A dishwasher is a valuable time-saver in the kitchen. Whether you plan to replace your existing dishwasher or add a new one, you're probably wondering how wide a standard dishwasher is. Don't worry! We've done the research and have lots of helpful information to help you find the new dishwasher that best fits your kitchen.
A standard dishwasher measures 24 inches wide, 35 inches high, and 24 inches deep. The vast majority of dishwashers come in this standard size, and most kitchens are designed to fit a standard size dishwasher.
It's helpful to know the size of a standard dishwasher, but you probably have more questions about choosing the best appliance for your home. Read on to learn how to measure your space for a dishwasher, what to do if the standard dishwasher size does not meet your needs, and more!
Dishwasher Sizes
Standard dishwashers are the most common size, but you do have other dishwasher options available if the standard size does not work for your space. Non-standard dishwasher options include compact dishwashers, drawer dishwashers, countertop dishwashers, and custom (oversized) dishwashers.
Standard Dishwasher
The standard dishwasher size is 24 inches wide by 35 inches high by 24 inches deep. Most manufacturers make their dishwashers slightly smaller than these standard measurements (about 1/2 inch shorter for each dimension) to ensure they will fit in the available space.
The Sharp dishwasher with tall tub is a highly-rated standard size that is stainless steel and energy-efficient. Click here to see it on Amazon.
This Frigidaire model is at a lower budget point than the Bosch. It is also highly rated and will fit a standard size dishwasher space. Click here to see it on Amazon.
Compact Dishwasher
Compact dishwashers are a great option if you have a small kitchen or do not use many dishes. A compact dishwasher can fit about eight place settings (compared to 10-12 place settings for a standard dishwasher).
How Wide Is A Compact Dishwasher?
Compact dishwashers measure 18 inches wide by 35 inches high by 24 inches deep. Note that a compact dishwasher's height and depth are the same as a standard dishwasher, but the width is significantly smaller. A compact dishwasher does save space in the kitchen, but it's worth noting that it uses about the same amount of water and energy as a standard dishwasher.
The Danby compact dishwasher has consistently high ratings. It is stainless steel, energy-efficient, and water-efficient. Click here to see it on Amazon.
Another popular compact dishwasher option is the SD-9254W. This model is also energy-efficient and comes at a slightly lower price than the Danby. Click here to see it on Amazon.
Drawer Dishwasher
A drawer dishwasher is a great economical option for people who have a small kitchen or do not wash a lot of dishes. Dishwasher drawers pull out from the cabinet like a drawer rather than having a door that opens on a hinge. The door of a drawer dishwasher takes up less space than the door of a standard built-in dishwasher.
What's The Difference Between A Built-In Dishwasher And A Drawer Dishwasher?
Dishwasher drawers generally measure 24 inches wide by 19 inches tall by 24 inches deep. The width and depth are the same as a standard built-in dishwasher, but the appliance is about half as tall. You can install a double drawer dishwasher in a standard kitchen, which fits in the same space as a standard dishwasher.
A single drawer dishwasher has about half the standard dishwasher's capacity and is perfect for running smaller loads. Water and energy consumption are considerably less than those of a standard dishwasher.
A double drawer dishwasher has about the same capacity as a standard dishwasher. Each drawer can run on a different cycle at the same time! Drawer dishwashers generally have a 13-inch dish height limitation, although some taller models are available.
Only one manufacturer, Fisher & Paykel, currently makes drawer dishwashers, and they are somewhat pricey. However, the single and double drawer models both have excellent ratings. You may even save money in the long run due to the appliance's water and energy efficiency.
Countertop Dishwasher
If you have an extremely small kitchen space or don't have many dishes to wash, you may want to consider a countertop dishwasher. Countertop dishwashers are small, portable, and use less water and energy than built-in appliances. Countertop dishwashers connect to a standard sink faucet and have a drain hose that drains the water back into the sink. They come in a range of sizes but can generally fit up to six place settings.
