If you don’t have a fixed water supply, a compact dishwasher with a water tank could suit a small amount of washing up, provided you can fill it and drain the waste water. If you do have the necessary connections, compare your usual load with the space available: a 45 cm freestanding model saves width, while a 60 cm model offers more capacity but needs more room. Whichever size you choose, check the plug socket, drainage and clearance needed to open the door.
In a studio flat or small kitchen, a compact dishwasher with a water tank can cut down on washing up by hand without needing a permanent water connection. You’ll still need a plug socket, space on the worktop and somewhere for the waste water to drain. Daan Tech describes this set-up for its Bob model; it doesn’t apply to all compact dishwashers.
If you have access to a water supply, a drain and a plug socket, but there isn’t room for a 60 cm appliance, consider 45 cm freestanding models. UFC-Que Choisir puts their capacity at around 9 to 10 place settings; also check the depth of the model you’re considering.
If you regularly need to wash pans and dishes, it’s worth considering a 60 cm freestanding model, provided there’s enough room for it, the door can open freely and the connections are in place. UFC-Que Choisir gives the usual capacity for this size as 12 to 17 place settings, but it does take up more space.
Consider this if: you can’t use a fixed water supply and don’t have a large amount of washing up. Daan Tech describes this type of water supply for Bob.
The trade-off: you’ll need to fill the tank by hand and drain the waste water; large dishes may not fit in the usable capacity.
Consider this if: you have access to the necessary connections, there isn’t room for a 60 cm model and a compact dishwasher would mean running it too often.
The trade-off: you’ll still need to measure its depth and allow room for the door to open. Its capacity is generally lower than that of a 60 cm model, according to UFC-Que Choisir.
Consider this if: you have the space and connections for a larger, regular load of washing up.
The trade-off: you’ll need to be able to deliver and install it, and open the door without blocking the way through the kitchen.
| What to consider | What to check | What you need |
|---|---|---|
| Connections | Check for a plug socket, water supply and drain. For a model with a water tank, check how to fill it and where the drain hose needs to go. | I want to avoid a purchase that means unexpected work. A water tank appeals if I don’t have a fixed water supply, but I still need somewhere to drain the waste water. |
| Capacity | Count the washing up you’ll have between washes, including large dishes. UFC-Que Choisir classifies compact models as under 9 place settings, 45 cm models as around 9 to 10, and 60 cm models as around 12 to 17. | If my pans and the dishes from several meals pile up, I’d rather look at a larger size than run a compact model through multiple cycles. |
| Size and clearance | Compare the overall height, width and depth with the space available. Allow for delivery access, hoses and room for the door to open; check whether the top can be removed for the exact model. | Width alone isn’t enough in my kitchen: I also need to be able to open the appliance and load the racks. |
| Everyday use | Compare energy and water use on the same basis, programme lengths, noise, and washing and drying results. UFC-Que Choisir includes these factors in its testing process. | In a small kitchen, I want to know how noisy the programme I’ll use is and how long it takes—not just the appliance’s dimensions. |
It may still be quite deep: Electrolux lists a depth of 615 mm for the ESA63200SX. If the door can’t open far enough, loading it will also be difficult.
Measure the space in all three dimensions, the door clearance and the delivery route, then compare them with the specifications for the exact model.
A countertop compact dishwasher won’t necessarily have a water tank. Only models designed to work this way avoid the need for a fixed water supply; you’ll still need a plug socket and somewhere to drain the water.
Check the manual to find out how the appliance takes in water, how to fill it and how to position the drain hose.
Plates and glasses aren’t the whole load: pans and dishes can take up much of the space in a compact model. UFC-Que Choisir shows clear differences in capacity between compact, 45 cm and 60 cm models.
Make a note of what you use on a typical day, then check that the larger items fit in the model you’re considering.
A conventional freestanding model still needs to be connected to water, drainage and electricity. Electrolux says its connection service doesn’t carry out any plumbing or electrical work needed beforehand.
Check the existing connections and what the installation service covers before ordering. Ask a qualified professional to assess any work that may be needed.
These examples show a range of sizes. The specifications listed apply to the named models, not to every appliance from each brand.
Its Bob model is an example of a countertop compact dishwasher for homes without a fixed water supply.
Its French product pages let you compare a slim freestanding model with a standard-size one.
The brand offers information on standard-size freestanding models and compact countertop dishwashers.
The BDFN26441W is an example of a standard-size freestanding dishwasher to consider if your kitchen can accommodate this size.
This selection includes countertop compact dishwashers and 60 cm freestanding models. Before choosing between them, check the connections, the space available and how much washing up you need to do.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a worktop appliance that doesn’t need a fixed water connection. The product title lists a built-in 5 L tank and 5+1 wash cycles; you’ll still need a plug socket and somewhere for the waste water to drain. Check the dimensions, voltage and plug type of the version on offer before you buy.
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For a kitchen that can accommodate a standard-size appliance and its connections. The product title lists 14 place settings, 41 dB, a C energy rating and a white finish. Check the depth, delivery access and door clearance before choosing this model.
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An option for a larger load of washing up if your space can accommodate a standard-size freestanding model. The product title lists 14 place settings, 7 cycles and a grey finish. Check the overall dimensions, door clearance and water, drainage and electrical connections.
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Worth considering if your kitchen can accommodate a 60 cm appliance and the connections needed for a conventional freestanding model. The product title lists 14 place settings, an E energy rating and a grey finish. Check the depth, space in front of the door and whether you can connect the drain.
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A countertop size to consider for a smaller load. The product title lists 6 place settings, 7 programmes, a 24-hour delay start, 47 dB and a D energy rating. Check its dimensions and water supply method: being compact doesn’t automatically mean it has a water tank.
Not necessarily. A conventional freestanding model still needs a nearby water supply, drain and plug socket, as Whirlpool France points out. Also check that there’s room for the hoses and to open the door. If connections need to be installed or changed, find out what work is required before you buy.
Yes, if the model has a tank designed for this purpose. Daan Tech describes this option for Bob, which still needs a power supply and a drain hose. Check the manual for the specific compact model to find out how to fill it and drain the water.
If dishes, pans or leftovers from several meals won’t fit in one load, its small capacity may mean more wash cycles or more washing up by hand. UFC-Que Choisir classifies compact models as under 9 place settings and 45 cm freestanding models as generally having 9 to 10. Compare these sizes with the dishes you usually use, if you have the necessary connections.
Make sure there’s a suitable plug socket within reach, without putting strain on the cable or other connections. If you’re unsure about the existing electrical installation or it needs to be changed, ask a qualified electrician to check it before deciding where to put the appliance.
Not necessarily. Electrolux France says its installers connect appliances to installations that already meet the requirements, but don’t carry out carpentry, plumbing or electrical work. Check with the seller what’s included in the service offered with your order.