Types of Dishwashers: Exploring Your Options

4 DIFFERENT TYPES OF DISHWASHERS

While there are many different dishwasher models that vary slightly in terms of design, colors and features, when you get down to the basics, there are essentially four different types of dishwashers:

1. STANDARD BUILT-IN

This dishwasher configuration is most popular and comes in the most varieties. These dishwashers are installed underneath the kitchen countertop and come in top-control or front-control styles. You can typically find a wide variety of colors, finishes and features available with built-in dishwashers.

2. COMPACT BUILT-IN

When choosing the right dishwasher for your home, consider what’s most important for your household, as well as the space available in your kitchen. If you have a smaller kitchen with limited room for extra appliances, a compact built-in dishwasher could be the right fit for you. These models are similar to a standard built-in but with a narrower footprint for smaller kitchens with less cabinet space for a built-in appliance.

3. Portable

Portable dishwashers don’t require permanent plumbing, relying instead on a faucet adapter that connects to the sink. You can find countertop portable dishwashers as well as portable dishwashers on wheels that have the benefit of providing additional counter space, since they typically come with a wooden “butcher-style” top. These types of dishwashers are great for RV’s or people who move often.

4. DRAWER STYLE

Drawer style dishwashers can be easier to load but may be cost-prohibitive. These dishwasher doors pull out as opposed to down, typically at counter height, which can make it easier for some to load and unload. They're available in one or two-drawer models that can be run at the same time or separately.

The model you pick will ultimately depend on your needs and the space available in your kitchen. Below, check out the highlights of different models and features.

DISHWASHER FEATURES AND STYLES

Even though there are four types of dishwashers to choose from, there are even more dishwasher features and styles available.

1. TOP CONTROL

Top control dishwashers have their control panel located on top of the door, meant to provide a more discrete look. You can find this style of dishwasher in built-in (standard and compact) and drawer style models.

2. FRONT CONTROL

On front control dishwashers, the control panel and buttons face forward so that everything can be seen at a quick glance—with no need to open the dishwasher door. These can include budget-friendly options that are also available in standard and compact built-in and portable dishwashers.

3. THIRD RACK

You’ll be able to fit more items with dishwashers that feature a third rack. These additional racks tend to be shallower than the standard racks that most dishwashers come with, so they’re ideal for cutlery and larger serving utensils. Some dishwashers, like this model from Maytag brand, feature the Maytag^® 3rd Level Rack Wash Zone, with a specialized wash zone and wash arms and more room for mugs and bowls. You can find third rack dishwashers in standard built-in sizes and even compact sizes.

4. QUIET

Quiet dishwashers can help reduce the amount of noise in your kitchen. These models have a 40 to 50 dBA, similar to the volume of someone typing on a keyboard, so you can tackle post-meal cleanup without disturbing the rest of your home.

Select dishwashers from Maytag brand offer 50 dBA so you can enjoy the cleaning power of a Maytag^® appliance at a low noise level.

5. SANITIZING CYCLE

Select dishwashers offer a cycle setting designed to sanitize dishes, cleaning them at high temperatures so you can feel confident that you are eating off of clean dishes every time.

Maytag® dishwashers such as this model with the Sani-Rinse Option let you confidently wash important items with a high-temperature rinse that removes 99.999% of food soil bacteria.

6. SPECIALIZED WASHING SYSTEM FEATURES

Dishwashers with specialized washing system features help you get a deeper clean on your dishes and are designed to handle stuck-on grime. These models typically include features that sense soil levels and adapt the wash time to match or microfiltration that helps eliminate the need for pre-wash scrubbing and soaking.

Select dishwashers from Maytag brand offer specialized washing systems like Sani Rinse Option that lets you confidently wash important items with a high-temperature rinse to help remove food bacteria.

7. DRYING OPTIONS

A dishwasher with drying options can help you avoid the hassle of damp dishes after a wash cycle. Examples of specialized drying options typically include an additional heating element or a fan that helps blow hot air throughout the interior of the dishwasher.

Select Maytag^® dishwashers with PowerDry Option offer heated drying combined with a powerful fan to remove humid air, so your dishes come out cabinet-ready.

WHAT DISHWASHER SIZE IS BEST FOR ME?

The size of your dishwasher will greatly depend on the size of your kitchen. You should also take into account whether or not your dishwasher requires an air gap and the space that would take up. 

If you don’t have a ton of space, then you might be better off with a compact dishwasher that has a narrower width than the standard dishwasher. If you have the space and frequently find yourself running multiple loads of dishes a day, you may want to consider a model with a larger capacity and even a third rack for mugs, bowls and cups.

Finding the right dishwasher dimensions for your kitchen is important, so make sure that you know all the necessary steps when it’s time to measure your space for a new dishwasher.

CAN YOU INSTALL A DISHWASHER BY YOURSELF?

So long as you have the appropriate plumbing and electrical, you can install a dishwasher yourself. Use the dishwasher installation instructions that came with your dishwasher for a proper install. If you are unable to access your desired location for your dishwasher, contact a professional for further consultation.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A DISHWASHER

Look for features that are important to you—consider things like capacity, wash cycles or heated dry cycles. Make sure you are aware of the basic parts of a dishwasher and their functions. Your dishwasher is one of the most hardworking appliances in the kitchen, so you want to ensure that the one you pick is one that offers you convenience and makes your cleanup process a snap.

When choosing the right dishwasher for your home, consider what’s most important for your household, as well as the space available in your kitchen. If you have a large family that goes through dishes quickly, then a large-capacity dishwasher or one with a third rack may be beneficial. If you have limited space and minimal items that you cycle through quickly, then a compact dishwasher that has a Quick Cycle may be best for you.

The most important thing to consider when choosing a new dishwasher is finding one that you and your family can depend on time and time again.