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8 Best 18 Inch Dishwashers 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

FRIGIDAIRE 18 in. ADA Compact Front Control Dishwasher in Stainless Steel with Dual Spray Arms, 52 dBA, includes room-of-choice delivery

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,251
Wash Cycles and Options
Size and Installation

Most important from
163 reviews

Wash Cycles and Options
Delivers reliable performance without compromising on cleaning quality.
Size and Installation
Perfectly sized for small kitchens, making it an excellent fit for limited spaces.

The Frigidaire 18-inch ADA Compact Dishwasher is a solid choice for those needing a smaller built-in dishwasher without sacrificing key features. It fits up to 8 place settings, making it suitable for small families, couples, or individuals with limited kitchen space. The dishwasher is Energy Star certified, which means it uses electricity efficiently and helps reduce utility bills. Its noise level is 52 dB, quiet enough to operate comfortably even if you're in the same room. The dual spray arm system cleans dishes thoroughly, and the NSF certified sanitize cycle adds extra cleanliness for health-conscious users.

You get six wash cycle options including Energy Saver and Heavy Wash, providing flexibility for different dishwashing needs. The stainless steel interior is durable and helps with better drying, which is supported by the heated drying system to reduce leftover moisture. The compact dimensions (18"D x 22.5"W x 35"H) make it easy to fit into tight spaces, and it meets ADA standards, so it's designed to be accessible for users with disabilities.

The 8-place setting capacity might be limiting for larger households or frequent heavy use. While the noise is relatively low, it isn’t the quietest on the market when compared with premium models. Controls are basic front buttons with no advanced digital display, which can be simpler but less customizable. This dishwasher achieves a balance of efficiency, space-saving design, and performance, making it a practical option for compact kitchens or anyone needing an ADA-compliant appliance.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,251
Wash Cycles and Options
Size and Installation

Most important from
163 reviews

Wash Cycles and Options
Delivers reliable performance without compromising on cleaning quality.
Size and Installation
Perfectly sized for small kitchens, making it an excellent fit for limited spaces.
#2

Frigidaire 18 in. ADA Compact Front Control Dishwasher in Black with Dual Spray Arms, 52 dBA, includes room-of-choice delivery

Rating
8.2
Capacity
Drying Performance
Size and Installation

Most important from
163 reviews

Capacity
This little dishwasher is a champion, handling everyday loads and even tough, stuck-on messes with ease.
Drying Performance
After years without a dishwasher, this 18-inch model impresses with its cleaning power, drying efficiency, and quiet operation.
Size and Installation
Perfect for small kitchens or spaces, it fits well and looks great once installed.

The Frigidaire 18-inch ADA Compact Front Control Dishwasher in Black stands out for its dual spray arm system, ensuring a thorough clean across both top and bottom racks. With a capacity suitable for up to 8 place settings, it is ideal for smaller households or those with limited kitchen space. The dishwasher operates quietly at 52 dBA, allowing for usage even when in the same room.

It also includes a heated drying system, which can effectively dry dishes after a wash cycle. Additionally, users have six cleaning cycle options including Energy Saver and Heavy Wash, providing versatility for different cleaning needs. The dishwasher is Energy Star certified, offering energy efficiency and cost savings over time.

Moreover, the NSF Certified Sanitize Cycle is a noteworthy feature for hygiene-conscious users, removing 99.9% of common household germs. The ADA compliance makes it accessible for users with disabilities, which could be an important consideration for some buyers. However, the interior material is plastic, which might not be as durable as stainless steel alternatives.

Rating
8.2
Capacity
Drying Performance
Size and Installation

Most important from
163 reviews

Capacity
This little dishwasher is a champion, handling everyday loads and even tough, stuck-on messes with ease.
Drying Performance
After years without a dishwasher, this 18-inch model impresses with its cleaning power, drying efficiency, and quiet operation.
Size and Installation
Perfect for small kitchens or spaces, it fits well and looks great once installed.
#3

Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings, 6 Washing Programs, Stainless Steel Tub, UL/Energy Star- Black

Rating
7.9
Capacity
Noise Level
Wash Cycles and Options

Most important from
72 reviews

Capacity
Compact size is perfect for couples or small families, balancing space efficiency with adequate capacity.
Noise Level
Runs quietly and operates with simple, intuitive controls, enhancing everyday usability.
Wash Cycles and Options
Delivers excellent cleaning performance, especially on glasses, even when using generic detergent.
Drying Performance
Offers a surprisingly effective drying performance despite lacking advanced drying features.
Size and Installation
Fits perfectly into existing 18-inch cabinet spaces, making it ideal for older or smaller kitchens.

The Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher is a solid choice for anyone needing a compact yet capable built-in dishwasher, especially if space is limited. It offers a good capacity with 14 place settings, which is quite generous for an 18-inch model. The stainless steel tub enhances durability and tends to improve drying performance and energy efficiency. This model is Energy Star rated, meaning it uses less electricity and water, which can save money over time.

With six wash programs, it provides versatile cleaning options—from heavy pots and pans to delicate china and quick washes. The delay start feature allows you to run the dishwasher at off-peak hours. The noise level is 42 decibels, which is relatively quiet and unlikely to be disruptive in your kitchen.

Its size and built-in design make it suitable for under-counter installation, and it meets ADA standards, which adds to its accessibility. Controls are simple push buttons, making it easy to operate. Some points to consider include the plastic and nylon racks, which may feel less sturdy compared to metal racks in other models, and the 70-pound weight, which might require assistance during installation. Drying options are not specifically highlighted, so it may not offer advanced drying features.

This dishwasher fits well for everyday dishwashing needs in smaller kitchens, offering energy efficiency, quiet operation, and a decent number of wash cycles, although it may not include premium features such as enhanced drying or metal racks.

Rating
7.9
Capacity
Noise Level
Wash Cycles and Options

Most important from
72 reviews

Capacity
Compact size is perfect for couples or small families, balancing space efficiency with adequate capacity.
Noise Level
Runs quietly and operates with simple, intuitive controls, enhancing everyday usability.
Wash Cycles and Options
Delivers excellent cleaning performance, especially on glasses, even when using generic detergent.
Drying Performance
Offers a surprisingly effective drying performance despite lacking advanced drying features.
Size and Installation
Fits perfectly into existing 18-inch cabinet spaces, making it ideal for older or smaller kitchens.

Buying Guide for the Best 18 Inch Dishwashers

Choosing the right 18-inch dishwasher can make a significant difference in your kitchen's efficiency and cleanliness. These compact dishwashers are perfect for smaller kitchens, apartments, or for those who don't need a full-sized dishwasher. When selecting an 18-inch dishwasher, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find a dishwasher that meets your requirements in terms of performance, capacity, and convenience.
CapacityCapacity refers to the number of place settings a dishwasher can handle in one cycle. This is important because it determines how many dishes you can clean at once. For 18-inch dishwashers, capacity typically ranges from 6 to 8 place settings. If you have a small household or don't generate a lot of dirty dishes, a lower capacity might be sufficient. However, if you entertain guests frequently or have a larger family, you might want to opt for a higher capacity within the 18-inch range.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency indicates how much electricity and water the dishwasher uses. This is important for both environmental reasons and to keep your utility bills low. Dishwashers are rated by the Energy Star program, and those with this certification are more efficient. Look for models with the Energy Star label to ensure you're getting an energy-efficient appliance. If you use your dishwasher frequently, investing in an energy-efficient model can lead to significant savings over time.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the dishwasher will be during operation. This is important if your kitchen is close to living areas or if you run the dishwasher at night. Dishwashers with a noise level of 45 dB or lower are considered very quiet, while those between 45-50 dB are moderately quiet. If you are sensitive to noise or have an open-plan living space, opt for a quieter model to avoid disturbances.
Wash Cycles and OptionsWash cycles and options refer to the different settings available for cleaning your dishes. This is important because it provides flexibility for different types of loads. Common cycles include normal, heavy, and quick wash, while additional options might include sanitize, eco, and delay start. If you have varied dishwashing needs, such as heavily soiled pots and pans or delicate glassware, look for a model with multiple cycles and options to ensure thorough and appropriate cleaning.
Drying PerformanceDrying performance indicates how well the dishwasher dries your dishes after washing. This is important to avoid having to hand-dry dishes after a cycle. Some dishwashers use heated drying, while others use condensation drying. Heated drying is generally faster and more effective but can use more energy. If you prefer your dishes to come out completely dry and ready to put away, consider a model with a strong drying performance.
Interior MaterialThe interior material of a dishwasher can be either stainless steel or plastic. This is important for durability and maintenance. Stainless steel interiors are more durable, resist stains and odors, and can handle higher temperatures, which can improve drying performance. Plastic interiors are generally less expensive but may not last as long. If you want a long-lasting, easy-to-maintain dishwasher, opt for a model with a stainless steel interior.
Size and InstallationSize and installation refer to the physical dimensions of the dishwasher and how it fits into your kitchen space. This is important to ensure the dishwasher fits properly in the designated area. Measure the space where you plan to install the dishwasher and compare it to the dimensions of the models you're considering. Some 18-inch dishwashers are designed for built-in installation, while others are portable. Choose the type that best suits your kitchen layout and installation preferences.

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