First, choose a format that fits the available space and has enough capacity for your meals. A compact model works well for smaller loads if you have a suitable surface for it, while a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher is worth considering if you have floor space and more dishes to wash. In an open-plan kitchen, compare the noise level and noise class too. An integrated model requires a niche and a door panel that are compatible with the model you choose.
If a cycle is running while you’re eating, entertaining or working from home, check the stated noise level and noise class rather than relying on the word ‘quiet’. UFC-Que Choisir highlights how important noise is when the kitchen opens onto the living area.
A compact model on a suitable surface, a slimline freestanding dishwasher and an integrated model all need different amounts of space. Measure the width, height and depth, as well as the clearance needed to open the door. For an integrated model, check the niche and door panel too.
Saving space with a smaller appliance only works if it can handle the dishes you produce at each meal. Compare the place-setting capacity and the interior layout with the dishes and utensils you usually use, rather than looking only at the number of people in your household.
Consider it: if you’re short on floor space, have a suitable surface and mainly wash small loads.
The trade-off: if its capacity is too small for your meals, you may need to run more cycles.
Consider it: if you have a narrow space on the floor and want enough capacity for everyday meals.
The trade-off: its slim width doesn’t mean you can overlook the height, depth or space needed to open the door.
Consider it: if your kitchen has a suitable niche and you want the appliance to blend in with your units.
The trade-off: the niche, door panel and fittings must be compatible with the exact model. This format isn’t simply a drop-in replacement for a freestanding dishwasher.
| Feature | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Noise in the living area | The dB(A) level and noise class on the label of models that can be installed in your home. | If the cycle is running while I’m in the living room, I want to choose when to run it without the appliance disturbing me. Keeping noise down is the priority for around 33% of shoppers concerned. |
| Space and installation | Width, height, depth and door clearance; for an integrated model, check that the niche dimensions and door panel are compatible. | With a fitted kitchen, I need to find an appliance that fits the space without blocking the way. Around 27% of shoppers put this compatibility first. |
| Capacity for your meals | Number of place settings, basket layout and space for your usual dishes and utensils. | If my meals quickly fill a small appliance, I’d rather have enough capacity to avoid running one cycle after another. This is the top priority for around 20% of shoppers. |
| Water, energy and cycle time | kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and the length of the Eco programme, comparing models with similar capacity. | I want to keep an eye on how much water and electricity I use, while knowing how long the dishes will be in the appliance. These running costs are the priority for around 20% of shoppers. |
ADEME says the energy label provides information including noise, capacity, water and energy use, and the length of the Eco cycle. Compare these details across models that fit your space, then consider how well they suit your mealtimes.
A slim appliance could still be too tall or too deep, or its door might not open fully. UFC-Que Choisir points out that an integrated model needs a purpose-built niche.
Measure the space in all three dimensions and check the installation diagram for the exact model, including details of the niche and door panel.
In an open-plan kitchen, differences in noise level can matter when you’re using the living area. According to ADEME, an increase of three decibels nearly doubles the noise.
Compare the dB(A) figures and noise classes of appliances that fit your space.
Figures are only useful for comparison if they’re based on the same criteria. The energy and duration figures shown on the label refer to the Eco programme.
Compare water and energy figures alongside capacity and Eco programme duration before choosing between two models.
An integrated model needs a suitable niche and door panel; choosing the appliance alone isn’t enough to ensure it can be installed.
Check the required door panel, fittings and connections in the model documentation, and arrange for a professional installation if needed.
Finding a compatible door panel and arranging installation can mean extra steps before you can use the appliance for the first time.
A range worth exploring if you’re deciding between a compact, slimline freestanding or integrated model.
45 cm freestanding models worth considering when space is limited but you still need enough capacity for everyday use.
An option for a fitted kitchen with a niche that suits a slimline integrated model.
45 cm models worth considering for a small kitchen, depending on the space available and the type of installation you want.
These countertop models are worth considering if a compact dishwasher suits your space and the size of your loads. Compare the stated capacity with the dishes you use for your meals, then check the space required, connection and energy label details for each appliance.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for smaller loads in a kitchen where a compact appliance can be installed. Check that the capacity, surface and connection method suit your needs. Refer to the energy label to compare noise and consumption on a like-for-like basis.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you have a suitable worktop and wash small loads each day. The product name states a capacity of 3 place settings and a width of 34 cm. Check the full dimensions, surface requirements and connection before choosing this format.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if you’re looking for a countertop appliance with a stated capacity of 6 place settings. The product name lists seven programmes, 47 dB and energy class D. Check its dimensions and energy label figures before comparing it with other formats.
Image unavailable
Worth considering if choosing between a water tank and a tap connection matters in your kitchen. The product name lists a 5 l tank, ‘6+3’ programmes and energy class D. Check the usable capacity for your dishes and make sure the connection method you’re considering is suitable.
Image unavailable
Worth considering for smaller loads if you have room for a countertop appliance in your kitchen. The product name states a capacity of 3 place settings. Check the dimensions, surface requirements, connections and energy label before deciding whether this model also meets your noise and consumption requirements.
Start with the dB(A) level and noise class, then check that the capacity suits your meals. ADEME says the energy label also shows energy and water use, as well as the Eco programme duration. Compare all these figures when looking at appliances that fit your space.
Not without checking the installation. An integrated model needs a suitable niche and door panel, and can’t be treated like an appliance that simply stands on the floor. UFC-Que Choisir recommends checking the niche; you should also consult the installation diagram for the exact model.
A 3 dB difference is worth noting if the cycle runs while you’re using the living area. According to ADEME, an increase of three decibels nearly doubles the noise. Compare figures for models that fit your space rather than relying on their marketing descriptions alone.
Check that the niche is the right size and that the door panel and fittings are compatible with the model you’ve chosen. Consult the manual for connection requirements and find out whether you’ll need a professional to install it.
No. The specifications help you compare dimensions and energy label details, but they don’t replace a test of the model’s washing and drying performance or ease of use. UFC-Que Choisir says it assesses these features in its tests; compare the results with the capacity and format you need.