Choosing the best built in dishwasher can transform your kitchen experience, making daily cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen or simply upgrading an old appliance, a good built-in dishwasher seamlessly integrates into your cabinetry, offering both convenience and a sleek aesthetic. With so many options on the market, finding one that fits your needs, budget, and kitchen style can feel overwhelming. We’ve done the research to help you navigate the choices. We focused on performance, durability, quiet operation, and smart features that truly make a difference. Our top picks include both traditional built-in models and innovative portable units with built-in water tanks, offering solutions for every type of household and kitchen setup. Let’s dive into our expert-tested recommendations.
Our Top 7 Best Built In Dishwasher – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Hermitlux Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 5 Programs, 5-Liter Built-in Water Tank, No Hookup Needed.
✓ Key Features
✓ Versatile Washing Programs: Offers 5+1 washing programs (Standard, Quick, Strong, ECO, Fruit) to handle various dishwashing needs.
✓ Compact 4 Place-Setting Capacity: Measures just 16.85 x 16.73 x 18.03 inches, perfect for small kitchens or single/couple households.
✓ 360° All-Around Cleaning: Features 14 water jets from top and bottom spray arms for comprehensive cleaning coverage.
✓ Built-in Water Tank: Equipped with a 5-liter built-in water tank, eliminating the need for a direct hookup.
🎯 Best For
This built-in dishwasher with a self-contained water tank is ideal for small apartments, RVs, or dorms where space is limited and direct plumbing hookups are not feasible. It’s a great choice for 1-2 people who need a reliable and quiet daily dishwashing solution.
2. Empava 24-Inch Built-in Dishwasher: Stainless Steel Tub, 15 Place Settings, 8 Cycles, Ultra Quiet, Energy Star.
✓ Key Features
✓ Custom 15-Place Rack Design: Features 3 racks with adjustable tines and height, accommodating large pots and various dishware.
✓ Deep Clean Technology: Equipped with 30+ spray jets and triple wash arms to tackle tough stains from all angles.
✓ 8 Cycles + Smart Options: Offers a variety of wash cycles including Auto, Heavy, Eco, and Glass, with options like Delay Start and Sanitize.
✓ Ultra Quiet Operation: Designed to run quietly, ensuring minimal disturbance in your home.
✓ Energy Star Certified: This built-in dishwasher is energy-efficient, helping to reduce utility bills.
🎯 Best For
The Empava 24-inch built-in dishwasher is perfect for medium to large families who need extensive capacity, advanced cleaning power, and quiet operation. Its versatile rack design and energy efficiency make it a smart choice for any modern kitchen.
3. SPT 18-Inch Built-in Stainless Steel Dishwasher: Heated Drying, Stainless Tub, 6 Programs, Energy Star.
✓ Key Features
✓ Compact 18-Inch Design: Ideal for smaller kitchens or apartments where space is a premium for a built-in dishwasher.
✓ Time Delay Feature: Allows programming operation for a later start time (1-24 hours) for convenience.
✓ Heated Drying Cycle: Ensures dishes come out thoroughly dry, ready for storage.
✓ Error Alarm System: Displays fault codes to help with troubleshooting.
✓ Stainless Steel Tub: Offers durability and better heat retention for drying, along with 6 wash programs.
🎯 Best For
This SPT 18-inch built-in dishwasher is an excellent choice for individuals or couples in small homes or apartments looking for an affordable, quiet, and efficient dishwashing solution. Its compact size and useful features make it a great value.
4. EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 6 Programs, 5L Built-in Water Tank, No Hookup Needed.
✓ Key Features
✓ Compact Portable Design: Measures just 16.83 x 16.73 x 18.03 inches, making it easy to fit into small spaces.
✓ No Installation Required: Offers dual water supply options – a built-in 5L tank or faucet mode for ultimate flexibility.
✓ 6 Washing Programs: Includes Normal, Quick, ECO, Baby Care/Heavy Duty, and more, catering to various dish types.
✓ Quiet Operation: Users report that this dishwasher runs quietly, ideal for close-quarter living.
🎯 Best For
This EUHOMY portable built-in dishwasher with a water tank is perfect for RVs, tiny homes, or apartments without direct plumbing access, offering convenient dishwashing without permanent installation. It’s also great for those who frequently move or desire maximum flexibility.
5. SPT 18-Inch Built-in Dishwasher in White: Heated Drying, Stainless Tub, 6 Programs, Energy Star.
✓ Key Features
✓ Space-Saving 18-Inch Design: Perfectly fits into smaller kitchen spaces, replacing a standard cupboard.
✓ Built-in, Top-Mount Installation: Designed for seamless integration into your kitchen cabinetry.
✓ Stainless Steel Interior: Durable and retains heat effectively for improved drying.
