Who are these sizes for?

Renters and people fitting out their first kitchen

A freestanding dishwasher has its own exterior, so it doesn’t need a door panel to match your kitchen units. You’ll still need suitable connections at the installation spot.

Smaller households with limited space

A compact model can sit on a worktop, provided the surface and connections are suitable for that model. UFC-Que Choisir also lists freestanding models in 45 and 60 cm widths as two sizes to compare, depending on the space available and the capacity you need.

People with an open-plan kitchen

If you’ll run cycles during meals or while spending time in the living area, it’s worth comparing noise levels between models. UFC-Que Choisir recommends checking the noise level rather than relying on the product’s marketing description alone.

How do the different sizes compare?

UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between countertop compact models and freestanding models in 45 and 60 cm widths. First, focus on the sizes that will genuinely fit in your kitchen and can be connected. Then compare their capacity and how they’ll suit your needs.

Countertop compact

Consider it if: floor space is limited and you don’t have much washing up.

Bear in mind: it has less capacity than larger freestanding models, and needs a suitable worktop and connections.

45 cm freestanding

Consider it if: a compact model isn’t big enough and you have 45 cm of floor space available.

Bear in mind: it’s a floor-standing appliance, so you’ll need to make sure the door can open and there’s enough clearance around it.

60 cm freestanding

Consider it if: the available width and the amount of washing up you usually have justify this size.

Bear in mind: it takes up more floor space, so make sure it won’t obstruct walkways or stop your kitchen unit doors opening.

Criteria What to check Who it matters to
Connections Locate the water supply, waste outlet and a suitable socket. Check their positions and the hose lengths against the instructions for the model. In a kitchen without fitted units, I want to install the appliance without finding out after buying it that the connections are out of reach; around 45% of consumers rank this as their top priority.
Space and capacity Measure the width, depth and height, and check the door clearance. Then compare the stated place settings and the basket layout. When space is limited, I want enough capacity for my washing up without blocking the way; around 33% of consumers prioritise this balance between space and capacity.
Noise and use Compare the dB(A), noise class, water use per Eco cycle, energy use per 100 cycles and Eco cycle duration listed for each model. If my kitchen opens onto the living area, I want to take the noise and running costs into account; around 22% of consumers say these are their main concerns.

Mistakes to avoid before buying

  • Relying on the stated width alone

    An appliance may fit the available width but leave too little depth for the hoses or space to open its door. A compact model also needs a suitable surface to sit on.

    Measure the entire space, then check the dimensions and installation diagram for your chosen model.

  • Assuming freestanding means no connections needed

    A freestanding model doesn’t need a kitchen unit door panel, but it still needs a water supply, a waste outlet and an electrical connection that meets the requirements in its instructions.

    Check the connections before you order. Bosch says its appliances must be plugged directly into a mains socket, without an extension lead or multi-socket adaptor. If your home needs any changes, ask a professional to assess the installation.

  • Choosing based on the word “quiet” alone

    This description doesn’t replace the model’s stated noise level. UFC-Que Choisir says a difference of 3 dB corresponds to a doubling in sound intensity, although that alone doesn’t describe how disturbing the noise will be in your room.

    Compare the dB(A) and noise class of the models you’re considering, and think about when you’ll run the cycles.

  • Choosing a compact model without considering how much washing up you have

    Its smaller footprint comes with less capacity. If washing up piles up quickly, having to run more frequent cycles could become inconvenient.

    Think about how much washing up you have between cycles, and check the capacity and basket layout before choosing a size.

Brands to consider by size

Bosch

A useful point of comparison for compact freestanding models.

  • Bosch says the SKS62E22EU is a 55 cm compact freestanding model that uses 8,0 L of water on its Eco cycle.
  • These specifications apply to this particular model; check the details of the model you’re considering.

Beko

An example of a 45 cm freestanding model to consider if a compact doesn’t offer enough capacity.

  • Beko lists 10 place settings and 41 dB(A) for the BDFS26041XQ.
  • Capacity, noise and features vary by model; these figures don’t represent the entire range.

Electrolux

An example of a 60 cm freestanding model, if you have enough floor space.

  • Electrolux lists 13 place settings and 74 kWh per 100 cycles for the ESS47420SW.
  • Check the installation dimensions and the energy label details for the model you choose, rather than assuming these figures apply to other appliances from the brand.

Joybuy products related to this topic

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Does a freestanding dishwasher need a kitchen unit door panel?

No, a freestanding model already has its own exterior. If you want to place it under a worktop, check whether the top can be removed on your chosen model and whether the installation dimensions allow for it.

Which connections should I check before ordering?

Check that there’s a water supply, a waste outlet and a suitable mains socket at the intended location. Then consult the model’s instructions for distances and connection requirements. Bosch says its dishwashers must be plugged directly into a socket, without an extension lead or multi-socket adaptor.

How can I compare noise levels in an open-plan kitchen?

Compare the dB(A) and noise class listed for models that will fit in your kitchen. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise can be in an open-plan living space; the word “quiet” is no substitute for these figures.

What should I look for on the energy label besides the class?

Check energy use in kWh per 100 cycles, water use per Eco cycle, noise level and Eco programme duration. ADEME lists these as useful points of comparison; make sure they suit the capacity and size you need.