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How to Select the Best Dishwasher for Your Kitchen: Factors to Consider

Brian Gregory

By Brian Gregory
Updated December 5, 2024

We'll show you which dishwasher features are available to help you find the best and most efficient dishwasher for your needs. Learn all about different dishwasher types and then use our filters, including shop dishwasher by size or shop by color, to choose the best option.

A woman setting the controls on a top-control stainless steel dishwasher.

Dishwasher Types

When most homeowners think of dishwashers, built-in dishwashers are typically the first appliance to come to mind. But there are several other types of dishwashers to choose from including drawer dishwashers and portable dishwashers.

Built-in Dishwashers

A built-in dishwasher is traditionally a 24-inch-wide model that installs below the kitchen counter. Depending on the model, built-ins can accommodate 12 to 16 place settings. The actual built-in dishwasher width may vary somewhat by model, with widths from 23.5 to 24 inches, depths from 23.25 to 28 inches, including the handle, and heights from 33.75 to 35 inches.

Compact Dishwashers

A compact dishwasher, or apartment-sized dishwasher, is often listed as an 18-inch dishwasher. Different models can accommodate eight to 10 place settings. Actual compact dishwasher dimensions vary, with widths ranging from 17.5 to 18 inches, depths from 22 to 25.5 inches, including the handle, and heights from 34.4 to 35 inches. An apartment-sized dishwasher’s dimensions make it ideal for small spaces or areas like a wet bar, media room or secondary kitchen.

Drawer Dishwashers

Drawer dishwashers are available in single- and double-drawer configurations. They install in the same space as a traditional 24-inch built-in model. Double-drawer models are some of the most efficient dishwashers and they offer the flexibility to accommodate small and large loads. Drawer dishwashers are also easier to load since the drawers slide out at work level, eliminating the need to bend over to load the dishes. Actual drawer dishwasher dimensions differ by model. Widths range from 23.5 to 24.5 inches, and depths are typically 22.5 inches, including the handle. Heights vary depending on the number of drawers. Single-drawer dishwashers can be 16.1 to 17.8 inches high and can handle up to seven place settings. Double-drawer dishwasher heights can range from 34.6 to 36.3 inches, accommodating up to 14 place settings.

Portable Dishwashers

A portable dishwasher is ideal for those who have no room for a built-in or for people renting a home without a built-in. No special installation is required, as this type of dishwasher has wheels and can be hooked up directly to the sink. You can store it easily when not in use and even take it with you when you move. Since portable dishwasher dimensions vary, you have options to fit your available space. Widths range from 20.5 to 24.8 inches, depths from 27 to 30 inches, including the handle, and heights from 35 to 38.5 inches. Taller models often feature an integrated laminate countertop. Portability doesn’t mean you need to give up capacity, either. You can find models that accommodate eight to 12 place settings.

How to Measure for Standard Dishwasher Dimensions & Sizes

Today, even a typical best dishwasher’s lifespan is around 10 years. When it’s time for replacement, you’ll want to measure your existing dishwasher cabinet opening to make sure you choose the right size. Typically, a standard dishwasher’s width is 24 inches, height is 35 inches and depth is 24 inches. And a dishwasher cabinet's openings are usually designed to accommodate standard dishwasher dimensions. But it’s always a good idea to measure your space before purchasing a new dishwasher.

So, how are dishwashers measured? The first measurement you’ll want to take is the width of the dishwasher cabinet opening, from the left edge to the right. Measure the width of both the top and bottom cabinet openings just in case those measurements differ slightly. If one measurement is smaller than the other, use that width and record that number.

Next, you’ll want to measure the height of the opening, from the bottom of the kitchen counter to the floor below it. Not all rooms are completely level so it’s important to measure the height from three different locations – the left side of the cabinet opening, the center of the opening and the right side. Record the smallest number as the height measurement of the dishwasher cabinet.

Finally, it’s important to measure the depth of the cabinet opening. The sizes or measurements of dishwasher units, even standard ones, may differ slightly. So, it’s important to double check these measurements before purchasing a new one.

Good to Know

Many dishwashers are designed with adjustable legs to account for room level variations. If one side of the floor is lower than the other, you can use the adjustable leg of the dishwasher to make it level with the countertop above it.

Dishwasher Features

Not all dishwashers are created equal. From basic, affordable units to options with all the bells and whistles, features may vary. Here are some popular features to consider when choosing the best dishwasher for cleaning your kitchen utensils.

Cleaning Power/Performance

Clean and sanitize dishes with these advanced wash options:

  • Varying wash types, such as water wall, rotary spray or high-pressure jets
  • Targeted wash areas
  • Steam clean
  • Bottle jets
  • Hard-food disposer
  • Built-in water softener
  • Built-in water heater

Noise Level

If finding the quietest dishwasher available is a concern for you, check the decibel level. A rating of 45 decibels or lower is virtually silent — similar to the volume of a low discussion in a library or quieter. Decibel levels between 45 and 50 sound similar to rainfall. Ratings of 50 or higher are equivalent to the level of a normal conversation.

Flexibility

Removable racks and adjustable shelves make it easy to customize tub space to accommodate oversized dishes, pots and pans. Also look for third-rack options for flat, oversized utensils. Some have fold-down tines to let you configure the rack for each load. Many dishwashers come with stemware holders to secure wine glasses.

Water and Energy Savings

ENERGY STAR® certified dishwashers use less water and less energy than other models. You may be eligible for local rebates when buying ENERGY STAR® certified appliances. Take a look at the dishwasher information on the ENERGY STAR® website to learn more.

