If there’s no dedicated space, first choose a spot where the door can open and the water, waste and electrical connections are accessible: UFC-Que Choisir says all three connections are needed. A compact model can save floor space, but offers less capacity. A 45 cm freestanding model needs more depth, while a 60 cm model is only worth considering if its width and capacity suit your kitchen. If the spot isn’t connected, get advice on what would be needed to adapt it before choosing an appliance.
A compact model on a stable surface can save you from having to set aside a built-in space or a gap between two units. Check that the surface is suitable, the connections remain accessible and a capacity of around 6 place settings meets your needs.
If it’s difficult to find 60 cm of width, it’s worth measuring up for a slimline freestanding model. The Bosch, Miele and Whirlpool models mentioned below hold 9 to 10 place settings, but are also nearly 60 cm deep.
Before settling on a brand or size, work out how the appliance will connect to the water supply, waste outlet and a suitable electrical supply. If any changes are needed, ask a professional to assess the work involved.
First check whether the space is suitable, then compare the appliance’s dimensions with the amount of washing-up you usually have. Loading comfort and noise levels can help you choose between sizes that genuinely fit in your kitchen.
| What to consider | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Connections | Locate the water supply and waste outlet, and check the route for the hoses. For electricity, Promotelec states that a dishwasher must have a dedicated circuit under NF C 15-100. | If the chosen spot doesn’t allow the appliance to be connected, I need to have any alterations assessed before buying. Around 42% of consumers prioritise this practical consideration. |
| Space and capacity | Measure the width, depth and height, as well as the space needed in front of the appliance when the door is open. Compare the stated capacity with your usual loads, especially larger items. | When every centimetre counts but the washing-up keeps piling up, I look for a size with a capacity that’s still useful every day. Around 33% of consumers put this trade-off first. |
| Noise and loading | Compare the stated noise level in dB(A) and the rack layout of the exact model. Also check how much space you have to load the appliance. | In a kitchen close to the living area, I want to be able to run a cycle and load the dishwasher without too much hassle. Around 25% of consumers put ease of use first. |
A small appliance still needs an electrical supply, and its wastewater has to drain away. Depending on how it takes in water, it may also need access to a tap or its reservoir may need to be filled.
Check what connections are available, then compare them with the model’s instructions. If the spot needs adapting, ask for a quote before placing your order.
The Bosch and Whirlpool specifications give depths of 60 cm and 59 cm respectively for the slimline freestanding models mentioned here. You’ll also need to allow space for the open door and the hoses.
Measure all three dimensions of the space and check that there’s still room to move around and access the connections once the appliance is installed.
A compact model can feel restrictive if you often wash saucepans or large plates. A 45 cm model takes up floor space, but the Bosch, Miele and Whirlpool examples mentioned here hold 9 to 10 place settings.
Compare a typical day’s washing-up with the racks of the model you’re considering before choosing between a worktop model and one that stands on the floor.
Connecting an appliance to an existing, ready-to-use setup and carrying out plumbing or electrical work may be separate services.
Ask for written confirmation of whether the work includes installing a water supply, waste outlet or electrical circuit, rather than assuming these jobs are included.
These examples of ranges and models give you an idea of the different sizes available; their features won’t apply to every appliance from each brand.
The CP 6E51LS is an example of a countertop compact model. Candy France lists it as freestanding, measuring 550 × 501 × 443 mm and holding 6 place settings.
The SPS4EMI17E is an example of a slimline freestanding model for a space that can also accommodate a depth of 60 cm.
The WSFO3T223P is another 45 cm freestanding option to consider if 10 place settings suit the amount of washing-up in your household.
The ESS68600SX is an example of a 60 cm freestanding model to consider if your kitchen has enough floor space.
The G 5740 SC SL is a 45 cm freestanding model to consider if cutlery and rack layout are important to you.
These appliances are countertop compact options for kitchens without a dedicated space. They have different water-supply options, so check the available surface, waste outlet and electrical setup for each one before choosing.
Image unavailable
Consider this if you’d like to place the appliance on a worktop and fill its reservoir, rather than needing a fixed water supply.
The product name states that it has a built-in 5 L reservoir and “5+1” wash cycles. Using the reservoir doesn’t remove the need for drainage: make sure there’s a route for the hose to a sink or a suitable container. Also check the electrical requirements and the space needed for the appliance.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you have a suitable surface and want 6 place settings without using floor space for a slimline appliance.
The product name lists 7 programmes and a stated noise level of 47 dB. Before setting aside worktop space, check the model’s external dimensions and access to the water supply, waste outlet and electricity.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for small loads if your worktop is close to a usable tap and waste outlet.
The product name states a capacity of 3 place settings. Check that your dishes will fit, then confirm the external dimensions, tap connection, drainage route and electrical requirements before installation.
Yes, if the model’s water-supply option suits the space; a model with a reservoir may mean you don’t need a fixed water supply. You’ll still need a suitable surface, a way to drain wastewater and an appropriate electrical supply. A model that connects directly to the water supply, such as the Candy CP 6E51LS described by the brand, will need access to a water connection.
No: 45 cm refers to its width, not the space it needs overall. Bosch lists a depth of 60 cm for the SPS4EMI17E, while Whirlpool lists 59 cm for the WSFO3T223P. Also measure the height, door clearance and space in front of the appliance.
Start by comparing the amount of washing-up you produce each day and any bulky items you need to wash. The Candy compact model mentioned here holds 6 place settings; the Bosch, Miele and Whirlpool 45 cm examples hold 9 to 10, while the 60 cm Electrolux holds 14. Consider the useful capacity alongside the space each size takes up.
No, a socket alone doesn’t tell you whether the circuit is suitable. Promotelec states that a dishwasher must be connected to a dedicated circuit under NF C 15-100. If you don’t know what circuit the socket you’re considering is on, ask a qualified professional to check the installation.
Check the instructions for the model to see how the water supply and waste hoses could be routed; don’t assume they’ll reach. If a water supply or waste outlet needs to be installed, ask for this work to be assessed separately from simply connecting the appliance.