In a studio flat, start by choosing a format that suits the available space and connections: a countertop model if you have a suitable worktop, a slimline model if you have floor space, or an integrated model if the niche and connections are suitable. Manual filling doesn’t remove the need to plan for drainage. Check that the basket can hold your dishes, then compare noise levels and consumption using the stated cycle as a guide.
If you’re considering manual filling, you’ll still need a stable space for the appliance and a way to drain the waste water. Daan Tech says Bob can be filled using its reservoir or connected to a water supply.
A slimline model may suit you if you have space on the floor and the necessary connections. Also measure the height and depth, and allow enough room to open the door.
A compact integrated model may be worth considering if the niche dimensions, cabinet door and connections meet the model’s requirements.
Consider it: if you have a suitable worktop but no floor space. Some models, such as Bob according to Daan Tech, can be filled manually or connected to a water supply.
Bear in mind: the appliance takes up worktop space, and you’ll need to arrange a way to drain the waste water.
Consider it: if you have floor space and the necessary connections, and need a basket that can hold more everyday dishes. Whirlpool describes a freestanding 45 cm model with space for 10 place settings.
Bear in mind: a narrow width doesn’t guarantee that the height, depth or door clearance will suit your space.
Consider it: if you already have a compatible niche and accessible connections. Electrolux offers a fully integrated 55 cm model with space for 6 place settings.
Bear in mind: check the niche dimensions, cabinet door and model installation instructions before making your choice.
The proportions below relate to consumers choosing a small dishwasher for a studio flat or small kitchen; each row represents one main priority.
| Criterion | What to check before buying | Who cares most about it |
|---|---|---|
| Size and door clearance | Measure the width, height and depth, as well as the clearance needed for the door; check how much space will be left around the appliance. | When every centimetre counts, I want to install and open the appliance without blocking the way or losing all my worktop space. This would be a priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Water supply and drainage | Check the intended water supply method, then plan the route and positioning of the drain hose. | Without a dedicated water supply, I check whether the model can be filled manually and where the waste water can drain. Around 29% of consumers would put these connections and drainage first. |
| Usable capacity | Check the basket against your plates, pans and utensils; make sure nothing blocks the spray arm. | If I want to cut down on washing up by hand, my usual dishes need to fit in the basket. Capacity would be the main priority for around 24% of consumers. |
| Noise and consumption | Compare the noise level, kWh per 100 eco cycles, litres per eco cycle and the duration of that programme. | In an open-plan living space, I take noise and resource consumption into account once I’ve checked the installation requirements and capacity. Around 18% of consumers would prioritise these factors. |
ADEME explains that the energy label shows energy use in kWh per 100 reference cycles and water use in litres per reference cycle. The European Commission also lists capacity, the duration of the eco programme and noise levels. Compare appliances on the same basis, and don’t assume these figures apply to every programme.
Manual filling can avoid the need for a water supply connection on models designed for it, but the waste water still needs to drain away.
Check the water supply method and drain hose route separately in the instructions for your chosen model.
Two other dimensions can make installation difficult: depth and the clearance needed to open the door. The number of place settings doesn’t guarantee that your pans or larger dishes will fit in the basket.
Measure the entire space and compare it with the appliance dimensions. Also check that the basket suits your usual dishes.
The water and electricity figures on the label relate to a reference cycle, not every programme.
Compare figures calculated on the same basis, and check the duration of the eco cycle too.
The brand showcases the compact countertop format with a reservoir or water supply connection, notably with Bob.
The range includes a slimline freestanding dishwasher designed for floor installation.
The ESL2500RO is an example of a fully integrated compact model to consider if you have a suitable niche.
This selection features compact countertop dishwashers for small kitchens, including several models with a water reservoir.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a countertop model with a built-in reservoir for a narrow kitchen.
The product listing gives a width of 37 cm, a 5 L reservoir, capacity for up to 4 place settings and 9 programmes. The drain hose needs to run into a sink or suitable bucket.
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Worth considering if you’d like a countertop appliance that can be filled from its reservoir or connected to a tap.
The product listing gives a capacity of 4 place settings, a built-in 5 L reservoir and 5 + 1 wash cycles. The drain hose needs to be placed in a sink or suitable bucket.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a countertop appliance with a stated capacity of 6 place settings.
The product title lists 7 programmes, a noise level of 47 dB and energy rating D.
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Worth considering if you need a small countertop appliance and its stated capacity suits your dishes.
The product title lists 3 place settings, 7 programmes, a noise level of 56.3 dB and energy rating C. The product listing mentions a 5 L reservoir or a water connection, as well as water consumption of 4.2 L per wash. A drain hose is also listed.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a reservoir-fed countertop appliance for a small household.
The product listing gives a capacity of 3 place settings, 7 programmes and dimensions of 420 × 436 × 465 mm. It describes manual filling of the reservoir; the title lists energy rating D.
No. For Bob, Daan Tech offers manual filling or a water supply connection, but also specifies a hose to drain the waste water. Check the water supply method and drainage instructions for your chosen model.
Compare the dimensions of your dishes with the basket layout rather than relying on the number of place settings alone. Daan Tech gives Bob a capacity of 3 standard place settings. Its documentation also explains that overloading the appliance or blocking the spray arm can affect its operation.
Compare the label figures on a like-for-like basis: energy use per 100 eco cycles and water use per eco cycle. The European label also shows capacity, programme duration and noise levels; these figures don’t necessarily describe the other programmes.
Follow the instructions for maintaining your model. In France, the legal guarantee of conformity applies to goods sold by a professional to a private individual, subject to its conditions. The DGCCRF says that information about the availability of certain spare parts for domestic dishwashers covers 7 or 10 years, depending on the parts, from the date the model was last placed on the market.