Who is this choice for?

Those with a 45 cm housing unit

You want your kitchen units to retain their seamless look. Before choosing an integrated model, check the housing unit’s measurements and make sure the door panel, plinth and door mechanism are compatible.

Those who use the living room while the dishwasher is running

If your kitchen opens onto a room that’s in use, compare the noise level of the exact model. UFC-Que Choisir includes noise in its dishwasher tests, particularly for open-plan kitchens.

Those without a housing unit or floor space

A slimline freestanding model could work if you have space on the floor. Otherwise, a countertop compact model is worth considering, provided you have a suitable surface and compatible connections.

What makes the difference?

For a small open-plan kitchen, start with the space available. Then check the connections and noise level before comparing features.

45 cm integrated

Consider this if: you have a compatible housing unit and want the appliance to blend in with your kitchen units.

Bear in mind: you’ll need to check that the door panel, plinth and door opening are compatible with the specific model.

Slimline freestanding

Consider this if: you have floor space but no suitable housing unit or door panel.

Bear in mind: the appliance will be visible from the living room, and its noise level needs to be checked for the specific model.

Countertop compact

Consider this if: there’s no room for a floor-standing dishwasher.

Bear in mind: it takes up worktop space or needs a sturdy unit to sit on, as well as the connections specified for the model.

Factor What to check Who is it for?
Space and fit Compare the appliance’s height, width and depth with the available space. For an integrated model, also check the door panel, plinth and door opening. I want the dishwasher to fit in my kitchen without stopping cupboard doors from opening; around 42% of consumers would put this fit at the top of their list.
Noise in the living room Check the dB(A) rating for the exact model and the relevant cycle; look for an independent test if one is available. When the living room is in use during a cycle, I want to keep noise disruption to a minimum; around 33% of consumers would make this their priority.
No floor space Measure the surface for the compact model and check its manual for water, drainage and electrical requirements. Without space on the floor, I’m looking for a way to automate the washing-up without losing my worktop; around 25% of consumers would prioritise this need for space.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Choosing based on the 45 cm width alone

    The height and depth could still prevent installation, even if the width is right. For example, Bosch lists dimensions of 815 × 448 × 550 mm for the SPV4EMX17E.

    Measure the height, width and depth of the space, then compare them with the specifications and installation diagram for the model you’re considering.

  • Assuming a fully integrated model will fit your existing door panel

    The Electrolux EEA22100L is supplied without a furniture door, so matching the width alone doesn’t confirm that your door panel will fit.

    Before ordering, ask someone to check the door panel, plinth and door mechanism against the installation diagram.

  • Assuming a compact model has no technical requirements

    A countertop model frees up floor space, but takes up a sturdy surface and must be connected to the water supply and drainage in line with the manufacturer’s instructions.

    Measure the available space and check the model’s manual to confirm its connection requirements.

  • Assuming “quiet” guarantees a peaceful kitchen

    Noise levels vary depending on the model and how it’s used. UFC-Que Choisir measures noise in a standardised kitchen and also takes disruptive sounds into account in its tests.

    Compare the dB(A) ratings for the specific models and, where possible, the results of an independent test.

Brands to consider

These examples illustrate different formats; their features don’t apply to every model from each brand.

Bosch

Worth considering for a 45 cm integrated model designed for a compatible housing unit.

  • Bosch lists dimensions of 815 × 448 × 550 mm for its fully integrated SPV4EMX17E, which makes it easier to check the fit in your housing unit.
  • These measurements apply specifically to the SPV4EMX17E; Bosch advises following the model’s manual for installation.

Beko

Worth considering for a 45 cm freestanding model if you don’t have a suitable space for an integrated dishwasher.

  • Beko lists 45 cm freestanding models with a capacity of 10 place settings.
  • Check the capacity and noise level for the model you choose; don’t assume they’ll be the same across a format or a product range.

Electrolux

Worth considering when comparing a compact model with a 45 cm fully integrated dishwasher.

  • Electrolux lists a capacity of 9 place settings and a noise level of 47 dB(A) for the fully integrated EEA22100L.
  • The EEA22100L is supplied without a furniture door; its specifications don’t describe the brand’s compact models.

A countertop compact model on Joybuy

If you can’t fit a floor-standing appliance, this countertop compact dishwasher could be worth comparing. Before choosing it for an open-plan kitchen, check the surface it will sit on, the connections and the noise level.

White Comfee' CDWMTO201D(W) compact dishwasher

Comfee' CDWMTO201D(W), white compact dishwasher with 5 L tank

Worth considering if you can’t install a floor-standing dishwasher and have a suitable surface for a countertop model.

Integrated 5 L tank and 6+3 programmes. Before buying, check the dimensions, noise level, and the water supply and drainage requirements for this model.

View on Joybuy

Frequently asked questions

What should I check about a dishwasher’s electrical supply?

Before buying, check that your electrical installation is suitable for the model. Promotelec says a dishwasher socket should be on a dedicated circuit. If a new installation is needed or changes have to be made, ask a professional to check the setup and socket location.

Which connections should I compare before choosing a format?

Check the water supply, drainage and electrical requirements for the model you’re considering, whether it’s integrated, freestanding or compact. Read the manual before deciding where to put it; a countertop appliance doesn’t necessarily mean you can do without connections.

Is a 45 cm dishwasher always quiet and large enough?

No. Width alone doesn’t determine capacity or how quiet a dishwasher is. Whirlpool says some 45 cm models can hold up to 10 place settings. For an open-plan kitchen, compare the capacity and dB(A) ratings of specific models, and check the results of an independent test if one is available.

What warranty applies to a new dishwasher bought from a trader in France?

The statutory guarantee of conformity covers faults and claims must be made to the professional seller. The DGCCRF states that it lasts for two years for new goods; a separate commercial warranty doesn’t replace it.