When choosing an integrated dishwasher as part of a kitchen installation, first check the cabinet space, door front, plinth and door movement: a stated width of 45 or 60 cm alone isn’t enough to confirm that it will fit. Next, choose between a fully integrated model, one with visible controls or a freestanding appliance, depending on your kitchen layout. Then compare the capacity, noise level and energy and water use of the models that fit.
Who is this option for?
You’re finishing a kitchen with a matching door front
The cabinet space, plinth and door front have already been planned. To make sure the door opens without catching on the unit, check the dimensions of the complete installation and the hinge or sliding mechanism specified for the appliance.
You’re fitting a kitchen that opens onto the living room
If the dishwasher will be running while people are using the living area, compare the decibel level and noise class shown on the energy label for the models you’re considering.
You’re weighing up available space and capacity
The size must suit the cabinet space, while the place settings should match your needs. The energy label also lets you compare water and energy use, the Eco programme duration and noise levels.
What should you check?
Choose the installation type before looking at programmes: even an appliance that suits your needs won’t work if its door or front can’t operate in the unit you have planned.
Fully integrated
Consider this if: you want to conceal the appliance behind a matching door front and the unit, door front and door mechanism are compatible.
Bear in mind: you may need to source the door front separately, and you’ll need to check carefully that it can move freely when opened.
Integrated with visible controls
Consider this if: you want an integrated appliance but would like the controls to remain visible on the front.
Bear in mind: the control panel will remain visible, and the kitchen door front must match the section of the appliance door designed to be covered.
Freestanding
Consider this if: the cabinet space or the fittings for a door front won’t allow the planned integrated installation.
Bear in mind: the appliance won’t be concealed behind a matching door front. You’ll still need to check its location and connections.
| What to consider |
What to check |
What matters to consumers |
| Cabinet space, door front and door |
Measure the usable width, height and depth; check the door front, plinth and door mechanism against the model’s installation instructions. |
If the door front catches on the plinth when opened, the appliance won’t work for my kitchen project. Around 39% of consumers would make this compatibility their top priority. |
| Noise |
Compare the dB level and noise class on the energy label for each model. |
In an open-plan kitchen, I want to be able to start a cycle without disturbing people in the living room too much. Noise would be the main concern for around 23% of consumers. |
| Size and capacity |
Match the width to the cabinet space, then check the number of place settings and the basket layout. |
I’m short on space, but don’t want to choose a capacity that doesn’t suit my household’s dishes. Around 23% of consumers would put this trade-off first. |
| Water and energy use |
Check the kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle and Eco programme duration on the model’s label. |
Once I know the appliance will fit, I want to compare its consumption without overlooking the reference programme’s duration. Around 15% of consumers would put this need first. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Relying on a stated width of 60 cm alone
This doesn’t confirm the usable height or depth, or that the door front will clear the plinth. If the door catches, it may not open fully.
Before ordering, measure the unit and check the installation diagram, especially the door-front limits and hinge type.
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Comparing only claims that an appliance is “quiet”
A marketing term isn’t a substitute for a consistent measurement across models. In an open-plan kitchen, cycle noise deserves proper consideration.
Compare the decibel level and noise class on each appliance’s energy label, rather than relying on the names of its programmes.
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Assuming the door front comes with the appliance
An integrated dishwasher may be supplied without a furniture door front, so the finished look depends on the front you choose and how it attaches to the unit.
Check what’s included with the appliance, the kitchen units and the installation service you’re considering.
Preparing a door front, choosing a suitable kit or arranging installation may add extra steps to your project.
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Choosing based on the energy class alone
The energy class doesn’t tell you whether the capacity suits your household or whether the Eco programme duration fits your routine.
Once you’ve confirmed that the appliance will fit, check the capacity, water and energy use, and cycle duration together on the exact model’s label.
Brands to consider for your project
Bosch
Bosch’s integrated range includes 45 and 60 cm models, as well as different heights and door configurations.
- Bosch product details distinguish between models with fixed hinges and those with sliding hinges. Check which configuration is compatible with your planned door front.
