Start by measuring the available space and checking which connections are in place, then consider how much washing-up you need to deal with between cycles. A 60 cm freestanding model prioritises capacity, while a 45 cm model takes up less width but still needs connecting. A compact model suits a small load; an integrated model requires a compatible housing unit and door front.
If you can place an appliance on a worktop and drain the water into the sink, a compact model with a water tank could save you from needing a fixed water connection. You’ll need to accept a smaller capacity and fill the tank yourself. UFC-Que Choisir describes these small countertop models, while Daan Tech explains that Bob can be supplied this way.
If the connections are accessible but there isn’t enough room for a 60 cm appliance, a 45 cm freestanding model offers a useful middle-ground capacity. UFC-Que Choisir says that a 9-place-setting model can suit a small family, potentially with a daily cycle.
If you have the space and the necessary connections, a 60 cm freestanding model can offer greater capacity. However, check that the racks can accommodate the dishes and large plates you use.
In a small kitchen, your choice isn’t just about width: the water supply, drainage and amount of washing-up can all affect your decision.
Worth considering: if you have the space and connections for a standard-width appliance, and a lot of washing-up to tackle.
The trade-off: it takes up more width than a 45 cm model, although it doesn’t need a matching door front, as UFC-Que Choisir points out.
Worth considering: if a 60 cm model won’t fit, but a water supply, drain and plug socket are within reach.
The trade-off: the smaller footprint comes with less capacity. UFC-Que Choisir notes that a small family may be able to run it daily.
Worth considering: for a very small load, especially if a model with a water tank means you can avoid a fixed water connection.
The trade-off: you’ll need to fill the tank and drain the wastewater. Its capacity won’t match a 45 cm model for a shared kitchen.
Worth considering: only if your kitchen has a suitable housing unit and the door front and its fittings are compatible.
The trade-off: this installation gives you less flexibility than a freestanding model and may require separate cabinet-fitting work that isn’t included in delivery.
| Criteria | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | Measure the space, including the connections and door opening. Check the manual for the required water supply and drainage method. | Without dedicated plumbing, I want to install the appliance without unexpected work; around 33% of shoppers put this need first. |
| Size | Compare the width, depth and height, then check that the racks can hold the dishes you use. | When every centimetre counts, I want to save space without having to run lots of small loads; around 27% of shoppers put this need first. |
| Capacity | Compare the stated place-setting capacity with your dishes, large plates and preferred cycle frequency. | In a shared kitchen, I want to avoid washing-up piling up between cycles; around 20% of shoppers prioritise capacity. |
| Noise and consumption | On the energy label, compare the dB, litres per cycle and kWh per 100 cycles of appliances with similar capacities. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to keep noise to a minimum while keeping an eye on consumption; noise and running costs come first for around 20% of shoppers. |
A freestanding model has its own finished exterior, but it still needs the connections specified for that model. Whirlpool France, for example, advises leaving enough room for the water and electrical connections.
Measure the space and the route for the hoses, then check the model’s manual before ordering.
A narrower model won’t necessarily fit all your household’s washing-up into one cycle. UFC-Que Choisir says a 45 cm model may be able to run every day in a small family.
Check the capacity and rack layout against the plates and dishes you use regularly.
Two appliances may be designed for different amounts of washing-up. ADEME also notes that the label shows reference consumption, capacity and noise level.
Compare litres per cycle and kWh per 100 cycles for models with similar capacities, and don’t overlook the dB if your kitchen is open-plan.
Having a housing unit doesn’t guarantee that the door front, its fittings and the installation will be suitable. Electrolux France explains that carpentry work may not be included in the installation service.
Check that the door front is compatible and confirm what the service includes before settling on this option.
A matching door front and any cabinet-fitting work need to be arranged separately.
A brand worth considering for a 45 cm freestanding model when space is limited.
A range of 45 cm freestanding models to consider if a compact model wouldn’t offer enough capacity.
A range of 60 cm freestanding models to consider if you have the space and want to prioritise capacity.
An option for a very small worktop load, especially if you don’t have a fixed water supply.
These countertop models are designed for small loads where space is limited. Compare their water supply options and capacity before choosing: a compact model won’t meet the same needs as a 45 or 60 cm freestanding dishwasher.
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Worth considering for a small kitchen if you can connect it to a water supply and arrange drainage.
The product name lists 6 place settings, 7 programmes and a D energy rating. Measure the space needed for the appliance and its hoses before buying.
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The tank could be a good option if you don’t have a fixed water supply, as long as you can drain the wastewater.
The product name specifies a 5 L integrated tank. Check you have room on your worktop and plan the route for the drainage hose.
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Its small capacity is better suited to a reduced daily load than the washing-up from a shared kitchen.
The product name lists 3 place settings and 7 programmes. Check the dimensions in the manual and the noise rating on the label for the exact model before installing it in an open-plan kitchen.
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Worth considering for a small worktop if you’re happy to fill a tank by hand.
The product name lists 7 programmes, an automatic door-opening function and a D energy rating. Check the drainage method and read the instructions for this appliance before use.
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Its stated capacity makes this model suitable for a very small load, provided it’s right for your kitchen setup.
The product name lists 3 place settings and a drying function. Check the dimensions, water supply and drainage requirements before buying.
Check the water supply, drainage, plug socket and the space needed behind the appliance and in front of its door. The connections and permitted distances depend on the manual for the model you choose.
Yes, if the model has a tank designed for this purpose, but you’ll need to fill it and arrange drainage. Daan Tech offers this type of water supply for Bob and also specifies drainage via a hose.
Compare the litres per cycle and kWh per 100 cycles on the energy labels of models with similar capacities. As ADEME points out, these figures are based on reference cycles, so your own consumption will also depend on how many cycles you run.
Not without checking the housing unit, door front and fittings. A freestanding model has its own finished exterior, while an integrated model depends on your kitchen layout. Also confirm which work is included in the installation service.