If you don’t have a designated space for an integrated model, start by looking at freestanding dishwashers. If you don’t have much washing up and have a suitable worktop, consider a compact model too. An integrated dishwasher needs a suitable housing unit. In an open-plan kitchen, first check the connections and where the appliance will go, then compare the noise level shown on the energy label, the capacity and the running costs to suit your washing-up routine.
If your dishwasher runs close to your living area, noise deserves special attention. Compare the decibel level and noise class on the energy label; consumer group UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important this is in an open-plan kitchen.
A freestanding model gives you more flexibility over where to put it, without needing a housing unit or cabinet door. You’ll still need to check there’s enough space, along with a water supply, a drain and an electrical connection.
A compact model could work if its capacity is enough for your usual meals. UFC-Que Choisir features countertop models with a capacity of six place settings; also check that your worktop can support the appliance and that the necessary connections are available.
Consider this if: your kitchen has no housing unit and you may want to change the layout later.
Bear in mind: you’ll need a suitable space and connections. If you plan to install it under a worktop, check that the top panel can be removed from your chosen model.
Consider this if: space and the amount of washing up are limited.
Weigh this up: a smaller capacity could mean running more cycles if you usually have a lot to wash.
Consider this if: your kitchen has a suitable housing unit.
Bear in mind: UFC-Que Choisir points out that an integrated dishwasher can’t simply be placed on the floor and needs a suitable cabinet door.
Consider this if: you don’t have much washing up and your current routine takes very little time.
Weigh this up: you’ll still need to wash and dry everything after meals, and how much water you use will depend on your habits.
| Factor | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Measure the available space and clearances. Check there’s a housing unit for an integrated model, or enough room and a stable surface for a compact one. | My kitchen isn’t fitted, so I want to know whether I can install the appliance without a housing unit. If I choose a countertop model, the worktop needs to be suitable too. |
| Connections | Locate the water supply and drain, then check their positions against the instructions. If you’re unsure about the electrical circuit, get it checked. Enedis says a dishwasher needs its own circuit and a dedicated protective device. | I’d rather check the connections before settling on a type, especially if the kitchen layout is temporary. |
| Noise | Compare the noise level in dB and the noise class on the energy label. According to ADEME, an increase of 3 dB almost doubles the sound intensity; vibrations and beeps can matter too. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to compare precise noise figures rather than rely on the word ‘quiet’ alone. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated number of place settings with the number of meals and the size of your dishes. UFC-Que Choisir puts 60 cm freestanding models at 12 to 17 place settings, 45 cm models at 9 to 10, and compact models at fewer than 9. | A smaller appliance would save space, but I don’t want to run several cycles to wash my usual amount of dishes. |
| Everyday use | Check the kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration on the energy label, as ADEME recommends. Also factor in the detergent, rinse aid and dishwasher salt mentioned by UFC-Que Choisir. | I want to compare consumption figures on a like-for-like basis and check that the cycle length fits my routine. |
UFC-Que Choisir explains that an integrated dishwasher needs to be fitted into a housing unit. It can’t simply be placed on the floor in the same way as a freestanding model.
Measure the space and check that you have the right housing unit and cabinet door. If you don’t, look at freestanding or compact models instead.
In an open-plan kitchen, noise can interrupt activities in the living area. A product name alone won’t tell you the noise level or whether there are vibrations and beeps.
Compare the dB level and noise class on the energy label. A test that also assesses perceived noise can give you a fuller picture.
The position of the water supply, drain and electrical circuit will affect installation, even for a freestanding appliance.
Check which connections are available and compare them with the instructions for the exact model. If you’re unsure about the electrical installation, get it checked.
Capacity, noise, water consumption and Eco programme duration all affect your day-to-day experience, particularly in an open-plan kitchen.
Compare the information on the energy label and check that the capacity suits the amount of washing up you usually have.
You’ll also need consumables, including detergent and, depending on the appliance and how you use it, rinse aid and dishwasher salt.
This Joybuy selection includes a freestanding model, compact countertop appliances and an integrated dishwasher. First choose a type that suits your kitchen, then compare the stated capacity and noise level with your needs.
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Worth considering for a kitchen without a housing unit, provided there’s room for a 60 cm freestanding appliance. The product title states a capacity of 14 place settings and a noise level of 41 dB. Check the full dimensions, connections and energy label details before choosing.
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This countertop model could suit a smaller household if six place settings are enough for your usual washing up. The product title lists seven programmes and a noise level of 47 dB. Check that it fits on your worktop, and confirm the connections and noise class on the energy label.
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With a stated capacity of three place settings, it’s worth carefully considering how much washing up you’ll have after each meal. Measure the available space and check the model’s water supply and drainage requirements.
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This compact model is worth comparing with other countertop options if three place settings meet your needs. The product title lists seven programmes and a noise level of 56.3 dB. In an open-plan kitchen, compare this figure with other appliances and check how the model takes in and drains water.
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Only consider this model if your kitchen has a housing unit suitable for an integrated dishwasher. The product title states a capacity of 13 place settings. Before choosing, check the housing unit dimensions, the cabinet door required, the connections and the noise information on the energy label.
Check the water supply, drain and electrical connection where you plan to install it. Boulanger’s installation guide covers these connections and adjusting the feet. For the drain height and hose lengths, follow the instructions for your chosen model.
Don’t use a multi-socket adapter or extension lead as a permanent installation solution. Enedis says a dishwasher needs its own circuit with a dedicated protective device. If you’re unsure about your circuit, ask a qualified professional to check the installation.
Check the noise level in dB and the noise class on the energy label. ADEME describes classes A and B as particularly quiet. To compare models with similar figures, also consider vibrations, high-pitched sounds and beeps, where these are assessed in a test.
No. An integrated model isn’t a direct substitute for a freestanding dishwasher. UFC-Que Choisir says it must be fitted into a designated housing unit and can’t simply be placed on the floor.
Compare water use in litres per cycle, electricity use in kWh per 100 cycles and the Eco programme duration shown on the energy label, as ADEME recommends. Also check that the capacity suits the amount of washing up you usually have and allow for the consumables needed to use the appliance.