Struggling to find a dishwasher that fits perfectly in your cozy kitchen space? You’re not alone! Many homeowners face the challenge of equipping small kitchens with efficient appliances without sacrificing performance.
Recognizing this common dilemma, the WashDryDazzle team has meticulously reviewed a variety of dishwashers specifically tailored for small spaces. We’ve evaluated these models based on several critical factors: price and design, cleaning and drying performance, noise levels, energy efficiency, water usage, cycle times, loading capacity, safety features, reliability, and durability. After thorough analysis, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 best 18-inch dishwashers ideal for small spaces. Each model offers a unique blend of functionality and convenience, ensuring you get the best value and performance.
Discover which dishwasher makes the cut and why it could be the perfect addition to your home. Read on to make your kitchen chores a breeze with our expert recommendations!
Table of Contents
Best Overall Dishwasher
FRIGIDAIRE FFBD1831US
Best Budget Dishwasher
SPT SD-9254W
Best Features Dishwasher
Midea MDF18A1AST
Best High-Capacity Dishwasher
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH
Best Sleek Design Dishwasher
Honeywell HDS18SS
FRIGIDAIRE FFBD1831US Dishwasher
Best Overall Dishwasher
Early Verdict
Performance Indicators:
Pros:
- Versatile Washing Options
- Sanitization Feature
- Adjustable Racking System
- High-Temperature Wash
- Safety Features
- NSF Certified Sanitize Cycle
Cons:
- Lack of Smart Features
- No Third Rack
- Limited Color Options
- No Built-in Water Softener
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher is a compact and powerful dishwasher, ideal for smaller kitchens or apartments where space is at a premium. Its 18-inch frame packs a substantial cleaning punch, offering multiple wash cycles and options tailored to different dishwashing needs.
Despite its smaller size, it excels across various performance categories. Priced at $803, it offers a blend of sleek design in stainless steel, white, or black to match any kitchen aesthetic. With its quiet 52 dB operation, this dishwasher is perfect for open-plan spaces, ensuring minimal disruption. It is ENERGY STAR certified, reflecting its energy efficiency, which saves costs and conserves resources, using only 5.2 gallons of water for its heavy wash cycle.
The dishwasher features six wash cycles with options like Sanitize, High Temp, and Heat Dry, enhancing its cleaning and drying performance. Its loading capacity is optimal for small families or couples, accommodating up to 8 place settings with adjustable racks for flexibility. Safety features such as a control lock and overflow protection add to its reliability and durability, making it a sturdy appliance for everyday use.
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US offers versatility in terms of wash cycles. The Heavy Wash cycle, ideal for heavily soiled dishes, runs for about 155-160 minutes and uses up to 19.7 liters of water, ensuring thorough cleaning. For daily needs, the Normal Wash handles a full load in 125-160 minutes, adapting water usage between 9.5 and 18.5 liters based on soil level. The Energy Saver cycle is perfect for lightly soiled items, significantly reducing water use and cycle time.
Ranked as the “Best Overall Dishwasher” in its category, this model stands out for its exceptional balance of size, efficiency, and quiet operation. It embodies a perfect solution for those with limited space but unwilling to compromise on dishwasher performance. With this model, daily dishwashing becomes less tedious and more efficient.
Discover the complete details about the dishwasher in our comprehensive FRIGIDAIRE FFBD1831US Dishwasher Review.
SPT SD-9254W Dishwasher
Best Budget Dishwasher
Early Verdict
Performance Indicators:
Pros:
- Space-Saving Design
- Quiet Operation
- Sanitization Capability
- Hi-Temp Wash
- Digital Display and Controls
- Safety Features
Cons:
- Lack of Smart Features
- No Third Rack
- Limited Finish Options
- No Built-in Water Softener
The SPT SD-9254W dishwasher combines affordability with efficiency in a compact design, making it ideal for small kitchens or apartments. Its sleek white finish and ENERGY STAR® rating highlight its design and environmental friendliness, ensuring it fits your kitchen and sustainability criteria.
