Best slimline dishwashers: 5 buys to slot into a small kitchen

Invest in the best slimline dishwasher when there's no room for a standard 60cm design – we've covered the best freestanding and integrated models available

the best slimline dishwasher – the MIELE G4782 slimline dishwasher – in a black and grey stylish kitchen with slate worktops and gold tap, and a black dining table and chairs to the right
(Image credit: Miele)

On the hunt for the best slimline dishwasher? If you're working with a small kitchen –or live alone – chances are you won't have the room, or the requirement, for a full sized machine. Enter the slimline, 45cm model to save the day when you don't have room for the standard 60cm size.

If you think that having a dishwasher uses more energy and water than washing up by hand, think again, as the latest models are super efficient and will save you time, too. Plus, a slimline dishwasher uses even less! Keep scrolling for complete reviews of the top models for our selection of the best slimline dishwashers from brands including Bosch and Smeg, which are perfect for small households and small spaces. 

Want to see more dishwasher and full-size options? No worries: head our to our best dishwashers guide for more top freestanding and integrated dishwashers.

The best slimline dishwashers

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Miele G4782 SCVi Fully Integrated Slimline Dishwasher with door open


(Image credit: Miele)

1. Miele G4782 SCVi Fully Integrated Slimline Dishwasher

The best slimline dishwasher: with plenty of high-tech features, the Miele G4782 tops our list for the best slimline integrated dishwasher you can buy

Specifications

Place settings: 9
Energy rating: A++
Noise level: 46dB
Finish: White
Dimensions: H80.5cm x W44.8cm x D57cm
Type: Integrated

Reasons to buy

+
Water efficient
+
Soft close door
+
Child lock

Reasons to avoid

-
Top-end price tag
-
May be too quiet for some

One of the best things about this model is Miele’s exclusive AutoOpen drying programme, where the door opens automatically at the end of the cycle. It also comes with QuickPowerwash for excellent cleaning in under an hour. Buyers appreciate the FlexAssist baskets for easy loading, as well as Perfect Glasscare, which automatically adjusts the water hardness to prevent glasses from turning cloudy. Those on a water meter will also love the fact that it consumes just six litres of water on the automatic programme – while the delay start option allows you to take advantage of cheaper tariffs. Choose from six programmes from gentle to intensive, with something for every occasion.

Siemens iQ500 SR256I00TE Freestanding Slimline Dishwasher

(Image credit: Siemens)

2. Siemens iQ500 SR256I00TE Freestanding Slimline Dishwasher

Best slimline dishwasher for noise levels: the super silent option means it won't wake you or the kids - result!

Specifications

Place settings: 10
Energy rating: A++
Noise level: 44dB
Finish: Stainless steel
Dimensions: H81.5cm xW45cm x D60cm
Type: Freestanding

Reasons to buy

+
Programme running times reduced by 66 per cent
+
Interior lights
+
AutoProgramme control

Reasons to avoid

-
Some prefer an integrated design

The standout feature on this dishwasher is the duoPower® double spray arm, which gives fantastic cleaning results, thanks to better water distribution. There's also an emotionLight, where two LEDs switch on automatically when the door is opened, a great little feature when you’re grappling about in the dark. There’s a special cycle for glassware, an extraDry option that extends the drying phase (perfect for plastic) and an anti-fingerprint stainless steel finish. What more could you need?

Neff N70 S586T60D0G Fully Integrated Slimline Dishwasher with door slightly ajar

(Image credit: Neff)

3. Neff N70 S586T60D0G Fully Integrated Slimline Dishwasher

Best slimline dishwasher for energy efficiency: this integrated slimline dishwasher by Neff packs plenty of features in

Specifications

Place settings: 10
Energy rating: A++
Noise level: 44dB
Finish: White
Dimensions: H81.5cm x W44.8cm x D55cm
Type: Integrated

Reasons to buy

+
Large capacity
+
Six programmes
+
Five temperatures

Reasons to avoid

-
Some prefer more basic programmes
-
Quite expensive

Perfect for a contemporary handleless kitchen, this model comes with door Open Assist – simply press lightly on the front and hey presto, it opens. Great for when your hands are full. There are also some added bells and whistles such as the Flex 3 baskets and cutlery drawer with adaptable, foldable parts, as well as the Chef 70˚C programme for removing stubborn stains from pots and pans. For those who like special options for Extra Dry, Intensive Zone and VarioSpeed Plus, this model stands out from the crowd.