- Heights and dimensions vary by model. According to Bosch, the SBH4HVX14E measures 865 × 598 × 550 mm. If your cabinet space is designed for a different height, check compatibility separately.
Electrolux
Electrolux offers fully integrated models in 45 and 60 cm sizes, so you can compare them with the available width and capacity you need.
- The EES42210L and EEG48200L models are examples of the two sizes, respectively, according to Electrolux product details.
- For the models you’re considering, check whether a furniture door front is supplied and what installation options are available. These details may not apply across the whole range.
Miele
Miele’s range includes fully integrated dishwashers and models with visible controls.
- Miele product details make it easy to check the position of the controls, including on the fully integrated G 7260 SCVi.
- Check the door type, dimensions and features for everyday use on the product details for your chosen model. Don’t assume that a feature of one model applies to the whole brand.
Models for a kitchen being fitted
These Joybuy models include appliances described as suitable for fitting behind a door front, as well as a freestanding option to consider if an integrated installation isn’t right for your kitchen. Before choosing based on capacity or energy class, check each model’s installation requirements against your kitchen layout.
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Samsung DW80H72YBB0U1, 60 cm integrated, 13 place settings
Worth considering for a kitchen where the appliance needs to sit behind a door front, provided you check the cabinet space, plinth and door-front fittings.
The product name indicates a width of 60 cm, 13 place settings and energy class B. Also check this model’s energy label for its consumption and noise levels.
View on Joybuy
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AEG FSB34707Z, fully integrated, 14 place settings
Consider this if you’re planning a door front to match your kitchen units and need room for 14 place settings. First, confirm the exact dimensions: the title states 60 cm, but the dimensions in the description don’t match this width.
The stated energy class is C. Also check the model’s instructions for door-front limits, plinth clearance and door movement.
View on Joybuy
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Whirlpool W2I HD526 A, 60 cm integrated, 14 place settings
Worth considering for a project where the appliance will sit behind a door front and you need room for 14 place settings. Before choosing this model, check its instructions for the door mechanism, door-front limits and available space.
The product name indicates energy class E. Check the model’s energy label to compare its consumption with other models.
View on Joybuy
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Samsung DW70H72WCB0U1, 60 cm integrated, 13 place settings
Worth considering for a fitted kitchen with a planned door front. Check the door mechanism before choosing this model: its description refers to both a fixed hinge and a sliding door.
The product name indicates a width of 60 cm, 13 place settings and energy class C. Check the installation dimensions and the energy label for the exact model.
View on Joybuy
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Whirlpool WFP5O41PLGX, 60 cm freestanding, 14 place settings, stainless steel
Worth considering if fitting a door front isn’t possible and you’re happy for the appliance to be visible in your kitchen. This freestanding model isn’t a replacement for a fully integrated dishwasher in a unit designed for a door front.
The product name indicates 14 place settings and energy class C. Check the space and connections available before choosing this model.
View on Joybuy
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose a fully integrated dishwasher before choosing the door front?
It’s best to decide on the door front before making your final choice: its dimensions and movement when opening must suit the model. Also check the product details to see whether a furniture door front is included.
How can I compare noise levels for an open-plan kitchen?
Compare the decibel level and noise class shown on the energy label for the models you’re considering. These details are more useful for comparing appliances than the claim that a model is “quiet”.
What should I check when choosing between 45 and 60 cm?
First check the usable width of the cabinet space, then the number of place settings and the basket layout. A compatible stated width doesn’t mean you can skip checking the height, depth and door.
Is the energy class enough to compare two models?
No. Also check the kWh per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, Eco programme duration, capacity and noise level. ADEME states that these details appear on dishwasher energy labels. Compare them once you’ve confirmed that the appliance can be installed in your kitchen.
When should I consider a freestanding dishwasher?
A freestanding model is worth considering if the cabinet space or door-front fittings won’t allow the integrated installation you want. You’ll need to be happy with a visible appliance and check that its location and connections are suitable.