Best Slimline Dishwashers in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update October 18, 2024
Slimline dishwashers don't have regular dishwashers' capacity. However, these models are just as effective and efficient. The best ...Read more
PROS

The two ergonomically designed spray arms in the upper basket provide targeted water circulation so that every corner inside the dishwasher receives fair treatment. At the same time, the arms' precision control ensures that each rinse cycle is especially gentle on glasses and fragile dishes.

CONS

The machine can take some time to set up. 

OUR VERDICT

Bosch Serie 2 SPS24CW00G is gentle but, at the same time, extremely effective and efficient. The height-adjustable top basket offers additional flexibility to accommodate larger items. The VarioSpeed technology delivers optimum cleaning and drying results in half the usual time.

detailed parameters
Type

Freestanding

Capacity

9 place settings

Programs

4 programmes + 2 special options (VarioSpeed Plus, Extra Dry)

Noise Level

48 dB (EcoSilence Drive)

Class

Energy Efficiency Class: A+

Cleaning Efficiency Class: A

Drying Efficiency Class: A

Extras

DuoPower spray arm, ActiveWater hydraulic water system, DosageAssist detergent dispenser, AquaSensor III, Load sensor, AquaStop leak protection system

Dimensions

84.5 x 45 x 60 cm

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The company's FlexiLoad™ tech with its Flexi Zone flexible storage system allows for 13 place settings, including the Vertical Zone setting that enables you to secure different pans vertically to free up that always precious space in the lower basket. The adjustable parts are colour-coded, making the overall user experience that much more accessible.

CONS

The sound alarm that signals when the dishwasher is done is too quiet. 

OUR VERDICT

Hotpoint HSFO3T223WX delivers sleek aesthetics and efficient performance. This machine will be able to class up or, at the very least, match any modern kitchen. You can choose between nine different programs. The machine is as quiet as they come.

detailed parameters
Type

Freestanding

Capacity

10 (+3 extra) place settings

Programs

9 programmes

Noise Level

43 dB

Class

Energy Efficiency Class: A++

Cleaning Efficiency Class: A

Drying Efficiency Class: A

Extras

3D  ZoneWash™, FlexiLoad™ technology with Flexi Zone, Removable triple-stage filter (Hygiene+)

Dimensions

85 x 45 x 59 cm

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The intensive programme uses this powerful 70°C water jet, letting the machine remove the most stubborn residues with no issues at all. The rinse-and-hold programme, pre-washing partial loads, makes sure to keep bacteria and odours to a minimum until you have that full load that you can justify washing. 

CONS

Certain programmes last way too long. 

OUR VERDICT

Zanussi ZDV12004FA is everything we like to see in integrated slimline dishwashers. The model's programmes will let you keep tableware squeaky clean. The energy-saving programme is surprisingly effective. The machine is not that silent but definitely less loud than your average dishwasher.

detailed parameters
Type

Integrated

Capacity

9 place settings

Programs

5 programmes

Noise Level

~46 dB

Class

Energy Efficiency Class: A+

Cleaning Efficiency Class: A

Drying Efficiency Class: A

Extras

Foldable cup shelves, salt and rinse aid reminder

Dimensions

81.8 x 44.6 x 55 cm

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The Daily programme takes an hour, while the Rapid programme will get things done in 40 minutes. You can use the delay start button to delay the wash 3, 6, or 9 hours. The programmes are detailed in bold text and symbols, so you won't have any issues figuring them out. The two rolling baskets pull out easily enough. 

CONS

It takes some time to get used to stacking dinner plates. 

OUR VERDICT

Indesit DFG15B1S is the least sophisticated machine on the list. It is also the most durable slimline dishwasher we've looked at. The price is really attractive, especially considering that you won't be forced to replace the machine in the foreseeable future. The dishwasher is plenty spacious/roomy too. 

detailed parameters
Type

Freestanding

Capacity

13 place settings

Programs

5 programmes

Noise Level

49 dB

Class

Energy Efficiency Class: A+

Cleaning Efficiency Class: A

Drying Efficiency Class: A

Extras

4-stage filtration system, Self-balancing door

Dimensions

85 x 60 x 59 cm

Warranty

10 years for parts (registration required), 1 year for labor

PROS

Measuring 84.5 x 44.8 x 59.5 centimetres, the model's 10-place setting capacity is deceptive, to say the least. Each configuration incorporates mobile, movable elements that let you arrange the dishes as efficiently as necessary. The delay function will let you delay the wash up to 12 hours. 

