In a studio flat, choose a countertop dishwasher if you can spare space on your worktop and are happy to run smaller, more frequent loads. A 45 cm model is worth considering if dishes pile up faster, provided you have the space and connections it needs; a 60 cm model requires more width. Whatever you choose, check the depth, door clearance and waste-water outlet too.
If you want to avoid altering your water supply, a compact model with a water tank could be an option. The Bob by Daan Tech is one example, although the manufacturer specifies that it still needs a waste-water outlet.
If a few meals quickly fill a countertop model’s basket, compare 45 cm models against the dishes you use every day. As a guide, Whirlpool lists a capacity of 11 place settings for the WH6IB10BS7LA0, a built-in model of this width.
If you already have an alcove and connections in place, measure the usable space before choosing between 45 and 60 cm. The exact model’s capacity and noise level also matter in a room that serves as both kitchen and living space.
Consider it: if you have room for the appliance on your worktop but no dedicated water connection. Daan Tech says the Bob can be filled using its water tank.
Bear in mind: Daan Tech lists the Bob as holding three place settings under the European standard, and it still needs a waste-water outlet.
Consider it: if a countertop model would fill up too quickly and you have space with the necessary connections.
Bear in mind: its 45 cm width doesn’t tell the whole story: Bosch lists the SPS2HKI58E as 600 mm deep too.
Consider it: if your kitchen can accommodate this width without getting in the way of food preparation or cupboard doors.
Bear in mind: Bosch lists the SMS4ECI28F, with a capacity of 14 place settings, as 600 mm wide and 600 mm deep; check that this size suits your needs.
| Consideration | What to check | What matters to shoppers |
|---|---|---|
| Size and space | Measure the width, depth and height, and allow room for the door to open. Don’t forget the worktop space the appliance will take up. | I want to prepare meals and move around without having to squeeze past the appliance. Around 36% of shoppers put having enough space first. |
| Capacity | Compare the place-setting capacity with the plates, pans and containers you use between washes. | When I cook regularly, I don’t want a day’s worth of dishes to overflow from the basket. This daily capacity comes first for around 29% of shoppers. |
| Installation | Check the manual for your chosen model to find out about its water supply, drainage and plug socket position. | Without a dedicated water connection, I need to know how to fill the appliance and where the waste water will drain. This installation option is a priority for around 21% of shoppers. |
| Noise and running costs | Check the exact model’s label for its decibel rating, litres per Eco cycle and energy use per 100 cycles. | In a room where I also work or sleep, I want to compare noise levels and running costs before deciding. Around 14% of shoppers prioritise these factors. |
A water tank can replace a mains water connection on some models, but it doesn’t replace drainage. Daan Tech says the Bob needs a compatible waste-water outlet, even when you use its tank.
Find the drainage point and check the appliance manual for the hose position and how to secure it before you order.
An unsuitable drainage point may mean you need a connector or work on your plumbing.
The advertised capacity doesn’t tell you how your frying pans, food containers or large plates will fit in the basket. A compact model may fill up before you’ve loaded all the dishes from a meal.
Make a list of what you usually wash in a day, then check the size of items the model can take and how its basket is arranged.
In a studio flat, a cycle might run during a meal, while you’re working or when you’re asleep. ADEME recommends checking the noise level among the details on the energy label.
Compare the decibel ratings and noise classes of the exact models, and think about when you’ll be able to run a cycle.
A narrow appliance can still be around 60 cm deep: Bosch lists the 45 cm-wide SPS2HKI58E as 600 mm deep. You’ll also need to allow space for the open door and hoses.
Measure the alcove or worktop, the space in front of the appliance and access to the connections before choosing a size.
The Bob is a countertop model worth considering if space is limited and you don’t have a dedicated water connection.
Two freestanding models let you compare the space taken up by a 45 cm model with that of a 60 cm model.
The range includes narrow built-in models and 60 cm models to compare, depending on the space available in your kitchen.
These countertop appliances are an option to consider for a studio flat kitchen. Before choosing, compare their stated capacity with the dishes you use, then check where the appliance will fit and how you’ll drain the water.
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Worth considering if you want to fill a countertop appliance without a permanent water connection. The product name lists a 5 L water tank and 5+1 wash cycles; check that you have enough space and plan for a suitable waste-water outlet.
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Its size could suit small, frequent loads if you can make room for it on your worktop. The product title lists three place settings and a width of 34 cm; check the manual for this variant to find out how it takes in water and drains before installation.
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Compare it with a smaller countertop model if your dishes need more room. The product title lists six place settings, seven programmes and 47 dB; measure the space and check the connections required for this model.
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The advertised water tank is worth noting if you’d rather fill a countertop appliance by hand. The product title lists 5 L and 6+3 programmes; check the place-setting capacity, drainage and any accessories you’ll need if you plan to connect it to a tap.
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Its stated capacity of three place settings makes this model suitable for smaller loads. Before setting aside a space for it, check its dimensions and read the manual to find out how to connect the water supply and drainage.
Yes, if the model can be filled from a water tank, as Daan Tech says is the case with the Bob. You’ll still need to direct its drain hose to a compatible outlet, so check the manual for the exact appliance you’re considering.
Consider a 45 cm model if meals regularly fill the basket of your countertop dishwasher, especially if you use pans or food containers. Make sure you also have enough depth and the necessary connections: Bosch lists its 45 cm-wide SPS2HKI58E as 600 mm deep.
Compare the capacity, noise level, water use per Eco cycle and energy use per 100 cycles, while keeping the appliance’s size in mind. ADEME recommends checking the energy label to compare dishwasher specifications.