choose an installation type that suits your kitchen, then compare the available space with the amount of washing up you need to do. A compact size doesn’t, by itself, solve the question of connections.
Consider this if: your kitchen has no dedicated space but does have room on the floor for an appliance with its own finished exterior.
Bear in mind: the appliance will remain visible and take up floor space, even if it’s only 45 cm wide.
Consider this if: there’s no room for a floor-standing appliance and you don’t have much washing up.
Bear in mind: it has a smaller capacity and takes up some worktop space. A compact built-in model, meanwhile, requires a suitable cabinet.
Consider this if: your kitchen already has a compatible space and you can fit the required cabinet door.
Bear in mind: it requires a suitable space and cabinet door. Check with your landlord before making any changes to the rented property’s fittings.
| Consideration | What to check before buying | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Installation without alterations | Work out whether the appliance can simply be put in place or if installation will involve altering a cabinet or the property’s fittings. For a fully integrated model, also check that a suitable cabinet door is available. | I want to kit out my rented kitchen without being left with a missing cabinet door or having to alter existing fittings. Around 46% of consumers would prioritise this flexibility when it comes to installation. |
| Available space | Measure the width, height and depth. If it’s going under a worktop, check the model’s height with or without its top panel, as specified in the instructions. For a countertop appliance, measure the worktop too. | In a narrow kitchen, I have to choose between making a little floor space available and using my worktop, even if that means washing smaller loads. Saving space would be a priority for around 36% of consumers. |
| Fitting and capacity | Compare the stated capacity with how often you do the washing up. If you’re considering an integrated model, compare its space and door-panel dimensions with the diagram for the exact model. | In a fitted kitchen, I’d rather preserve the look of the cabinets while leaving more time between cycles, if space allows. Around 18% of consumers would prioritise this combination of a seamless fit and capacity. |
A fully integrated appliance won’t necessarily fit just because there seems to be room beneath the worktop. For example, the Electrolux EES28400L product page states that the cabinet door is not included.
Measure the space and check the installation diagram for the model you’ve chosen. If installation means altering the rented property’s fittings, get your landlord’s written permission beforehand. ANIL distinguishes this from simply installing a freestanding appliance.
A suitable cabinet door or work on the cabinets may add to the cost of installation.
The height, depth and clearance required may prevent installation, even if the width is suitable. A removable top doesn’t guarantee that a model will fit beneath your worktop.
Measure all three dimensions of the space and check the final height specified for the exact model, as well as the installation requirements in its instructions.
These appliances are installed in different places. Bosch distinguishes between freestanding countertop models and compact models designed to be built in.
First decide whether the appliance needs to sit on the worktop or fit inside a cabinet, then check its dimensions and connections.
Choosing a built-in compact without a suitable space may mean adapting the cabinet.
A safety feature doesn’t replace connections that comply with the instructions. Bosch warns that installation can be complex, particularly for its AquaStop system.
Check that the water supply, drainage and electrical supply are compatible with the model you’ve chosen. Follow the instructions and call in a professional if needed.
These ranges give you options to compare across different installation types. Always check the specifications for the exact model you choose.
The range includes freestanding, countertop and compact built-in models.
A range worth exploring if the available width points you towards a 45 cm freestanding appliance.
Models to consider if you already have a dedicated space, in standard or compact built-in sizes.
Compare its 45 cm freestanding and integrated models if that width suits your kitchen.
A range that includes 45 cm and 60 cm freestanding and built-in models.
These models offer two ways to equip a kitchen without a dedicated space: a freestanding floor-standing appliance for larger loads, or a countertop appliance for smaller loads when floor space is limited. Compare their dimensions and connection requirements with your kitchen before choosing.
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Worth considering if you have room in your kitchen for a 60 cm freestanding appliance and want to wash larger loads. The title lists 14 place settings and an E energy rating. Measure the available height and depth too before you buy.
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Another freestanding option for a 60 cm space and larger loads. The title lists 41 dB and a C energy rating. Check the full dimensions and the connections required for your installation.
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Worth a look if you have space on your worktop but no floor space for a standard dishwasher. The title mentions a 5 L tank and 5+1 wash cycles. Check how much space it needs and how it drains before choosing.
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Compare this model for smaller loads if a countertop appliance suits your kitchen. The title lists a 5 L tank, 6+3 programmes and a D energy rating. Check the space it takes up and how it drains before choosing.
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Consider this for smaller loads if you’re looking for a countertop appliance. The title lists 3 place settings. Check its dimensions, water supply and drainage to make sure it’s right for your kitchen.
Yes, provided the space, cabinet door and installation requirements are suitable for the model you’ve chosen. If installation involves altering the rented property or its fittings, get the landlord’s written permission before work begins. According to ANIL, making alterations without permission could lead to a request to restore the property or mean that the changes are retained by the landlord.
Some models can, but only if their design and the available height allow it. Check the instructions to see whether the top panel can be removed, then compare the final dimensions and required clearances with the space you have.
First decide whether you need a countertop appliance or a compact built-in model, as they need different spaces. Bosch describes its countertop models as freestanding. Measure your worktop or dedicated space, depending on the type you choose, then check the capacity and connections for the exact model.
Call in a professional if the existing connections or the model’s instructions make installation uncertain. First read the instructions and check the water supply, drainage and electrical supply. Bosch warns that installation can be complex and recommends using a professional to connect its AquaStop system.