First, choose a dishwasher that fits the space you’ve measured and has connections suited to your kitchenette. A freestanding model can handle a small load if you have enough worktop space. A slimline or integrated appliance may offer more place settings, but will need floor space or a suitable niche. Then compare the capacity, noise level and energy and water consumption of the specific model.
A freestanding dishwasher avoids taking up floor space, but you’ll need to measure the worktop area it will occupy and check the connections required for your chosen model. Its smaller capacity is best suited to households with fewer dishes to wash.
If you have around 45 cm of floor space or a suitable niche, a slimline model is worth considering. Compare its capacity with the amount of washing-up that builds up between cycles, and don’t overlook its height and depth.
With an integrated appliance, you’ll need to check the niche dimensions, required door panel, water inlet, drain and electrical supply together. The stated width alone won’t tell you whether it will fit your unit.
Start with measurements and connection options, as these determine which formats are suitable. Then compare compatible models based on how much washing-up you have and the information on their energy labels.
| Criteria | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | Measure the width, depth and height of the space, then check the door clearance or niche dimensions. | When worktop or floor space is limited, I want to know where the appliance will actually fit. Around 36% of shoppers could make its size their top priority. |
| Usable capacity | Compare the stated number of place settings and the space in the racks for larger items. | If plates and pans pile up between washes, I’d rather not have to run lots of small cycles. Capacity could be a priority for around 29% of shoppers. |
| Connections | Check the manual for the water inlet, drainage and electrical supply required for the model. | I can only choose an appliance if it can be installed in my kitchen. Connections could therefore be the main concern for around 21% of shoppers. |
| Noise and consumption | Compare the dB, kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle on the energy label. | In a room I also use while the dishwasher is running, I want to consider its noise and running costs. Around 14% of shoppers could put these at the top of their list. |
A slimline appliance may still be too tall or deep for the niche, while a worktop model can take up a large part of your kitchen surface.
Measure all three dimensions of the available space and compare them with the appliance dimensions and, if applicable, the installation diagram.
A compact design still needs a suitable water supply, drainage and electricity, depending on the appliance’s configuration.
Check the manual to see which connections and accessories you’ll need in your kitchen.
Depending on the installation, you may also need connection parts or professional help.
A worktop model rated for 6 place settings and a slimline integrated model rated for 9 place settings won’t handle the same amount of washing-up. The rack layout may also limit the space available for pans.
Estimate how much you wash between cycles and check the interior layout, not just the number of place settings.
The rating doesn’t tell you everything about noise levels or the water and energy figures for the reference cycle.
Compare figures using the same units. ADEME lists energy in kWh per 100 cycles and water in litres per cycle, among other information.
The CP 6E51LS is an example of a compact freestanding model for smaller loads.
The EES42210L is an example of a 45 cm fully integrated dishwasher to consider if you have a suitable niche.
Bosch’s guidance helps you distinguish the space required for a freestanding model from the connections you’ll need.
These models sit on a worktop and are designed for smaller loads. Before choosing one, check its dimensions and capacity, as well as its water supply and drainage requirements, against your kitchenette.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a freestanding appliance for regular small loads. The product name lists 7 programmes, 47 dB and a D energy rating. Measure the space and check the manual for water and drainage connections.
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The integrated tank is worth considering if you want to avoid a permanent connection to the water supply. The product name lists 5 + 1 wash cycles. Before choosing this installation method, check where the drain can go, along with the required dimensions and electrical supply.
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Its stated capacity of 3 place settings is designed for very small loads, so check that your larger items fit in the racks. The product name mentions hot air drying. Check the manual for this variant’s dimensions and water supply and drainage requirements.
It depends on the model, so don’t assume how it’s supplied with water based on its size alone. Candy France specifies a direct water connection for the CP 6E51LS. For any other model, check the manual for the drainage solution and electrical supply too.
Measure the width, height and depth of the available space, and allow for the clearance needed to open the door. For an integrated model, also compare the niche and planned door panel with the installation diagram for your chosen model.
Use figures from the energy label on the same basis: noise level in dB, energy in kWh per 100 cycles and water in litres per cycle. ADEME recommends taking these figures into account. Compare them with the capacity and how often you run a wash, too.
Not necessarily: Electrolux states that the EES42210L is supplied without a furniture door panel. Check whether a panel is included and whether its fixing system is compatible with the model you’re considering.