No modern kitchen is complete without a built in dishwasher these days. A homeowner may not realize how vital its presence is or that many options exist for its size, features, and price. But choosing one can be intimidating, as different lifestyles may require singular choices, and a little guidance can go a long way.
Let’s find the right built in dishwasher with the most fitting size and features for you, and fing out how to install it. Explore selections from the likes of Frigidaire, GE Profile, and KitchenAid to narrow down your options, all to choose a model that suits you best at home.
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Shop DishwashersWhat is a Built In Dishwasher?
So, what is a built in dishwasher? It’s a machine that washes dishes that is installed directly under a countertop in your kitchen, connected to your home’s water supply and drainage system. Unlike portable or countertop dishwashers, a built in dishwasher can’t be moved around or placed anywhere you like.
Instead, it integrates neatly with your cabinets and offers a full-on cleaning capacity for an entirely streamlined look. Furthermore, built-in designs are perhaps the most common choice in homes across America, thanks to their stable design, quiet operation, and larger loads.
Several brands are especially popular for certain models of built-in dishwasher designs. For instance, Fisher & Paykel is famous for its innovative drawer dishwasher concept. Its lineup includes the built in dishwasher drawer, allowing users to run smaller loads in different compartments. This design, however, may be slightly pricier than regular ones.
Meanwhile, Frigidaire and GE Profile may not have the dishwasher drawer concept, but they sell built-in dishwashers that focus more on practical performance and reliability. KitchenAid, on the other hand, is known for powerful cleaning systems and durable interiors.
The benefits of using a built in dishwasher are plenty. Here are the top three:
- ✅ Smooth Integration: The built-in look, which means the machine is directly installed into your cabinetry, means it creates a clean, integrated look. The appliance is seemingly “hidden” to maintain a refined appearance, but still provides powerful cleaning.
- ✅ Huge Capacity Daily: Most built-in models are capable of handling full loads, which is perfect for families that cook often. The additions of adjustable racks and spacious interiors also make it easier to clean larger cookware.
- ✅ Quieter Operation: Thanks to advanced sound-dampening technology, built-in dishwashers these days come with top-notch sound insulation and motor systems that reduce noise during cycles. The appliance can run quietly in the background without disturbing the peace at home.
Sizes of Built In Dishwashers
One crucial thing to look for when shopping for built in dishwashers is the size of it. Since these appliances are meant to fit inside standard kitchen cabinets, most models come with common width measurements.
Your options are:
- The common size: is the dishwasher built in 24 inch model. This measures about 24 inches wide, around 34–35 inches high, and roughly 24 inches deep to fit under regular countertops. They usually hold 12 to 16 place settings.
- A more compact size: is the 18-inch dishwasher model. This size is approximately 18 inches wide, a smaller size for more compact homes and apartments. These slimmer units can hold up to 8 place settings (10 at most), enough for smaller households or couples.
We recommend that you weigh in on how frequently your kitchen routine demands cleaning. If your needs are few (e.g., no frequent cooking, rare occasion for entertaining) or your kitchen is smaller, a compact size may be enough.
However, if you have a larger family and your cooking is a daily activity, consider getting the full 24-inch appliance. This size is also more popular because:
- Standard fit: It fits standard cabinet openings.
- Cooking demands: It can fit in larger cookware for thorough washing.
- Efficiency: It has more space for more dishes in a single cycle.
→ Learn more: How to Clean Your Dishwasher: Right and Wrong Tips
Top Features of Built In Dishwashers
Built in dishwashers today are fully equipped with convenient and powerful features that enhance cleaning power and practicality. Look at some of the amazing features you can find in a built in dishwasher.
- ➤ Advanced Cleaning Systems: Top brands employ intelligent wash systems that monitor soil levels and automatically adjust the cycle. Bosch, for example, uses PrecisionWash®, relying on sensors and targeted spray arms, to clean consistently without pre-rinsing.
- ➤ Third Rack for Extra Capacity: A third rack, like KitchenAid’s 360° Max Jets™ Third Rack, adds more space for odd-sized utensils, lids, and small bowls. In KitchenAid’s case, it uses dedicated spray jets to clean the items on the top level while freeing up space below.