CONS

The adjustable legs are not that useful. 

OUR VERDICT

White Knight DW1045WA is that budget slimline dishwasher that lets you do pretty much everything mid-range dishwashers are able to do without paying extra. You'll have no issues keeping your tableware clean. Its A++ energy efficiency rating will make your energy bills as modest as possible.

detailed parameters
Type

Freestanding

Capacity

10 place settings

Programs

6 programmes

Noise Level

49 dB

Class

Energy Efficiency Class: A++

Cleaning Efficiency Class: A

Drying Efficiency Class: A

Extras

Automatic detergent dispenser, Adjustable top drawer, Rinse aid low indicator, Water softener

Dimensions

84.5 x 44.8 x 59.5 cm

Warranty

2 years

A Lot to Unpack Here

Bosch Serie 2 SPS24CW00G is up there with the most effective and efficient machines on the market right now. There are many major differences and little details that separate this product from your standard mid-range dishwasher.

First things first, the ActiveWater™ hydraulic water system requires less power and less energy, all while delivering improved performance. The company's innovative rinsing tech works wonders maximising efficiency and providing that environmentally-friendly rinsing that we like to see in our kitchen appliances.

Saving both water and energy through targeted water distribution, the machine's improved filter technology, accelerated heating, and higher pump performance allow for increased water circulation.

At the same time, the company's DosageAssist feature is no joke too. It is able to work with the machine's every other solution to optimise cleaning results and ensure quieter wash. The feature works by dropping the detergent out of the dispenser and into this special tray on the top basket where that detergent gets completely dissolved.

Keeping your home clean is often difficult. Keeping the whole place quiet is seldom possible. The people behind this machine will certainly contribute to that noble cause though.

Incorporating EcoSilence Drive, the machine delivers that high-performance cleaning that keeps the noise emissions as low as possible. The brushless, energy-saving motor does an excellent job reducing friction noise, letting the EcoSilence Drive system secure the smoothest, quietest operation possible.

Optimum Results in Half the Time

As far as we're concerned, the only issue with this slimline dishwasher is that the many available settings and features might confuse you at first, so it will likely take you some time with the manual to set the machine up.

On a different note, the usual spray arm on the bottom here is not the only thing that works to keep the dishes clean. DuoPower, the company's double spray arm setup in the upper basket, makes sure that the dishes are always optimally cleaned.

These two ergonomically designed spray arms provide targeted water circulation, making sure that every corner receives fair treatment. At the same time, the arms' precision control ensures that each rinse cycle is especially gentle on glasses and fragile dishes.

Without boring you any further with the details, Bosch Serie 2 SPS24CW00G is gentle but, at the same time, extremely effective and efficient. The height-adjustable top basket offers additional flexibility to accommodate larger items. The VarioSpeed technology delivers optimum cleaning and drying results in half the usual time. All in all, this is probably the best slimline dishwasher on the list.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07D1R3Y57

Zone Wash Approach

Hotpoint HSFO3T223WX is as sleek and elegant as these machines come. The chromium-plated silver housing looks fantastic. It is very much resistant to scratches. The housing, as well as the machine's interior, are pretty much immune to rust and corrosion. The black control panel works really well with the silver body, adding character to this appliance and making the dishwasher look bold and streamlined.

As much as we dig the machine's appearance though, it is all about performance first and foremost. There are many differences between this dishwasher and its inferior mid-range peers in the performance department. The biggest contributor here is the machine's inverter motor.

With its ability to vary the spinning speed, the motor is able to properly calibrate the water pressure and, consequently, its cleaning force. The magnets inside allow precise spray control, making sure that the water comes with the right pressure, hitting the right spot at the right time.

At the same time, the company's 3D ZoneWash™ is just as important here. Incorporating powerful water jets coming from the machine's upper and lower spray arms and utilising the aforementioned variable speed inverter motor, the 3D ZoneWash™ system makes sure that the dishwasher uses no more water than necessary throughout the selected basket. The technology lets you choose between 40 percent more cleaning power or 40 percent more energy efficiency.

