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8 Best 18 Inch Dishwashers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

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

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,250
Noise Level
Size and Installation

Most important from
237 reviews

Noise Level
Super quiet and efficient, this compact dishwasher excels at getting dishes clean.
Size and Installation
Looks sleek and modern, fitting well into smaller kitchens.

The Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher is a compact and efficient option for those with limited kitchen space, offering a suitable capacity of 8 place settings. This makes it a great choice for smaller households or apartments. One of its notable strengths is the stainless steel tub, which enhances its durability and performance. The Energy Star rating indicates it operates efficiently, helping to keep energy costs down.

With 6 wash cycles including options for heavy, eco, and rapid cleaning, this dishwasher provides versatility to meet various cleaning needs, making it user-friendly for different types of loads. The 42 dB noise level is relatively quiet, allowing it to run without causing much disturbance in the home.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the 8 place settings are adequate for small families, larger households might find it limiting. The built-in style means it needs to be installed under the counter, which may not suit every kitchen layout. Additionally, while the controls are straightforward, some users may prefer more advanced features or smart technology, which this model lacks. The 24-hour delay timer adds convenience for scheduling washes, though it may not be essential for everyone. This dishwasher is a solid choice for individuals or small families looking for an energy-efficient, space-saving unit that can handle everyday dishwashing tasks without much fuss.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,250
Noise Level
Size and Installation

Most important from
237 reviews

Noise Level
Super quiet and efficient, this compact dishwasher excels at getting dishes clean.
Size and Installation
Looks sleek and modern, fitting well into smaller kitchens.
#2

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

Rating
9.7
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
9.7
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.
#3

SPT SD-9254SSA 18″ Wide Built-In Stainless Steel Dishwasher w/Heated Drying, ENERGY STAR, 6 Wash Programs, 8 Place Settings and Stainless Steel Tub

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Wash Cycles and Options
Interior Material

Most important from
180 reviews

Capacity
An excellent fit for saving cabinet space, delivering spotless dishes each time.
Wash Cycles and Options
Dishes come out bone dry when using the normal cycle with high temp and heated dry options.
Interior Material
Offers the same internal quality as higher-priced brand name models, making it a great value for the price.
Size and Installation
Installation can be straightforward for those experienced, but the instruction manual is not user-friendly for novices.

The SPT SD-9254SSA is an 18-inch wide built-in dishwasher, making it a good fit for smaller kitchens or spaces where a full-size model may not be practical. It offers a capacity of 8 place settings, which is suitable for small households or couples. This dishwasher is ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it meets or exceeds federal guidelines for energy efficiency, potentially saving you money on your energy bill.

Additionally, it has a stainless steel tub, which is durable and resistant to staining, ensuring longevity and cleanliness. The noise level is 52 dB, which is relatively quiet but may still be noticeable in a very silent environment. It includes 6 wash cycles, providing versatile cleaning options to handle various types of dish loads.

The heated drying function enhances drying performance, although some users might find it less effective compared to more advanced drying technologies. The time delay feature allows you to schedule washes up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your routine. Some handy indicators, like the error alarm and rinse aid warning, help in maintaining the machine's optimal performance. At 54 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, which might affect its stability. Installation should be straightforward with the provided components.

Rating
9.4
Capacity
Wash Cycles and Options
Interior Material

Most important from
180 reviews

Capacity
An excellent fit for saving cabinet space, delivering spotless dishes each time.
Wash Cycles and Options
Dishes come out bone dry when using the normal cycle with high temp and heated dry options.
Interior Material
Offers the same internal quality as higher-priced brand name models, making it a great value for the price.
Size and Installation
Installation can be straightforward for those experienced, but the instruction manual is not user-friendly for novices.

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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