Living in a cozy apartment, a small condo, or simply dealing with a compact kitchen layout doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the convenience of a dishwasher. The 18-inch dishwasher category is a game-changer, offering powerful cleaning performance in a space-saving design. These slim models are perfect for smaller households, bar areas, or as a secondary cleaning station, proving that great things truly do come in small packages.
Choosing the right model, however, can be a challenge with so many options available. From sleek built-in units to versatile portable designs, the features and configurations vary widely. Our comprehensive roundup is designed to help you navigate the choices and find the perfect 18-inch dishwasher to meet your needs and fit your space seamlessly.
The Best 18-Inch Dishwashers for Compact Kitchens
- Danby DDW1801MWP Portable Dishwasher, White
- FRIGIDAIRE 18 in. ADA Compact Front Control Dishwasher
- SPX68U55UC 18 800 Series Dishwasher
- SPE68U55UC 18 800 Series Dishwasher
- SPT SD-9241W Energy Star Portable Dishwasher
- hOmeLabs 18 Inch Built-In Dishwasher
- Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings
- Avanti 18-Inch Dishwasher Machine with Top Control
- Fisher & Paykel Series 9 Integrated Single DishDrawer
- Bosch 300 Series 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
Danby DDW1801MWP Portable Dishwasher, White
For those who need a flexible cleaning solution, the Danby portable dishwasher is an excellent choice. Its crisp white design and easy-roll castors make it simple to move and store when not in use. The quick-connect feature is compatible with most standard kitchen faucets, requiring no permanent installation.
Despite its compact 18-inch width, this model offers a respectable capacity for up to 8 place settings, complete with a dedicated silverware basket. It is specifically designed for small kitchens, dorm rooms, or rental apartments where a built-in unit isn’t feasible. You get the full convenience of a dishwasher without any complicated setup.
FRIGIDAIRE 18 in. ADA Compact Front Control Dishwasher
This Frigidaire model combines powerful cleaning with a sleek stainless steel finish. It features a dual spray arm system that operates on both the top and bottom racks, ensuring a thorough clean for every load. With a capacity for 8 place settings, it efficiently handles the dish load for a small household.
A key benefit is the National Sanitation Foundation certified Sanitize cycle, which provides an extra level of cleanliness and hygiene. Operating at 52 dBA, it runs relatively quietly, making it a good neighbor in an open-plan living space. This built-in unit is also designed to meet ADA compliance standards for accessibility.
SPX68U55UC 18 800 Series Dishwasher
As part of Bosch’s premium 800 Series, this dishwasher is built for performance and convenience. It boasts a spacious interior with room for 10 place settings, which is impressive for an 18-inch model. The fully integrated control panel offers a streamlined, modern look that blends seamlessly with your cabinetry.
One of its standout features is the exceptionally quiet operation at 44 dBA, allowing it to run without disruption. The stainless steel Euro tub is not only durable but also promotes better drying. This model comes brand new in the box with all necessary accessories for a complete installation.
SPE68U55UC 18 800 Series Energy Star Rated Dishwasher
This Energy Star rated model from the Bosch 800 Series is designed for both efficiency and powerful cleaning. It features a generous capacity for 10 place settings and offers six distinct wash cycles to handle everything from heavily soiled pots to delicate glassware. The five options provide further customization for your specific needs.
The inclusion of a built-in water softener is a significant advantage for those in areas with hard water, helping to prevent spots and film on dishes. Like its counterpart, it includes the reliable AquaStop Plus leak protection for peace of mind. This full console dishwasher delivers premium features in a compact frame.
SPT SD-9241W Energy Star 18″ Portable Dishwasher
This white portable dishwasher from SPT offers versatility with its six wash programs: All-in-1, Heavy, Normal, Light, Rinse, and Speed. This range ensures you have the right cycle for every type of load, from a quick rinse to a heavily soiled dinner service. Its Energy Star certification means it uses less water and energy.
The unit can accommodate up to 8 standard place settings, making it suitable for small families or couples. An automatic detergent and rinse agent dispenser adds convenience, automatically releasing the right amount at the optimal time in the cycle. It’s a practical and efficient solution for spaces without built-in appliance connections.
hOmeLabs 18 Inch Built-In Dishwasher
The hOmeLabs built-in dishwasher is an Energy Star certified appliance that holds 9 place settings, offering great capacity for its size. It is designed for straightforward installation and use, featuring an easy-to-use control panel with an LED display. This allows you to select your programs and monitor the cycle time with ease.
It comes with six useful wash programs: Heavy, Normal, Delicate, Light, Express (50 min), and Rinse. The rinse aid dispenser helps to dry plates, mugs, and glass quickly without streaks or spots, and an indicator light alerts you when it’s time for a refill. This model provides a solid set of features for a built-in application.
Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher
This black Honeywell dishwasher stands out with its impressive claimed capacity of 14 place settings, which is among the highest in this category. The racking includes a top cutlery rack and two other racks with a large, removable cutlery basket, providing flexible loading options for various dish sizes and types.
It offers six washing programs, including Pots & Pans, Normal, China, Quick Wash, Rinse Only, and Energy Saver. The durable stainless steel tub contributes to better efficiency and performance. For added convenience, you can program the dishwasher with a delay start of up to 24 hours.
Avanti 18-Inch Dishwasher Machine with Top Control
Designed for compact living, this Avanti built-in dishwasher runs at a quiet 53 dB, making it suitable for open-plan spaces, offices, or tiny homes. Its stainless steel construction and top-control LED display offer a modern and clean aesthetic. The unit holds up to 8 standard place settings and includes a silverware basket and cup tray.