Almost too Many Available Configurations

The company's FlexiLoad™ tech with its Flexi Zone setup makes this machine just as much as the previously mentioned features. Incorporating this flexible storage system, the dishwasher allows for 13 place settings, including the Vertical Zone setting that allows you to secure different pans vertically to free up that always precious space in the lower basket.

The machine's maximum load flexibility allows for 13, 14, and 15 different covers. Each configuration here features these mobile elements that efficiently arrange your dishes. Plus, the adjustable parts are colour-coded, making the overall user experience that much more accessible.

From our perspective, the machine's only weak link is the relatively quiet sound alarm that signals when the dishwasher is done with the program.

Bottom line, Hotpoint HSFO3T223WX delivers sleek aesthetics and efficient performance. This machine will be able to class up or, at the very least, match any modern kitchen. You can choose between nine different programs. The machine is as quiet as they come.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £342.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07MMCY7T7

Integrated Machine with Natural Airflows

Zanussi ZDV12004FA is meticulous, thorough, and precise. The machine's not that different from its competition on paper but there are major differences when you look at the details as well as these details' execution.

The machine's least impressive part but the one that we cannot overlook nonetheless is its size. Measuring 81.8 x 44.6 x 55 centimetres, this slimline dishwasher is slimmer, shorter, and more narrow than its direct competition. We're talking about 2-3 centimetre increments here but these centimetres often make all the difference. There's very little chance you won't be able to find enough space for this machine. Its white sleek frame will be able to mesh well with just about any kitchen setting.

Setting these boring details aside, let's talk features and overall performance. Starting with the AirDry technology, the machine uses the former tech to dry your dishes with natural airflows. The door automatically opens up when the dishes are clean, dry, and ready for unloading. You won't have to worry about those annoying droplets that often remained on crockery back in the days.

Choose the Programme

The dishwasher comes equipped with five programmes. As far as we're concerned, these programmes are the Zanussi ZDV12004FA dishwasher. Sure, certain programmes take too much time. The normal programme, for instance, will usually take around 170 minutes.

At the same time, the intensive programme is the machine's biggest strength. Using this powerful 70°C water jet, the machine will have no issues removing the most stubborn residues. It will make sure your dishes are thoroughly clean and ready for use straight from the cycle.

The fast-wash programme is pretty nice too. You'll be able to quickly and thoroughly clean light loads in 30 minutes, so you'll have your dishes clean and ready at a moment's notice.

The rinse-and-hold programme is somewhat invaluable as well. Pre-washing partial loads, the programme makes sure to keep bacteria and odours to a minimum until you have the full load.

The product is plenty practical. The upper basket is height-adjustable. The cup shelves are foldable. The PerfectFit sliding hinge lets you easily install the machine.

All things considered, Zanussi ZDV12004FA is everything we like to see in integrated slimline dishwashers. The model's programmes will let you keep tableware squeaky clean. The energy-saving programme is surprisingly effective. The machine is not that silent but definitely less loud than your average dishwasher.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B06XB9QNXN

Knobs and Buttons for the Win

Indesit DFG15B1S is that machine that serves for decades without any maintenance demands. Its fully stainless steel exterior is sturdy and extremely durable. You'll have no issues with rust and corrosion. At the same time, the high-grade stainless steel liner ensures superb drying performance that's hygienic as well as hard-wearing.

The dishwasher is eco-friendly, easy to use, and as affordable as they come, especially considering the 13 place settings and its solid specs.

The people behind the product have been able to keep the cost low by sticking to the basics like these solid-feeling, massive knobs and buttons that we've all seen before.

Rejecting the prevalent these days LCD panels and fancy programmes, the machine features this one massive central knob that lets you choose between six different programmes.

These programmes are detailed in bold text and symbols, so you won't have any issues figuring them out. In addition to this knob, there are the usual on/off buttons, delay start, and MyTime function.

You pull the handle to open the door. There aren't any fancy damped hinges and/or self-opening mechanisms here.

The two rolling baskets pull out easily enough, not necessarily matching the premium machine's smooth rolling grace but not presenting any challenges either. The height-adjustable top basket will let you quickly make slight changes to the configuration.