✓ 6 Wash Programs: Includes Normal, Heavy, Energy, Glass, Quick, and Rinse to cover all dishwashing needs.
✓ Heated Drying Function: Ensures dishes are thoroughly dry after each cycle.
🎯 Best For
This SPT 18-inch built-in dishwasher is an excellent solution for small kitchens or compact living spaces where a full-sized unit won’t fit. It’s a reliable choice for individuals or couples seeking efficiency and a clean, integrated look.
6. 24-Inch Built-in Stainless Steel Dishwasher: Smart Wash System, Heated Drying, Energy Star Certified.
✓ Key Features
✓ Large 12 Place Setting Capacity: Accommodates dishes for larger families, making it a powerful built-in dishwasher.
✓ Smart Wash System: Automatically adjusts water usage and wash time based on soil level for optimal cleaning.
✓ Heated Drying & Energy Star Certified: Ensures perfectly dry dishes while maintaining energy efficiency.
✓ Adjustable Upper Dish Rack: Provides flexibility to fit taller items, enhancing loading versatility.
✓ Top Cutlery Rack: Offers a dedicated space for flatware and small utensils, preventing them from falling.
🎯 Best For
This 24-inch built-in dishwasher is ideal for busy households and larger families seeking a high-capacity, energy-efficient appliance with intelligent cleaning features. Its flexible rack system makes it incredibly versatile for all your dishwashing needs.
7. EUHOMY Portable Countertop Dishwasher with 8 Programs, 5L Built-in Water Tank, No Hookup Needed.
✓ Key Features
✓ Advanced Functions & Safety: Features a Self-Clean mode to eliminate odors and a Child Lock for enhanced safety.
✓ Space-Saving Design & High Capacity: Compact 15.74″ x 16.14″ x 18.11″ size with ample interior for small loads.
✓ Dual Water Supply & Easy Setup: Utilizes a built-in 5L water tank or faucet hookup for versatile placement.
✓ 8 Diverse Programs: Offers more washing options for everything from delicate fruits to heavy-duty dishes.
✓ Quiet and Efficient Performance: Users praise its quiet operation and effective cleaning, even for produce.
🎯 Best For
This versatile EUHOMY portable built-in dishwasher is ideal for singles, couples, or anyone in a small living space or RV who values convenience and advanced features. Its dual water supply options and extensive programs make it incredibly adaptable to various needs.
Complete Buying Guide for Best Built In Dishwasher
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for the best built in dishwasher, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you understand what truly matters. First, consider the size and capacity. Standard built-in dishwashers are 24 inches wide and can hold 12-16 place settings, perfect for families. If you have a smaller kitchen or just a few people, an 18-inch compact model or even a countertop portable unit with a built-in water tank (like some on our list) could be your ideal fit. Think about how many dishes you typically wash daily.
Next, evaluate the wash cycles and features. Do you need a sanitize option for baby bottles? A quick wash for lightly soiled items? Look for dishwashers with versatile cycles like “heavy,” “eco,” “glass,” and “auto.” Features like adjustable racks, a third rack for cutlery, and specialized spray jets can significantly improve cleaning performance and loading flexibility. Noise level is also crucial, especially in open-concept living spaces. Look for models with decibel ratings below 50 dB for a quieter operation. A stainless steel tub is generally preferred for its durability, better drying performance, and resistance to odors and stains compared to plastic.
Budget Planning
Investing in a new built-in dishwasher means setting a realistic budget. Prices can range significantly based on brand, features, and materials. Entry-level models might cost a few hundred dollars, offering basic cycles and decent cleaning. Mid-range dishwashers, typically between $500-$1000, often include more wash cycles, quieter operation, and perhaps a stainless steel tub. High-end models, priced above $1000, come with advanced features like smart technology, superior drying systems, premium finishes, and incredibly quiet performance. Remember to factor in potential installation costs if you’re not doing it yourself. While a lower upfront cost can be appealing, consider the long-term value, including energy efficiency (look for Energy Star certification) and durability, which can save you money on utility bills and repairs over time.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best built in dishwasher is a personal decision based on your specific lifestyle and kitchen. We’ve highlighted a range of excellent options, from traditional integrated units to compact portables with built-in water tanks, each bringing unique strengths to the table. Think about what truly matters to you: is it maximum capacity, quiet operation, specialized cleaning programs, or flexibility in installation? By prioritizing these factors and considering your budget, you’ll be well-equipped to select a dishwasher that not only cleans your dishes efficiently but also enhances your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetic. A well-chosen dishwasher truly can be a game-changer in your daily routine.
We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your choices for the best built in dishwasher. Ready to say goodbye to handwashing and enjoy sparkling clean dishes every time? Click on the affiliate links for our top recommendations to compare prices and find the perfect dishwasher for your home today!
