For everyday washing-up, first choose a capacity that suits your dishes and the space available. A 60 cm model can handle a larger load, while a 45 cm or compact model is better suited to limited space. In an open-plan kitchen, also compare the noise level shown on the energy label. A freestanding model gives you more flexibility with your layout, while an integrated model requires a compatible housing unit and door panel.
If you run the dishwasher while chatting or in the evening, weigh the stated noise level against the capacity you need. Que Choisir specifically lists noise as a factor to consider when choosing a dishwasher for an open-plan kitchen.
To avoid running several cycles after meals, look at both the place-setting capacity and how much room there really is for pans and dishes. Que Choisir’s guides distinguish, in particular, between the capacities of 60 cm and 45 cm models.
An existing housing unit, a free space or a worktop may determine which size is right for you. Measure the space and check the connections before choosing an appliance, even if its stated width seems suitable.
Start with the dishes you use for a typical meal and the space available. Then compare noise levels and Eco programme figures for models that fit your kitchen.
| Factor | What to check | Who should consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Usable capacity | Place-setting capacity and basket layout, taking pans and dishes into account. | When meals leave me with lots of washing-up, I want to load larger utensils too, without running several cycles. Around 40% of consumers prioritise usable capacity. |
| Noise in your living space | Noise emissions in dB and the noise class on the label for the specific model; independent test results, if available. | If the cycle is running while I’m in the living room, the noise could disrupt what I’m doing. Around 30% of consumers prioritise keeping this disturbance to a minimum. |
| Space and installation | Width, height, depth, door clearance and connections; housing unit and door panel for an integrated model. | In a fitted kitchen, I need an appliance that will fit in the space provided and can be connected there. Around 20% of consumers put this compatibility ahead of other factors. |
| Use and maintenance | kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration on the label; set the water softener according to the instructions. | If I run the dishwasher often, I want to compare water and electricity use, as well as maintenance requirements. Around 10% of consumers put these running costs and maintenance at the top of their list. |
This figure doesn’t tell you whether your frying pans, saucepans and dishes will fit easily in the baskets. If the appliance is too small for your usual meals, you may need to run more cycles.
Make a note of the dishes you use for a typical meal, then check the capacity, width and interior layout of the model you’re considering.
According to the European Commission, the energy label also shows energy use per 100 cycles, water use per cycle, Eco programme duration, capacity and noise. The energy rating alone doesn’t give you the full picture of what matters for your household.
Compare these figures across appliances with a suitable capacity, bearing in mind that they relate to the Eco programme.
An integrated model needs a suitable housing unit. The planned door panel, door clearance and connections can also determine whether installation is possible.
Measure the housing unit and door panel, then compare the dimensions with the installation diagram for the specific model.
Water hardness varies from one home to another, so the same setting won’t suit everyone. Whirlpool recommends adjusting the appliance’s water softener to match the water hardness.
Find out how hard your water is, then follow the instructions for your model to adjust the setting.
Bosch offers a range of dishwashers, including models with stated noise levels of between 38 and 42 dB.
Miele’s French catalogue includes freestanding and integrated models, with noise levels shown for each one.
Beko’s French range includes freestanding dishwashers, built-in models with a visible control panel and fully integrated models.
Whirlpool offers, among other options, integrated dishwashers in 45 cm and 60 cm formats.
These 60 cm freestanding and integrated models are suited to everyday meals that produce a load to match their stated capacity. For an open-plan kitchen, also compare the noise level on the energy label with your own circumstances.
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Worth considering if your everyday washing-up calls for a stated capacity of 14 place settings and you have room for a freestanding appliance. The product details list seven programmes. Check the model’s noise level on its energy label and consult the instructions for connection requirements.
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This freestanding model is suited to a household with a load that matches its stated capacity of 14 place settings and space for an appliance 60 cm wide. It has an energy rating of E. Check the model’s energy label to compare its noise level and Eco programme figures.
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Consider this model for a fitted kitchen with a compatible housing unit and door panel, if 13 place settings suit your usual meals. It has an energy rating of C. Check the installation dimensions in the instructions and the model’s noise level on its energy label.
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This model is designed for a 60 cm integrated installation and has a stated capacity of 13 place settings, provided you have a suitable housing unit and door panel. It has an energy rating of B. The product details mention an Extra Silence programme: check how it works separately from the noise level stated on the energy label.
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Its stated capacity of 14 place settings may suit meals that leave lots of washing-up, if your kitchen is suitable for an integrated installation. It has an energy rating of E. Check the housing unit and door panel dimensions in the instructions, then compare the noise level and Eco figures on the energy label.
Compare the noise emissions in dB and noise class shown on the energy labels for the specific models. Que Choisir considers noise an important factor for an open-plan kitchen, but the stated figure doesn’t guarantee that the appliance won’t disturb you in your living space.
Choose according to the space available and the dishes from a typical meal, including serving dishes. Que Choisir gives a capacity of 12 to 17 place settings for 60 cm models and 9 to 10 for 45 cm models. A compact worktop model is better suited to smaller loads and limited space.
Measure the housing unit and check the door panel, door clearance and water, drainage and electrical connections using the model’s instructions. If you’re placing a freestanding appliance under a worktop, you should also confirm that this installation is suitable for the model you’ve chosen.
No. Under EU dishwasher energy-labelling regulations, the figures shown for energy, water and programme duration are based on the Eco programme. Compare models using this common basis, then check the programmes you plan to use separately.