Priced at just $450, the SPT SD-9254W stands out for its value in the compact dishwasher market. Its straightforward yet robust design features a stainless steel interior that enhances durability. This model operates quietly at 52 dB, allowing for night-time cycles without disturbing sleep, and includes a sound reduction system to minimize operational noise. With an ENERGY STAR® certification, it consumes 234 kilowatt-hours per year. It uses between 2.5 and 4.9 gallons per cycle, showcasing its energy and water efficiency.
The SPT SD-9254W provides six wash cycles with options such as Sanitize, Hi-Temp, and Heated Dry, enhancing its versatility. The cleaning performance is thorough due to its dual spray arms and multiple wash cycles. At the same time, the heated dry option ensures dishes come out dry and ready for storage. The dishwasher’s safety features include a child lock and overflow protection, contributing to its reliability and secure operation.
Wash cycles are tailored for various needs, from the Normal cycle for regularly soiled dishes, which takes about 105-135 minutes and uses up to 4.9 gallons of water, to the Heavy cycle designed for stubborn grime, which lasts up to 155 minutes. The Quick wash cycle completes in just 60 minutes for lightly soiled dishes, making it ideal for fast cleanup.
As the “Best Budget Dishwasher,” the SPT SD-9254W offers significant advantages for cost-conscious consumers without compromising essential features. It is a top choice for anyone seeking a functional, efficient dishwasher that fits in smaller spaces and keeps utility bills low. Its competitive features and price make it a smart choice for practical and economical home appliance solutions.
Discover the complete details about the dishwasher in our comprehensive SPT SD-9254W Dishwasher Review.
MIDEA MDF18A1AST Dishwasher
Best Features Dishwasher
Early Verdict
Performance Indicators:
Pros:
- Quiet Operation
- Advanced Cleaning Functions
- Sanitization Capability
- Safety Features
- Flexible Loading Options
- Delay Start Timer
Cons:
- High Water Consumption
- Lack of Adjustable Racks
- No Built-In Water Softener
- No Smart Home Connectivity
The Midea MDF18A1AST dishwasher, priced at $450, excels in blending compact design with efficient functionality. It is perfect for small spaces needing a robust cleaning solution. Its sleek finish in silver, black, or white and front control panel with digital display ensure it fits seamlessly into any modern kitchen decor.
This model offers impressive performance across multiple parameters. Its energy efficiency is highlighted by an ENERGY STAR rating and moderate energy consumption of 234 kilowatt-hours per year. Despite its compact size, it effectively performs cleaning through six wash cycles, including specialized options like ECO, Delicate, and a Sanitize function. The drying performance is bolstered by a heated dry option, which ensures thorough dryness post-wash. Operating at a quiet 52 dB, it’s suitable for open living spaces.
The water usage ranges from 2.5 to 15.5 gallons per cycle depending on the setting, which is on the higher end but expected due to the comprehensive cleaning options. The loading capacity is ample for its size, accommodating up to 8 place settings, and includes thoughtful features like a cutlery basket and versatile cup shelves. Safety features such as child locks and overflow protection contribute to its reliability and durability, making it a trustworthy choice for busy households.
The wash cycles are diverse and adaptable to various needs. The Heavy cycle, for instance, is perfect for pots and pans with baked-on soil, taking about 155 minutes and using 4.9 gallons of water. The Normal cycle is versatile, adjusting the duration (25-145 minutes) and water usage (2.5-4.9 gallons) based on load size and soil level. The ECO cycle optimizes energy and water consumption for normally soiled tableware, taking 130 minutes and using 4.1 gallons, proving its efficiency.
Known for its “Best Features Dishwasher” accolade, the Midea MDF18A1AST stands out in the compact dishwasher market. It not only provides specialized washing functions and flexible cycle options but also maintains aesthetic appeal and operational quietness, making it an exemplary choice for modern, eco-conscious homes looking for a powerful, space-efficient cleaning appliance. This dishwasher is a solid investment for those who prioritize functionality, style, and environmental impact.
