When purchasing and installing a dishwasher, knowing the dishwasher dimensions is key to ensuring the unit is able to fit in the designated space. If the dishwasher dimensions are too small, it will look odd being in a space meant to hold a larger dishwasher. If it is too big, the dishwasher won’t fit in the space. Dishwasher dimensions go by height, width, depth and capacity.
There are three common types of dishwashers: full size, slimline and compact. A fourth type is the built-in dishwasher, but they are custom made for the specific kitchen, so it does not have common measurements. Full-size dishwashers are the ones found under kitchen counters. Slimline varieties are often found under counters and are about the same size, but they are narrower. Compact dishwashers are more often found on top of counters and are much smaller than the other varieties.
Dishwasher height, which is the first of the dishwasher dimensions, measures from the base of the unit to the top of the unit. The typical measurement for a full-size dishwasher is 33.5 inches (85 centimeters). Slimline dishwashers are typically the same height, and compact dishwashers are around 18 inches (45 centimeters).
The second of the dishwasher dimensions is the width. This is determined by standing in front of the dishwasher and measuring from the left side to the right, or vice versa. Full-size dishwashers are typically around 24 inches (60 centimeters) wide. Slimline models are about 18 inches (45 centimeters) wide, and compact dishwashers are around 22 inches (55 centimeters) wide.
The depth of the dishwasher is the third measurement. It is taken by running a measuring tape from the front end of the dishwasher to the back end. Both full-size and slimline dishwashers have a common depth of 24 inches (60 centimeters), and compact dishwashers have a common depth of 18 inches (45 centimeters).
A dishwasher’s capacity can differ, even between units that are the same size. Capacity is measured in “place settings” and refers to the cutlery used during a three-course meal. One place fitting is about the right size to fit a regular-size plate, a small plate, a cup or glass, a bowl, and one knife, one fork and one spoon.
Full-size dishwashers are able to hold from 12 to 14 place settings on average. Slimline models typically hold eight or nine, though they sometimes can accommodate 10. Compact dishwashers hold from five to seven.