How to Choose the Best Dishwasher for your Needs

By Brittany Rowland

Depending on your kitchen space and how many dishes you go through each day, you may find one particular type of dishwasher—a regular built-in, an 18 inch, or a countertop—works best for you. Each kind of dishwasher has its pros and cons, but you can typically find a quality performer in any variety. The key consideration is space.

Countertop

If you live in a small apartment or an RV, then you know you have minimal kitchen space. Or, if you’re single or retired, you don’t use many dishes throughout the day. In these cases, a countertop dishwasher is the best choice. Only 17 inches tall, it fits on the counter, usually squeezed in under a cabinet. A countertop dishwasher includes all the basic functions of a regular dishwasher but in a much smaller box-like structure. They typically hold 4 place settings and can wash a full load with about 2 gallons of water—that’s much more efficient than washing them by hand.

Pros

• Washes a small volume of dishes efficiently
• Takes up little space
• Portable

Cons

• Requires you to hook it up to sink with a hose each use
• Still pricey—could be more cost effective to go with larger model

Built-in

The standard form of dishwasher, the built-in models are permanently installed under a countertop and are typically 24 inches wide. Couples and families who go through a lot of dishes each day will appreciate the large capacity of built-in dishwashers, which can hold up to 16 place settings. Tall tub dishwashers in particular have great capacity because they maximize the space for dishes inside the outer “box.”

Pros

• With several cycle options, dishes are cleaned in the most efficient manner
• Typical lifespan is 9 to 12 years
• Come in a variety of colors and styles to match any kitchen décor
• Many offer sanitizing cycles that eliminate bacteria

Cons

• More special features can mean more mechanical problems
• Professional installation may or may not be offered with purchase

18 inch

People who like the convenience of a full-size dishwasher but don’t have a lot of kitchen space may be happiest with an slimline 18-inch dishwasher. They’re essentially the same as a standard 24-inch dishwasher, but narrower by 6 inches. Even if you don’t have space under the cabinets for a built-in model, portable dishwashers are also available. They can be easily stored in a closet and rolled out for use.

Pros

• Innovative features squeeze a lot of dish space in to a small package
• As effective at cleaning dishes as full-size dishwashers
• Portable option

Cons

• Washing pots and pans leaves no room for other dishes—may double number of loads

Brittany Rowland researches new developments in Appliances, Kitchen and CE products features with a vigor to which few would aspire… but someone has to do it. See more about Brittany

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