First, choose a size that fits your kitchen and can be connected up: a countertop appliance handles a small load without taking up floor space, while a 45 cm model leaves more room for dishes. In an open-plan kitchen, compare the noise level, capacity and Eco programme figures for the exact model you’re considering. Neither size nor decibels alone tell you how well it washes and dries.
You want to cut down on washing up by hand without running too many cycles. Compare the place-setting capacity with your plates, glasses and pans, then check the available width. UFC-Que Choisir says a 45 cm model may suit a small family, though you may need to run it every day.
If the appliance will run near your living area while you’re at home, compare its decibel rating and noise class. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise is in an open-plan kitchen. The energy label also lets you compare capacity and consumption.
The available worktop space, alcove and connections will determine which formats are suitable. Check the appliance dimensions and instructions before ordering. In a rented home in France, alterations to the property or its equipment require the landlord’s written consent, in accordance with Article 7 of the law of 6 July 1989.
First rule out any formats that can’t be installed, then choose a capacity that suits your dishes. Finally, compare noise and usage figures for the exact model, without assuming that a compact appliance will necessarily be quieter or more economical.
| Criteria | What to check | Who should consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity and cycle frequency | Number of place settings, room for bulky items and basket layout. | If my pans won’t fit alongside the day’s dishes, I may end up running more cycles. Around 29% of consumers put usable capacity at the top of their list. |
| Space and installation | Dimensions, door clearance, water inlet, drain and electrical supply; for an integrated model, the niche dimensions and door panel. | When floor space or connections are limited, I need to know whether the appliance can actually be installed. Around 29% of consumers prioritise this practical consideration. |
| Noise in an open-plan kitchen | Noise level in dB and noise class on the label for the model you’re considering. | In a room where I cook and relax, I want to be able to run a cycle without excessive noise. Around 24% of consumers put noise first. |
| Usage and repairability | kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration; washing and drying results and repairability index, where available. | If I expect to run regular cycles, I want to compare their consumption and know that repairs may be possible. Around 18% of consumers prioritise these aspects of everyday use. |
A narrow appliance may mean running frequent cycles if its capacity doesn’t suit your dishes. With an integrated model, the width of the front panel also doesn’t guarantee that it will fit the niche or work with the connections.
Measure the width, height and depth, as well as the clearance needed to open the door. Then check the capacity and baskets.
In an open-plan kitchen, the appliance runs close to your living space. ADEME says that an increase of three decibels corresponds to an almost doubling of perceived noise, so it’s worth comparing this figure across models.
Check the dB rating and noise class before comparing secondary features.
The figures on the energy label are based on the Eco programme; they don’t automatically describe a quick cycle. The programme’s duration may also affect your daily routine.
For the models you’re considering, compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration on the same basis.
In France, the repairability index for dishwashers gives an indication of how easy the relevant products are to repair, according to the ministry responsible for ecological transition. It doesn’t replace checking the specific model.
Check the index shown for your chosen model, and find out about its spare parts and after-sales service.
Bosch’s range includes freestanding, integrated, slimline and compact appliances, giving you several formats to consider depending on the space available.
Miele offers a 45 cm integrated model that may be worth considering if you have a suitable niche and want the appliance to blend in with your kitchen units.
Beko’s range includes several capacities and freestanding or integrated formats to compare according to the load and location you have in mind.
This selection includes countertop dishwashers for smaller loads and freestanding appliances with 14 place settings for a floor-standing space. Compare each model’s capacity with the dishes you actually wash, then check installation requirements and noise levels before making your choice.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you have space on your worktop and six place settings suit your usual load.
The product title lists seven programmes, 47 dB and an energy rating of D. Check its dimensions and connection requirements, then compare the consumption figures on the model’s energy label.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’re looking for a worktop appliance with an integrated tank rather than a permanent water supply.
The title mentions two basket levels and a 12-hour delay start. Check the space required, water drainage and connection instructions before installation.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’re short on floor space and want to look at a countertop model with a tank.
The title lists six programmes and three additional functions, as well as an energy rating of D. Check the place-setting capacity, noise level, dimensions and drainage arrangements for this model.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you have a suitable space on the floor and a capacity of 14 place settings suits the amount of washing up you do.
The title lists a width of 60 cm and an energy rating of E. Also measure the depth and door clearance, then check the label for the noise level and consumption figures.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you have room for a freestanding appliance and a load that makes 14 place settings worthwhile.
The title lists an energy rating of D. For an open-plan kitchen, compare the noise level on its energy label with those of other models. Also check the dimensions and Eco programme consumption.
First compare the noise level in dB and the noise class, then check that the capacity suits your dishes. The energy label also lets you compare litres of water per cycle, kWh per 100 cycles and the Eco programme duration. The energy rating alone won’t tell you how disruptive the appliance may be while it’s running.
Yes, if its capacity and cycle frequency suit the dishes you usually wash. UFC-Que Choisir features 45 cm models with 9 place settings that are suitable for a small family, while noting that they may need to be run every day.
Check the dimensions of the niche and appliance, door clearance, the panel required and the existing connections. Electrolux says its installation services don’t include joinery, plumbing or electrical work, or some panel-fitting work for integrated models. Check exactly what’s included before you order.
In France, alterations to rented property or its equipment require the landlord’s written consent, in accordance with Article 7 of the law of 6 July 1989. If the proposed installation involves this kind of work, get permission before starting. Also check the connections required in the model’s instructions.
Check the repairability index for the model and find out about its spare parts and after-sales service. The ministry responsible for ecological transition says that this index, scored out of 10, applies to products including dishwashers and indicates how easy they are to repair.