First, choose a format that suits the space and connections available. A countertop compact model saves floor space, while a 45 cm freestanding model could work if you have a water supply, a drain and room on the floor. An integrated model requires a compatible housing unit and door panel. In an open-plan kitchen, also compare the noise level of the exact model before you decide.
A countertop compact dishwasher with a water tank can save you from needing a permanent water connection. Daan Tech describes this option for Bob, but points out that you still need to plan for wastewater drainage.
If space is tight but you have room on the floor, a water supply and a drain, a 45 cm freestanding dishwasher is worth comparing with countertop models. Check its depth and capacity too: for example, Bosch lists the SPS4EMI17E as 600 mm deep.
An integrated model could suit you if you prefer a seamless look and your housing unit, door panel and connections are compatible with the model. In a living space, compare the stated noise level too; UFC-Que Choisir highlights the importance of noise considerations in open-plan kitchens.
Start with the space and connections available, then compare the models you can install by capacity, noise level and comparable consumption figures.
Worth considering: when floor space is limited; some models, such as Bob, can be filled from a tank, according to Daan Tech.
Bear in mind: a compact model takes up worktop space, has a limited capacity and still needs a drainage solution.
Worth considering: when you have a narrow spot on the floor with a water supply and drain already in place.
Bear in mind: a slim width doesn’t mean you can skip checking the depth and door clearance.
Worth considering: when your kitchen has a suitable housing unit and a seamless look matters to you.
Bear in mind: check the door panel, connections and installation requirements for the model. Miele states that its G 5590 SCVi SL Active is sold without a furniture front.
| What to consider | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Space and installation | Measure the height, width and depth, and check the door clearance. Check the water supply and drainage route separately: having a tank doesn’t remove the need for a drain. | I want to install the appliance without blocking the walkway or losing worktop space I need every day. |
| Noise | Compare the dB(A) rating and noise class of the exact model. ADEME points out that a 3 dB increase represents almost a doubling of sound intensity. | In an open-plan kitchen, I want to be able to run a cycle at times that won’t interfere with conversation or rest. |
| Capacity | Compare the number of place settings with the dishes you accumulate between cycles. Also check that your plates and utensils will fit. | I’m interested in a small appliance, but not if its capacity means I have to run cycles too often for my household. |
| Water and energy | Compare the Eco programme figures for appliances with similar capacities. European Regulation 2019/2017 specifies, among other things, how consumption is measured on this programme at rated capacity. | I want to compare like-for-like usage rather than assume that a smaller appliance necessarily uses less. |
| Kitchen units | For an integrated model, check the dimensions of the housing unit and whether the door or furniture front is compatible. If you’re renting, discuss any planned alterations with your landlord before going ahead. | I like the idea of a matching door front, but first I need to know whether the appliance will fit in my existing kitchen unit. |
A tank makes filling some compact models easier, but wastewater still needs to drain away. Daan Tech makes this distinction in its instructions for Bob.
Before buying, work out where the drain hose will go and check its route against the instructions for your chosen model.
A matching door front doesn’t guarantee that the housing unit is the right size or that the front is compatible. Miele, for example, says that the G 5590 SCVi SL Active is sold without a furniture front.
Measure the kitchen unit, find out which door front you need, then compare these details with the installation instructions before choosing an appliance.
Capacity and the programme you use affect what the figures mean. Under European Regulation 2019/2017, several values on the label are determined using the Eco programme at rated capacity.
Compare water and energy use on a like-for-like basis, between models with a capacity that suits how often you wash up.
In an open-plan kitchen, the dishwasher runs close to where you spend time. ADEME says that a 3 dB increase represents almost a doubling of sound intensity.
Check the dB(A) rating and noise class of the exact model, then think about when you’re likely to run a cycle.
These examples illustrate different formats and installation requirements. The features mentioned apply to the models listed, not every product from each brand.
The brand’s Bob is a compact countertop dishwasher designed for smaller spaces.
The SPS4EMI17E is an example of a 45 cm freestanding model designed for a narrow space on the floor.
The G 5590 SCVi SL Active is a fully integrated 45 cm model, rated at 44 dB by Miele.
These models are countertop dishwasher options for a small kitchen. Compare their capacity, the space you have available and the connections they need. This selection doesn’t replace considering a 45 cm freestanding or integrated model if your kitchen can accommodate one.
Image unavailable
The integrated tank could be useful in a kitchenette without a fixed water supply. The product title lists a 5 L tank and 5+1 programmes. Check that you have room on your worktop, plan the drain hose route and check the noise level if your kitchen is open-plan.
Image unavailable
This compact format is worth considering if you have worktop space rather than a housing unit. For this version, check the stated water supply options, connection accessories, drainage requirements and capacity on the product page before planning where to install it.
Image unavailable
Its stated capacity of 6 place settings is worth considering if a mini model would be too small. The title lists 7 programmes and a noise level of 47 dB. For an open-plan kitchen, compare this with other models you can install and check the dimensions and hose reach.
Image unavailable
A countertop model could work if you’re short on floor space. The title lists 7 programmes and a delay start of up to 24 hours. Before choosing this model, check how it connects to the water supply and drains, as well as whether its capacity suits the dishes you need to wash.
Image unavailable
The stated capacity of 3 place settings makes this model suitable for smaller loads. Despite the “no installation required” claim in its product name, check whether it connects to a tap, drains through a hose and fits on your worktop.
Yes, if the model is specifically designed to use a tank: Daan Tech says this is an option for Bob. You’ll still need to fill the tank and arrange wastewater drainage in line with the appliance instructions.
Check the dB(A) rating and noise class of the exact model, then compare appliances you can actually install. ADEME says that a 3 dB difference represents almost a doubling of sound intensity. You should also consider when you’ll use the appliance in a living space.
No. You need to check the dimensions of the housing unit, the connections, the door or furniture front, and the installation instructions for the model. A matching finish alone doesn’t mean the unit is compatible.
Compare the water and energy figures for the Eco programme on appliances with similar capacities. European Regulation 2019/2017 specifies that these figures, along with other information displayed, are measured or calculated using this programme at rated capacity.
Work out whether the appliance can be installed without altering the property, or whether you’ll need to modify a kitchen unit or existing fittings. Before making any changes, discuss your plans with your landlord and check your tenancy agreement and the installation instructions.