Start by looking at the space available and the connections you can use. A model with a water tank may save you from needing a fixed water supply, but you’ll still need to drain the wastewater. A connected countertop model needs a usable water supply, while a slimline freestanding appliance takes up more floor space but doesn’t need a built-in recess. If none of these options suits the amount of washing-up you have, handwashing is still an option.
If you can’t alter the plumbing, distinguish between a model with a water tank and a compact model that needs connecting to the mains. Daan Tech says its Bob model can be used without a fixed water supply, but you’ll still need to check how it drains.
Without a built-in recess, you could consider a slimline freestanding model near the connections. The Electrolux ESA63200SX is one example, with a stated capacity of 10 place settings, provided its dimensions suit your kitchen.
A countertop appliance takes up valuable food-preparation space. Compare its footprint and the room needed to open the door with the space you actually use. Then consider a floor-standing model or sticking with handwashing.
First, check the water supply and where the appliance will go, then compare its capacity with the dishes you typically wash. A built-in model is only an option if you can create a suitable recess. If you don’t have enough space or won’t use an appliance often, handwashing avoids giving up space permanently.
| Your concern | What to check | Who this matters to |
|---|---|---|
| No water supply | Water tank or direct connection; route for wastewater. | Without a usable water supply, I want to fill the appliance without altering the plumbing. Around 36% of consumers would put this freedom from a fixed supply first. |
| Washing capacity | Stated number of place settings; room for your larger utensils. | If my everyday dishes won’t fit in a small countertop model, I’m looking for a more suitable-sized interior. Capacity would be the top priority for around 29% of consumers. |
| Available worktop space | Overall dimensions; room needed to open the door. | I want to cut down on handwashing without losing the space I use to prepare meals. Around 21% of consumers would make a clear worktop their top requirement. |
| How often you’ll use it | Realistic number of loads per week; space taken up between cycles. | If I don’t have much washing-up, I’d rather not give a rarely used appliance a permanent home. Avoiding this extra clutter would be the main priority for around 14% of consumers. |
A countertop appliance may need a water supply: Candy specifies a direct connection for the CP 6E51LS.
Check the instructions for your chosen model to find out how it gets water, how it drains and where the hoses need to go.
If you need to install a water supply, you may need plumbing work or connection accessories.
A slimline freestanding model can still be tall and deep: Electrolux gives the ESA63200SX dimensions as 850 × 446 × 615 mm. You’ll also need room for the open door and hoses.
Measure the full space, allow for the hoses and check access to the door before comparing installation specifications.
This figure alone won’t tell you whether your saucepans, serving bowls and larger plates will fit in the racks.
Make a note of the items you wash most often and compare their dimensions with the interior and racks of the specific model.
Space isn’t the only factor to consider over the long term: ease of maintenance and access to spare parts also matter when choosing a model.
Compare the repairability information for the model you’re considering, and check what spare parts are available, as well as the after-sales service and warranty terms.
Worth a look if you have a usable water supply and want to put an appliance on your worktop.
An option for very small loads when a fixed water supply is a problem.
Two 45 cm configurations to consider, depending on whether you have floor space or plan to create a built-in recess.
These countertop appliances are for kitchens without a built-in recess that have a surface available for a dishwasher. Depending on the model, check whether it needs a water supply or lets you fill a tank. If you want to keep your worktop clear, it’s also worth considering a slimline freestanding model.
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Worth considering if you can place an appliance on a stable surface without using a fixed water supply.
A 5 L built-in tank is stated in the product title. Check the space needed for drainage, the door opening and whether your dishes will fit inside.
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Worth considering for a small amount of washing-up if you’re happy to fill a tank by hand.
The product title states that it has seven programmes and a D energy rating. Check the instructions for drainage, clearance for the door to open and the size of dishes it can take.
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Worth considering if you prefer a countertop appliance and have a usable water supply near where you plan to put it.
The product title states that it holds 6 place settings and has seven programmes. Check the dimensions, door clearance and hose route before choosing a spot for it.
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Worth considering for a small load if you have a stable surface and somewhere to deal with the wastewater.
The product title states that it holds 3 place settings. Check the dimensions, as well as how this version gets its water and drains.
Not necessarily: its size doesn’t determine how it gets water. Candy describes the CP 6E51LS as needing a direct connection, while Daan Tech says its Bob model has a tank. Check the instructions for the exact model, including how it drains.
Yes. Wastewater still needs somewhere to go, even if the appliance doesn’t need a fixed water supply. Check the instructions to find out where to direct the drain hose and what you need to do for each cycle.
A 45 cm freestanding model could work without a recess if you have a permanent spot on the floor or under a worktop, as well as suitable connections. The Electrolux ESA63200SX is listed as holding 10 place settings and measuring 850 × 446 × 615 mm according to the manufacturer, so be sure to measure the height and depth as well as the width.
Make sure the location allows you to connect the appliance in line with its instructions. If the electrical installation needs changing, or you’re unsure about its setup, ask a qualified professional to assess the work.