In a small kitchen without a built-in space, choose a compact model if floor space is limited and six place settings are enough. Go for a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher if you need more capacity, or a 60 cm model if there’s enough room for it without obstructing movement or the open door. UFC-Que Choisir generally puts 45 cm freestanding models at 9–10 place settings and 60 cm models at 12–17. Whichever size you choose, you’ll still need to allow for a water supply, drainage and an electrical connection.
A compact countertop model can free up floor space, as long as your worktop can support it, the connections are accessible and its capacity suits the amount of washing-up you usually have. UFC-Que Choisir describes compact models with six place settings as appliances that can sit on a worktop.
If you can make room for a model around 45 cm wide on the floor, it’s worth comparing one with a compact model before giving 60 cm of space to an appliance. UFC-Que Choisir generally puts its capacity at 9–10 place settings.
A standard freestanding dishwasher is worth considering if its width, depth and door clearance all work in your kitchen. It can handle a larger load of washing-up; UFC-Que Choisir generally puts this size at 12–17 place settings.
In a small or non-integrated kitchen, first check the available space and possible connections. Then choose a capacity that suits the amount of washing-up you need to get through between cycles.
| What to consider | What to check | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Smallest footprint | Measure the compact model’s width, depth and height, then check the surface it will sit on and access to the connections. | If I have very little floor space, I want to keep my kitchen practical without putting an appliance that’s too large on my worktop. Around 42% of consumers make a small footprint their priority. |
| Width and capacity | For a 45 cm freestanding model, check its depth, place-setting capacity and the space needed in front of the door. | If a compact model won’t fit enough washing-up between cycles, I’m looking for more capacity without having to set aside 60 cm of width. Around 33% of consumers put this compromise first. |
| Standard-size capacity | For a 60 cm freestanding model, check its actual depth, the delivery route and the clearance needed with the door open. | When washing-up builds up, I prioritise capacity, but only if there’s still enough room to move around. Around 25% of consumers make capacity their priority. |
A freestanding model doesn’t need the dedicated recess or cabinet door required by an integrated dishwasher. But it still needs a water supply, drainage and an electrical connection, and it must be level, as UFC-Que Choisir points out.
Before ordering, locate the connections and check the model’s instructions for installation requirements and possible hose routes.
If the connections need adapting, you may need to arrange a separate visit before the appliance can be used.
The depth, height or open door can make an appliance awkward to use, even if its width seems suitable. The dimensions published by Candy for the compact CP 6E51LS and by Whirlpool for the freestanding OWFC3C26 also show how measurements vary between models.
Measure the space in all three dimensions, the delivery route and the clearance in front of the door for loading. Then compare your measurements with the specifications for the exact model.
Its capacity may become limiting if the amount of washing-up between cycles exceeds what the racks can hold. UFC-Que Choisir describes countertop compact models as having six place settings, compared with generally 9–10 for 45 cm freestanding models.
Work out how much washing-up you have and check there’s room for your utensils. If six place settings aren’t enough, consider a 45 cm model too.
Capacity, the consumption figures on the energy label and whether an appliance can be repaired answer different questions. France’s Ministry for Ecological Transition includes dishwashers among the product categories covered by its repairability index.
For the models you’re considering, compare the repairability score out of 10 and the accompanying information, as well as the dimensions and capacity.
Candy offers compact and freestanding models in a range of widths in France, giving you options to compare for different kitchen layouts.
The BDFS26040XA is an example of a 45 cm freestanding model for kitchens where limited width narrows the choice.
The freestanding OWFC3C26 is an example of the space needed for a standard 60 cm model.
A compact model designed for a standard connection needs a water supply, drainage and an electrical connection. UFC-Que Choisir lists all three as requirements for installing a dishwasher. Check that they’re accessible and follow the instructions for your chosen model.
Some models can be installed this way, but check the installation requirements before you buy. In particular, find out whether the top panel is removable, how much height is available, whether the connections are accessible and whether there’s enough room to open the door.
You’ll need dishwasher detergent. Check whether your model also requires rinse aid and dishwasher salt, depending on how it works and the hardness of your water. Before installation, make sure the space has the required connections and that any necessary adaptations can be made.
Yes. For dishwashers covered by the scheme in France, the score out of 10 gives you information about how repairable they are. The Ministry for Ecological Transition includes this category in the scheme. Check the score for the specific model, alongside its dimensions and capacity.