Tub Material

A stainless steel tub resists stains and odors. It improves drying capabilities as the moist air inside the dishwasher condenses on the tub and rolls down to the drain. Dishwashers with stainless steel tubs also tend to be quieter. Plastic tubs, which are often found on more economical dishwashers, are also very durable. Gray plastic tubs minimize the appearance of stains. You can also find dishwashers with tubs that have both stainless steel and plastic elements.

Control Options

  • Front-panel controls are fully visible and mounted on the front of the dishwasher door. This configuration makes it easy to see settings and status while the dishwasher is operating. A dishwasher with front-panel controls will often have a recessed handle.
  • Top-control dishwashers have the control panel mounted on the top edge of the door. The controls are hidden when the door is closed, giving the appliance a clean, flush look and helping to prevent accidental changes to the settings. There may be lights on the exterior of the dishwasher to indicate when the appliance is operating or that the wash is complete. Top-control dishwashers may have a recessed handle or a towel bar-type handle.
  • Semi-hidden controls are also available. These are mounted on the front of the door in a recessed handle.

Filters

Some filtration systems don’t require cleaning. For those that do, removable filters make maintenance easy.

Sensors

Dishwashers equipped with sensors ensure quality cleaning, performance and energy savings. Some common sensors and their functions include the following:

  • Soil level sensors adjust wash cycle times.
  • Temperature sensors ensure proper water temperature.
  • Water sensors maintain the proper amount of water in the machine.
  • Detergent sensors release the proper amount of dishwashing liquid into the wash cycle.
  • Leak sensors help prevent water damage to your floors.

Cycles

Dishwasher cycles allow for a customized wash on all types of dishes, from pots and pans to fine china. Some options include:

  • Delayed Wash: Set the start time from one to 24 hours ahead, depending on your model.
  • Rinse and Hold: Rinse away food on a partial load of dishes to eliminate bacteria and smell without using detergent.
  • Wash Programs: Various wash cycles provide custom settings for everything from fragile dishes and stemware to heavy pots and oven racks.
  • Quick Wash: Finish a load of lightly soiled dishes in less time than a regular cycle.
  • Sanitize: A sanitizing rinse kills 99.9% of bacteria. This is great for cutting boards and baby bottles.

Other Features

Dishwasher Finishes

An empty dishwasher with a silverware caddy.

You can find dishwashers in a variety of colors and finishes to match your kitchen or make a bold statement. Popular dishwasher finishes include:

Tips to Improve Dishwasher Cleaning

A man loading dishes into the dishwasher.

Wondering how to clean the dishwasher? Most dishwashers offer a variety of settings to provide the best cleaning for your dishes. There are some things you can do to improve performance if your dishwasher isn’t cleaning as well as you’d expect:

  1. Be sure your water heater is set to the appropriate temperature. Dishwashers typically need water with a temperature between 120 and 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Running the hot water from the kitchen faucet before you start the dishwasher will force cold water from the pipes and let the wash cycle begin with hot water.
  2. Buy only the amount of detergent you can use within a couple of months and store it in a dry location. Older detergent loses some of its cleaning ability. Excess moisture makes detergent less effective.
  3. Use the recommended amount of detergent.
  4. Clean your dishwasher’s filter regularly if it requires maintenance.
  5. Scrape seeds and large food debris from your dishes before loading them. In addition to improving performance, scraping the dishes instead of rinsing them in the sink saves water.
  6. Load items so the soiled areas face the spray arms as much as possible. This will ensure good contact with the water jets.
  7. Avoid overlapping dishes and don’t overload the dishwasher. Space between the dishes aids water circulation, which allows for better cleaning.
  8. Load silverware so the individual pieces don’t stack together. Spoons and forks can point up or down for a better fit, but keep knives pointed downward. Some silverware baskets are equipped with slotted covers to keep the silverware separated properly.

Extend the Life of Your Dishwasher and Improve Efficiency

    1. Use your dishwasher to clear buildup from debris and help ensure proper drainage.
    2. Remove buildup with a commercial dishwasher cleaner.
    3. Use a brush or a toothpick to clear debris or blockages from the spinning arms for optimum water movement.
    4. Run your garbage disposal before starting a wash cycle. If your dishwasher drains to your garbage disposal, this lessens the load on your dishwasher’s pump and helps keep the drain tube free of debris.
    5. Let dishes air-dry. Opting out of heated drying saves energy. If your dishwasher doesn’t have an air-dry feature, simply prop the door open once the cycle is complete.
    6. Wash dishes during off-peak hours. Some utility companies charge more for electricity during peak hours. Use your machine’s delay feature to schedule a wash for off-peak times to reduce your energy bill.
    7. Run your dishwasher at night in the summer to reduce daytime heat. This practice can also reduce the cooling requirements for your air conditioner.

Dishwasher Pricing and Installation

Dishwasher prices range from affordable options under $500 to splurge-worthy units with all the bells and whistles. The price depends on the dishwasher machine’s size, capacity, features, make and model. What you’ll spend will depend on your needs and the features that are important to you.

Although they have limited features, budget dishwashers still get the job done. Many newer-model dishwashers come equipped with a soil sensor, which determines the amount of water, temperature and time needed to get the dishes cleaned.

Midrange dishwashers may have adjustable racks, premium fingerprint-resistant finishes and lower decibel ratings than budget dishwashers.

With top-of-the-line dishwashers, you’ll have even more features from which to choose, including a whisper-quiet noise level, a large capacity and wireless connectivity. High-end dishwashers will have all the features you want and then some.

Learning how to install a dishwasher may not be worth the time and effort. Most homeowners choose professional dishwasher installation instead of doing it themselves. Learn more about appliance delivery, installation and haul away.

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