Choose a fully integrated dishwasher if you want the cabinet door to conceal the entire appliance, or a semi-integrated model if you’re happy for the control panel to remain visible. A freestanding model means you won’t have a matching cabinet door. Before choosing an integrated model, compare the housing measurements with its installation diagram, check how the cabinet door is fitted, and factor in any installation costs.
If you’re keeping your kitchen units, how well the cabinet door lines up depends on the door mechanism as well as the appliance’s dimensions. Que Choisir explains that an integrated dishwasher is fitted into a housing. Compare your measurements with the installation diagram for the model you’re considering.
A fully integrated dishwasher conceals the appliance and its controls when the door is closed. If you’d rather keep the control panel visible, a semi-integrated model leaves this part exposed, as Que Choisir explains. In either case, check the cabinet door and how it is fitted.
If a matching cabinet door isn’t essential, a freestanding model may be worth considering. According to Que Choisir, it already has its own finished exterior. However, the front will remain visible, and you’ll need to make sure it fits the space available.
Choose this if: you want a cabinet door to conceal the appliance and its controls when closed.
Bear in mind: you’ll need a door panel that suits the fitting system and the way the door moves on your chosen model.
Choose this if: you want a door to match your kitchen units while keeping the control panel visible.
Bear in mind: you’ll need a panel below the controls, so the front won’t have a completely seamless finish.
Choose this if: you don’t need the appliance to blend in with your kitchen units and are happy for its front to be visible.
Check: that it fits your layout. Whether it can be installed under a worktop depends on factors including the model’s dimensions and whether its top panel can be removed.
| What to consider | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Housing and door panel | Compare the measured width, height and depth with the installation diagram. Check the fittings and how far the door opens. | If I’m keeping my kitchen units, I want to avoid buying an appliance that won’t fit or whose door catches on the plinth. Around 36% of consumers rank compatibility as their main concern. |
| Appearance | Decide whether you’re happy with a visible control panel and check what sort of door panel your chosen configuration requires. | If I want my kitchen units to form a seamless line, I’d rather the appliance disappeared behind a closed door. This discreet look is the top priority for around 21% of consumers. |
| Size and capacity | Check the width of the housing, then the capacity and interior layout of the exact model. | If I regularly wash large dishes, I want them to fit without choosing a size that won’t work in my kitchen. Around 22% of consumers prioritise size and loading capacity. |
| Budget and everyday use | Include the door panel and any installation costs in your budget. Then compare water, energy and noise figures for models of a similar size. | When renovating a kitchen, I want to consider installation as well as everyday use. The total cost and how long the appliance will be used are the main concern for around 21% of consumers. |
The stated width doesn’t tell you whether the dishwasher will fit beneath your worktop, whether the housing is deep enough or whether the door panel has enough room to open.
Measure all three dimensions and compare them with the installation diagram for the exact model. Bosch recommends checking this diagram for the measurements needed for installation.
An appliance designed for a cabinet door also means checking that the panel is suitable and allowing for any work needed to install it.
Before comparing offers, ask for separate prices for the appliance, door panel, any adjustments to the kitchen units, delivery and installation.
The door movement and plinth clearance requirements vary by model. Bosch and Siemens offer some models with a special hinge, but this feature isn’t available across their entire ranges.
Give your kitchen fitter or installer the full model number and installation instructions so they can confirm that the door panel is compatible.
The energy rating doesn’t tell you everything about water use, Eco programme duration, capacity or noise levels that may matter in your kitchen.
Check the other details on the EU energy label and compare appliances of a similar size, after confirming that they’ll fit your space.
Bosch’s range includes integrated dishwashers in various sizes, including fully integrated models.
The Siemens range includes fully integrated dishwashers and models with a visible control panel.
Miele’s range includes integrated and fully integrated dishwashers in different sizes, depending on the model.
Whirlpool offers a range of integrated dishwashers designed for fitted kitchens.
Electrolux includes the EES42210L, a 45 cm fully integrated dishwasher with a stated capacity of 9 place settings.
Not necessarily: width alone isn’t enough to confirm compatibility. Measure the height and depth too, then compare all the measurements with the installation diagram for the exact model. Bosch recommends checking this document before you buy.
Yes. A fully integrated dishwasher is designed to be fitted with a cabinet door that conceals the appliance when closed. Before ordering, check whether the door is sold separately, as well as its dimensions and fitting system.
Compare the energy rating as well as the details for the Eco programme, water use and noise level on models of a similar size. The European Commission states that, since 1 March 2021, the energy label for household dishwashers has used a scale from A to G. These details don’t replace the need to check the housing and door panel.
In France, you can take your old appliance to a collection point, a recycling centre or a retailer, depending on the guidance from the ministry responsible for the ecological transition. Arrange what you’ll do before your new appliance arrives.