- ➤ Smart Sensors and Cycles: These features can adjust water usage, temperature, and wash time depending on how dirty the dishes are. It’s how the ProWash™ Cycle in KitchenAid’s models adapts the cycle to deliver optimal cleaning.
- ➤ Advanced Drying: Brands also complete their dishwasher’s features with excellent drying technology. They vary between brands, but Bosch’s PureDry® feature removes moisture through a closed drying process while KitchenAid’s ProDry™ System improves drying on plastics.
- ➤ Quiet Operation: Modern dishwashers operate quietly, often around 40–46 dBA. Brands achieve this through various innovations, like using stainless steel tubs and inverter motors, better soundproofing and insulation, and many others.
- ➤ Flexible Interiors: If you have models that allow the upper rack to move to different height positions so you can fit taller cookware more easily, it means the dishwasher has interior flexibility. This useful feature should be worth considering.
Built In Dishwasher Installation Tips
A dishwasher installation may get confusing, but let these tips start you off on the right track.
Before You Buy
- Measure the cabinet opening carefully. Confirm the width, height, and depth of the area under your countertop. Most built-in dishwashers fit standard 24-inch spaces, so make sure there’s enough space.
- Check plumbing and power access. To make sure the dishwasher is properly connected, check the water supply, drain, and electricity outlet are available near the installation spot.
- Consider the door clearance. Make sure the dishwasher door can open fully without bumping into cabinets, islands, or nearby appliances. If you’re getting a drawer dishwasher model, measure the area for a proper drawer pullout.
During the Installation
- Make sure the dishwasher sits level. The appliance should sit evenly under the counter so the door closes properly.
- Secure the dishwasher in place. Most models include brackets that attach the unit to the surrounding cabinet or countertop to keep it stable.
- Check the water and drain connections. After connecting the hoses, double-check that everything is tight and secure for no leaks.
- Run a quick test cycle. Before finishing the installation, run a short cycle to make sure the dishwasher fills, washes, and drains as expected.
If you’re not confident about the plumbing, electrical connections, or installation steps, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional installer. They will help you ensure the dishwasher is set up safely.
Best Brands for Built In Dishwashers
For the best built in dishwasher your money can buy, check out these reviews of trusted built in dishwasher brands.
Frigidaire Gallery
A step above standard Frigidaire models, Frigidaire Gallery offers upgraded finishes, more advanced cleaning features, and premium design.
➥ Featured Frigidaire Gallery Built-In Dishwasher: Frigidaire Gallery® 24" Smudge-Proof™ Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Shop Frigidaire Gallery® 24" Smudge-Proof™ Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Frigidaire Gallery comes forward with this dishwasher boasting CleanBoost technology. It premixes detergent for convenience before the OrbitClean Wash system targets tough spots for thorough coverage. Inside, a third rack and adjustable interior allow for easy loading, with MaxBoost Dry-powered drying power delivering ready-to-use results. At just 47 dBA with a fingerprint-resistant finish, it’s powerfully quiet and polished without feeling like a total splurge.
KitchenAid
As with all KitchenAid appliances, a built-in dishwasher from this brand performs admirably with rack flexibility and durable interiors built to handle heavy cookware.
➥ Featured KitchenAid Built-In Dishwasher: KitchenAid® 24" PrintShield™ Stainless Steel 360° Max Jets™ Third Rack Top Control Built-In Dishwasher with ProDry™ System
Standing out as a refined 24 inch built in dishwasher, KitchenAid brings this model to actively wash mugs and small bowls, while 50+ total wash jets deliver full coverage across every rack. The drying system combines heat and ventilation for complete drying, and the stainless steel finish resists fingerprints. Quiet at 44 dBA and equipped with a roomy MaxTub interior, it feels premium yet approachable.
GE Profile
Positioned above standard GE appliances, GE Profile models typically sit in the mid-to-upper price tier and focus on advanced features, smart technology, and sleek kitchen styling.
➥ Featured GE Profile Built-In Dishwasher: GE Profile™ 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher with Microban™ Antimicrobial Technology
Shop GE Profile™ 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
This built in GE dishwasher blends hygiene-focused design with smart convenience. The brand’s registered antimicrobial technology, Microban®, keeps high-touch surfaces cleaner than regular, but it’s the Dry Boost that delivers up to three times better drying on plastics. While the spacious 16-place-setting interior is convenient, GE Profile’s smart connectivity through the SmartHQ™ app is the main allure here.
