In a small kitchen, start by checking the space you’ve measured and the connections available. A model with a water tank avoids the need for a fixed water supply, but you’ll need to fill it by hand and arrange a drain. If you have the necessary connections and more dishes to wash, it’s also worth considering a plumbed-in compact model or a slimline freestanding dishwasher.
A model with a water tank can save you from having to alter the plumbing. You’ll still need to fill it, position its drain hose and have a suitable socket. If your plans involve altering the property or its fittings, ANIL says you’ll need written consent from your landlord.
If there’s room on your worktop and connections near the sink, you could consider a plumbed-in compact model to avoid filling it by hand. Before choosing, compare its stated capacity with the plates and utensils you use.
If a small basket would mean running cycles too often, measure the space available for a slimline freestanding dishwasher. Check its depth, door clearance and access to connections too.
If you live alone or as a couple and don’t have a dedicated space for a dishwasher, first check how the appliance will get water and drain it away. Then compare its capacity and dimensions with your dishes and kitchen.
| What matters to you | What to check | What consumers say |
|---|---|---|
| Reversible installation | Water supply method, an accessible socket and the route for the drain hose. | In a rental without a dedicated water supply, I want to be able to remove the appliance without altering the kitchen. Around 42% of consumers reportedly prioritise reversible installation. |
| Capacity per cycle | Stated place-setting capacity, dimensions of larger items and basket layout. | If dishes for two people quickly fill a small basket, I want to avoid running multiple cycles. Capacity is reportedly the top priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Available space | Width, height and depth, plus the clearance needed for the door and hoses. | When every surface is already in use for cooking, I need to decide whether I can give up some worktop space or make room on the floor. For around 25% of consumers, size is reportedly the main consideration. |
A water tank avoids the need for a fixed water supply, but you’ll still need electricity and a way to drain the wastewater. For example, Daan Tech’s Bob uses a drain hose.
Before buying, identify a suitable surface and work out whether the hose can reach the sink or a drain.
This figure alone won’t tell you whether your large bowls, plates, saucepans or frying pans will fit in the basket.
Measure the items you wash most often, then check the model’s manual for size limits and basket layout.
According to ANIL, alterations to the property or its fittings require written consent from the landlord. So a reversible connection and a permanent alteration need to be planned differently.
If installation requires drilling or permanently altering the connections, get consent before starting work.
Bosch lists slimline freestanding models measuring 45 cm wide and 84,5 cm high. These measurements don’t tell you the depth of the model you’re considering or how much space you’ll need in front of its door.
Measure the full space, door clearance and route for the hoses.
The Bob is an example of a mini countertop dishwasher that, according to Daan Tech, can be supplied with water either from its built-in tank or via a water connection.
Two models featured by Electro Dépôt give you an idea of the capacities available in a countertop compact model and a slimline freestanding appliance.
Bosch’s dimensions can help you decide whether a freestanding dishwasher might work better than an appliance installed on the worktop.
These countertop appliances are worth considering for a small kitchen where there’s no space for a freestanding model. Some product titles mention a water tank; for the others, check the manual for water supply and drainage requirements.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you want to avoid a fixed water supply. The title lists a built-in 5 L tank and 5 + 1 wash cycles. Check the manual for where to position the drain and what electrical supply is required.
Image unavailable
A tabletop model to consider if you’re happy to fill it by hand. The title lists 7 programmes and a 24-hour delay start. Check the drain hose route and installation requirements for this version.
Image unavailable
If worktop space is limited, measure the available area before choosing this model. Its Joybuy listing states a capacity of 3 place settings for this offer. Check the manual for the water supply method, hoses and drainage rather than assuming it can be installed without connections.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if a small basket isn’t big enough for your everyday dishes and you have accessible connections. The title lists 6 place settings and 7 programmes. Check the dimensions and make sure the hoses are compatible with your kitchen.
Image unavailable
Another tabletop appliance to consider for a small kitchen. Before choosing it, check its dimensions and the water supply and drainage connections required for this version.
No. The tank can replace a fixed water supply, but the appliance still needs electricity and a way to drain wastewater. For the Bob described by Daan Tech, check where you can position the drain hose in your kitchen.
A compact model that needs a fixed water supply must have access to that supply, a drain and a suitable electrical connection. Before buying, check the manual for fittings, hose lengths and installation instructions.
A reversible connection and work that alters the property are not the same thing. In France, ANIL says that alterations to the property or its fittings require written consent from the landlord. Ask for consent before making permanent changes to the plumbing or electrical installation.
Compare the manual’s requirements with the socket and circuit available. For kitchen electrical equipment, Promotelec mentions dedicated 16 A or 20 A circuits that can be used for appliances including dishwashers. If you’re unsure about your existing installation, ask a professional to check it’s compatible.
No. You should also compare the dimensions of your plates, bowls and utensils with the shape of the basket. Stated capacities apply to specific models and don’t guarantee that all your dishes will fit in a single load.