In an open-plan kitchen and living room, start by comparing the stated noise levels in dB and measuring the space you actually have, rather than relying on the word ‘quiet’ alone. A standard or built-in model could be right if the space and your typical load call for it. A compact model takes up less room, but you’ll need to check its capacity and water connections carefully.
If a cycle might run during a meal, while you’re working from home or when you’re trying to relax, the stated noise level and the time you start it matter particularly. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of noise levels in open-plan kitchens.
In a small kitchen, you need to be able to install the appliance without obstructing the way through. Measure the space and check the installation type and connections before choosing a model.
A compact model may suit a smaller load, provided its racks can also fit the dishes you use every day. With some mini models, you need to fill the water tank and position the drain hose for every cycle, as a Joybuy guide points out.
In a flat with an open-plan kitchen, start by thinking about when the appliance will be running. Then compare its dimensions and capacity with your available space and usual load. A built-in model needs a compatible housing unit; a freestanding appliance doesn’t need a matching cabinet door, while a compact model is best suited to smaller loads.
| Feature | What to check | Who should consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in the living room | Compare the stated dB levels and noise ratings of the models you’re considering. Check whether they have a delay-start function if you want to choose when the cycle runs. | If I use my living room for work or relaxation too, I want to avoid being disturbed by a cycle. Around 36% of consumers rank noise disturbance as their main concern. |
| Space and installation type | Measure the height, width, depth and clearance; for a built-in model, also check the housing unit, cabinet door and connections. | If space is tight, I need to be able to install the appliance without blocking the way through or making unnecessary changes to the cabinets. Space and fit are the priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Usable capacity | Compare the number of place settings with the dishes and utensils you use. Look at the rack layout rather than relying on the stated capacity alone. | If I don’t have many dishes, I’d prefer a suitably sized model, but I still need it to fit my larger dishes. Around 21% of consumers prioritise a load capacity that suits the way they use their appliance. |
| Long-term running costs | Check water and energy consumption, including the units and reference programme. Also look at the repairability index for the model sold in France. | If I’m mainly thinking about using the appliance over several years, I want to take water, electricity and maintenance into account. These are the main considerations for around 14% of consumers. |
This marketing term is no substitute for a stated noise level. UFC-Que Choisir says that a 3 dB difference doubles the sound intensity, which is worth considering when a cycle runs close to your living room.
Compare the stated dB levels and noise ratings, then think about when you’ll actually run the appliance.
Dimensions and installation requirements vary by model. For example, Bosch lists dimensions of 865 × 598 × 550 mm for its fully integrated SBH4HB808E. These measurements don’t apply to other models.
Check the housing unit, required cabinet door, clearances and connections, as well as the terms of any installation service you’re considering.
If the appliance isn’t compatible, you may need to adapt the cabinet or arrange another installation visit.
Its small footprint may come with limited capacity. According to the Joybuy guide, some mini models without a water inlet require you to fill a tank and position a drain hose for every wash.
Check the instructions for your chosen model to make sure it can fit larger dishes, and to confirm its water supply, drainage and stated noise level.
The letter alone doesn’t tell you about noise or energy consumption in every set of conditions. Check the water and energy figures alongside their units and the programme they refer to.
Compare figures on a like-for-like basis and check the repairability index that applies to the model sold in France.
Running an appliance also involves water, electricity, maintenance and consumables.
A brand to consider for a 60 cm appliance, particularly if you need to check its fit and stated noise level carefully.
One to consider if the space you have available makes a compact dishwasher your first choice.
A brand to consider if you’re comparing freestanding and built-in models based on their stated noise levels.
These models include compact tabletop dishwashers, a 60 cm freestanding appliance and a built-in model. First, choose a size that suits your kitchen and typical load, then compare the stated noise level of the specific model.
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Worth considering for a smaller load if you have suitable space on a worktop. Check the dimensions and connections before buying.
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Consider this for a larger load if your kitchen has enough space for a 60 cm freestanding appliance. Check the depth and connections too.
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Worth considering if you wash very small loads; the advertised capacity of 3 place settings may not be enough for larger dishes. Check how this version is supplied with water and confirm its stated noise level.
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Consider this if your kitchen has a housing unit and cabinet door that are compatible with a 60 cm built-in dishwasher. Confirm the noise level of this version before choosing it for an open-plan living space.
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Worth considering if a worktop installation suits your needs better. Check the space, drainage, noise level and usable capacity before choosing this model for an open-plan kitchen.
Compare the stated dB level and noise rating of models that will fit your space. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of noise in open-plan kitchens and says a 3 dB difference doubles the sound intensity. So the word ‘quiet’ isn’t enough to compare two appliances.
No, the water supply depends on the model. According to the Joybuy guide, some mini models use a tank that you need to fill and require you to position a drain hose for every cycle. Check the instructions and available connection options before ordering.
No. The number of place settings is a useful starting point, but your pans and larger dishes also need to fit in the racks. UFC-Que Choisir includes capacity among the factors to consider, so check the inside layout against the dishes you usually use.
Yes. The French Ministry of the Economy says the repairability index is mandatory for the dishwashers covered by the rules. Shown as a score out of 10, it gives you extra information to consider alongside energy use and size when comparing models.