At the same time, with its long, central row that features these non-collapsible plate racks through the top basket, the machine's not that great for mugs and bowls.

Delay the Wash

Indesit DFG15B1S features six programmes that we've all seen many times before.

The 65-degree Celcius Intensive wash programme will be able to handle mucky pans and plates with especially dried-on food.

The half-load and eco programmes aren't any different from every other half-load and eco programme out there.

The Daily programme takes an hour, while the Rapid programme will get things done in 40 minutes. These are great numbers but neither programme incorporates a drying cycle, so you'll have to keep that tea towel nearby.

You can use the delay start button to delay the wash 3, 6, or 9 hours.

Long story short, Indesit DFG15B1S is the least sophisticated machine on the list. It is also the most durable slimline dishwasher we've looked at. The price is really attractive, especially considering that you won't be forced to replace the machine in the foreseeable future.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B00GQ4Z5X6

Standard Deal Made More Affordable

White Knight DW1045WA is the least expensive dishwasher on this list. As far as we're concerned, the biggest reason this machine is less expensive is that the brand is much smaller than every other representative within this lineup. There aren't any major differences between this model and its more expensive competition.

The not necessarily major but annoying issue here that we couldn't overlook is that the adjustable legs aren't that effective, so you'll have to place the machine onto perfectly even surface.

Apart from that, the dishwasher is as effective and efficient as they come. Measuring 84.5 x 44.8 x 59.5 centimetres, the model's 10-place setting capacity is deceptive, to say the least. Each configuration incorporates mobile, movable elements that let you arrange the dishes as efficiently as necessary.

The model's white housing is neither too sleek nor too boring. It won't be able to elevate your kitchen's overall appearance but you won't have to worry about the machine standing unfavourably out either. The polished, streamlined look should mesh well with any modern kitchen.

As far as the controls are concerned, the traditional push buttons will let you access the LCD screen and the machine's relatively limited but effective/efficient settings. These settings are pretty straightforward, making the dishwasher easy to figure out and just as easy to use.

A++ Energy Efficiency Class

Again, the six wash programmes aren't that different from everything we've seen before. The intensive and economic cycles are present though, which is great since those aren't always available in budget dishwashers.

There are a few details that separate this machine from its budget competition though. The automatic detergent dispenser is compatible with washing powder as well as those "3-in-1" and "5-in-1" laundry detergent tablets.

The automatic wash temperature selection will streamline the process and make sure the dishes are always clean without doing any damage to different tableware pieces. The delay function will let you delay the wash up to 12 hours. The adjustable top drawer will allow you to quickly change the layout and fit different mugs and bowls.

In short, White Knight DW1045WA is that budget slimline dishwasher that lets you do pretty much everything mid-range dishwashers are able to do without paying extra. You'll have no issues keeping your tableware clean. Its A++ energy efficiency rating will make your energy bills as modest as possible.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B01J1TDMVY

What Is a Slimline Dishwasher?

Cooking's great. Who has the time to clean the dishes though? Well, some people probably do. Most seldom have the time to cook though, let alone wash the dishes afterwards. Of course, this isn't about time alone. Washing the dishes is the least exciting experience there is. It is seldom pleasant too.

That's why people buy dishwashers. The issue is that our living spaces are getting smaller and smaller, so most kitchens these days are very limited space-wise.

That's where slimline dishwashers come in. While standard dishwashers measure 60 centimetres in width, these slimline models measure just 45 centimetres across. As you'd imagine, the capacity is not comparable but, generally speaking, enough to fit sizable tableware loads.

Setting the capacity aside, these machines are as brilliant at tackling washing-up chores as standard dishwashers. The only major difference here is the size. Other than that, you're dealing with the same advantages and disadvantages that these machines always present.

These things are much more practical than countertop dishwashers but require major space commitments too, so these countertop models are sometimes the only available option for some. These whiskey glasses, by the way, are very much dishwasher safe (not to mention sophisticated and elegant), so feel free to check them out too.

What Features to Compare

Type

Slimline dishwashers aren't any different from regular dishwashers in this regard. There are freestanding models, integrated models, and countertop models. We're not covering countertop models here as we're planning to write a separate review about them. Other than that, freestanding models can be put anywhere you want, whilst integrated models are specifically designed for spaces that were, in turn, designed for dishwashers.

