A comparative analysis of built-in dishwasher wash cycles shows that 6 cycles dominate the market, accounting for about 51% of models, making them the most common and trusted configuration for everyday use (see the comparative chart). The Honeywell HDS18W sits squarely in this majority segment as a compact 18-inch built-in dishwasher, offering a smart balance of versatility and space efficiency. It features six practical wash cycles, including Heavy, ECO, and Rapid, while keeping water use efficient at 3.1 gallons per cycle. While it avoids unnecessary extras, it focuses on dependable, everyday cleaning performance.
Read on to discover why the Honeywell HDS18W dishwasher review matters for small to mid-sized kitchens, or check out our Overview Summary below for a quick verdict and pricing history.
Table of Contents
Overview Summary
Performance Indicators:
Honeywell HDS18W Price History:
Pros:
- Energy Star certified
- 6 practical wash cycles
- Quiet 42 dB operation
- Efficient 3.1 gallons per cycle
- Compact 18-inch built-in design
Cons:
- No Wi-Fi or smart features
- No third rack
- Manual filter cleaning required
- Lacks soil sensor
Honeywell HDS18W in the Market Spotlight: A Competitive Comparison
💰 Breaking Down the Numbers: A Histogram of Product Prices
The price analysis shows that the Honeywell HDS18W sits in the $300 to $624 range, which accounts for 28% of built-in dishwashers. This places it firmly in the budget-to-entry segment, making it one of the more accessible options for buyers looking for a built-in model without premium pricing.
In contrast, the most saturated range is $625 to $949, covering 39% of models, followed by $950 to $1,274 at 20%. Higher-priced categories above $1,275 make up a much smaller share, highlighting the Honeywell’s strong affordability advantage.
🔇 From Whisper to Roar: Placing Noise Levels in Perspective
Operating at 42 dB, the Honeywell HDS18W falls into the 42 dB to 45 dB category, which represents 32% of built-in dishwashers. This places it in one of the most desirable quiet-operation segments, suitable for open kitchens and noise-sensitive households.
Quieter models between 38 dB and 41 dB are rare at just 4%, while louder dishwashers in the 50 dB to 53 dB range account for 29%. With many competitors operating above 46 dB, the Honeywell clearly maintains a competitive edge in everyday quiet performance.
⚖️ From Featherweight to Heavyweight: Placing It on the Scale
Weighing 70 lbs, the Honeywell HDS18W falls within the 54.5 lb to 73.9 lb range, which includes 22% of built-in dishwashers. This places it slightly lighter than the most common category while still offering a solid, stable build for permanent installation.
The largest share of models, 36%, falls between 74 lb and 93.4 lb, followed by 27% in the 93.5 lb to 112.9 lb range. Lighter models under 54.4 lb are uncommon, suggesting the Honeywell strikes a practical balance between manageable weight and durability.
🍽️ Place Settings in Perspective: This Model vs. the Rest
With 8 place settings, the Honeywell HDS18W sits in the 7 to 8 place setting category, representing 17% of built-in dishwashers. This positions it toward the compact end of the market, ideal for small households, apartments, or kitchens with limited cabinet space.
Larger capacities dominate the segment, with 15 to 16 place settings leading at 35%, followed by 13 to 14 place settings at 29%. While it offers less capacity than full-size models, the Honeywell prioritizes space efficiency over maximum load volume.
🔄 Cleaning Options Compared: Wash Cycles Across the Market
Equipped with 6 wash cycles, the Honeywell HDS18W aligns perfectly with the most common configuration in the market, where 51% of built-in dishwashers offer exactly six cycles. This confirms its cycle selection matches mainstream consumer expectations.
Models with 5 wash cycles account for 16%, while those offering 7 or more cycles collectively represent a smaller share. Dishwashers with 9 to 10 cycles are especially rare at just 4%, showing that Honeywell focuses on practical, widely used programs rather than unnecessary complexity.
Honeywell HDS18W Dishwasher
Honeywell HDS18W Performance Breakdown: Key Features and Ratings
The incredible team at WashDryDazzle took the Honeywell HDS18W Under-counter dishwasher for a spin just for you. We wanted to see if it’s as dazzling as it sounds. Our goal? To help you make the best choice for your kitchen.