BOSCH Serie 2 SPS24CW00G Slimline Dishwasher

(Image credit: Currys PC World)

4. Bosch Serie 2 SPS24CW00G Slimline Dishwasher

Best slimline dishwasher for quick wash functions: it's a great choice if you're a busy small household

Specifications

Place settings: 9
Energy rating: A+
Noise level: 48dB
Finish: White
Dimensions: H84.5 x W5.0 x D60cm
Type: Integrated

Reasons to buy

+
29 minute quick programme
+
VarioSpeed function
+
Easy to use

Reasons to avoid

-
Regular programme may be too long for some

A great little all-rounder, this slimline dishwasher will leave your dishware totally spotless. It's a fabulous choice for smaller, more compact kitchens, with the capacity to hold up to nine place settings. And, with the VarioSpeed function, it will cut your cleaning times in half. What's even better is that there is a quick wash cycle which will complete a load in 29 minutes – which is why it's our best slimline dishwasher option for those who really need quick washes. Reviewers love how clean the dishes come out too, even on the quick wash, and rave at how quiet it is.

Smeg DI410T Fully Integrated Slimline Dishwasher with door slightly ajar

(Image credit: Currys PC World)

5. Smeg DI410T Fully Integrated Slimline Dishwasher

Best slimline dishwasher for busy households: it boasts a fingerprint-friendly steel design

Specifications

Place settings: 10
Energy rating: A+
Noise level: 46dB
Finish: Stainless steel
Dimensions: H85 x W44.8 x D57cm
Type: Integrated

Reasons to buy

+
Large capacity
+
Concealed controls
+
10 programmes

Reasons to avoid

-
May be a little pricey for some

Buyers of this stylish steel model love the fact that it holds 10 place settings, one more than the average slimline dishwasher, as well as the great choice of programmes including Rapid 27mins, Crystal, Delicate Quick, Eco, Super and Strong and Fast. There are also four temperatures to pick from, as well as a 24-hour delay timer, adjustable upper basket with three levels, and a half load FlexiZone to save on water, energy and time. A great purchase for those who love their iconic Smeg appliances – it's pretty stylish.


How to buy the best slimline dishwasher

You might be torn about whether a dishwasher is the right economical and environmental choice. But an average bowl of washing-up water is nine litres, whereas some dishwashers consume just six litres per cycle – and, with half load options, delay start and eco programmes at your fingertips, you could save even more. 

Before you buy, consider whether you want a freestanding, integrated or semi-integrated dishwasher in your kitchen. Freestanding is easier to move, repair and replace, while built-in offers a sleek, seamless look with matching cabinet doors to complement the rest of your kitchen. Plus, there are no awkward gaps to clean!

You should also look at how many place settings the slimline dishwasher you're considering holds, as this dictates its capacity and how much crockery and cutlery you can fit in, as well as the number of programmes, temperature settings and any extra benefits such as child lock, smart sensor washing, quick wash, time delay and the all-important energy efficiency rating.

Looking for more expert advice on buying kitchen appliances?

Hayley Gilbert

Hayley is an interiors journalist with 24 years experience who has contributed to a huge range of consumer magazines, trade titles, newspapers and blogs. She has seen so many trends come and go - and come back round again - and has spent the last few years doing up her house in Hampshire. She loves the industrial look and is still a fan of grey in all its many forms. Hayley specialises in writing about kitchens and appliances – although can cover all interiors subjects with ease. For Realhomes.com, Hayley writes about small appliances and health and beauty gadgets