Who is this option for?

You’re keeping your existing door panel

You’re replacing the appliance without refitting the kitchen. Your priority is to check that the decorative door panel can be reattached and will open without hitting the plinth.

You want the controls to be visible

You’re happy to have a visible control panel so you can access the controls and display on the front. UFC-Que Choisir describes the control panel on semi-integrated models as being at the front.

Your housing is narrow

Check the available width before considering a 45 cm model. You can then compare capacity and interior layout across models that fit your housing.

What should you check before choosing?

Fully integrated

Consider this if: you want to keep a decorative door panel that conceals the entire appliance, and its fittings are compatible with the model you choose.

Bear in mind: the controls are on the top edge of the door, and the panel’s movement must also clear the plinth.

Semi-integrated

Consider this if: you want to access the control panel without opening the door and have a suitable housing.

Bear in mind: the control panel remains visible, so the front won’t look like a cupboard door from top to bottom.

Freestanding

Consider this only if: your kitchen layout allows you to install a visible appliance where the integrated model currently sits.

Bear in mind: this option won’t let you keep the decorative door panel on the appliance.

When replacing an appliance in an existing housing, start with the requirement that will determine your choice. Then compare the measurements and door panel with the installation diagram for the exact model.

What to consider What to check Who this matters to
Housing and door panel Compare the usable width, height and depth of the housing with the installation diagram. Check the dimensions and fittings supported for your door panel. I want to keep my kitchen door panel without finding out that the new appliance won’t fit or that the panel can’t be attached; around 46% of consumers would put this compatibility check first.
Door and plinth Measure the plinth and check the manual to see whether the model has a fixed or sliding door. With a low plinth, my main concern is the door panel catching when it opens; around 36% of consumers would make door clearance their priority.
Appearance and size Choose between a visible control panel and a fully concealed front, then check the housing width and the model’s capacity. I want to be able to see the controls or keep the kitchen’s look, while finding a suitable size; around 18% of consumers would prioritise this balance.

Mistakes to avoid when replacing your dishwasher

  • Assuming any door panel will fit a fully integrated model

    The appliance’s width alone doesn’t tell you whether it’s compatible. Bosch distinguishes between fixed and sliding doors, which move differently and can affect the plinth.

    Take a photo of the open door, measure the plinth and check the exact model’s manual to confirm which fittings can be used.

    You may need a different door panel, an adjustment to the plinth or professional installation if the system isn’t compatible.

  • Confusing semi-integrated and fully integrated models

    A semi-integrated model has a visible front control panel. On a fully integrated model, a cupboard door conceals the appliance front, with the controls on the top edge of the door.

    Decide whether a visible control panel will suit your kitchen before checking which models fit the housing.

  • Choosing based only on “45 cm” or “60 cm”

    The stated width doesn’t confirm that there’s enough space to install the appliance or that it has the capacity you need for your usual load of dishes.

    Measure the housing, check the installation diagram, then compare the capacity and baskets of models that will fit.

  • Assuming the existing door panel can be refitted without any issues

    Boulanger’s installation service, for example, assumes that the existing fitting system can be used. It doesn’t make two different door mechanisms compatible.

    Before arranging the work, give your installer the new appliance’s model number and photos of the door panel and its fittings.

Brands to consider for your kitchen layout

These ranges offer useful points of comparison, but you’ll need to check the manual for each model to confirm that it’s compatible with your door panel and housing.

Bosch

Worth considering if the door fitting and clearance above the plinth are key factors.

  • Bosch’s documentation distinguishes between fixed and sliding doors, and the brand offers 60 cm fully integrated models.
  • Bosch notes that a fixed door may require an adjustment to the plinth. Check that your door panel or any accessories are compatible with the specific model and mechanism you choose.

Siemens

Worth comparing if you’re deciding between a fully integrated model and one with a visible control panel.

  • Siemens offers integrated models with a visible control panel, as well as fully integrated models featuring varioHinge.
  • Don’t assume that every model in the range has varioHinge: check the model number and installation diagram.

Electrolux

Worth considering for 45 cm or 60 cm fully integrated models, depending on the width available.

  • Electrolux includes the 45 cm EES42210L and 60 cm EES48200L models in its range.
  • Electrolux’s product details for the EES48200L specify that it’s supplied without a door panel. Check the door panel and installation mechanism separately for the model you choose.

Miele

Worth considering if you’re looking at an XXL fully integrated model and your housing is tall enough.

  • Miele offers XXL fully integrated dishwashers without a door panel.
  • Before choosing an XXL model, compare the height of your housing and the specifications of your door panel with the manual for the exact model.

Joybuy products for this project

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

What should I measure before ordering an integrated dishwasher?

Measure the usable width, height and depth of the housing, then compare them with the installation diagram for the exact model. Also measure the plinth height and door panel, and check how the existing door opens. The appliance dimensions alone aren’t enough to confirm it will fit.

Can I reuse my door panel on a new fully integrated dishwasher?

Yes, as long as its dimensions, fittings and movement are compatible with the new appliance, as set out in the manual. Bosch distinguishes between fixed and sliding doors, for example, so don’t assume the existing holes or clearance above the plinth will work with a different mechanism.

What should I ask the installer to check before fitting the door panel?

Ask them to confirm that the existing fittings can be reused with your chosen model, and clarify whether the old door panel needs to be removed and refitted. Boulanger explains that its service depends, among other things, on being able to use those fittings. Give the installer the appliance’s model number and photos of the door before the work begins.