How to Choose the Right Dishwasher Size for Your Space

Whether you’re replacing an old machine or outfitting a brand-new kitchen, choosing the right dishwasher is an important decision to make. So, how do you choose the right dishwasher size? We’ll break down the different dishwasher sizes available, how to measure for the perfect fit, and what factors to consider based on your needs and kitchen layout.

What Are the Different Dishwasher Sizes?

Dishwashers come in several standard sizes to accommodate different kitchen spaces and household sizes. The size of the dishwasher affects its capacity, features, and installation requirements, so it’s essential to understand the different options available before making a purchase. The most common dishwasher sizes are:

1. Standard Size Dishwashers (24 inches)

The most common size for dishwashers is the 24-inch model, which fits into the majority of standard kitchen cabinets. A 24-inch dishwasher is designed to hold 12 to 14 place settings, making it an ideal option for families or households that entertain regularly. These dishwashers typically have a depth of 24 to 25 inches, and their height ranges between 33 and 35 inches, depending on the model.

Pros:

• Offers plenty of space for a large load of dishes, pots, pans, and utensils.
• Often comes with more advanced features like adjustable racks, multiple wash cycles, and energy-efficient options.
• Fits in most kitchens without requiring a major renovation or adjustment to your cabinetry.

Cons:

• Larger size can be cumbersome in smaller kitchens.
• May not be necessary for smaller households or those with fewer dishes to clean.

2. Compact Dishwashers (18 inches)

If you have a smaller kitchen or live in a smaller household, a compact 18-inch dishwasher could be a great fit. These dishwashers are narrower than standard 24-inch models and are designed to fit into more confined spaces. They can typically hold around 8 to 10 place settings, which is enough for a small family or an apartment.

Pros:

• Perfect for smaller kitchens or apartments where space is limited.
• Still provides all the functionality of a standard-size dishwasher, just with a smaller load capacity.
• Often more affordable than larger models, which is great for those on a budget.

Cons:

• Smaller load capacity means you’ll need to run the dishwasher more frequently if you have a larger household.
• May lack some of the advanced features of standard dishwashers, such as multiple wash cycles or larger rack space.

3. Drawer Dishwashers

For kitchens with a unique layout or people who prefer a more flexible dishwasher setup, drawer dishwashers are an increasingly popular choice. These dishwashers come in a drawer-like design, either as a single drawer or a double drawer, and they are often built into custom cabinetry. Drawer dishwashers come in both 24-inch and 18-inch sizes, with the 24-inch model typically providing around 8 to 10 place settings per drawer.

Pros:

• Offers flexibility, as you can choose to wash a small load in one drawer while leaving the other one empty or use both drawers for larger loads.
• Drawer design makes them ideal for kitchens where space is tight or where traditional dishwashers don’t fit.
• Some models allow you to operate each drawer independently, so you can wash different items at different times.

Cons:

• Generally more expensive than traditional dishwashers.
• Requires a more complex installation process and may not be suitable for all kitchen layouts.
• Smaller drawer models hold fewer dishes than standard dishwashers, so larger households might find them inconvenient.

How to Measure for a Dishwasher

To ensure that you choose the right-sized dishwasher for your kitchen, proper measurement is essential. Here’s how to accurately measure for a dishwasher installation:

1. Width

Most dishwashers come in standard widths of 24 inches (the most common) and 18 inches (for compact models). To measure the width of your space, take a tape measure and measure the opening from one side to the other, making sure to measure at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening. If the space measures 24 inches, you’ll need a standard-size dishwasher. If it’s closer to 18 inches, you’ll need a compact model.

2. Height

Dishwasher height typically ranges from 33 to 35 inches for standard models. Measure the height of the opening from the floor to the underside of the countertop. Don’t forget to leave some clearance space between the dishwasher and the countertop to ensure easy installation. Keep in mind that some dishwashers have adjustable legs, which allow for height adjustments during installation, so don’t be too worried if the measurements are slightly off.

3. Depth

For depth, most standard dishwashers are about 24 to 25 inches deep, while compact models are about 22 to 23 inches deep. The depth of the opening is equally important to ensure the dishwasher fits comfortably into the cabinet. Measure from the back wall of the cabinet to the front of the space, considering any surrounding cabinets or walls that might obstruct installation.

4. Check for Space Around the Dishwasher

Before choosing a dishwasher, make sure you have adequate space around the appliance for ventilation and ease of installation. While dishwashers don’t require a lot of space for installation, they do need some room for airflow and easy access for maintenance.

How to Choose the Right Dishwasher Size

Now that you understand the different dishwasher sizes and how to measure for the right fit, let’s go over a few considerations to help you decide which size is best for your needs.

1. Household Size

The size of your household is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a dishwasher. Larger households with more members will naturally generate more dishes, so opting for a standard-size dishwasher (24 inches) will give you more space to clean larger loads at once. If you have a smaller family, or if you live alone, a compact 18-inch dishwasher may be enough to meet your needs without taking up too much space in the kitchen.

2. Kitchen Space

Your kitchen layout and available space will also play a big role in the size of the dishwasher you choose. If your kitchen is small or if you have limited cabinet space, a compact dishwasher or even a drawer dishwasher could be the perfect solution to save space while still maintaining functionality. On the other hand, if you have a larger kitchen with plenty of room for appliances, you can opt for the 24-inch standard-size dishwasher without worrying about overcrowding the space.

3. Load Capacity

Think about how much dishwashing you typically do. If you’re a busy family with kids, you may need a larger dishwasher to handle more dishes in one load. A 24-inch dishwasher can accommodate more place settings, meaning you won’t need to run it as frequently, saving you time and energy. If you don’t accumulate many dirty dishes or if you prefer to run smaller loads, a compact model may be more than sufficient.

4. Features and Price

In general, standard dishwashers offer a wider range of features and tend to be more affordable than their compact or drawer counterparts. If you’re looking for advanced features like multiple wash cycles, customizable racks, or energy-efficient settings, you may want to go with a larger dishwasher. Compact dishwashers, while often cheaper upfront, typically have fewer features and smaller capacities, but they can still be quite efficient for smaller households.

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The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Keep Reading:

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