In a small kitchen, first choose a dishwasher that fits the available space and can be connected to the water supply and drainage. Then match its capacity to your mealtime routine. A countertop model is suitable when there’s no floor space, as long as you’re happy with smaller loads. A 45 cm model is another option if you have a narrow space, while a 60 cm model could work if it won’t obstruct movement around the kitchen. Then compare the energy label figures and noise levels of specific models, rather than focusing on width alone.
If the only place for an appliance is on your worktop, consider a countertop dishwasher. Check how much food-preparation space it will leave, as well as its capacity, water supply and drainage. Que Choisir highlights countertop models for 6 place settings as a good fit for smaller homes.
If you have floor space, a water supply and a drain, a 45 cm model is worth considering when a countertop dishwasher doesn’t offer enough capacity. Measure the height and depth too: the width alone won’t confirm that the model can be installed.
If you already have a 60 cm space, weigh up the benefits of greater capacity against the room the appliance will actually take up. Keep clearance and access in mind, then check the installation diagram for the model you’re considering.
Start with the space available; then consider whether the useful capacity will suit your usual meals.
Consider it: if you have no floor space and can set aside a stable area on your worktop.
Bear in mind: the smaller load and, depending on the model, the need to fill a water tank; drainage is still required.
Consider it: if you have a narrow space and a countertop model would be too small for everyday meals.
Bear in mind: you’ll need a dedicated space and suitable connections; check that the racks can fit your dishes too.
Consider it: if there’s room without obstructing movement and your loads justify the greater capacity.
Bear in mind: it takes up more width. You can’t infer its energy use from its size, so compare individual models.
| Factor | What to check | Who should consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Measure the width, height, depth and clearance; check the water supply, plug socket and drainage. For an integrated model, consult the model’s diagram. | If every bit of food-preparation space counts, I want to know where the appliance will go and how the water will drain before choosing its capacity. Around 36% of consumers would put this compatibility first. |
| Capacity and cycle frequency | Compare the stated place settings with your usual meals and check that the racks have room for your pans. | When dishes pile up between meals, I’d rather have a suitable load capacity than run more cycles. Around 29% of consumers would make capacity their priority. |
| Noise in an open-plan room | Compare the dB rating and noise class on the labels of the models you’re considering. Check the Eco cycle duration too if the dishwasher will run while the room is in use. | In an open-plan kitchen and living room, I want to be able to run the appliance without it dominating the room. Around 21% of consumers would put noise first. |
| Energy use and Eco cycle duration | Check the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco cycle duration on the European label, and compare these figures with the capacity you need. | If I plan to use the Eco programme regularly, I want to know how long it takes and what its stated energy and water use are, not just its energy class. Around 14% of consumers would make this their top priority. |
The width may fit, but that doesn’t guarantee the height, depth and clearance will work too, especially for an integrated appliance.
Measure the space in all three dimensions and compare it with the installation diagram for the exact model before ordering.
If the space isn’t compatible, you may need to change your planned layout.
According to Daan Tech, Bob can run using its integrated 4 L tank in the intended configuration, but the wastewater still needs to be drained.
For a model with a tank, check the manual for how to fill it, where to run the drain hose and where the wastewater will go.
The energy class doesn’t tell you how much water a cycle uses, how long the Eco cycle takes, or the appliance’s capacity and noise level. The European Commission lists these separately on dishwasher labels.
Compare the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco cycle duration, place settings and dB ratings of models that fit your space.
The number of place settings gives you an idea of capacity, but it doesn’t tell you how much room there is for pans and tall dishes.
Check the rack layout and adjustability, keeping in mind the items you use most often.
The brand describes Bob as a compact freestanding dishwasher that can use a tank or a mains connection, depending on the setup.
A brand to consider for a narrow 45 cm space, while checking the specifications of each individual model.
Bosch’s installation advice can help you tell the difference between freestanding and integrated models when space is limited.
Its product information for integrated models lets you compare narrow and standard formats separately.
These Joybuy models are mainly designed for worktop use. There’s also a fully integrated model to consider if you have a 60 cm space. First choose the installation type that suits your kitchen, then compare the capacity of the relevant models.
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Worth considering if you have worktop space but no floor space; you’ll also need to plan for drainage.
The title lists a 5 L integrated tank and “5+1” wash cycles. Check that its loading capacity suits your everyday dishes.
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Worth considering if worktop width is limited, but don’t forget to allow for the depth it needs.
The title lists a width of 37 cm, a 5 L tank and 9 programmes. Check the depth and clearance before buying.
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Consider it if you’re looking for a stated capacity of 6 place settings without needing a floor-level space; check your worktop space and connections.
The title lists 7 programmes and a noise level of 47 dB. If your kitchen is open-plan, compare its noise level with those of other models.
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Worth considering for smaller loads and worktop installation. Before choosing a spot, check the manual for this model to see how it’s supplied with water, whether an adaptor is needed and how it drains.
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Consider it if you have a 60 cm space and want to wash more dishes per cycle; first, check the space against the installation diagram.
The title lists 14 place settings and energy class E. Check the model’s label to compare its water and energy use, as well as the Eco programme duration.
Check the water supply, electrical supply and drainage, then measure the width, height and depth. For an integrated appliance, compare your space with the installation diagram for the exact model, as Bosch recommends in its installation advice.
No, it depends on the model and its setup. Daan Tech says Bob can use an integrated 4 L tank in the intended configuration, but you’ll still need to arrange wastewater drainage. Check the manual for the model you choose.
Look at the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, capacity, Eco cycle duration and noise level, as well as the energy class. The European Commission lists these figures on dishwasher labels; compare them across models that fit your space.
Yes, if the dishwasher will be running while people are using the living space. Compare the dB rating and noise class shown on the labels of the models you’re considering, rather than assuming noise levels from their width.