💵 Price and Design (4.4/5)
Priced around $300, the Honeywell HDS18W positions itself as an affordable 18-inch built-in dishwasher, ideal for compact kitchens. Its 32-inch height, 18-inch width, and 23-inch depth make it a natural fit for under-counter installation, while the 70 lb build gives it a solid, well-assembled feel.
Available in white and black, it features a clean, solid door design with a front-mounted tactile control panel and a clear digital display that shows cycle progress. While it skips innovative features, the straightforward design focuses on practicality and everyday usability.
| Price | $300 |
| Height | 32 inches |
| Width | 18 inches |
| Depth | 23 inches |
| Weight | 70 lbs |
| Color | White, Black |
| Control Panel Location | Front Control |
| Display | Digital display |
| Touch or Tactile Controls | Tactile |
| Cycle status/progress indicator on display | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Enabled (Smart Dishwasher) | N/A |
| Compatibility with home assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant) | N/A |
✨ Cleaning Performance (4.5/5)
The Honeywell HDS18W delivers dependable cleaning with six wash cycles, including Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, and Rinse, covering most daily dishwashing needs. Its dual spray arm system ensures complete cleaning coverage, while options like Hi-Temp Wash boost water temperature to 140°F (60°C) for stubborn residue.
The Sanitize option raises temperatures to 156°F (69°C), helping eliminate bacteria for hygienic results. A removable manual filter supports long-term performance, and for better performance, the entire filter system should be cleaned at least once a week. While it lacks soil sensors, its focused cycle selection keeps results consistent.
| Number of Wash Cycles | 6 (Heavy, Normal, ECO, Glass, Rapid, Rinse) |
| Specialized Cycles/Options | Glass |
| Number of Options / Functions | 4 (Sanitize, Hi-Temp Wash, Heated Dry, Energy Saver) |
| Number of Spray Arms | 2 |
| Filter type (self-cleaning or manual/removable filter) | Removable filter (manual cleaning required) |
| Sanitization | Yes |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
| Targeted washing zones | complete cleaning coverage |
| Soil sensor capability (Turbidity Sensor) | N/A |
| Option / Function # 01 | Heating Dry: Activates the heater during drying for faster, more effective results |
| Option / Function # 02 | Sanitize: Raise the water temperature to 69°C for hygienic cleaning and to remove bacteria. |
| Option / Function # 03 | Hi Temp: Increases wash water to 60°C for improved cleaning of harsh residues |
| Option / Function # 04 | Energy Save: Reduces energy use during the wash cycle, making it more efficient |
💨 Drying Performance (4.3/5)
Drying performance is handled through a Heated Dry system, offering reliable results for everyday loads. Heat drying uses an internal heating element or system to actively warm the air inside the dishwasher after the wash cycle. This added heat speeds up moisture evaporation and leaves dishes drier more quickly, but it consumes more energy than other methods.
The dishwasher also supports rinse aid, which helps improve the drying performance and reduce water spots on dishes. Without features like auto door opening or air refresh, plastic items may retain slight moisture, but overall drying remains effective for its class.
| Hot Air Drying / Heat Drying | Heated Dry |
| Fresh Air Circulation for Moisture and Odor | N/A |
| Auto Door Opening for Natural Drying | No |
| Rinse aid availability | Yes |
| Built-in Water Softener (For Hard Water) | No |
🔕 Noise Level (4.8/5)
With a noise rating of just 42 dB, the Honeywell HDS18W operates impressively quietly. To put the 42 dB dishwasher noise level into perspective, standing about five feet away from the dishwasher would sound like a whisper or the faint rustling of leaves on a calm day, so quiet that it might blend into the background, barely noticeable unless you focus on it.
In comparison, competitors like the Frigidaire FFBD1831US (52 dB), EdgeStar BIDW1802WH (52 dB), and Avanti DWF18V3S (53 dB) are noticeably louder, closer to the sound level of an everyday conversation, making the Honeywell a strong choice for open kitchens.
⚡ Energy Efficiency (4.6/5)
The Honeywell HDS18W is Energy Star certified (Energy Star-certified appliances meet strict energy-efficiency standards set by the EPA, use less energy, and reduce environmental impact), making it a smart option for energy-conscious households.
