Start by choosing a size that keeps the walkway and worktop usable. A compact countertop model may suit a kitchen with no floor space to spare, while a 45 cm appliance is worth considering if several people share the washing-up. A 60 cm or integrated model could also work if the space is suitable. Before you decide, check the model’s dimensions and connections against your kitchen, then compare its capacity, noise level and Eco programme figures with the way you’ll use it.
A compact countertop model can keep the walkway clear, as long as you can give it a permanent spot on the worktop. Check how it connects to the water supply and drainage: requirements vary by model, as shown in Bosch’s product information and the tank-fed appliances offered by other manufacturers.
If there’s room for a floor-standing appliance but space is tight, compare 45 cm models with the loads you typically wash. Electrolux and Beko ranges show that stated capacity varies by model, and doesn’t tell you on its own how much room there is for larger items.
If the dishwasher will be running during meals, work or downtime, its stated noise level in dB(A) is an important factor. Compare the figure for the specific model and the duration of the programmes you plan to use. Don’t assume noise levels based on the appliance’s width alone.
Start with the space you really have available, including room to open the door, then consider whether the capacity and cycles suit the pace of your shared kitchen.
| What matters | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Worktop space and walkway | Measure the available height, width and depth, then check how far the door opens. A compact model takes up worktop space; a floor-standing model needs to leave room to move around. | If meal prep becomes difficult or the door blocks the walkway, I’d prioritise usable space. Around 31% of consumers put this concern first. |
| Shared washing-up | Compare the stated place settings, basket layout and space needed for saucepans or large plates. | When several people cook, I want to avoid washing-up piling up between cycles. This loading capacity is the main priority for around 31% of consumers. |
| Noise during cycles | Check the stated noise level in dB(A) and the duration of the programme you expect to use. | In an open-plan kitchen or one close to a bedroom, I want to be able to run a cycle without disturbing the others too much. Around 19% of consumers prioritise noise. |
| Water, energy and cycle time | Check the label and model details for energy use in kWh/100 cycles, water use per Eco cycle and the duration of that programme. | If the machine needs to be available at specific times, I want to know both its stated consumption and how long it will be in use. This is the top priority for around 19% of consumers. |
These factors don’t point to one clear winner. Bosch offers freestanding models in widths of 45 and 60 cm, while Electrolux and Beko product information lists capacities for their 45 cm models. A compact model frees up floor space but takes up room on the worktop; an integrated model needs a compatible housing and door panel, as well as the connections specified for installation.
A countertop appliance may need a water supply, drainage and a power socket. Some models have a refillable water tank, but you’ll still need to deal with wastewater as described in the instructions.
Before setting aside a space for your chosen model, check how it’s supplied with water, how it drains, what hoses it needs and where the socket is.
A suitable width doesn’t guarantee that the door will open or that you’ll be able to reach the baskets. The hoses and depth matter too, as do the housing dimensions for an integrated model.
Measure the space in all three dimensions and compare it with the model’s installation diagram, allowing for clearances and the door panel if it’s integrated.
The stated capacity doesn’t tell you how well saucepans, large plates and food containers used by several people will fit together.
Check the basket layout and adjustments, then estimate how often you’ll need to run a cycle based on the washing-up actually generated in your home.
The standardised consumption figures on the label relate to the Eco programme. They don’t automatically apply to other programmes, which may also take a different amount of time.
Compare the Eco figures between models first, then check the details of the separate cycles you expect to use.
Bosch’s French range includes compact countertop models and appliances in widths of 45 or 60 cm, making it useful for comparing worktop installation with a floor-standing option.
Electrolux’s 45 cm models include freestanding and integrated options to consider if a slim floor-standing appliance could work for you.
Beko’s French range includes 45 cm freestanding models, some of which are listed with a capacity of 10 place settings.
Whirlpool France offers 45 and 60 cm appliances, both freestanding and integrated, so you can compare different installation options.
These Joybuy models include compact countertop appliances and a 60 cm freestanding dishwasher. Choose the type that suits the space you can set aside on the worktop or floor, and remember to allow for the door opening and connections.
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This countertop model is designed for a kitchen where it can have a permanent spot without taking up floor space. It’s listed with 6 place settings, 7 programmes and a noise level of 47 dB. Check its dimensions, door clearance and whether its hoses are suitable for your kitchen.
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The tank may be a good option if you don’t want a permanent water connection, provided you have a way to drain the wastewater. The stated capacity is 4 place settings and the listed dimensions are 45.8 × 42.8 × 42.5 cm. Check how much room you’ll need to open the door and load your dishes.
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This mini tabletop model is worth considering for smaller loads if its 3-place-setting capacity suits everyone’s routine. Its product details describe a 5 L tank or a tap connection. Before you decide, confirm the drainage requirements, dimensions and noise level for this version.
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This countertop option is designed for smaller loads, with product details listing 4 place settings and 8 programmes. Before giving it a place in your shared kitchen, check its dimensions and the exact requirements for the water supply and drainage.
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This freestanding model could suit shared loads if your kitchen can accommodate a 60 cm appliance without making the walkway too narrow. It’s listed with 14 place settings and a noise level of 41 dB. Measure the space with the door open and check the connections required for this model.
No. Some appliances connect to a water supply, while tank-fed models can be filled by hand. In either case, check the instructions for your model to find out how to drain wastewater and where to place the power socket.
Measure the available width, height and depth, then allow for the door to open, access to the baskets and space for the connections. For an integrated model, also check the housing and door panel against the installation diagram for your chosen model.
Compare the model’s energy consumption in kWh/100 cycles, water use per Eco cycle, duration of that programme, capacity and noise information. The European regulation on household dishwasher energy labelling sets out these details; then consider how they compare with the programmes people in your home will actually use.
Yes. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition says dishwashers are among the products covered by this index, which is scored out of 10. Use each model’s score as an additional factor, but don’t mistake it for a guarantee or for consumption information.