Discover the complete details about the dishwasher in our comprehensive MIDEA MDF18A1AST Dishwasher Review.
EDGESTAR BIDW1802WH Dishwasher
Best High-Capacity Dishwasher
Early Verdict
Performance Indicators:
Pros:
- Quiet Operation
- Sanitize Option
- Adjustable Rack
- User-Friendly Controls
- Safety Features
- Durable and Stylish
Cons:
- Lack of Smart Features
- No Built-In Water Softener
- No Fresh Air Drying
- Installation Required
The EdgeStar BIDW1802WH stands out with its white finish, 18-inch frame, and efficient use of space, making it a suitable choice for those with compact kitchen setups or limited space. Its front-control design with tactile buttons and a digital display enhances user convenience, ensuring seamless operation.
Priced at an affordable $480, the EdgeStar BIDW1802WH delivers on several fronts, blending style with functionality. The dishwasher offers a robust cleaning system supported by six wash cycles, including specialized settings for heavy and delicate items, complemented by options like Hi-Temp and Sanitize to ensure thorough sanitization. The drying performance is bolstered by a heated drying feature that effectively reduces drying time and moisture.
With a sound level of just 52 dB, it operates quietly enough to not disturb daily activities, making it an ideal choice for open-plan living spaces. Additionally, its energy efficiency is certified by ENERGY STAR, consuming about 800 watts. It uses 5.2 gallons of water in its most intensive cycle, balancing eco-friendliness and performance. The dishwasher’s reliability is enhanced by features like a leakage sensor that prevents water mishaps and a child safety lock, adding an extra layer of security.
The EdgeStar BIDW1802WH’s wash cycles are tailored to handle various dishwashing needs. The Heavy cycle is perfect for tackling heavily soiled pots and pans, running for up to 160 minutes at temperatures reaching 156°F with the sanitize option activated, ensuring deep cleaning. Normal and ECO cycles provide options for everyday dishwashing and energy-saving needs, respectively, with the ECO cycle specifically designed to minimize energy and water usage while still delivering pristine results.
Dubbed the “Best High-Capacity Dishwasher” in its class, the EdgeStar BIDW1802WH maximizes internal space efficiently, accommodating up to 8 place settings despite its compact size. With its versatile functionality and sleek design, this feature makes it a top contender for anyone looking to optimize kitchen space without sacrificing washing capacity or quality. A solid choice for modern homes, this dishwasher offers a comprehensive washing solution with a competitive edge in both performance and price.
Discover the complete details about the dishwasher in our comprehensive EDGESTAR BIDW1802WH Dishwasher Review.
Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher
Best Sleek Design Dishwasher
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
Honeywell HDS18SS Price History:
Pros:
- Energy Star certified
- 6 wash cycles including ECO
- Ultra-quiet 42 dB operation
- Sanitizes up to 69°C
- Stainless steel interior and door
- Top control with touch display
- Includes child lock safety feature
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi or smart features
- No auto door open drying
- No third rack
- Manual filter, not self-cleaning
A comparative analysis of built-in dishwashers reveals that nearly half (49 %) of models offer six wash cycles—making it the most common configuration (see the chart). The Honeywell HDS18SS aligns with this trend, providing six versatile cycles. What sets it apart, though, is its ultra-quiet 42 dB sound level, making it an outstanding pick for open kitchens. Despite its compact design, it accommodates 8 place settings, making it a strong performer for smaller households or apartment kitchens.
Priced around $449.99, the HDS18SS offers a compelling balance of features and value. With its stainless-steel tub, top control panel, and built-in Energy Star credentials, it punches above its weight. The control layout is clean and accessible, giving the unit a streamlined look without unnecessary complexity.