Frigidaire
Reliable, practical, and dependable are at the core of Frigidaire’s appliances’ performance. You can always trust his brand to operate efficiently at an accessible price point.
➥ Featured Frigidaire Built-In Dishwasher: Frigidaire® 24" Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Frigidaire® 24" Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
A straightforward performer that you can depend on every day, Frigidaire’s built-in dishwasher offering has a tall-tub interior that fits up to 14 place settings. Its three spray arms and a direct-feed wash system can reach dishes from multiple angles and clean amazingly. Moreover, the stay-put door simplifies loading. With an ENERGYSTAR® rating and heated drying adding efficiency, this dishwasher is fully reliable even in the busiest kitchens.
Whirlpool
Whirlpool dishwashers emphasize simple operation, durable construction, and dependable cleaning for every household’s daily activities.
➥ Featured Whirlpool Built-In Dishwasher: Whirlpool® 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
Shop Whirlpool® 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
This Whirlpool built in dishwasher is designed for practicality with a few thoughtful upgrades. A convenient third rack adds space for utensils and small items, while the Triple Filtration Wash System keeps water clean for better results. Features like Sani Rinse and heated drying enhance the sanitation and drying performance, and the fingerprint-resistant finish keeps the exterior looking tidy.
Bosch
Bosch is well known for its quiet, high-performance dishwashers, and they stand out as one of the brand’s most popular appliances for combining premium cleaning technology with an approachable price.
➥ Featured Bosch Built-In Dishwasher: Bosch® 300 Series 24" Anti-Fingerprint Stainless Steel Front Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Bosch® 300 Series 24" Anti-Fingerprint Stainless Steel Front Control Built-In Dishwasher
This machine is a thoughtfully engineered Bosch built in dishwasher, equipped with the brand’s signature PrecisionWash® system that uses smart sensors and targeted spray arms to track dirt and adapts cycles for spotless results. After washing, the PureDry® system gently dries dishes without a heating element. A third rack adds extra loading space, and 48 dBA operation keeps the kitchen calm.
Frequently Asked Questions about Built In Dishwashers
A built-in dishwasher is installed under the countertop and connected to your home’s water and drainage lines. It stays in place as part of your kitchen cabinetry for a clean, integrated look. Most homes use this type because it offers full capacity and convenient everyday use.
Installation usually involves sliding the unit into a cabinet opening and connecting the water line, drain hose, and power supply. The dishwasher must also be leveled and secured to the cabinet or countertop. If you’re unsure about plumbing or electrical connections, it’s best to call a professional installer.
No, but many follow standard sizes. The most common width is 24 inches, while compact models around 18 inches are available for smaller kitchens.
If you’re in Utah or Las Vegas, explore built in dishwashers and speak with appliance experts at BlvdHome. Our team can help you compare options and even find a built in dishwasher on sale that fits your kitchen.
Why Trust BlvdHome?
The roots of this family business began as early as the pioneer settlement of Southern Utah. One descendant of those 1861 pioneers was Lester Wittwer. In 1928, he started a trucking business with other family members, delivering homegrown fruits and vegetables to many outlying areas. The story of BlvdHome began in 1974 when Lester’s son Tony decided to venture off into the furniture world - with two full-time employees and a small showroom of only 8,000 square feet. Today, BlvdHome has 5 retail locations with over 160,000 sq. ft. of showroom space, located in St. George, Utah, Hurricane, Utah, Cedar City, Utah, Mesquite, Nevada, and a new Las Vegas location. With over 230 amazing team members, BlvdHome continues to deliver on a commitment to customer service that started over 90 years ago.
Shop Dishwashers at BlvdHome
At BlvdHome, we provide quality name-brand appliances, furniture, and mattresses for great prices. Shop built in dishwashers online or visit us today at one of our locations in Utah or Nevada. In the meantime, browse our website to shop BlvdHome Bargain Barn and check out our flooring selections to increase your home value. More available than ever, our experts at BlvdHome are always happy to help you find a built in dishwasher, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Contact us today!
→ Learn more: Why Your Dishwasher's Not Cleaning and How to Fix It