A kitchen without a dedicated space
You want to install a dishwasher before choosing a cabinet and matching door panel. A ready-finished freestanding model suits this situation; UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes this format from integrated models.
Who are these formats for?
A small space to organise
You need to leave enough room to move around or prepare meals, without choosing a capacity that’s too small for your usual loads. Models documented by Candy, Whirlpool and Electrolux show how capacity varies between formats.
A future space under the worktop
You want to use the appliance now, then perhaps move it under a worktop later. UFC-Que Choisir recommends checking for a removable top before buying: you’ll need to confirm that it can be removed on the exact model you choose.
How do the formats compare?
Measure the full space first, then compare the capacity with your usual loads and plans for your kitchen.
| Criteria | What to check | Who should consider this? |
|---|---|---|
| Space and connections | Measure the width, height and depth. Check the installation diagram for clearance, pipes and door opening space. | When buying your first dishwasher, a model that fits the available width may still obstruct the door or connections. Around 46% of consumers would put physical fit first. |
| Capacity and space taken up | Compare the stated place settings with your usual loads, and check whether a countertop model would leave enough worktop space. | In a small kitchen, the format may come down to keeping preparation space free while still washing your usual loads. This would be the priority for around 27% of consumers. |
| Fitting under a worktop later | Look for confirmation in the model’s instructions that the top is removable, then compare the height with the top removed against the space under your worktop. | If you plan to redesign your kitchen, being able to reuse the same appliance under a worktop may matter more than simply installing it straight away. Around 27% of consumers would make this their main requirement. |
What to avoid before installation
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Assuming every freestanding model will fit under a worktop
A freestanding appliance has its own finished exterior, but that doesn’t mean its top can be removed. UFC-Que Choisir advises checking this before you buy.
Look for explicit confirmation in the product details or instructions that the top is removable, then compare the resulting height with the space under your worktop.
Without this check, you may need to alter the space you had in mind, or find that the appliance won’t fit.
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Measuring the width only
Bosch also recommends measuring the height and depth. A dishwasher might fit between two cabinets but leave too little room for the door to open or for the connections.
Measure the actual space and check the installation diagram for your chosen model to allow for the pipes and cable.
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Assuming compact means a clear worktop
A countertop dishwasher still takes up space, despite its low height. The Candy CP 6E51LS, for example, has a base measuring 550 × 501 mm, according to Candy France.
Mark out its footprint on the worktop or in the space you have in mind. If you need to keep that surface clear, compare it with the space required for a slim freestanding model.
A countertop model can permanently take away an area you’d otherwise use for food preparation.
Brands and models to know
These examples help you compare formats; the specifications of one model don’t apply to every product from the same brand.
Bosch
In France, Bosch offers freestanding dishwashers in widths of 45 and 60 cm.
- Its dimension guidance can help you measure the space you have available.
- Check the instructions for your chosen model to see whether its top is removable and how tall it will be once removed.
Electrolux
The ESA47400SW is a specific example of a 60 cm freestanding model with 13 place settings.
- Electrolux France states that this model can be installed under a worktop with its top removed.
- This doesn’t confirm that other Electrolux models can be installed in the same way; check the measurements of your space too.
Candy
Candy offers countertop models designed for smaller loads.
- According to Candy France, the CP 6E51LS holds 6 place settings and measures 550 × 501 × 443 mm, in width, depth and height order.
- This format needs space on a worktop or in a suitable alcove; it isn’t automatically suitable for fitting under a worktop.
Whirlpool
The WSFO3T223P is an example of a slim freestanding model rather than a countertop compact.
- Whirlpool France lists this model as 45 cm wide, with 10 place settings.
- If you plan to install it under a worktop, check the documentation for the exact model separately.
Dishwashers to consider on Joybuy
This selection includes freestanding models for kitchens without an integrated cabinet door, as well as countertop models for smaller loads. For each one, compare the model’s dimensions and intended installation with the space you have available.
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Indesit D2F HK26 S, 60 cm freestanding, 14 place settings
Consider this model if you have room for a 60 cm freestanding dishwasher and want the 14-place-setting capacity stated in its name.
If you might want to fit it under a worktop later, check the instructions for the configuration with the top removed, its exact height and the clearance needed for the connections.
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Hotpoint H4FD641A, 60 cm freestanding, 14 place settings
This freestanding model offers a good capacity without the need for a cabinet door, provided your space can accommodate its 60 cm format.
If you’re thinking of fitting it under a worktop later, check the measurements and installation diagram for the H4FD641A, as well as the space needed for the connections and door.
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COMFEE CDWMT305WD, mini countertop dishwasher
Its countertop format is designed for smaller loads when you can set aside a surface for the appliance rather than floor space.
The product title lists 7 programmes. Before choosing this model, check its place-setting capacity, the order in which its dimensions are given and how much worktop space it needs; don’t consider it an under-worktop appliance.
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Heinrich's HTG 8840 Schwarz, 6 place settings
This countertop dishwasher is worth considering for smaller loads if you can set aside worktop space or a suitable alcove.
Its product name lists 6 place settings and 7 programmes. Check its exact dimensions and the required connection before deciding where to put it.
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Whirlpool WFP5O41PLGX, freestanding, 14 place settings
Worth considering if you’re looking for a 14-place-setting freestanding model for a kitchen without an integrated cabinet door.
The product name lists a width of 60 cm, but the dimensions given for this model don’t match. Confirm its exact width before finalising your plans. If you’re planning to fit it under a worktop, check whether the instructions allow this too.
Frequently asked questions
What should I measure before buying a freestanding dishwasher?
Measure the width, height and depth of the space where the appliance will go, then allow room for the connections and the door to open. Bosch recommends comparing these measurements with the appliance’s dimensions. If you plan to fit it under a worktop, also check the installation diagram for the exact model.
Can you slide a freestanding dishwasher under a worktop?
Yes, if the model is designed for this type of installation and its dimensions suit your space. Electrolux France explicitly states “under-worktop (removable top)” for the ESA47400SW; the words “freestanding” alone aren’t enough to confirm that another model can be installed this way.
Does a countertop dishwasher always free up space in a small kitchen?
No. It avoids taking up floor space, but still occupies a worktop or alcove. According to Candy France, the CP 6E51LS holds 6 place settings and has a base measuring 550 × 501 mm. If you need to keep that surface free, compare the space available for a slim freestanding model, such as the 45 cm Whirlpool WSFO3T223P.