Start by checking the space you actually have, how the door will open and where the connections are. If you have a suitable housing unit, you could choose an integrated model; if there’s no space for a cabinet front, consider a freestanding one. If you need a slimline or compact model, make sure its racks can take your everyday crockery. Then compare noise levels, Eco-cycle duration and consumption. If the installation isn’t practical, don’t rule out washing up by hand.
If width or depth is limited, measure the available space and the clearance in front of the door too. A 45 cm model, whether freestanding or integrated, could be an option, but check the installation diagram and allow enough room for the connections, as Bosch and Whirlpool recommend.
Your plates, pans and utensils need to fit in a load that works for everyday use. Place settings are useful when comparing models, but it’s also worth checking how the racks are arranged against the dishes you use regularly.
If your dishwasher will often run close to a living area, check its noise level as well as its consumption. ADEME recommends comparing capacity and Eco-cycle duration too, rather than looking at the energy rating alone.
A suitable housing unit and cabinet front can make an integrated model the right choice. If there’s no space for a cabinet front, look at freestanding models, including 45 cm options if width is limited. A compact worktop model still needs space and suitable connections. If installation isn’t practical, stick with washing up by hand rather than trying to make an appliance fit.
| Criteria | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Measure the height, width and depth, as well as the clearance needed for the door. For an integrated model, check the housing unit, cabinet front and hinges. Also locate the water inlet, waste outlet and socket. | If the door might obstruct the walkway, I need to be able to install and connect the appliance without blocking essential kitchen space; around 30% of consumers prioritise this layout. |
| Usable capacity | Compare the stated place settings, then check whether the racks can hold your dishes, pans and tall glasses without blocking the spray arms. | When washing up after meals cooked every day, I want to avoid having to run an extra load because one large dish won’t fit. Usable capacity comes first for around 30% of consumers. |
| Noise, water and energy | For models with similar capacities, compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, noise in dB(A) and the Eco-cycle duration shown on the label. | When the kitchen is next to the living area and the dishwasher is used often, I want to consider noise and resource consumption without overlooking cycle time. This is a priority for around 20% of consumers. |
| Going without a dishwasher | Check that even a compact appliance has enough room for its door to open and the connections specified in its instructions. | If fitting a dishwasher means giving up essential space, or the connections aren’t suitable, I’d rather keep washing up by hand. Around 20% of consumers favour this option. |
For new dishwashers sold in France, the Ministry of the Economy states that the energy label must be displayed both in shops and online. It lets you compare capacity, consumption, noise and Eco-cycle duration at a glance. Bear in mind that figures for a quick programme shouldn’t be confused with those for the reference cycle.
A suitable width doesn’t guarantee the depth will fit or that the door can open freely. Integrated models have additional requirements, including the housing unit, cabinet front and hinges.
Measure all three dimensions of the space and check the installation diagram for the exact model you’re considering.
Pans, dishes and tall glasses take up rack space differently from a standard load of place settings.
Check the rack adjustments and cutlery space, keeping your bulkiest items in mind.
The consumption shown on the label and the Eco-cycle duration relate to the reference cycle, not necessarily the programme you’ll use when you’re short on time.
Compare Eco-cycle figures across models, then check the quick programmes you might need separately.
Without a suitable water inlet, waste outlet and socket nearby, an appliance that physically fits in your kitchen can’t be installed as intended.
Locate these connections before you order and follow the installation instructions for your chosen model.
In France, Bosch offers freestanding and integrated dishwashers, including models in widths of 45 cm and 60 cm.
The French range includes freestanding and integrated models, including slimline 45 cm options.
Electrolux offers 45 cm freestanding and integrated dishwashers.
In France, Miele offers 45 cm freestanding and integrated dishwashers.
Measure the width, height and depth, as well as the space needed to open the door. For an integrated model, also check the housing unit, cabinet front and hinges against the installation diagram for your chosen model.
A dishwasher needs a suitable water inlet, waste outlet and power supply. Before planning the installation, check where these are and follow the requirements in the model’s instructions.
Compare the energy rating, kWh per 100 cycles, water per cycle, capacity, noise and Eco-cycle duration. ADEME recommends using these figures to help you choose. Where possible, compare appliances with similar capacities.
Not necessarily. Check how long it takes if you need to use the crockery again between meals. Look at shorter programmes separately, as their consumption may differ from the figures shown for the Eco cycle.
Yes. For the new dishwashers concerned that are sold in France, the Ministry of the Economy states that the energy labelling requirement applies to online sales as well as in-store sales. Before comparing models, also check the product details in French.