If you have the necessary connections and enough floor space, a freestanding dishwasher lets you get set up without needing a matching kitchen cabinet door. If you want to fit it under a worktop, check that the model is suitable and confirm its height with the top removed, if applicable. In a very small space, a compact dishwasher with a water tank may save you from needing a fixed water supply, but you’ll still need to arrange wastewater drainage and check that its capacity suits your dishes.
A freestanding appliance doesn’t need a matching kitchen cabinet door, as UFC-Que Choisir explains. Even so, measure the space before choosing a model that you may want to move with you next time you relocate.
If the water supply, drainage and electricity are already in place, check that they meet the model’s requirements. For furnished rentals, ANIL says that any changes to the property or its fittings require the landlord’s written consent.
If width is limited, a 45 cm appliance may be a good option; Beko, for example, lists a model of this size with a capacity of 10 place settings. If floor space is limited too, or there’s no fixed water supply, check the dimensions and capacity of a compact model with a water tank instead.
Start with the available space and existing connections, then compare the stated capacity with the amount of washing up you need to do.
| Priority | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Space | Measure the width, height and depth, as well as the delivery route and door clearance. If it’s going under a worktop, check that it’s suitable for under-worktop installation and confirm the height with the top removed, if applicable. | I want the appliance to fit in its space and its door to open without obstruction. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated number of place settings with the dimensions of the dishes it can accommodate. Don’t judge capacity by the appliance’s external dimensions alone. | In a narrow kitchen, I want to save space without choosing an appliance that’s too small for my everyday dishes. |
| Connections | Follow the instructions to check the water supply, drainage and electrical connection. Even with a compact model that has a water tank, you’ll still need to arrange wastewater drainage. | I’d prefer to use the existing connections. If changes to the property are needed, I should clarify what’s required before installation. |
| Energy use and noise | Check the energy rating and compare figures expressed in the same units for appliances with a similar capacity. Also check the stated noise level. | If the appliance is near my living area, I want to compare its stated noise level and energy-use figures on a like-for-like basis. |
A freestanding design doesn’t necessarily mean the appliance is suitable for under-worktop installation. UFC-Que Choisir recommends checking whether the top can be removed.
Measure the space and check the product details or instructions to confirm the installation requirements and required height.
A narrower or more compact model still needs to fit the dishes you actually wash. For example, Beko lists a 45 cm model with a capacity of 10 place settings.
Check the capacity of the model you’re considering and make sure there’s room for your larger dishes.
For furnished rentals, ANIL says that changes to the property or its fittings require the landlord’s written consent. Connecting to existing fittings and carrying out work on those fittings are not the same thing.
Check whether the instructions allow you to use the existing connections. If changes are needed, get written consent before going ahead.
A figure is only useful for comparing two appliances if the units and measurement conditions are comparable.
Check the energy labels and product details, then compare like-for-like figures for models with a similar capacity.
The brand offers freestanding models and options for under-worktop installation.
The ESG88600SX is an example of a freestanding model whose product details specify under-worktop installation with a removable top.
The freestanding range includes 45 cm models as well as wider options.
The brand offers the freestanding W8FHS61BS dishwasher, designed for a 60 cm space.
The compact Bob is designed for spaces where a standard appliance won’t fit.
This selection includes standard-size freestanding dishwashers and a compact countertop model. For each one, check the dimensions and installation requirements against the space in your new home.
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Worth considering for a kitchen that can accommodate a 60 cm appliance. The product title lists 14 place settings, a noise level of 41 dB and an energy rating of C. If you’re planning to install it under a worktop, check the instructions for the required height and clearance, and make sure the connections are suitable.
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For a 60 cm space in a kitchen without fitted units, the product title lists 14 place settings and an energy rating of E. If it needs to go under a worktop, check the instructions to confirm that it’s suitable for this type of installation and to find out the required height.
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This freestanding model may suit you if you’re looking for a stated capacity of 14 place settings; the product title also lists 7 programmes. Before setting aside space for it under a worktop, check the model’s installation instructions, then make sure the space and connections are suitable.
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Its integrated 5 L tank may suit you if you need an appliance that doesn’t require a fixed water supply. However, this countertop model still needs a suitable space and a way to drain wastewater. Check that its capacity is right for your everyday dishes too.
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For freestanding installation in a 60 cm space, the product title lists 14 place settings and an energy rating of D. The top is listed as non-removable, so don’t plan to take it off for under-worktop installation. Check the instructions for any other installation options.
Yes, if the model is designed for this type of installation and the available height meets the requirements in its instructions. Bosch says that a removable top can provide an extra 3 cm of clearance, but you’ll need to check whether this applies to the appliance you choose. The Electrolux ESG88600SX product details specifically mention under-worktop installation with a removable top.
Check the model’s instructions for its water, drainage and electrical connection requirements, then compare them with the fittings in your home. A compact model with a water tank may work without a fixed water supply, but it will still need to drain wastewater.
If installation involves changing the property or its fittings, ANIL says that tenants in furnished rentals need the landlord’s written consent. First check whether you can use the existing connections; don’t start any alteration work without getting consent.
Compare the corresponding figures on their energy labels and product details, ideally for appliances with a similar capacity. European rules govern energy labelling for dishwashers, so make sure you’re comparing figures in the same units and measured under the same conditions.
It depends on the space available and how many dishes you need to wash. Check the capacity and the dimensions of the dishes it can accommodate rather than focusing only on the space you’ll save. According to Daan Tech, the compact Bob can use a water tank or connect to a water supply; either way, you’ll need to arrange wastewater drainage.