Operating at just 42 dB, it’s whisper-quiet in practice—silent enough to not interrupt conversation or entertainment. The unit is certified by ENERGY STAR, consuming roughly 3.1 gallons (11.7 liters) per cycle, significantly better than many standard models. Its efficient water and energy usage help reduce utility costs while maintaining strong performance.
The Honeywell HDS18SS offers 6 wash cycles (Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, Rinse), enabling it to tackle a wide range of dish types. The Heavy cycle delivers more time and higher temperature rinses; the ECO and Glass cycles are gentler for lighter loads and delicate items.
One of its standout features is the multiple-filter system. Honeywell integrates three mesh filters to separate soil particles from clean water, optimizing performance. The unit also includes a delay start option (up to 24 hours) and a removable cutlery basket for added convenience.
As a compact yet capable built-in dishwasher, the Honeywell HDS18SS stands out for combining stealthy operation, strong efficiency, and solid features in a small footprint. It’s a smart choice for those who want quiet performance and dependable cleaning without sacrificing space.
Discover all the details in our comprehensive Honeywell HDS18SS Dishwasher Review.
The WashDryDazzle team is fervently committed to reviewing and compiling lists of top-performing products. Our dedication extends beyond merely showcasing our results; we are devoted to ongoing exploration, particularly in the field of built-in dishwashers. For more comprehensive lists, visit our Best Built-In Dishwashers central hub.
Final Thoughts on Best 18-inch Dishwashers
We hope this review has helped you narrow your choices and guided you toward selecting the best built-in dishwasher for your needs. Whether you’re searching for a top-tier model adept at tackling tough stains, a dishwasher that operates quietly, prioritizes energy efficiency, or a budget-friendly option suitable for everyday use, our goal is to assist you in finding a dishwasher that aligns perfectly with your preferences and requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the advantages of an 18-inch dishwasher for small spaces?
Due to its compact size, an 18-inch dishwasher is ideal for small kitchens. It typically fits 8 place settings, making it perfect for singles, couples, or small families. This ensures you get the functionality of a full-size model without occupying much space.
Can 18-inch dishwashers effectively clean heavily soiled dishes?
Yes, many 18-inch dishwashers come equipped with advanced wash cycles that effectively handle heavily soiled dishes. Features like heavy-duty cycles, high-temperature wash, and powerful spray arms ensure a thorough cleaning.
Are there energy-efficient 18-inch dishwashers?
Absolutely! Look for 18-inch dishwashers that are ENERGY STAR certified. These models use less water and energy than non-certified dishwashers, which helps reduce utility bills and improves the environment.
Is an 18-inch dishwasher too small?
An 18-inch dishwasher might be small, but it’s ideal for singles, couples, or small families. It fits about 8 place settings, making it a practical choice for small kitchens where space is a premium.
What size dishwasher is ideal for small kitchens?
An 18-inch dishwasher is often ideal for small kitchens. It offers sufficient capacity for daily dishes without taking up the space required by a larger model.
Is investing in a compact dishwasher worthwhile?
A small dishwasher can be worth the investment, especially in homes with limited space or smaller households. It saves water and energy compared to hand washing or using a larger dishwasher that’s not fully loaded.
What is the difference between 18-inch and 24-inch dishwashers?
The main difference is size and capacity. An 18-inch dishwasher typically holds 8-place settings, whereas a 24-inch model can hold 12 to 14-place settings. The 24-inch model is better suited for larger households or frequent entertainers, and it often features more wash cycles and advanced features.
Find the Perfect Built-In Dishwasher for Your Home
Elevate your kitchen with the ideal built-in dishwasher. Our comprehensive reviews cover many built-in models, providing detailed insights into their features, efficiency, and user satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for advanced cleaning capabilities, specific design elements, or energy-efficient options, our reviews are the perfect starting point for your search.
Navigate through our expert evaluations to discover the built-in dishwasher best suits your kitchen’s aesthetics and functional needs. Each review is crafted to help you make a well-informed decision, ensuring you choose a model that seamlessly integrates into your kitchen and enhances your daily routine.
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