First, choose a size and style that suits your kitchen: a built-in model needs a suitable housing space, while a freestanding one needs a compatible spot and connections. A compact model can work when space is limited, provided it has enough capacity for your loads. Then compare models using their energy label — capacity, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, eco programme duration and noise level — and check the repairability index that applies to dishwashers in France.
If you run regular loads, start by thinking about how much washing-up builds up between cycles. Place-setting capacity matters, but also check that there’s room for your dishes and pans. Then compare the energy label figures and the repairability index.
A slimline or compact model can be a good solution when space is tight. Before choosing the smallest option, check its dimensions, capacity and basket layout against the dishes you use every day.
In an open-plan kitchen, it’s worth comparing noise levels model by model, as UFC-Que Choisir points out. For a built-in appliance, also check the housing dimensions, the intended door panel and the connections.
The format determines what’s needed for installation. Capacity and the figures on the energy label then help you compare appliances that suit your loads.
Consider this if: your kitchen doesn’t have a dedicated housing space, but does have a suitable spot and compatible connections.
Bear in mind: the appliance will be on show and needs to be positioned so its door can open freely.
Consider this if: you have a designated housing space and want the appliance to blend in with your kitchen units.
Bear in mind: the housing space and, depending on the model, the door panel must be compatible with your chosen appliance. Built-in installation doesn’t guarantee quieter operation.
Consider this if: space is limited and the format you’re considering can handle your loads.
Bear in mind: a smaller footprint doesn’t mean you can skip checking there’s room for your dishes, the connections and the model’s consumption figures.
| What to consider | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Measure the space and the clearance needed for the door. For a built-in model, check the housing space and door panel; for every model, confirm the connections in its instructions. | Does my kitchen have a suitable housing space, or will I need to position the appliance elsewhere without blocking the way? |
| Capacity | Compare the stated number of place settings with the basket layout and the space you need for your dishes and pans. | I want to fit the washing-up that builds up between cycles, rather than choosing based on the appliance’s width alone. |
| Energy and water | On the label, ADEME gives energy use in kWh per 100 reference cycles and water use in litres per reference cycle. Read these figures alongside the energy rating. | When comparing two models, I’d rather use the same units than rely on the rating letter alone. |
| Eco programme duration | Check the eco programme duration on the model’s label; don’t assume it’s the shortest cycle. | Some days, I need the washing-up to be ready by a particular time. |
| Noise | Compare the noise level in dB and the noise emission class using the same label information. Don’t confuse these figures with the noise level of a particular programme. | In an open-plan kitchen or one close to the living room, noise during a cycle is an important factor in my choice. |
| Repairability | Check the model’s repairability score out of 10. In France, the Ministry for the Ecological Transition lists dishwashers among the products covered by this labelling scheme. | I want to compare repairability before buying, while checking the seller’s warranty and service terms separately. |
A built-in model must fit its housing space and the intended door panel. A freestanding one also needs a suitable spot and compatible connections.
Measure the space and check that the door can open fully. Then compare the water inlet, waste outlet and electrical supply with the model’s instructions.
The letter doesn’t tell you everything about water use, noise, capacity or eco programme duration.
For every model you’re considering, look at the rating alongside the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, place settings, eco duration and noise information on the label.
A compact dishwasher might fit in your kitchen but still not have room for the dishes and loads you need to wash every day.
Check the number of place settings and the basket layout, keeping in mind how much washing-up you actually accumulate between cycles.
France’s repairability score tells you how easy a product is to repair. It doesn’t promise that the appliance won’t break down, nor does it describe the seller’s service on its own.
Check what the model’s score measures, then read the warranty and after-sales service terms separately.
These brands offer a range of formats, but you’ll still need to compare the specifications of the exact model you’re considering.
Bosch’s buying guide features freestanding, built-in and compact dishwashers.
Beko’s information distinguishes between freestanding, built-in and compact appliances, depending on how they’re installed.
In France, Miele offers freestanding, built-in and fully integrated dishwashers.
These options include freestanding and built-in models, as well as several tabletop formats for smaller kitchens. First, check the installation type, then look at the capacity and the details for the model you’re interested in.
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If you need to wash larger loads and have room for a freestanding appliance, compare the stated 14 place settings with the dishes you usually wash. The model name indicates a C rating and 41 dB; check the dimensions, connections and other figures on its label.
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This tabletop model is listed as holding 6 place settings, but check that its baskets can also fit your dishes. The product name mentions 7 programmes, a D rating and 47 dB. Check the dimensions and installation requirements before placing it on a worktop.
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With just 3 place settings, you’ll need to check carefully that there’s enough room for the dishes you use every day. The product name lists 7 programmes, a C rating and 56,3 dB; check the label to compare noise and consumption with other models.
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If your kitchen has a designated housing space, check its dimensions and intended door panel against the requirements for this built-in model. The model name indicates 13 place settings and a B rating. To assess noise and consumption, use the figures on the energy label rather than a figure for a particular programme.
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If you have a small kitchen, check there’s enough room on your worktop and that the interior has sufficient capacity before choosing this model. The product name mentions a 5 L tank, programmes listed as « 6+3 » and a D rating. Check the instructions to confirm which water supply option suits your setup.
Compare the energy rating, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per reference cycle, capacity, eco programme duration and noise level. ADEME explains the consumption units; compare these figures with your loads and check installation requirements separately.
Yes. The Ministry for the Ecological Transition includes dishwashers among the product categories covered by this score out of 10. Check the score for the exact model, and don’t mistake it for a guarantee against breakdowns.
Make sure the model fits the dimensions of the housing space and, depending on the version, the intended door panel. Then check the connections and installation requirements in the documentation before comparing its performance.
Beko’s guide says you’ll need a plug socket, a water inlet and a waste outlet. Also check the space available, that the door can open and the model’s instructions. This list alone doesn’t confirm that your installation is suitable.
No. The score relates to how repairable the product is. Check the warranty and after-sales service terms for your purchase separately.