Operating on 115 volts, it balances performance with efficiency across daily cycles. A Medium Wash Cycle with Heat Dry System, running 130 minutes, would use approximately 1.22 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity, similar to running a 1-ton AC on full load for about 73 minutes. Running this dishwasher daily for 30 days consumes 36.6 kWh per month. The Delay Start Timer lets you schedule cycles during off-peak hours to save even more.
| Energy Star rating | Yes |
| Estimated Energy Consumption / Wattage | 234 kwh |
| Voltage Required | 115 Volts |
| Delay Start Timer | Yes |
💧 Water Usage (4.6/5)
The Honeywell HDS18W uses 3.1 gallons (11.7 liters) per cycle, keeping water consumption efficient for an 18-inch built-in dishwasher. Compared to competitors, the Frigidaire FFBD1831US consumes slightly more at 3.2 gallons (12.1 liters) in its Normal cycle, while the EdgeStar BIDW1802WH and Avanti DWF18V3S match closely at 3.1 gallons (11.7 liters) per cycle.
This places the Honeywell on par with the most water-efficient models in its class, making it suitable for households focused on conserving water without sacrificing cleaning performance.
| Water Consumption (Per Cycle) | 3.1 gallons per cycle |
🕒 Cycle Time (4.4/5)
Cycle durations on the Honeywell HDS18W are well-balanced for daily use. The Heavy Wash runs about 155 minutes, while ECO completes in approximately 105 minutes.
The Glass cycle takes about 95 minutes, while the Rapid cycle finishes in just 60 minutes. A short Rinse cycle wraps up in 20 minutes, while Normal Wash varies between 105 and 135 minutes depending on the options selected. For a deeper dive into specific wash cycles, please refer to our section: “Specialized Wash Cycles.”
🍽️ Loading Capacity (4.3/5)
Designed for smaller households, the Honeywell HDS18W offers 8 Place Settings (defined below), making it a practical choice for apartments and compact kitchens. It features two racks that can comfortably accommodate dishes up to 10-inch dinner plates, along with a dedicated cutlery basket for organized utensil placement.
While it doesn’t offer advanced rack adjustability, the layout is efficient enough to handle everyday dish loads without feeling cramped.
| Number of Place Settings | 8 Place Settings |
| Dish or Plate Size: A Rack can Accumulate | Up to 10-inch dinner plates |
| Number of Racks | 2 |
| Special Utensil Holders or Baskets | Cutlery Basket |
| Adjustable height of Rack | Pull Out Rack |
8 – Place Setting Dishwasher:
A place setting refers to the dishes and utensils needed for one person’s meal. In dishwashers, it indicates the number of such sets the appliance can handle in one cycle.
An 8-place-setting dishwasher is designed to wash 8 dinner plates, 8 dessert plates, 8 soup bowls, 8 cups, 8 glasses, and 8 sets of cutlery in a single cycle.
In reality, the exact combination can vary due to item sizes and shapes. For example, you might fit 8 dinner plates, 8 dessert plates, 6 soup bowls, 6 cups, 4 glasses, and 8 sets of cutlery comfortably in an 8-place setting dishwasher.
🔒 Safety Features (4.5/5)
Safety is thoughtfully addressed with a Control Lock, helping prevent accidental cycle changes during operation. The dishwasher also features a non-slip base, ensuring it stays securely in place during operation. But do not place or use the machine on an unstable or uneven platform.
For safe operation, avoid placing the dishwasher near gas or electric burners. Also, do not use extension cords or adapter plugs. While the details of advanced leak protection are minimal, the core safety features remain solid for daily household use.
| Child Lock – Safety Feature | Control Lock |
| Leak or Overflow Protection – Safety Feature | Water leakage error code |
| Non-Slipping Base | Yes |
🛠 Reliability and Durability (4.6/5)
Built with a metal exterior and a stainless steel interior tub, the Honeywell HDS18W is designed for long-term reliability. Stainless Steel is a strong, corrosion-resistant material prized for its durability, sleek appearance, and ability to withstand high temperatures and exposure to moisture without rusting or degrading.
The dishwasher feels sturdy during operation, but avoid overloading the top surface with heavy items. Backed by a 1-year warranty, proper use is essential. To keep your warranty valid, use the product only as intended, follow the instruction manual, and avoid misuse, mishandling, accidents, neglect, or abuse, as these are not covered under the warranty.