Capacity

Slimline models are much smaller compared to traditional dishwashers. That's why the capacity part is extremely important. Generally speaking, these machines feature somewhere around 10 place settings, meaning that you can configure the layout in ~10 different ways to make space for different tableware pieces. We really like the models that incorporate vertical zones settings since those let you secure different pans vertically to free up that always precious space in the lower basket.

Programmes

This is where slimline machines aren't any different from standard dishwashers. There's no downside to having as many programmes as possible (except that the price is usually higher). At the same time, these programmes don't always differ that much from each other. More often than not, you'll be dealing with the same ~6 programmes, including normal, eco, quick-wash, intensive, rinse-and-hold, and half-load. Sometimes, you'll see different programmes as well as different takes on these programmes but there's seldom that much deviation here.

Noise Level

There's not much to cover here. Provided you don't have especially peculiar tastes, nobody likes the noise that different household appliances like washing machines and dishwashers usually produce. These machines usually aren't that loud though. The noise level normally hovers somewhere around 45 decibels, which is barely audible. You'll hear the water jets hitting the plates though, there's nothing you can do about that.

Extras

As you would imagine, there are many major and minor differences between various models. Sometimes, we're talking about simple things like foldable cup shelves and adjustable drawers. Other times, these differences include very specific features and technologies that separate high-end dishwashers from mid-range models and mid-range models from budget machines.

Dimensions

Slimline dishwashers always measure around 45 centimetres across. The height and length aren't always the same though. The differences usually aren't that huge but make sure to keep these measurements in mind anyway since you'll have to find enough space for the machine and that space is seldom plentiful.

Dishwasher Advantages and Disadvantages

Overall Convenience

There isn't much we can say here that isn't necessarily obvious. The reason people buy these machines in the first place is because they're incredibly convenient. You don't have to stand next to the sink scrubbing and rinsing your dishes by hand. You don't have to waste your time doing the most tedious, boring, monotonous task you can imagine.

All you have to do is load the dirty mugs, bowls, and other tableware pieces into the machine, select whatever programme you want the machine to execute, and let the machine do the work whilst you spend your time doing much more exciting things.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, your average individual spends over 230 hours per year washing dishes, so that's 230 hours that you're never going to receive back.

This isn't just about time and convenience though. Decent dishwashers clean tableware much better than most people do. Since these machines usually heat water to ~140 degrees Fahrenheit, which is much higher than most people are able to tolerate, just about any dishwasher will clean and sanitise your dishes much more effectively than you ever could.

Fewer Spendings

The personal time and convenience are obvious. The savings aren't necessarily that obvious though. The Department of Energy claims that any relatively new, Energy Star-certified model will let you save up to 40 pounds per year in utility bills. This is all about reducing your water and electricity usage. Dishwashers waste ~5,000 fewer gallons (~19,000 litres) of water per year.

As you would imagine, this isn't just about money. This is also about helping the environment. Less energy usage equals less pollution as well as less greenhouse gas production.

Soap Can Get Expensive Though

The issue with these machines is that dishwashers always require soap that's specifically designed for these machines. Regular dish soap leads to excess suds that can do real damage to the machine. Needless to say, the specifically designed dishwasher soap costs more compared to standard dish detergents. Some detergent types are more harmful to the environment than others. Plus, you'll always have to add some rinse agent to the machine to avoid water spots on glassware, increasing the machine's overall expenses as well as the number of chemicals you are unfortunately introducing to the environment.

Some Dishes are Fragile

Sure, as far as disinfection is concerned, dishwashers are much more effective than hand-washing. At the same time, these machines aren't necessarily always as meticulous as thorough as you can be. Even the most expensive/powerful machines will occasionally leave some dried-on food debris that you'll have to handle yourself afterwards or run the machine again.

Plus, as you probably know, not all tableware pieces are dishwasher safe. Crystals, fine china, different, knives, non-stick pots, most pans, and wooden items will get damaged in the dishwasher. Sometimes, there are small risks. Other times, there's practically no chance these tableware pieces will come out safe and sound.

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