Start by checking the measured space and existing connections. A 60 cm freestanding dishwasher is suitable for a larger load if you have room, while a 45 cm model fits a narrower space. A compact model may suit a smaller load, provided you can arrange its water supply and drainage. An integrated dishwasher needs a compatible housing unit and cabinet door. Then compare the capacity, noise level and Eco programme figures for the specific model.
If you have access to water, drainage and electricity, choosing between a 45 cm and a 60 cm freestanding model mainly comes down to the space you have measured and how much washing-up you need to do.
A 45 cm freestanding model or a compact dishwasher can take up less space. Make sure its capacity and interior layout will accommodate the dishes you usually use.
A mini dishwasher with a water tank can save you from needing a permanent connection to the water supply. You’ll still need to arrange filling, drainage, a suitable surface to put it on and an electricity supply.
First measure the space and check the connections, then compare the capacity and usage figures of models that will actually fit there.
| Criteria | What to check | Based on my needs |
|---|---|---|
| Space | Measure the width, depth and height, then check the manual for clearance requirements, door opening space and room for the hoses. An integrated model needs compatible housing and a cabinet door. | I have floor space but no cabinet designed to house an integrated appliance, so a freestanding model means I don’t need a built-in space. |
| Water and drainage | Check that the model has a suitable water supply, drainage and electricity connection. For a compact model with a tank, also check where the wastewater will drain. | If I don’t have a usable fixed water supply, a tank may suit my needs, provided I can fill it and arrange drainage. |
| Size and capacity | Compare the full dimensions, place settings and basket layout. UFC-Que Choisir describes a 45 cm model as an option for a small family; capacity varies by model. | I want a narrower model without having to wash large items by hand. If I have a larger load and enough room, I’ll also consider 60 cm freestanding models. |
| Noise | Check the noise level in dB(A) and the noise class for the exact model. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important this is in an open-plan kitchen. | In an open-plan living space, I want to compare the stated noise levels for each appliance, rather than making assumptions based on its width or brand. |
| Consumption | According to Gifam, the energy label shows figures including water use per Eco cycle and energy use per 100 cycles. Compare these figures on the labels of the models you’re considering, taking capacity into account. | I want to compare figures measured on the same basis, rather than assume that a narrower appliance necessarily uses less. |
| Repairability | Check the repairability index shown for the model and distinguish the terms of any commercial warranty from your statutory rights. | If I plan to keep the appliance for a long time, I want to factor in its repairability and warranty terms when making my decision. |
An integrated dishwasher is designed to fit inside a cabinet and have a door panel fitted; it isn’t a direct replacement for a freestanding model.
Check the housing dimensions, door panel, plinth and manual before choosing this option.
Two appliances with a suitable stated capacity may offer different amounts of space for pans and large plates.
Check the full dimensions, baskets and the space needed for your bulkiest dishes.
A tank can remove the need for a fixed water supply, but wastewater still needs to drain away. Daan Tech, for example, requires the drainage hose for its Bob mini dishwasher to be connected.
Plan the route for the hose and how you’ll fill the tank, following the instructions for your chosen model.
Noise levels and consumption figures are specific to each model; one appliance’s figures don’t describe every model of the same width.
Compare the dB(A), noise class, water use per Eco cycle and energy use per 100 cycles on the exact model’s label.
Bosch offers 60 cm freestanding dishwashers and installation instructions in French.
Beko’s freestanding range includes 45 cm models worth considering when floor space is limited.
Candy offers countertop compact models, which are worth considering if a floor-standing appliance won’t fit.
Daan Tech’s Bob mini dishwasher is an example of a model with a tank, for when a fixed water supply isn’t available.
These options include two freestanding appliances for floor space and a countertop compact model for a small kitchen. Check the dimensions and connections for each model before choosing.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you have 60 cm of floor space and a large load of washing-up. The product name lists 14 place settings, 41 dB and energy class C; check the full dimensions, connections and model label before buying.
Image unavailable
Another freestanding option for a large load, with no built-in space required. The product name lists 14 place settings and 7 programmes; measure the space and check the door opening, connections and energy label for this model.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you don’t have room for a floor-standing appliance or can’t use a fixed water supply. The 5 L tank removes the need for a permanent water connection in the configuration described, but you’ll still need to arrange drainage. Also check that it will fit on your worktop and that you have an electricity supply.
Measure the available width, depth and height. Then check the manual for clearance requirements, door opening space and room for the hoses, as well as whether you have a suitable water supply, drainage and electricity connection.
No: a tank can remove the need for a fixed water supply, but you still need to arrange drainage. For example, Daan Tech requires the drainage hose for Bob to be connected. Check the instructions for your chosen model and make sure you have an electricity supply.
Start by checking the width and depth you actually have available, then compare the place settings and basket layout. The examples from UFC-Que Choisir and Beko show that a 45 cm model can suit a smaller load or household; a larger load may make a 60 cm model worth considering if you have enough space.
Check the noise level and its class, then the water use per Eco cycle, energy use per 100 cycles and the model’s capacity. These figures let you compare specific models; width alone doesn’t tell you how noisy or energy-efficient they are.
According to the French Ministry of the Economy, you can claim under the statutory guarantee of conformity for two years on a new or second-hand item bought from a professional seller, subject to the conditions set out by law. Any commercial warranty is separate, so check its terms without confusing it with your statutory rights.