First, choose a size that will genuinely fit in your kitchen, then pick a capacity that suits the amount of washing-up you produce between cycles. A compact model works well for smaller loads, while a 45 cm model is worth considering if you’re running out of worktop space. In an open-plan room, compare the dB rating and noise class on the energy label too. A fully integrated model is only an option if its housing, door and furniture front are compatible.
If you live alone or as a couple and only have room on the worktop, consider a compact model based on the space available, the amount of washing-up you produce and where the waste hose can go. Dimensions and water connections vary by model.
If your dishwasher will run close to where you talk, work or relax, compare the dB ratings and noise classes of specific models. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of noise in an open-plan kitchen.
If a mini dishwasher would mean running cycles too often, look at 45 cm models, provided you have floor space and the necessary connections. UFC-Que Choisir generally gives a capacity of 9 to 10 place settings for this size of freestanding model.
Start by measuring the space and checking the connections. Then compare the capacity and noise levels of models that will actually fit. To work out what matters most to you, consider space, noise, capacity and energy and water use separately.
| Criterion | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Measure the width, height and depth, and check the door clearance. For a fully integrated model, consult the fitting diagram for that specific model. | When every centimetre counts, I need to be able to fit the appliance and open its door without getting in the way in the kitchen. Around 33% of shoppers prioritise this physical fit. |
| Noise | Compare the dB rating and noise class on the energy label, and check which programme the quoted figure applies to. | If I work or relax in the living area, the noise from the appliance can influence my choice. This is the main concern for around 27% of shoppers. |
| Capacity | Compare the number of place settings and the basket layout with your crockery, especially larger items. | A small interior won’t work for me if it means running too many cycles for the household’s usual meals. Around 20% of shoppers prioritise a capacity that suits their routine. |
| Water and energy | Check the litres per cycle and kWh per 100 cycles on the energy label, taking the reference programme into account. | Before choosing between two appliances that fit in my kitchen, I want to compare their consumption on a like-for-like basis. This is the top priority for around 20% of shoppers. |
A 45 or 60 cm appliance might still be too tall or deep, or its door might not open fully. A fully integrated model also has to fit the housing and furniture front.
Measure all three dimensions of the space and check the fitting diagram for the exact model. If you’re planning to fit a furniture front, check the door system too.
Daan Tech says its Bob model can be filled using a tank, but wastewater still has to be drained through a hose. Don’t assume all compact models work this way.
Check where the hose will go and follow the drainage instructions for the version you choose.
Depending on where you place it, you may need to make adjustments to secure the hose or route it through.
In an open-plan kitchen, the actual figure matters. According to ADEME, a 3 dB increase represents an almost doubling of sound intensity, although this alone doesn’t describe how intrusive the noise will feel.
Compare the dB ratings and noise classes on the labels of the models you’re considering, then think about when you’ll use the appliance.
Size alone doesn’t tell you how much water or energy an appliance uses. A capacity that’s too small could also mean more cycles for your household.
Match the capacity to the amount of washing-up you produce and compare the standardised figures on the energy label, including litres per cycle and kWh per 100 cycles.
The brand offers the Bob mini dishwasher for particularly tight spaces.
Its ranges include several sizes, from freestanding to fully integrated models.
The brand offers compact models as well as slim 45 cm appliances.
The brand offers slim models to consider for freestanding or integrated installation.
This selection includes worktop models, 60 cm freestanding models and 60 cm fully integrated models. Check each model against your available space, the amount of washing-up you produce, and the water supply and drainage requirements.
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Worth considering if you only have space on your worktop and don’t produce much washing-up. This listing gives a capacity of 3 place settings, dimensions of 49 × 34 × 49 cm and a noise level of 43 dB. Daan Tech lists Bob as holding 2 place settings on its manufacturer’s product page. Check the capacity of the version on sale, as well as its water supply, drainage and clearance requirements.
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This countertop model may suit a small household looking for more capacity than a mini dishwasher. The product description lists 6 place settings, 47 dB and 6.5 L per cycle, along with inlet and drain hoses. Check its dimensions, clearance requirements and proximity to the connections before choosing it.
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Consider this model if you want to place a dishwasher on a worktop without a direct water supply. The product description lists 4 place settings, dimensions of 45.8 × 42.8 × 42.5 cm and the option of using a 5 L tank or connecting it to a tap. Even when using the tank, you’ll need a waste hose. Check the dB rating and noise class too, particularly for an open-plan kitchen.
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This freestanding model is worth considering if your kitchen can accommodate a 60 cm appliance and you need the extra capacity. The listing gives a capacity of 14 place settings, a noise level of 41 dB and water consumption of around 9.5 L on the Eco programme. Measure the full space and check the connections, as well as the energy label for the model on sale.
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Worth considering if you already have a compatible housing and need the stated capacity of 13 place settings. The product description gives an appliance width of 595 mm and housing dimensions of 820–900 × 600 × 555 mm. Check the furniture front and door system too. It lists a noise level of 44 dB, compared with 42 dBA on the Extra Silence programme, so don’t compare these figures without taking the programme used into account.
Some can. Daan Tech says Bob can use its integrated tank. However, wastewater still needs to be drained through a hose, so check how the version you’re considering is supplied with water and read its instructions.
Measure the available width, height and depth, and allow for the door to open. For a fully integrated model, use the diagram for the exact model to check the housing, furniture front and hinges. If you’re installing a freestanding model under a worktop, also check the requirements in its instructions.
Compare the dB rating and noise class on the energy label rather than relying on the word ‘quiet’. According to ADEME, an increase of 3 dB represents an almost doubling of sound intensity. Also consider the programme and when the appliance will be running.
No. Even without a furniture front to fit, it still needs a space of the right size and the water, drainage and electrical connections specified for that model. Check the instructions before deciding where to put it in your kitchen.