Start by considering the space available, the connections you need and how much crockery builds up between washes. The 45 cm Beko BDFS26041XQ and Miele G 5790 SCVi SL models are rated for 10 and 9 place settings respectively, while the worktop mini models described by UFC-Que Choisir usually hold 2 or 3 place settings. In an open-plan kitchen, also compare the noise level and Eco consumption figures for the exact model. A smaller appliance won’t necessarily be better suited to everyday use.
If a wash cycle could disrupt a conversation, working from home or relaxing in the living room, compare each model’s stated noise level with its capacity and Eco consumption figures. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise levels are when the kitchen is open-plan.
A narrow recess or space may be suitable for an appliance, provided its dimensions, door clearance and connections are right. For an integrated model, also check that the planned cabinet door panel is suitable.
A mini dishwasher could suit smaller loads if there’s enough room on the worktop. UFC-Que Choisir describes models with a 2- or 3-place-setting capacity and a water tank. Also check how your chosen model fills and drains.
If there’s nowhere suitable to install an appliance, or you rarely have dishes to wash, washing up by hand remains an option. However, it won’t provide the automation you’re looking for.
| Consideration | What to check | Think about your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Noise | Compare the dB(A) rating and noise class on the energy label for each specific model. ADEME notes that a 3 dB difference represents approximately a near-doubling of noise. | I want to run a cycle while people are using the living space: noise levels matter just as much as the room the appliance takes up. |
| Capacity and space | Compare the stated place-setting capacity with the amount of crockery you have between washes, then measure the width, height, depth and door clearance. Beko rates its 45 cm BDFS26041XQ for 10 place settings, while Miele rates the 45 cm G 5790 SCVi SL for 9. | A worktop model may be enough for smaller loads. If plates and utensils pile up, I need to check that I won’t have to run several cycles. |
| Water and electricity | The European energy label shows kWh per 100 Eco cycles and litres per Eco cycle. Consider these figures alongside capacity and programme duration, rather than comparing consumption per cycle in isolation. | I want to compare how much each appliance uses for a volume of washing that suits my household. |
| Installation | Check the water supply, drainage, electrical supply and door clearance. For an integrated model, also check the recess and cabinet door panel. Electrolux’s pre-installation guide notes that plumbing, electrical or carpentry work may not be carried out by the installers. | I’d rather know what connections and any additional work are needed before choosing a model. If I have no floor space, I’ll also need a suitable surface to place it on and a way to drain it. |
| Repairability | In France, a repairability index is required for dishwashers, according to the Ministry of the Economy. Check the score and its criteria, then ask about parts and service for the model you’re considering. | If the appliance breaks down, I want to know what repair options are available for that specific model. |
A 45 cm appliance may still be incompatible with the available depth, the door, the connections or, for an integrated model, the recess and cabinet door panel.
Measure the entire space and check the water supply, drainage, socket and door clearance before you order.
Depending on the work required and the service you choose, plumbing, electrical or carpentry work may need to be arranged separately.
In an open-plan kitchen, the sound of a cycle can matter when people are using the living room. According to ADEME, an extra 3 dB represents approximately a near-doubling of noise.
Compare the dB(A) ratings and noise classes on the labels for the exact models, bearing in mind when you plan to run the appliance.
UFC-Que Choisir describes worktop mini models with a capacity of 2 or 3 place settings, while the 45 cm Beko BDFS26041XQ and Miele G 5790 SCVi SL are rated for 10 and 9 place settings respectively.
Consider how much crockery you produce between washes, including utensils, then check the space, filling method and drainage for the compact model you’re considering.
The repairability index provides information on several criteria, but the score alone doesn’t tell you how repairs are arranged or whether a part is actually available for your appliance.
Check the index details and ask about parts and after-sales service for the model you’ve chosen.
The details below apply to the models mentioned, not to every appliance made by each brand.
A model to consider if you have a recess that can accommodate an integrated appliance around 60 cm wide.
An option if you want several place settings in a slimline freestanding model.
A 45 cm integrated model to consider if it fits your recess and cabinet door panel.
Bob is a worktop mini dishwasher designed for smaller loads.
This selection includes worktop models for small kitchens and a 60 cm integrated model for a home with a suitable recess.
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A worktop model to consider for smaller loads, provided the 3-place-setting capacity stated for this variant suits the crockery you use every day.
Before deciding where to put it, check how this variant fills and drains, along with its noise and consumption figures.
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This 3-place-setting worktop model could suit smaller loads if you have space for it near a drain.
The product description lists 7 programmes and a D energy rating. Before buying, check its dimensions, water supply, noise level and Eco figures.
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With a stated capacity of 13 place settings, this model is suited to a household with more washing up and a recess for a 60 cm appliance.
Before choosing this model for an open-plan kitchen, check the recess, cabinet door panel, connections, noise level on the energy label and Eco programme consumption.
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This worktop model is rated for 6 place settings. Compare that capacity with your usual loads and the space available in your kitchen.
The product description lists a noise level of 47 dB, 7 programmes and a D energy rating. Check the dimensions, connections and conditions used for the consumption measurements before comparing it with another appliance.
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With a stated capacity of 3 place settings, this model is intended for smaller loads, provided you have enough worktop space for it.
Before choosing this model for an open-plan kitchen, check its dimensions, noise level, consumption figures and how it fills and drains.
Compare the dB(A) rating and noise class on the energy label for the exact model. According to ADEME, an increase of 3 dB represents approximately a near-doubling of noise. Also consider when you plan to run a cycle.
The European energy label shows details including the energy rating, kWh per 100 Eco cycles, litres of water per Eco cycle, programme duration, capacity and noise level. Consider the consumption figures alongside the number of place settings: two cycles won’t necessarily wash the same amount of crockery.
Measure the space and door clearance, then check the water supply, drainage and electrical supply. For an integrated model, also check the dimensions of the recess and the cabinet door panel. Electrolux notes in its pre-installation guide that installers may not carry out carpentry, plumbing or electrical work.
Yes, if its smaller capacity suits your needs and you have room for it on the worktop. UFC-Que Choisir describes mini models with a 2- or 3-place-setting capacity that use a water tank. Check how your chosen model fills and drains, and how much space it needs.
No. According to the Ministry of the Economy, dishwashers sold in France must have a repairability index, which provides information on several repair-related criteria. Also ask about parts and after-sales service for the model you’re interested in.