In a small kitchen without a built-in space, first choose a dishwasher that leaves enough room for the connections and for the door to open, then check that its capacity suits the amount of washing-up you usually have. A tank-fed countertop model may work without a fixed water supply, but you’ll still need to arrange drainage. If you need to wash more than a small countertop model can handle, consider a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher, or a 60 cm model only if you genuinely have room for it.
A compact tank-fed model, such as the Bob described by Daan Tech, can be filled without a permanent water connection. You’ll still need to arrange wastewater drainage and be happy with a small load per cycle.
If your water supply, drainage and electricity connections are suitable, you can choose between a countertop model and a slimline freestanding dishwasher. The Candy CP 6E51LS and CF0C7SB0FW illustrate these two sizes respectively; their dimensions and capacities are not interchangeable.
If your dishes from meals quickly fill a small basket, it’s worth considering a 45 cm freestanding model, then possibly a 60 cm one. Que Choisir puts 45 cm models at around 9 to 10 place settings and 60 cm models at around 12 to 17; check the capacity of the model you choose.
Without a dedicated space and connections, each of the four sizes meets different needs. The smallest appliance won’t necessarily mean fewer wash cycles, and a countertop model won’t always have its own water supply.
Consider this if: there’s no fixed water supply nearby and a small load per cycle is enough. The Bob reviewed by Daan Tech has a 3,9 L tank.
Bear in mind: the Bob is rated for 2 place settings under the European standard, and its hose needs to reach a suitable drain.
Consider this if: you need a medium-sized load and have a suitable worktop. Candy rates the CP 6E51LS for 6 place settings.
Bear in mind: this model needs a direct connection to the water supply; placing it on a cabinet doesn’t make it self-sufficient.
Consider this if: you need more capacity than a countertop model but don’t have room for a 60 cm appliance. Que Choisir says this size generally holds 9 to 10 place settings.
Bear in mind: the Candy CF0C7SB0FW and Bosch SPS4EMI11E models reviewed are close to 60 cm deep, and you’ll need a suitable location for the connections.
Consider this if: you need more capacity, provided there’s room in your kitchen for the appliance and its door. Que Choisir says this size holds 12 to 17 place settings.
Bear in mind: the Bosch SMS4HMW08E reviewed is around 60 cm wide and deep, and still needs to be connected.
| Factor | What to check before you buy | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Available space | Measure the width, depth and height. Also check the manual for door clearance and hose routing. | When every centimetre counts, I want to use the appliance without blocking the worktop or walkway. Around 33 % of consumers would put the appliance’s footprint at the heart of their decision. |
| Water supply | Check whether the appliance uses a tank or a direct connection, then work out where the drain hose will go. | Without a fixed water supply nearby, I’d prefer to fill the appliance by hand, as long as there’s a way to drain the wastewater. This would be the priority for around 27 % of consumers. |
| Everyday load | Compare the stated place-setting capacity with the plates and utensils you usually use, particularly larger items. | If the basket fills up before the end of the day, I want enough room to avoid running frequent cycles without having to move up to 60 cm. Around 27 % of consumers would prioritise this mid-sized capacity. |
| Large capacity | Before choosing a 60 cm model, check its depth, connections and the space needed in front of the door. | If my kitchen can accommodate a standard-sized appliance, I’d prioritise the amount of washing-up it can handle per cycle. Around 13 % of consumers would make this their top consideration. |
According to Candy France, the Candy CP 6E51LS connects directly to the water supply. Daan Tech says the Bob can use its tank, but it still needs a drain.
Before comparing capacities, check how each appliance gets its water and where you could drain it in your home.
The 45 cm Candy CF0C7SB0FW is 605 mm deep, according to Candy France. So even if the width fits, the door and hoses may still make your kitchen difficult to use.
Measure the space in all three dimensions and compare it with the model’s manual, allowing for the door to open.
Daan Tech rates the Bob for 2 place settings under the European standard, while Candy rates the CP 6E51LS for 6. Que Choisir puts 45 cm freestanding models at around 9 to 10 place settings. Pans and large plates can also affect how much room you need in the basket.
Think about how much washing-up builds up between cycles, and check the dimensions of the items you want to fit inside.
Promotelec specifies that a dishwasher socket must be connected to a dedicated circuit.
Before delivery, get confirmation that the planned installation is suitable. If you’re unsure, consult a qualified professional.
The Bob is an example of an ultra-compact model you can place on a worktop when there’s no fixed water supply available.
The Candy CP 6E51LS and CF0C7SB0FW give you a choice between a 6-place-setting countertop model and a slimline freestanding model for 10 place settings.
The SPS4EMI11E and SMS4HMW08E freestanding models give you two specific options for comparing 45 cm and 60 cm sizes.
These countertop models are for small kitchens where you’d rather avoid a floor-standing appliance. Before choosing, compare how each model gets its water, the load it can handle and the space needed for drainage.
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Worth considering if you’d rather fill a countertop appliance by hand than rely on a fixed water supply.
The product name specifies a built-in 5 L tank and 5+1 wash cycles. Allow room for the drain hose and check the dimensions against your chosen space.
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This tank-fed model could suit a small household looking for a countertop appliance that can be filled by hand.
The product name specifies a 5 L tank and 6+3 programmes. Check that the basket suits the dishes you usually use, and allow for drainage even when using the tank.
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Its manual-fill option may appeal if there’s no fixed water supply near your worktop.
The product name specifies 7 programmes. Before you buy, check the manual for the load it can handle, including your plates and pans, and allow enough room for the appliance and its drain.
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Worth a look if you’re after a countertop model and want to check how its connection options suit your setup.
The product name specifies 7 programmes. Check the manual for the usable capacity of this version. If you plan to connect it to a tap, check which accessories you’ll need and where the drain hose will go.
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Its stated capacity may suit you if a very small basket would mean running more cycles.
The product name specifies 6 place settings and 7 programmes. Before setting aside a space for it, check its dimensions, clearance requirements and the water supply needed for this version.
No. The water supply depends on the model. Daan Tech says the Bob can run using its tank, but it still needs drainage; according to Candy France, the CP 6E51LS connects directly to the water supply.
Yes, if the model’s dimensions and installation requirements allow it. Que Choisir recommends checking whether the top of the appliance can be removed. Read the manual for the model you’re considering before deciding where to put it.
Check that the socket is on a dedicated circuit, as Promotelec specifies for dishwashers. If you’re unsure about the installation, ask a qualified professional to inspect it rather than relying on an extension lead or multi-socket adaptor.
An old dishwasher must be collected as waste electrical and electronic equipment. The French Ministry for Ecological Transition describes the collection scheme in France. Ask the retailer whether they offer a take-back service or find a suitable collection point.
Check who the seller is, the exact model reference and the information on your statutory guarantees in the terms of sale. The provisions of the Consumer Code published on Légifrance require these terms to explain how consumers can exercise their guarantee rights.