If there’s no standard space for a dishwasher, start by considering the room available and access to water. A countertop model with a tank avoids the need for a fixed water supply, but it still needs draining. A model that connects to the tap avoids manual filling, provided the connection is compatible. Only consider a slimline 45 cm appliance if you can create a suitable space and install the necessary connections. Then check that your dishes will actually fit inside.
A tank-fed model could suit smaller loads, as long as you have room to position it, fill its tank and direct the waste water to a suitable drain. The Daan Tech Bob is an example of this set-up, with two ways to supply water.
A countertop model connected to the tap can save you from filling it by hand. Check that the connection is compatible, that the drain hose can be positioned correctly and that the appliance will fit beside the sink. Klarstein, for example, describes this type of water supply for its Aquatica.
If a capacity of two or three place settings isn’t enough, a slimline appliance may be worth considering. First, make sure the space is the right size and that water, electricity and drainage connections are available. Midea, for example, states that its integrated MDWEB1004LS-W model holds ten place settings.
First, consider how the appliance will be supplied with water and how waste water will drain away. Its stated capacity is only useful once you know you can install it.
Consider this if: there’s no usable fixed water supply near your worktop.
The trade-off: you’ll need to fill the tank and arrange somewhere for the waste water to drain. Daan Tech states that the Bob holds two place settings.
Consider this if: an accessible tap allows a compatible connection without getting in the way of using the sink.
The trade-off: connecting it to the tap saves you from filling it by hand, but you’ll still need to plan for drainage and the worktop space it takes up.
Consider this if: you can create a suitable space for a larger load.
The trade-off: this option needs to be installed with a water supply, electrical connection and drain, as UFC-Que Choisir points out.
| Priority | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Water supply and drainage | Check the water supply method specified in the manual, then where the drain hose needs to go and how it should be routed. If connecting it to a tap, make sure the fitting is compatible. | Without a fixed water supply, I can fill a tank, but I also need a suitable place to drain the waste water. |
| Usable capacity | Compare the stated place settings with the maximum plate diameter and the basket layout. Klarstein states that the Oceana holds three place settings and takes plates up to 26 cm. | If I want to wash everything together, my dinner plates, glasses and a small saucepan all need to fit in the same load. |
| Space available | Measure the width, depth and height, then allow enough clearance for the door and hoses. Joybuy Advice recommends placing a countertop model on a flat, stable, moisture-resistant surface. | I want to be able to open the appliance and use the sink without moving the dishwasher every time I run a cycle. |
| Programmes and maintenance | Only compare energy and water consumption figures when they relate to the same programme and load. Check the manual for detergent and water-softener settings: UFC-Que Choisir recommends adjusting the latter to suit your water hardness. | If I often run small loads, I’ll look at the programmes I’m likely to use and the maintenance the model requires. |
A tank replaces a fixed water supply, not the need to drain away used water. Daan Tech says the Bob’s hose needs to lead to a sink or another drainage system.
Before buying, decide where the hose will drain and check the manual to make sure it can be routed correctly in your chosen location.
This figure doesn’t tell you whether your plates, tall glasses and saucepans will fit in the basket.
Measure your largest plate and compare it with the maximum size for the exact model. Check the basket layout, too.
A dishwasher might fit on your worktop, but there may not be enough room to open the door or position the hoses.
Measure the space with these clearances in mind, and choose a flat, stable, moisture-resistant surface.
A slimline model may hold more dishes than a countertop model designed for two or three place settings, but it needs a suitable space. UFC-Que Choisir highlights the need for a water supply, electricity and drainage when installing a dishwasher.
Check the dimensions and available connections before choosing this option, and find out what’s included in any installation service.
These examples illustrate different set-ups. The features mentioned apply to the models named, not every appliance from each brand.
The brand makes Bob, a mini countertop dishwasher designed for smaller spaces.
The brand’s French range includes countertop models as well as 45 cm appliances.
The MDWEB1004LS-W shows that a slimline dishwasher can be an option if your kitchen can accommodate an integrated appliance.
These countertop models suit two different situations: using a tank when there’s no fixed water supply, or connecting the appliance when a suitable water point is within reach. Their inclusion here doesn’t replace the need to check drainage, dimensions and installation instructions for each version.
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The tank mentioned in the product title means you can consider this model even without a fixed water supply. Check where you can position the drain hose and how much room it will need on your worktop.
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This tank-fed model may be worth considering if a permanent water connection isn’t practical. The product title states that it has nine programmes and a D energy rating. Measure the full space available and check the drainage set-up in the manual.
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Bob is an option for smaller loads if you have room for it on your worktop. Daan Tech states that Bob can be supplied with water from a tank or a water inlet and holds two place settings. Check your dish sizes and the drainage set-up for this version.
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The stated tank capacity may suit a kitchen without a fixed water supply near the appliance. The product title lists 6+3 programmes and a D energy rating. Check the manual for the usable capacity and the recommended drain hose route.
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Consider this countertop model if you have a compatible water supply and accessible drainage. The product title lists seven programmes, 47 dB and a D energy rating. Measure the space and check the connection before buying.
Yes, if the model is designed to be supplied from a tank, but you’ll still need to drain away the waste water. Daan Tech says Bob has an integrated 3,9 L tank and a hose that needs to lead to a sink or another drainage system. Check the manual for the version you choose.
Yes. The tap supplies clean water, but it won’t drain away the waste water on its own. Check the manual to find out where the drain hose needs to go and whether the tap connection is suitable for your set-up.
Measure your largest plates and compare their diameter with the maximum size stated for the exact model. Then check how much room is available for glasses and saucepans. Klarstein, for example, states that the Oceana takes plates up to 26 cm. Its stated capacity of three place settings doesn’t tell you which combinations of dishes will fit.
Follow the instructions for your model and check whether it has a water softener that needs adjusting. UFC-Que Choisir recommends setting it according to your water hardness so the right amount of regenerating salt is dispensed. Also follow the manufacturer’s guidance on detergent and rinse aid.