Start by choosing a size that fits the space available and can be connected to a water supply and drain. A compact model with a water tank may suit smaller loads if there’s no usable water connection; a 45 cm model needs a suitable floor space or housing unit, while a 60 cm freestanding dishwasher requires more width. In an open-plan kitchen, also compare the stated noise level, capacity and consumption figures on a like-for-like basis, particularly for the Eco programme.
A tabletop dishwasher can save floor space while handling a small amount of washing up. If you’re considering a model with a water tank, check its capacity and where you can drain the waste water too: the tank doesn’t remove the need for drainage.
It’s worth comparing noise levels if the appliance will be running while you’re chatting or relaxing. Que Choisir highlights how important this can be in an open-plan kitchen; check the dB level and noise class rather than relying on a marketing label.
A slimline model may be worth considering if there isn’t room for a 60 cm dishwasher. However, Bosch’s specifications for the SPS2HKW55E state a depth of 600 mm, so measure the full space available, not just its width. For a fully integrated model, check the housing unit and door panel too.
Start with the installation requirements and the amount of washing up you usually have. Then compare noise levels and consumption figures for the sizes that could work for you.
| Priority | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Space and capacity | Measure the width, height and depth, and check how far the door opens. Compare the place settings with your meals and the utensils you need to wash; a tabletop appliance and a full-size model are designed for different load sizes. | I want to avoid having to run a small appliance too often, without using up kitchen space that I need for something else. |
| Water supply and drainage | Check the manual for the exact model to confirm how it takes in water, what socket it needs and where the drain hose can go. An integrated model also needs a compatible housing unit and door panel; a built-in water tank doesn’t remove the need for drainage. | If I don’t have a usable water connection, I’m only interested in a model with a water tank if I can fill it and drain the water in my kitchen. |
| Noise | Compare the stated noise level in dB and the noise class on the same declared basis. Que Choisir draws particular attention to noise in open-plan kitchens. | My kitchen opens onto my living area, so I want to be able to run the appliance at times when its noise will bother me least. |
| Water and energy | Compare capacity, kWh per 100 cycles and litres per reference cycle. According to ADEME, these consumption figures appear on the energy label; check the Eco programme duration too. | I want to compare figures for the same programme, then take into account the cycles I’ll actually use. |
A water tank can replace a water supply connection on models designed for this, but waste water still needs to be drained away. Daan Tech supplies Bob with a drain hose.
Before buying, check where you can drain the water, measure your worktop and read the manual for the model you’re considering.
A slimline model still needs depth and room for its door to open. According to the manufacturer’s specifications, the Bosch SPS2HKW55E is 600 mm deep.
Measure the height and depth too, as well as the door clearance and access route, then compare its capacity with your everyday washing up.
A figure given for the reference cycle won’t necessarily reflect a quick or intensive cycle. ADEME explains that the energy label gives energy use per 100 reference cycles and water use per reference cycle.
Compare the labels on this same basis, then look at the programmes you plan to use.
A width of 45 cm doesn’t guarantee that an appliance will fit in the housing unit or work with the door panel you have in mind. Electrolux states that its installers don’t carry out carpentry, plumbing or electrical work.
Check the housing unit measurements, door, connections and what’s included in the installation service on offer.
If the unit or connections need adapting, allow for this extra work before installation.
These examples can help you compare specific configurations; the features mentioned won’t apply to every appliance from a brand.
The brand describes Bob as a mini tabletop dishwasher that can be filled using its built-in water tank or connected to a water supply, depending on the set-up.
Bosch’s specifications let you compare a slimline freestanding model with a standard-width freestanding model, one appliance at a time.
The EEA22100L is an example of a 45 cm fully integrated model for kitchens with a compatible housing unit and door panel.
This selection includes four tabletop dishwashers for kitchens with limited floor space, plus a 60 cm freestanding model to consider if you have room for a full-size appliance. For each model, confirm the dimensions and installation requirements against your kitchen.
Image unavailable
This tabletop size is worth considering if you have limited width and only a small amount of washing up. The listing states 3 place settings and 34 cm; check the full dimensions, water supply and drainage requirements for the version being sold. Daan Tech lists Bob as having 2 standardised place settings in its official specifications, so check the exact model and how the capacity in this listing is defined.
Image unavailable
This tabletop model is for anyone looking at a stated capacity of 6 place settings without giving up floor space. The listing states 7 programmes, 47 dB and a D energy rating; measure the space available and check where the hoses will run before choosing this size.
Image unavailable
The built-in water tank makes this tabletop model worth considering if a water connection is difficult to use. The listing states a 5 L tank and 5+1 cycles; make sure you have a way to drain the water, and check the dimensions and noise level if the appliance will be running near your living area.
Image unavailable
This tabletop dishwasher is another option if you’re looking for an appliance with a water tank. The listing mentions 5 L, 6+3 programmes and a D energy rating; check its dimensions, drainage requirements and noise level against your kitchen before choosing.
Image unavailable
Consider this freestanding model if you can set aside floor space rather than using your worktop. The listing states 60 cm, 14 place settings and a D energy rating; check the depth, connections and stated noise level for the exact model. The product information flags lead at over 0.1% in some soldered components: consult the seller’s information if this is something you’re taking into account.
Yes, if the model is designed to be filled using its water tank: Daan Tech describes this option for Bob. You’ll still need to drain the waste water, so check the manual for how to position or connect the drain hose in your kitchen.
Compare the stated noise level in dB and noise class for the models you’re considering, rather than relying on the word ‘quiet’ alone. Que Choisir highlights how important noise can be in an open-plan kitchen; the stated figure can help you narrow down your options, but it can’t tell you on its own how disruptive an appliance will feel in your room.
Use the same reference basis for both appliances. ADEME says the energy label gives kWh per 100 reference cycles and litres per reference cycle; compare capacity and the Eco programme duration too, and don’t apply these figures directly to another programme.
No: width alone isn’t enough. Check the dimensions of the housing unit, door panel, door clearance and connections for the exact model. Electrolux states that its installers don’t carry out any carpentry, plumbing or electrical work that may be needed.