In a kitchen without a fitted space for an appliance, first choose a spot with suitable dimensions and connections for your dishwasher. A 60 cm freestanding model offers greater capacity, a 45 cm model takes up less width, while a compact model saves space at the expense of capacity. Then compare the energy label and installation requirements for the specific model.
If you want enough capacity for your everyday dishes without adding a cabinet front, a freestanding model gives you more flexibility when planning your layout. You’ll still need a suitable spot for the necessary connections, as Que Choisir points out.
If you have around 45 cm of width available and a compact model would be too small for your dishes, a slimline freestanding model is worth considering. Que Choisir gives this size a capacity of 9 to 10 place settings. Also check the depth and the space needed to open the door.
If worktop space is your priority and you don’t have many dishes to wash, a compact model could be a good fit. Que Choisir puts this category below 9 place settings. Before setting aside a spot for one, compare its stated capacity with the plates and pans you usually use.
For a kitchen without fitted units, compare sizes based on the space you actually have and the amount of washing-up you produce. Then check the noise level and energy and water consumption of the model you choose.
Consider this if: you have enough width and generate a lot of washing-up; Que Choisir gives a capacity of 12 to 17 place settings, depending on the model.
Bear in mind: it takes up more width than a 45 cm model and still needs the necessary connections.
Consider this if: a 60 cm model won’t fit but a compact one isn’t big enough; Que Choisir gives this size a capacity of 9 to 10 place settings.
Bear in mind: it has less capacity than a 60 cm model, so you may need to run it more often.
Consider this if: space is very limited and you don’t have much washing-up.
Bear in mind: Que Choisir gives compact models a capacity of under 9 place settings. Check the instructions to confirm how the appliance connects.
Consider this only if: you have, or plan to install, a compatible housing unit and cabinet front.
Bear in mind: installation depends on your kitchen units and may involve fitting a door panel or carpentry work, according to Electrolux France.
| Factor | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Space and connections | Measure the space and the clearance needed for the door. Check access to water, electricity and drainage, as well as the installation requirements in the instructions. | Without a fitted space, I want to put the appliance wherever it can be installed. Around 36% of consumers would make this layout flexibility their priority. |
| Capacity in a 45 cm model | Compare the stated place settings and basket layout with the plates and pans you usually use. | If a 60 cm model won’t fit, I want enough room for my everyday dishes without choosing a compact model that’s too small. This capacity would be the priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Small footprint | Check the dimensions, the space needed with the door open and whether the compact model can be installed as described in its instructions. | In a very small space, I can accept fewer place settings to keep my worktop free. Around 21% of consumers would prioritise a smaller footprint. |
| Noise and consumption | Check the dB rating and noise class, then the kWh per 100 cycles and litres per reference cycle on the energy label. | With an open-plan kitchen, I want to be able to run a cycle without overlooking the noise or stated consumption. Around 14% of consumers would put these factors first. |
A freestanding model doesn’t need a fitted space or cabinet front, but it still needs connections. Que Choisir points out that a standard installation requires a water supply, an electricity supply and a waste-water outlet.
Check where these connections are in relation to your chosen spot and read the model’s instructions before ordering. If any alterations are needed, ask a professional for advice.
You may need to pay for plumbing or electrical work if the connections aren’t accessible.
A compact model takes up less space but also has less capacity. Que Choisir puts compact models below 9 place settings; if you have more washing-up, you may need to run more cycles.
Think about a typical day’s washing-up, including pans, and compare it with the model’s capacity and interior layout.
Noise is especially important if your kitchen opens onto your living area, as Que Choisir points out. A marketing claim is no substitute for the figures for the specific model you’re considering.
Compare the decibel ratings and noise classes shown on the labels of the appliances you’re considering.
An integrated appliance needs a suitable housing unit and cabinet front, whereas a freestanding model already has its own exterior. Their installation requirements are not interchangeable.
Check that your kitchen units and cabinet front are compatible before considering an integrated model. Otherwise, compare freestanding and compact options.
Depending on the project, fitting a door panel or carpentry work may be needed. Electrolux France states that these tasks are not included in the installation service it describes.
Bosch offers 45 cm and 60 cm freestanding dishwashers to suit the width you have available.
Beko’s range of 45 cm freestanding dishwashers could suit households short on width.
Whirlpool’s range includes the WSFO 3T223 P, a slimline freestanding model for spaces where width is at a premium.
Miele also offers 45 cm freestanding models, including the G 5740 SC SL.
These appliances suit two needs in kitchens without a fitted space: compact models for smaller amounts of washing-up, and standard-width freestanding models when you need more capacity. Check the space and connections required for each model.
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Worth considering if you have space on your worktop and don’t produce much washing-up. The stated capacity is 3 place settings. Before setting aside a spot for it, check the full dimensions and water supply and drainage requirements in the instructions.
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A good option for a kitchen without a fitted space, if you have room for a 60 cm appliance and capacity is important. This model has a stated capacity of 14 place settings and a D energy rating. Check the depth, door clearance and connections in the installation documentation.
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Worth comparing if you need capacity for 14 place settings without fitting the appliance into a kitchen unit. The model name states that it has 7 cycles. Measure the space and check the instructions for the required clearances and connections.
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This compact model is worth considering when space matters more than having a large capacity. Before buying, check the capacity, water supply method, drainage requirements and which accessories are included in the All-Options pack.
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Worth considering if you want to look at a tank-fed model rather than one connected directly to the water supply. The title states that it has a 5 L tank and 5+1 cycles. Check the instructions for filling, draining and installation, then consult the model’s label for noise and consumption figures.
No. The space must suit the appliance and its connections. Que Choisir recommends a level surface, positioning the appliance horizontally and ensuring access to the water supply, electricity and waste-water outlet.
It may be possible, depending on the model. Que Choisir recommends checking whether the top panel can be removed. Also check the dimensions, ventilation and connection requirements in the instructions.
Check their energy labels rather than relying on the product descriptions alone. The ADEME says these labels show information including the noise level and class, energy use in kWh per 100 cycles and water use in litres per reference cycle. Also take the stated capacity into account.
Follow the model’s instructions to remove food residue and clean the filter. Whirlpool notes that residue can build up and block the appliance. How often to clean it and the best way to do so depend on the model you choose.