It provides extensive cleaning flexibility with 3 wash options (Hi Temp, Sanitize, Extra Dry) and 6 automatic cycles (Regular, Automatic, Super, Intensive, Delicate, Rinse). An Eco half-load mode is a valuable feature for running a more efficient cycle when you have fewer dishes, helping to conserve water and energy.
Fisher & Paykel Series 9 Integrated Single DishDrawer
The Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer offers a truly unique and innovative design, functioning as a single drawer that integrates seamlessly into your kitchen cabinetry. This allows for installation at bench height, minimizing bending and making loading and unloading exceptionally easy. The flexible racking can be adjusted to accommodate a wide variety of dishware.
It includes useful options like a Quick wash modifier, a Sanitise cycle that eliminates 99.9% of bacteria, and an Extra Dry setting perfect for plastic items. This design is ideal for those who prefer to wash smaller loads more frequently or need a secondary, conveniently located dishwasher.
Bosch 300 Series 18-Inch Built-In Dishwasher
While specific details for this model are not provided, the Bosch 300 Series is renowned for its reliability and efficient performance. Bosch dishwashers are consistently praised for their superior cleaning and drying results, even in their compact models. You can expect the quality engineering and thoughtful design that the brand is known for.
Typically, the 300 Series includes features like multiple wash cycles, a stainless steel tub for durability and improved drying, and quiet operation. As a built-in unit, it is designed for a permanent installation, providing a streamlined look in your kitchen. For those who trust the Bosch name, this series represents a solid and dependable choice.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an 18 Inch Dishwasher
When my kitchen needed an update, I realized my full-size dishwasher was taking up way too much space. That’s when I started looking into 18 inch models, and let me tell you, it was a game-changer for my small kitchen layout. If you’re in the same boat, here’s what I learned you should consider before buying one of the best 18 inch dishwashers.
First, think about the interior layout and rack configuration. These dishwashers are slim, so every inch counts. I looked for models with adjustable upper racks and fold-down tines. This flexibility lets me fit oddly shaped items like my favorite tall beer glasses or a small baking sheet. Some even have specialized zones for cutlery, which saves a ton of space compared to a bulky basket. A third rack is a huge bonus; it’s perfect for utensils and smaller items, freeing up the main racks for plates and bowls.
Next, pay close attention to the cleaning and drying performance. Just because it’s compact doesn’t mean it should compromise on power. I made sure to check for features like multiple spray arms, targeted zones for heavily soiled pots, and soil sensors that adjust the cycle intensity. For drying, a heated drying option is pretty standard, but some models offer condensation drying or even mineral-enhanced systems that work without using extra heat, which is great for my plastic containers that usually stay wet.
Noise level was a big one for me. Since my kitchen flows right into my living area, I didn’t want a loud machine running during a movie night. I focused on models with a decibel (dB) rating. Anything below 50 dB is generally considered very quiet, and many of the newer 18 inch dishwashers I looked at hit that mark, making them barely noticeable.
Finally, don’t forget to check the installation requirements and your available connections. Most of these are built for built-in installation, but you’ll want to confirm the dimensions and that you have the correct water and electrical hookups. A stainless steel interior is my strong recommendation—it’s more durable and resists odors better than plastic. By focusing on these key areas—layout, performance, noise, and installation—you can find a compact dishwasher that feels anything but small on capability.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much capacity do I lose with an 18 inch model compared to a standard one?
You are definitely giving up some space, but probably not as much as you might think. A standard 24 inch dishwasher typically holds around 12 to 14 place settings. A good 18 inch model can usually hold between 8 and 10 place settings. For me, as someone who lives alone or with one other person, it’s been perfectly sufficient. I can still fit a day’s worth of dishes for two, including a few pots and pans, without any issue. It just requires a slightly more strategic loading approach.
Are 18 inch dishwashers more expensive than full-size ones?
This was a surprise to me, but often, yes. Because they are a specialty size and aren’t manufactured in the same high volumes as standard 24 inch models, they can carry a premium price tag. You might find that a well-equipped 18 inch model costs a similar amount, or sometimes even more, than a basic full-size dishwasher. However, the space savings and the ability to have a dishwasher where a standard one wouldn’t fit can make the cost well worth it.
Can I install an 18 inch dishwasher myself?
If you have decent DIY skills and the necessary tools, it’s possible. The process is very similar to installing a standard dishwasher: you need to connect it to a water supply, a drain line, and an electrical source. The main challenge is ensuring the opening is the correct size. I would recommend checking the manufacturer’s specifications for the exact cut-out dimensions required. If you’re not comfortable with plumbing or electrical work, hiring a professional is the safest bet to avoid leaks or other issues.
Do all 18 inch dishwashers come with a stainless steel tub?
No, not all of them, but it’s a feature I actively sought out. Many premium models feature a stainless steel interior, which is more durable, helps with drying (as it doesn’t retain heat like plastic), and is better at preventing odors over the long term. Some more budget-friendly options might use a plastic tub. While a plastic tub can still get your dishes clean, I find that a stainless steel tub is a worthwhile investment for the longevity and performance it offers.
What are the most important features to look for in the best 18 inch dishwashers?
Based on my experience, I would prioritize a quiet motor (look for a decibel rating in the 40s), a flexible and well-designed rack system, and effective drying technology. A third rack is a fantastic space-saver. Also, look for a cycle that’s designed to handle heavily soiled cookware, because even in a smaller household, you still get dirty pots and pans. These core features will ensure your compact dishwasher meets your daily needs without compromise.