Exploring the Honeywell HDS18W’s Wash Programs
The Honeywell HDS18W’s Fix dishwasher features specialized cleaning cycles to tackle messes, ensuring your dishes shine every time. Here’s a quick breakdown of the available wash cycles:
| Program | Purpose | Cycle Description | Water Usage | Cycle Time | Available Options |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy Wash | For hard-to-clean, heavily soiled dishes, pots, and pans | Pre Wash → Main Wash (60°C) → Rinse (65°C) → Rinse with Sanitize (69°C) → Drying | 19.7 L | 155 min | Heating Dry, Sanitize, Hi Temp, Energy Save |
| ECO | For normally soiled tableware; most efficient in energy and water use | Pre Wash → Main Wash (50–55°C) → Rinse (58–60°C) → Rinse with Sanitize (69°C) → Drying | 15.5 L | 105 min | Heating Dry, Sanitize, Hi Temp |
| Glass | For lightly soiled items like glasses, crystal, and fine china | Pre Wash → Main Wash (48–50°C) → Rinse (50–55°C) → Drying | 15.5 L | 95 min | Heating Dry, Hi Temp |
| Rapid | Quick wash for lightly soiled loads that don’t need drying | Pre Wash → Main Wash (48–50°C) → Rinse (50–55°C) | 12.5 L | 60 min | Heating Dry |
| Rinse | For rinsing dishes, glasses, and silverware that will be washed later | Pre Wash → Main Wash | 6.7 L | 20 min | None |
| Normal Wash | Standard program for regularly soiled dinner dishes or silverware | Pre Wash → Main Wash (50–55°C) → Rinse (58–60°C) → Rinse with Sanitize (69°C) → Drying | 9.5–18.5 L | 105–135 min | Heating Dry, Sanitize, Hi Temp, Energy Save |
Honeywell HDS18W Advantages and Drawbacks
Pros
- Compact 18-inch built-in design fits standard under-counter installations.
- Energy Star certified, helping reduce electricity consumption and long-term energy costs.
- Consumes only 3.1 gallons per cycle, helping conserve water.
- Operates quietly at 42 dB, suitable for open kitchens and low-noise environments.
- Six wash cycles cover everyday, heavy-duty, glass, rapid, and rinse cleaning needs.
- Sanitize option heats water to 69°C, supporting hygienic dishwashing performance.
- Dual spray arms provide consistent and complete cleaning coverage.
- Heated Dry system improves drying speed compared to air-dry-only models.
- Stainless steel interior tub resists corrosion and withstands high temperatures.
- The front control panel with a digital display offers clear cycle status visibility.
- Delay Start Timer allows flexible scheduling of wash cycles.
Cons
- Lacks Wi-Fi connectivity and smart home assistant compatibility.
- No soil or turbidity sensor for automatic cycle adjustment.
- A manually removable filter requires regular cleaning and maintenance.
- No third rack or cutlery tray for added loading flexibility.
- Plastic items may retain moisture due to the limitations of heated drying.
- A built-in water softener is not included for complex water treatment.
- Fixed rack height limits loading customization for taller items.
Honeywell HDS18W Dishwasher
Who Gets the Most Out of Honeywell HDS18W Dishwasher
- Apartment dwellers are looking for a built-in dishwasher that fits neatly into smaller kitchens without overwhelming the space.
- Couples or small families want a reliable dishwasher that handles daily dishes without unnecessary complexity.
- Noise-sensitive users who appreciate a calm kitchen environment while working, relaxing, or entertaining at home.
- Eco-conscious users aiming to reduce water and energy use while maintaining effective everyday cleaning results.
- Parents who value hygienic cleaning for baby bottles and utensils offer peace of mind during daily routines.
- Busy professionals who want consistent results without spending time adjusting settings or managing complicated controls.
- Home cooks who regularly use glassware and delicate items want a gentle yet dependable cleaning performance.
Who May Not Be Suited for Honeywell HDS18W Dishwasher
- Large families that frequently generate heavy dish loads and prefer washing everything in one or two cycles.
- Tech enthusiasts who expect innovative features, app controls, or voice assistant integration in modern appliances.
- Users living in hard water areas who rely on built-in water softening for long-term appliance protection.
- Frequent hosts who need higher capacity and flexible loading options for dinner parties and gatherings.
- Buyers who prefer luxury finishes, advanced automation, or premium design-focused appliances.
- Households that dislike routine maintenance tasks, such as regularly cleaning filters.
- People needing ultra-fast wash-and-dry results for constant, high-volume kitchen turnover.
