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

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

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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