If you have only a small amount of washing-up and a stable surface near the connections, a countertop model could be a good fit. A tank-fed model avoids the need for a fixed water supply, but you’ll still need to plan for drainage and an electricity supply. If smaller loads are piling up and you have floor space available, consider a slimline model, then check its connections and space requirements.
If you live alone or with a partner and want to cut down on washing up by hand without taking up floor space, measure the worktop area available and check that your dishes and utensils will fit. UFC-Que Choisir describes 6-place-setting models as space-saving appliances designed to sit on a worktop.
A tank-fed appliance could be a solution if a fixed connection is difficult to arrange, provided you can manage the drainage and have a suitable socket. Daan Tech’s connection guide explains these requirements for Bob.
If loads are building up, you could also compare a slimline freestanding model, provided you have floor space and suitable connections. Product pages from Candy France and Whirlpool France show appliances rated for 6 and 10 place settings respectively.
First measure the space, then check the connections and how much washing-up you need to fit in. Noise and energy and water consumption figures can then help you compare the models that suit your kitchen.
| What matters | What to check before buying | Who should consider it? |
|---|---|---|
| Size and placement | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the clearance needed to open the door. Candy France lists the CP 6E51LS as measuring 550 × 501 × 443 mm. | If I don’t want to give up floor space, I also check how much worktop space the appliance will take up. Around 28% of consumers put available space first. |
| Water supply, drainage and electricity | Check the instructions for the water supply method, the drainage route and the electrical requirements of the exact model. | If a fixed water supply is difficult to use, I check that I can fill the appliance and drain the wastewater without getting in the way in the kitchen. Around 22% of consumers put connections top of their list. |
| Capacity and dish size | Compare the basket layout with your plates and pans, and see how the stated place-setting capacity compares with your usual loads. | If smaller loads aren’t enough for the meals I prepare, I check whether my larger items will actually fit in the tub. Around 22% of consumers prioritise usable capacity. |
| Noise in a small room | Compare the noise levels listed for the specific models, using the same labelling basis. | If the kitchen is close to my living space, I take the stated noise level of the appliance I’m considering into account. Around 17% of consumers prioritise quiet operation. |
| Consumption and running costs | Compare the kWh per 100 Eco cycles and litres per Eco cycle on the labels for the models you’ve shortlisted. Check installation costs and repairability separately. | If I want to keep costs under control over time, I compare consumption figures on a like-for-like basis instead of looking only at the energy rating. Around 11% of consumers prioritise overall cost. |
With Bob, the tank means there’s no need for a fixed water supply, but you’ll still need drainage and an electrical socket.
Before setting aside a space, plan the route for the clean water, wastewater and power cable, then check the instructions.
Filling the tank by hand and arranging the drainage can take time every time you use it.
The stated capacity doesn’t guarantee that your plates and pans will fit in the baskets. If your dishes don’t fit the tub well, you may also need to run more cycles.
Measure your largest items and check the interior layout of the exact model before choosing.
The European Union energy label shows, among other things, electricity consumption per 100 Eco cycles and water consumption per Eco cycle. The letter rating alone doesn’t tell you these figures or the other costs associated with using the appliance.
Compare the figures on the labels on a like-for-like basis, then look separately at any applicable installation and maintenance costs.
The examples below relate to specific models or ranges; the features listed don’t apply to every product from a brand.
The CP 6E51LS is an example of a countertop dishwasher rated for 6 place settings; the brand also offers 45 cm freestanding models.
Bob is designed for situations where a fixed water supply is difficult to use.
The WSFO3T223P is an example of a 45 cm freestanding model for households with space on the floor.
The ESL2500RO shows that a compact appliance can be designed for full integration rather than for placing on a worktop.
The SKS2ITW00E and SKS2ITI00E are examples of compact countertop models.
These countertop models are suited to smaller loads and kitchens where space is limited. Check the dimensions and drainage requirements for each appliance.
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Its countertop design and stated capacity make it worth considering for smaller loads in a compact kitchen.
The title lists capacity for 4 place settings, a 5 L tank, 9 programmes, dimensions of 37 × 50 cm and energy rating D.
In tank mode, wastewater drains through a hose into a container, according to the product description.
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The countertop design and stated tank capacity could suit you if you’re looking for a compact appliance for smaller loads.
The title lists a built-in 5 L tank, 5+1 wash cycles and a double tempered-glass door.
Check the model details to find out how to manage wastewater drainage and what connections are needed.
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Its stated capacity of 6 place settings makes it worth considering for a household looking for a countertop appliance.
The title lists 7 programmes, a digital display, a 24-hour delay start, a stated noise level of 47 dB and energy rating D.
Compare its noise level and dimensions with those of the other models you’re considering.
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The stated worktop-friendly design and capacity may appeal to a household with smaller loads.
The title lists stated consumption of 0,58 kWh per cycle, water use of 3,5 to 5 L and capacity for 4 to 6 place settings.
Check the measurement conditions and model dimensions before comparing these figures with those of other appliances.
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The stated capacity of 3 place settings could suit smaller loads, provided the volume of your washing-up fits the tub.
The title lists a 5 L tank and capacity for 3 place settings.
Check the model’s dimensions and drainage instructions before setting aside space for it.
No, not in the case of Bob: Daan Tech’s connection guide says the tank removes the need for a fixed water supply, but drainage to a trap, sink or container is still required, depending on the installation. Follow the instructions for securing and positioning the drain hose.
The European Union energy label for household dishwashers shows, among other things, kWh per 100 Eco cycles and litres of water per Eco cycle. Compare appliances on this same basis; these figures don’t necessarily reflect other programmes or your actual use.
Check the model instructions for guidance on cleaning the filters and spray arms. UFC-Que Choisir points out that maintenance matters for the appliance’s lifespan and that a fault doesn’t always mean you need to replace it.
Subject to its terms, the statutory warranty of conformity covers new, second-hand and refurbished goods sold by a business to an individual. The French Ministry of the Economy states that you have two years to claim under it; this is separate from an optional commercial warranty extension.
Yes. The French Ministry of the Economy states that dishwashers are among the products covered by the repairability index. The score provides information about repairability criteria, but doesn’t guarantee a particular lifespan.