Start by considering the space available, how much washing-up you have and what connections are possible. A compact countertop model suits smaller loads, while a 45 cm model will generally offer more capacity if you have room for it. In an open-plan kitchen, also compare the noise emissions and noise class of each model; width and marketing names alone aren’t enough to judge how comfortable it will be to use. An integrated model also needs a suitable niche and door panel.
If you have limited worktop space or a narrow niche, compare the footprint of a compact countertop model with that of a 45 cm model. Que Choisir says that 45 cm models generally hold 9 to 10 place settings : also check there’s room for your saucepans and plates.
If you’ll be in the living area while a cycle is running, noise deserves particular attention. Que Choisir highlights this for open-plan kitchens ; compare the dB emissions and noise class listed for each appliance.
A freestanding model could be a good choice if you don’t plan to fit a cabinet door panel. Measure the space and check the water inlet, drainage and power supply before choosing a model.
Start with the space and connections available ; then compare the capacity, noise and energy label figures of models that can actually be installed there.
| Factor | What to check | What suits my needs |
|---|---|---|
| Size and capacity | Measure the width, height and depth, remembering to allow for access and space for the hoses. Compare the number of place settings and basket layout with the crockery you usually use. | I’m short on space, but want to fit my plates and saucepans in without running extra cycles. According to Que Choisir, 45 cm models generally hold 9 to 10 place settings ; a compact countertop model is suited to a different volume of washing-up. |
| Noise | Compare the dB emissions and noise class on the energy label, rather than relying on marketing terms. Check the figures for each model. | In an open-plan kitchen, I may be able to hear the appliance from the living room. Que Choisir recommends paying particular attention to noise in this type of layout. |
| Installation | Check where the water inlet, drainage and power socket are. For an appliance with a tank, check how it’s filled and emptied; for an integrated model, check the niche and door panel requirements in the manual. | If there’s no fixed water connection nearby, I could consider a compact model with a tank, while still planning for drainage. For example, Daan Tech says that Bob has a 4 L tank ; this feature isn’t found on all compact models. |
| Consumption | On the energy label, compare the class, energy use per 100 Eco cycles and water use per Eco cycle. Consider these figures alongside the capacity and how often you wash up. | I want to compare resource use without assuming that a smaller tub necessarily uses less. The European Commission explains the information shown on dishwasher labels, including capacity and Eco programme consumption. |
A 45 cm appliance could still be too tall or too deep for the space you have in mind. Its place-setting capacity also won’t tell you whether your larger items will fit in the baskets.
Measure the niche or worktop space in all three dimensions, then check the overall dimensions, clearances and interior layout of the model.
In an open-plan kitchen, the dishwasher shares its soundscape with the living room. A marketing term doesn’t let you compare two models.
Check the dB emissions and noise class on their energy labels, then choose with the times you’ll run cycles in mind.
A tank can mean that a particular model doesn’t need a fixed water inlet, but it still needs to drain wastewater. You’ll also need a suitable surface to place it on and an appropriate power supply.
Check the manual to see how to fill the appliance and where to position and secure its drain hose.
A fully integrated model must be installed in a compatible niche and fitted with a suitable door panel ; it can’t be used like a freestanding appliance simply placed under a worktop.
Before ordering, check the niche dimensions, door fixing and the door panel specifications required in the manual.
These examples show different configurations ; the features mentioned apply to the models named, not every product from each brand.
Bosch offers 45 cm freestanding and fully integrated dishwashers for the French market.
Beko offers a range of 45 cm models, including freestanding and fully integrated options.
The G 5990 SCVi SL is a 45 cm fully integrated Miele model.
Daan Tech describes Bob as a mini dishwasher designed for small spaces.
These countertop appliances are compact options to consider for a small kitchen. If you’re looking for the capacity of a 45 cm model or an integrated installation, compare those formats separately ; for an open-plan kitchen, check the noise level of each model you’re considering.
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Worth comparing if you’re looking for a countertop appliance for smaller loads. The title lists 6 place settings, 7 programmes, 47 dB and a D energy rating ; check the dimensions and connections for your chosen spot.
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The tank mentioned in the title is worth considering if a fixed water connection is difficult to access. The title lists 5+1 wash cycles ; check how it drains, how much space it needs and its noise emissions if it will be used near the living room.
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This format is worth considering for a small amount of washing-up : the title lists 3 place settings, 7 programmes and a D energy rating. Check that your items will fit in the tub, and check how it’s filled and drained, as well as its noise level.
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Its stated capacity of 3 place settings makes this model suitable for smaller loads. Before choosing an installation without permanent plumbing, confirm how it’s supplied with water, how it drains, its dimensions and its noise emissions.
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This 3-place-setting model is designed for smaller loads and differs from the DW5-D40A. If you plan to connect it to a tap, check compatibility, the route for the drain hose, the dimensions and the noise level.
It could be a good fit if its capacity and baskets suit the crockery you use every day. Que Choisir says that 45 cm models generally hold 9 to 10 place settings and can suit a small family, sometimes with a cycle each day ; check separately that there’s room for your saucepans.
Compare the dB emissions and noise class of the models you’re considering on their energy labels. Que Choisir highlights the importance of noise when the dishwasher shares your living space ; a ‘quiet’ label in a product name is no substitute for these figures.
Yes, with some tank models, but you’ll still need to plan for wastewater drainage and follow the instructions. For example, Daan Tech says that Bob’s 4 L tank means it can be used without a fixed water inlet ; don’t assume all compact models work this way.
It depends on the model and the space available. Check the manual to see whether the top can be removed, then check the height, depth, hose clearance and required gaps before installation.
For household dishwashers covered by the rules in the European Union, the European Commission says the label shows information including the efficiency class, energy use per 100 Eco cycles, water use per Eco cycle, capacity and noise emissions. Compare these figures across models, while checking that their capacity suits your needs.