This Faberware countertop dishwasher is very popular and has consistently high ratings. It measures 16.5 inches wide by 17.3 inches high by 17.3 inches deep and has an optional built-in water tank (3-cup capacity) that can be used instead of connecting it to a sink. Click here to see it on Amazon.
Custom Dishwasher
What if you have a lot of room to fill in your kitchen or are constantly entertaining large groups of people? Custom oversized dishwashers are also available!
Custom dishwashers tend to have the same height and depth dimensions as standard dishwashers - 35 inches high by 24 inches deep, but their width ranges from 30 to 42 inches (30 inches is the most common). To find a custom dishwasher, visit the manufacturer's website or contact your preferred appliance manufacturer.
How Do You Measure A Dishwasher?
It's important to take precise measurements of the dishwasher opening in your kitchen to ensure your new appliance will fit. Keep in mind that the opening should be slightly larger than the dishwasher for the appliance to fit properly. Most dishwashers are made to a standard size, so if you are replacing an old dishwasher, the new one will most likely fit into the empty space.
If you have an existing dishwasher in the space, you may need to remove it to get accurate measurements. You will need a tape measure, a piece of paper, and a pencil to write down the measurements. Take each measurement twice to ensure accuracy.
Height Measurement
First, measure the height of the dishwasher opening. At the left side of the opening, measure the distance from the floor to the bottom of the countertop. Then repeat this measurement in the middle of the dishwasher opening and on the right side. Taking three measurements will account for any slight slope in the floor or countertop. Most dishwashers have adjustable legs to bring them to level with the countertop. Water may not drain properly if the dishwasher isn't level.
Width Measurement
Next, measure the width. Measure from the left inside edge to the right inside edge of the cabinet opening. Take two measurements, one at the top of the opening and one at the bottom. Use the smaller of the two measurements for the width. If you are installing the dishwasher next to a wall, allow for a 2-inch gap between the wall and the dishwasher edge.
Depth Measurement
Finally, measure the depth. Measure from the back wall inside the cabinet opening to the front of the cabinet. If you currently have a dishwasher in the space, measure from the kitchen wall to the cabinet's edge to get an accurate depth measurement.
Keep in mind that the dishwasher door will extend in front of the cabinet. Measure to ensure that you have at least 27 inches available to open the dishwasher door without hitting the opposite cabinet or wall.
How Much Space Do You Need Behind A Dishwasher?
You do not need to account for extra space behind a dishwasher. As long as you have the 24 inches depth available, your new dishwasher will fit in the space and will be able to hook up. In general, it is better to have a loose appliance fit than a tight fit, so err on the larger side for your dishwasher cabinet opening. Remember that the dishwasher depth measurement is actually slightly smaller than listed - about 23 1/2 inches - to allow room to hook it up.
Dishwasher installation requires a dedicated electrical circuit, a hot-water pipe, and a drain. If you are replacing an old dishwasher, the electrical and plumbing should already be ready to go. Otherwise, ask the person who is installing the dishwasher to ensure that everything is set up properly.
Do Dishwashers Come In Different Heights?
The vast majority of dishwashers are 35 inches in height. Custom dishwashers can be taller than the standard 35 inches, but not many of them are on the market. If you want a custom height for your dishwasher, you may need to order it directly from the manufacturer.
Dishwasher drawers have a standard 19-inch height, but taller drawer options are available. If you need a custom height for your dishwasher, dishwasher drawers may be a good option.
Find the Dishwasher That Is The Best Fit For You
Dishwashers come in standard sizes to make your life easier. If you are replacing an older appliance, standard sizing ensures that you can take the old one out and put the new one in with no complications. However, our lives are not all standard size. Plenty of great options exist to fit in a small or large kitchen, to save water and energy, and even wash dishes on the go! In this post, we've talked through the options and provided lots of information to help you figure out which dishwasher is the best fit for your kitchen and your lifestyle.
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