Who is this guide for?

Anyone replacing an old integrated dishwasher

You want to keep your existing niche or door panel. Measure the usable space and check the new appliance’s door-fitting system. The fact that your old model fitted doesn’t guarantee the new one will.

Anyone choosing a kitchen with a seamless look

You’re looking for a fully integrated model that sits behind a panel matching your cabinets. The panel, its fixings and the plinth must all be compatible with the installation instructions for your chosen model.

Anyone with a narrow niche

Your kitchen only has room for a 45 cm model, but you still need a proper integrated dishwasher. Check the installation dimensions and the stated capacity of the model you’re considering.

What should you check before buying?

For a fitted kitchen with a dedicated niche, check the appliance dimensions and door first. Then choose the finish and capacity that suit the way you use it.

Fully integrated

Choose this if: you want a seamless finish, with the controls concealed along the top edge of the door.

Bear in mind: the cabinet door panel and its fixing system must be compatible with the model. Some appliances are supplied without a door panel.

Semi-integrated

Choose this if: you’d prefer to keep the control panel visible at the front.

Bear in mind: the control panel breaks up the seamless look of your kitchen cabinets.

What to consider What to check Who this matters to
Niche and door fitting Measure the available height, width and depth. Check the door panel, hinges and door clearance against the instructions for the exact model. If I’m replacing an appliance, I want the new one to fit the niche and its door to open properly with the planned panel. Around 39% of consumers put this compatibility first.
Door panel and controls Choose between concealed controls on a fully integrated model and a visible control panel on a semi-integrated one. Check whether the door panel is included. In a kitchen with matching cabinet fronts, I want to decide whether a seamless look matters more to me than visible controls. Around 23% of consumers prioritise this type of integration.
Width and capacity Compare 45 cm and 60 cm models with the usable width, then check the stated place setting capacity of your chosen model. When space is limited, I need an appliance that fits without compromising on how much washing-up I usually load. Around 23% of consumers prioritise this balance.
Installation and any work required Check with the retailer who will handle fitting the appliance, attaching the door panel and making any necessary adjustments to the cabinetry. For a new installation, I want to know what work I’ll need to arrange after delivery. Around 15% of consumers say the scope of the service is their top consideration.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Relying on the stated width alone: “45 cm” or “60 cm”

    The nominal width won’t tell you whether the height, depth or a fixed fitting beneath the worktop will prevent the appliance from fitting. Bosch’s published dimensions, for example, vary between its standard and XXL integrated models.

    Measure the niche in all three dimensions and note any obstructions before checking the installation diagram for the exact model.

    If you discover an obstruction during installation, you may need to modify the cabinetry or choose a different model.

  • Assuming your existing door panel will fit any model

    Fixed-door and sliding-door systems, as well as models labelled varioHinge, shouldn’t be assumed to be interchangeable. Some dishwashers are also supplied without a cabinet door panel.

    Compare your door panel’s dimensions and fixings with the installation instructions for the model you’re considering.

    You may need a different door panel, additional fixings or modifications to the cabinet.

  • Confusing an integrated model with a freestanding appliance that fits under a worktop

    A fully integrated model has a door panel that conceals the controls, while a semi-integrated model keeps the control panel visible. The fact that an appliance can fit beneath a worktop doesn’t mean it can take a cabinet door panel.

    Check the installation type listed for the model before comparing its programmes or capacity.

  • Assuming installation includes fitting the door panel

    An installation service won’t necessarily cover fitting the door panel or making adjustments to the cabinetry. Electrolux lists this work separately from its pre-installation service.

    Before confirming your order, ask for a breakdown of the work included for the appliance, the door and your old machine.

Brands to consider for your project

Bosch

The French range includes 45 cm and 60 cm integrated models, both fully integrated and with a visible control panel, as well as extra-height models.

  • Bosch documentation distinguishes between fixed-door and sliding-door systems.
  • Check the width and door system of each model against your niche and door panel.

Miele

The G 5790 SCVi SL is a 45 cm fully integrated model worth considering.

  • Miele lists a capacity of 9 place settings for this specific model.
  • This model is shown without a door panel; its specifications don’t apply to the entire range.

Siemens

The French range includes 45 cm and 60 cm fully integrated models, including models labelled varioHinge.

  • These models offer different widths and door configurations to consider based on your cabinetry.
  • The varioHinge label alone doesn’t confirm that a model is compatible with a particular door panel.

Electrolux

The EEA22100L is a 45 cm fully integrated model with a stated capacity of 9 place settings.

  • Its product details specify that it’s supplied without a cabinet door panel.
  • Electrolux states that this model can’t be installed at height. Check the requirements for any other model you’re considering.

Whirlpool

The French range includes integrated and semi-integrated dishwashers, including 45 cm and 60 cm models.

  • It gives you a range of integration options to compare.
  • Check the product details and installation instructions for the niche dimensions and door fitting of your chosen model.

Joybuy products for a fitted kitchen

Related products coming soon.

Frequently asked questions

Can I replace my integrated dishwasher with another model of the same width?

Width alone isn’t enough to tell. The height, depth, anything beneath the worktop and the door-fitting system can also prevent a replacement from fitting. Measure the available space and compare it with the new model’s installation diagram.

What’s the difference between fully integrated and semi-integrated models in everyday use?

A fully integrated model hides its controls behind a door panel that matches your cabinets, while a semi-integrated model has a visible control panel at the front. Choose the look you prefer and decide whether you want visible controls, then check that your door panel is compatible.

Does installation always include fitting the door panel?

No. What’s included depends on the service you choose. Electrolux states that its pre-installation service doesn’t include fitting the cabinet door panel or carpentry work. Ask your retailer to confirm what’s covered.