- Those who prefer minimal manual involvement and fully automated cycle adjustments based on soil levels.
Best Substitutes for Honeywell HDS18W Dishwasher
Frigidaire FFBD1831US
The Frigidaire FFBD1831US is a solid 18-inch built-in dishwasher that leans toward consistent smart cleaning. It offers six wash cycles, with a soil sensor that automatically adjusts performance based on load conditions. The adjustable rack design adds flexibility for taller items, while the stainless steel interior supports durability and heat retention. Drying is handled through a traditional heat-dry system, and overall operation feels reliable, though slightly louder than quieter compact models.
Read more about this model in our comprehensive Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher Review.
Frigidaire FFBD1831US Dishwasher
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH
The EdgeStar BIDW1802WH stands out as a well-rounded 18-inch built-in option focused on balance and practicality. It includes six wash cycles, a soil sensor for adaptive cleaning, and an adjustable upper rack that improves everyday loading flexibility. Energy efficiency and water control are strong points, while added leak protection enhances peace of mind during operation. Noise levels are moderate, making it suitable for most kitchens without aiming for ultra-quiet performance.
Learn more about this model by exploring our detailed EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher Review.
EdgeStar BIDW1802WH Dishwasher
Avanti DWF18V3S
The Avanti DWF18V3S is a feature-rich compact dishwasher designed for users who want more control over wash customization. It offers six wash cycles, including automatic and intensive modes, as well as half-load washing and enhanced drying options. Adjustable racks help manage dishes of different sizes, while the overall build feels sturdy and purposeful. Noise levels are slightly higher, but the wide range of cycle choices adds flexibility for varied dishwashing routines.
Discover all the details in our thorough Avanti DWF18V3S Dishwasher Review.
Avanti DWF18V3S Dishwasher
Summing Up the Honeywell HDS18W Dishwasher Review
After reviewing every key detail, the Honeywell HDS18W stands out as a thoughtfully balanced 18-inch built-in dishwasher designed for dependable everyday performance. It delivers quiet operation, efficient water and energy use, and a practical set of wash cycles that cover most daily cleaning needs without unnecessary complexity.
While it doesn’t chase premium extras or innovative features, it focuses on what truly matters: consistent cleaning, reliable drying, and a compact design that fits seamlessly into smaller kitchens. Compared to its competitors, it offers a strong value-driven alternative that doesn’t feel stripped down. If you’re looking for a reliable, space-saving dishwasher that gets the job done without fuss, the Honeywell HDS18W is a wise, confidence-inspiring choice.
Honeywell HDS18W Dishwasher
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Honeywell HDS18W suitable for small kitchens?
Yes, its compact built-in design fits neatly into smaller kitchens without sacrificing everyday cleaning performance.
How quiet is the Honeywell HDS18W during operation?
It runs very quietly, making it comfortable to use in open kitchens or during work and relaxation hours.
Does the Honeywell HDS18W handle heavily soiled dishes well?
Yes, it offers dedicated wash cycles that effectively clean tough residue on pots and heavily soiled dishes.
Is this dishwasher energy and water efficient?
Yes, it uses water efficiently and meets energy-saving standards, helping reduce utility usage over time.
Does the Honeywell HDS18W have a sanitize function?
Yes, it includes a sanitize option designed to support hygienic cleaning for dishes and utensils.
Are smart features available on the Honeywell HDS18W?
No, it focuses on reliable performance and simplicity rather than app control or smart home connectivity.
How does it compare to other 18-inch built-in dishwashers?
It offers quieter operation and strong efficiency, while competitors may provide more advanced features or larger capacities.
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To get the most out of your dishwasher, it’s important to keep it clean and properly maintained. Here are some articles from our website to help you do just that:
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- How to Clean a Smelly Dishwasher: 5 Simple Steps to Cleanliness
- Dishwasher Air Gaps: What They Are and Why We Need Them
- Dishwasher Door Unlocking During A Cycle? 5 Tips to Consider
- Dishwasher Not Heating Water? Uncover Possible Reasons
Recommended Reads for Better Dishwashing Practices
- How Do Countertop Dishwashers Work?
- All About Dishwasher Racks: What Everyone Should Know!
- How to Use the Delay Start Option?
- Stainless Steel vs. Plastic Tub Dishwashers: Which is Better?
- How to wash a Hat in the Dishwasher without damaging it
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