Renter without a dedicated water supply
If changing the plumbing isn’t an option, a mini model with a water tank could be a good fit. You’ll still need somewhere for the wastewater to drain and a suitable surface to place it on.
Which format is right for you?
Single person or couple with worktop space to spare
A connected countertop dishwasher means you don’t need to set aside floor space. You’ll need to be happy with it taking up part of your worktop permanently, and make sure you have access to water and drainage.
Couple with a 45 cm space on the floor
If the depth and connections are also suitable, a slim model can fit more place settings than the 6-place-setting countertop model featured here. Width alone isn’t enough to confirm that it will fit.
What sets the different formats apart?
If your kitchen has no room for a standard dishwasher, being able to fit and connect the appliance matters more than its stated capacity. The formats below suit different needs.
Mini model with a water tank
Worth considering: if you don’t have a dedicated water supply but do have a stable surface and suitable drainage. Daan Tech says Bob can be supplied with water from a tank or a mains connection.
Bear in mind: you’ll need to fill it by hand, and its capacity is limited. You’ll still need to drain the wastewater.
Connected countertop model
Worth considering: if you have worktop space and access to a water supply, but no room on the floor.
Bear in mind: it will take up worktop space permanently. The Candy CP 6E51LS is an example of this format, with a stated capacity of 6 place settings.
Slim 45 cm model
Worth considering: if you have a space on the floor, enough depth and the necessary connections.
Bear in mind: it will still be tall and deep, despite its narrow width. The slim Beko BDFS15030W and Electrolux ESG42310SW models are stated to fit 10 and 9 place settings respectively.
| Priority | What to check | Who it suits and why |
|---|---|---|
| Positioning and connections | Measure the space and check the water supply method, as well as the drainage route specified in the instructions. | If there’s no ready-made space, I need to be able to position the appliance and drain its wastewater without improvised plumbing. Around 42% of consumers would prioritise this practical consideration. |
| Everyday capacity | Compare the stated place settings with the room actually available in the racks for your plates, saucepans and frying pans. | If I cook often, a capacity that’s too small could mean running extra cycles or washing utensils by hand. Around 33% of consumers would put capacity first. |
| Size and consumption | Check the width, depth and height, along with the required clearances. Then compare the energy labels of models suited to your needs. | I want to preserve my worktop space or keep the kitchen clear, without overlooking the water and electricity used. Around 25% of consumers would put this balance first. |
Mistakes to avoid before you buy
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Assuming a water tank removes every installation constraint
Bob’s tank, as described by Daan Tech, means this model doesn’t need a water supply, but the wastewater still needs to be drained.
Before ordering, work out whether the hose can reach the sink or trap, and check the drainage instructions for the model you’ve chosen.
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Measuring the width and nothing else
A slim dishwasher isn’t necessarily short or shallow: Bosch gives the SPS4EMI11E dimensions as 845 × 450 × 600 mm for height, width and depth.
Measure all three dimensions of the space and check the clearances required in the instructions for the exact model.
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Choosing the smallest format without considering how much washing-up you produce
The Candy CP 6E51LS is stated to fit 6 place settings, compared with 9 for the Electrolux ESG42310SW and 10 for the Beko BDFS15030W. Those figures alone won’t tell you whether your larger utensils will fit in the racks.
Make a note of everything you use over the course of a day, then check the rack layout and how many cycles you’d need.
Brands to consider by format
Daan Tech
The Bob range is an example of a mini countertop dishwasher, with an integrated water tank or a mains water connection, depending on the configuration.
- Daan Tech describes two ways to supply water to Bob, which is useful if access to a water supply is your main concern.
- A drainage hose is still needed. Check the capacity and accessories for the version you’re considering, too.
Candy
The CP 6E51LS is an example of a countertop dishwasher that sits on a worktop and connects to the water supply.
- Candy states that this model fits 6 place settings and measures 550 × 501 × 443 mm.
- Its direct connection to the water supply means it won’t suit you if you need an appliance that works without a mains connection.
Bosch
The SPS4EMI11E is an example of a slim, freestanding dishwasher designed for a space on the floor.
- Bosch gives the dimensions of this model as 845 × 450 × 600 mm, so you can check exactly how much space it needs.
- Don’t assume its dimensions and features apply to other 45 cm Bosch models. Follow the instructions for the model you choose.
Beko
The BDFS15030W is an example of a slim, freestanding model designed for a space on the floor.
- Beko states that this model is 45 cm wide and fits 10 place settings.
- Its product information states that it uses 11.9 l of water per Eco cycle and has a D energy rating. Compare the label for the exact model rather than assuming its consumption from its width.
Joybuy products related to this topic
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Can a mini dishwasher work without a dedicated water supply?
Yes, if the model has a water tank: Daan Tech describes this option for Bob. You’ll still need to drain the wastewater through the hose, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
What measurements should I take for a compact dishwasher?
Measure the width, depth and height, then check the clearances required for installation. For example, Candy states that the CP 6E51LS measures 550 × 501 × 443 mm, while Bosch gives the SPS4EMI11E dimensions as 845 × 450 × 600 mm.
How can I compare the consumption of two different formats?
Compare the energy labels for the exact models, after checking that they can fit your washing-up. ADEME recommends looking at capacity as well as water and energy consumption. Low consumption per cycle alone won’t tell you which appliance is best if you need to use one of them more often.
What should I check before installing a dishwasher in a rental property?
Check the instructions, space, water supply and drainage before installing the appliance. If connecting it means making changes to the property, check your tenancy agreement and ask your landlord for confirmation before starting any work.