A dishwasher makes your job simple with efficient wash cycles. Additionally, this appliance takes care of your cookware, dishes, glassware, and more. However, all of this won’t be possible if you fail to choose the right dishwasher size and capacity.
Yes, dishwashers are available in various sizes. So, picking up any size or capacity without understanding your requirements can lead to an erroneous selection. Besides, selecting a model with the necessary configurations is a must.
Do standard dishwasher sizes meet your demands? Finding the right dishwasher dimensions for the machine before you shop helps you avoid the guesswork. Moreover, you can determine the dishwasher width standard, depth, and height.
If you are new to this, measuring space for dishwashers can be a challenging task. Whether it’s your standard kitchen layout or compact apartment, selecting the right appliance matters. Let’s begin with the dishwasher installation size guide.
What Are Standard Dishwasher Sizes?
Manufacturers consider the built-in dishwasher dimensions as standard sizes. In fact, most standard dishwashers are 24 inches wide by 24 inches deep by 35 inches high. However, this doesn’t mean that alterations are not available.
Indeed, dishwasher sizes might change from one manufacturer to another. Some brands offer dishwashers in multiple widths. Also, there can be variations in the depth and height. Hence, measuring space for dishwashers is important. Then, you will be sure about whether the intended appliance will fit the space or not.
Apart from standard dishwasher sizes of a built-in unit, there are additional options available. Here’s what you should know:
Portable Dishwashers
For smaller kitchen areas or apartments, where space availability is a constraint, portable dishwashers are the ideal option. Indeed, portable dishwashers are designed to roll into place on wheels.
On the other hand, portable dishwashers need no permanent installation. You can directly connect to a nearby faucet with a hose. Portable dishwashers’ sizes might vary. Still, most machines are 24 inches wide by 27 inches deep by 37 inches high.
After use, you can roll the dishwasher away from the kitchen area. Also, when not in use, you can store it in a convenient space. However, using a portable dishwasher means consecutive plugging and unplugging, both for electrical and plumbing scenarios.
Compact Dishwashers
Another smaller footprint in the ecosystem of dishwashers is a compact unit. It’s also known for its space-saving features. Typically, compact dishwashers are the same size as built-in systems.
The typical dishwasher width for compact models is 18 inches. Hence, they are narrower. Apart from that, the dishwasher height and depth are 35 inches and 24 inches, respectively. Compact dishwashers fit in standard dimensions. However, the width can be narrower.
Therefore, compact models are a perfect fit for smaller apartments and living spaces.
Oversized Dishwashers
Do you have bigger loads of dishes to wash? Then, standard built-in dishwashers might not serve the purpose. Manufacturers have come up with oversized dishwashers, which are also known as large-capacity models.
With a dishwasher height and depth of 35 inches and 24 inches, respectively, these units have a width of more than 24 inches. Oversized dishwashers are appropriate for larger loads. However, their operations stay basic, just like built-in models.
While shopping for dishwashers, make sure you review the specifications and dishwasher dimensions. When you know how to measure for a dishwasher, you can decide the best unit by comparing the most suitable ones.
Guide to Measure for a Dishwasher
Your modular kitchen must have available space to install a dishwasher. Alternatively, you can make some space for the dishwasher. However, your dishwasher should fit the space. Hence, it’s important to accurately measure for the dishwasher.
Thus, you can avoid the headaches of a poor fit down the road. Get your measuring tape and then follow the steps below.
Measuring Space for Dishwasher Width
If it’s a standard cabinet opening, then you have to measure from cabinet to cabinet. After installation, the sides of the dishwasher stay entirely enclosed. Hence, you should leave a little space on every side. Otherwise, it will be a tight fit, and the dishwasher will face ventilation issues.
In case it’s a small-space cabinet opening, you should install the dishwasher close to a cabinet or wall. Additionally, you must maintain a gap of 2 inches between the wall or cabinet and the side of the dishwasher door.
Keep in mind that utility placement may vary by model. Hence, you must check your installation instructions for the specifics.
Measure for the Dishwasher Depth
Here’s what you need to follow for the depth of a dishwasher installation size:
- Start by measuring from the rear of the opening to the front.
- Ensure you leave enough room in front of the appliance. Keep at least 27 inches free. This will make loading and unloading seamless. Also, your dishwasher door will have sufficient space to move around.
On the other hand, measuring for the dishwasher depth might differ if it’s a dishwasher with a panel.
Calculate Dishwasher Height
Most dishwashers need an opening between 34 ½ and 36 inches. For the height measurement, calculate the length from the floor of the opening space to the lowest point of the countertop. If your kitchen is going through a renovation, count in the layers of flooring. Otherwise, your dishwasher measurement won’t be calculated properly.
How to Measure for a Countertop Dishwasher
As you already know, countertop dishwashers are compact appliances. They stay on the kitchen counter, instead of fitting into a cabinetry cutout. Hence, countertop dishwashers don’t require cabinet modification. Although you don’t have space for a built-in dishwasher, you can invest in a countertop one.
Are you planning to purchase a countertop dishwasher? Since they are different from standard dishwasher sizes, you still consider the measurements. Measure the depth and width of the countertop at least 2 times and record the smallest value.
Afterwards, utilize the tape measure to figure out how much space is available between the top of the counter and the bottom of the wall cabinets. Get this measurement twice. Now, you can compare these readings to the kitchen appliance measurements. Then, you can get a reliable countertop dishwasher.
Measurement for a Portable Dishwasher
A portable dishwasher doesn’t require a fixed or permanent position to function. If you are interested in shopping for a portable dishwasher, you still need a dedicated area where you can keep the appliance.
If you have a free space in the cabinetry, then you can plan to keep your portable dishwasher there. Measure the dishwasher’s height and depth and width, just like you did in previous steps.
If you don’t have an opening in the cabinetry section and want to keep the portable dishwasher somewhere else, measure the dedicated area. Then, you can choose a model that fits your space dimensions, apart from your requirements.
Moreover, ensure that your dishwasher can travel the path without bumping into anything. Finally, double-check that your dishwasher has enough clearance around the portable dishwasher at your sink, whether it’s open or closed.
Additional Influential Factors for Your Dishwasher Buying Guide
Hopefully, you have learned enough about the dishwasher width standard. It will help you buy the right size. However, that’s not all when considering a dishwasher purchase. Here are more factors that influence your dishwasher purchase.
- Check out your habits and requirements. For a large family, a 9- to 12-place setting is enough.
- Additionally, set your budget for the dishwasher.
- Learn about plumbing and electrical connections before a successful installation.
- Depending on your kitchen size, choose which dishwasher to invest in.
- Pick 5 favorite brands to choose from.
- Next, see if the desired features are included in the dishwasher.
- Make sure you check out customer reviews before the commitment.
Final Words…
Not every family requires standard dishwasher sizes. Based on the lifestyle and kitchen space, the dishwasher dimensions can vary for you. So, take your time measuring space for the dishwasher. Moreover, contact UrbanClap if you are looking for dishwasher repair near me.
