Start by checking the connections actually available and the measured width. A compact dishwasher with a water tank can avoid the need for a fixed water supply, but you will still need to fill it and arrange for the wastewater to drain away. A 45 cm model is suitable when you need more practical capacity in a limited space, while a 60 cm model only makes sense if its dimensions and capacity match your kitchen and washing-up routine.
You may be looking for a compact, flexible solution, particularly if there is no permanent water connection. A mini dishwasher with a water tank could be suitable, provided you plan for filling it and draining the wastewater. Daan Tech highlights both of these requirements for its Bob model.
You want more capacity than a mini model while keeping the width to a minimum. The Bosch and Electrolux 45 cm models mentioned here show that freestanding and fully integrated dishwashers have different dimensions and installation requirements. Check the depth, height and installation type separately.
You already have a 600 mm recess or space available and would prefer to wash more dishes in a single cycle. The width, depth, connections and your actual capacity needs should still be confirmed before choosing this format.
Start with installation and available space, then compare noise levels and consumption figures using the same label information.
| Priority | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in the living area | Compare the declared sound level in dB(A) and the A to D noise class on the label. A Silence function does not replace these two measures. | I want to be able to run a cycle while working, entertaining or sleeping in an adjoining room. ADEME states that noise classes A and B are particularly quiet. |
| Size and useful capacity | Measure the width, height, depth, door opening and available access routes. Match the number of place settings to your everyday dishes and cookware. | I am looking for an appliance that does not overwhelm the room or force me to run several cycles for a small daily load. |
| Water and energy | Compare kWh per 100 cycles and litres per reference cycle. Also check the duration of the Eco programme if the kitchen is in use while the cycle is running. | I want to compare consumption on a consistent basis rather than draw a conclusion from a single marketing claim. |
| Connection and drainage | For a standard appliance, check the water, electricity and drainage requirements. For a tank model, check the manual filling process, drain hose and the model's instructions. | I need to know before ordering whether the installation is compatible with the home, unit and available connections. |
A 45 cm model may be freestanding or fully integrated, with different dimensions and requirements. An integrated model may need a compatible door panel, while a 60 cm model requires both its width and depth to be checked against your kitchen.
Measure the width, height, depth, hose route and door clearance. For an integrated model, also check that the unit and door panel are suitable for the exact reference.
A model with a water tank can work without a fixed water supply, but the wastewater must still be drained away. Daan Tech specifies this for its tank-equipped Bob model.
Before buying, decide where fresh water will be added and where wastewater will drain, then check the hose lengths and limits set out in the manual.
Terms such as “quiet” do not replace the declared sound level in dB and the acoustic class. In an open-plan kitchen, these figures allow for a more consistent comparison between models.
Prioritise the dB figure and noise class on the energy labels, then choose a start time that suits how you use your living space.
Label data relates to the reference programme, usually Eco. Actual usage varies depending on the number of cycles, load and programme selected.
Use kWh per 100 cycles and litres per cycle to compare models on the same basis, then estimate how often you are likely to run the dishwasher.
A Bob mini dishwasher option for very small spaces and situations without a fixed water supply.
A range covering 45 cm freestanding, 45 cm integrated and 60 cm freestanding dishwashers, allowing you to compare width, integration and capacity.
A reference point for a 45 cm fully integrated model with medium capacity for a compatible kitchen unit.
A range including compact 6-place-setting models and slimline 45 cm appliances for smaller spaces.
These Joybuy options include compact countertop dishwashers and 60 cm models for kitchens that already have a suitable space.
Image unavailable
A compact option for a small load and installation without a permanent water supply, provided you plan how to drain the water.
4 place settings stated; stated dimensions of 45,8 × 42,8 × 42,5 cm; integrated 5 L tank and the option to connect to a tap.
For an open-plan kitchen, check the sound level and acoustic class. The 4-place-setting capacity may be limited for a larger household.
Image unavailable
This countertop model is aimed at a small household with a worktop, water supply and drainage available.
6 place settings, 7 programmes, stated noise level of 47 dB, 49 kWh/100 uses and 6,5 L per cycle; stated inlet hose length of 1 500 mm and drain hose length of 1 720 mm.
Measure the available worktop space, door clearance and hose route before installation.
Image unavailable
Only consider this model if a 600 mm integrated recess and the necessary connections are already in place.
13 place settings, stated width of 595 mm, energy class B and stated noise level of 44 dB(A); Extra Silence programme stated at 42 dBA.
Check the energy label for water consumption per Eco cycle and kWh/100 cycles, as well as the conditions and duration of the Extra Silence programme.
Image unavailable
A standard format for a small home that already has a 60 cm space, water supply and drainage available.
14 place settings, stated dimensions of 600 × 590 × 850 mm, stated noise level of 41 dB, class C and approximately 9,5 L per Eco cycle.
The large capacity may be excessive for frequent small loads. Check the kWh/100 cycles on the label before comparing energy consumption.
Image unavailable
A very small-capacity solution for a studio flat or rental property where manual filling is preferable to modifying the plumbing.
3 place settings, 7 programmes, stated dimensions of 420 × 436 × 465 mm, delayed start of up to 24 hours and energy class D.
Confirm the wastewater drainage arrangements, sound level and consumption before buying. 3 place settings are best suited to one person or frequent cycles.
No. Before buying, check that suitable water, electrical and drainage connections are available. Choosing between a freestanding and integrated model does not remove these requirements. An integrated model also needs a compatible unit and, depending on the reference, a furniture door.
It can eliminate the need for a fixed water supply. Daan Tech states that its Bob model can operate with an integrated 4 L tank, but it also includes a drain hose. Wastewater drainage and the instructions in the manual still need to be arranged.
At a minimum, compare capacity, kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle, Eco cycle duration, sound level in dB and noise class. ADEME states that classes A and B are particularly quiet; nevertheless, check the figures for each individual model.
The legal guarantee of conformity is mandatory for new, second-hand or refurbished goods sold by a professional to a private individual, according to the French Directorate-General for Competition, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Prevention. It covers defects in the conformity of the goods and, under the applicable conditions, issues relating to assembly instructions or installation.