Standard 24-inch wide built-in dishwashers are the most common type of dishwasher, designed to fit seamlessly under kitchen countertops and connect directly to plumbing. These dishwashers dominate the market and are engineered to handle the daily dishwashing needs of most households, from small families to frequent entertainers.
Overview of 24-Inch Wide Built-In Dishwashers
A dishwasher is a kitchen essential for most kitchens, and there are many available types. They are available in three basic categories. Built-in dishwashers are designed to go underneath a countertop, and they are the most widely used dishwasher type in homes. Built-ins are typically located near the kitchen sink due to the necessity of a plumbing connection. Built-in models come in two sizes: standard and compact. Standard size measures 34 inches tall by 24 inches wide and between 24 to 28 inches deep.
Standard dishwashers measure 24 inches wide, whereas compact built-in models measure around 18 inches wide. Dishwashers should run at least 120 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure the dishes are being fully cleaned, but not more than 150 degrees Fahrenheit, as that could risk heat damage. Most dishwashers operate between 130–140 degrees. It’s also important to ensure when setting up a dishwasher that it is connected to your hot water line instead of your cold-water line.
Most dishwashers measure 24 inches wide and 24 inches deep. If you have a small kitchen, you might consider an 18-inch-wide dishwasher that’s 24 inches deep. Measure your space, and don’t forget to account for the adjustment of the leveling feet. Illustration: Consumer Reports · Take a close look at the configuration of the dishwasher’s interior to make sure the rack design will accommodate your dishes. If you frequently use oversized bowls or large casserole dishes, you may want a height-adjustable upper rack or fold-down tines on the bottom rack.
Top-Performing 24-Inch Dish-In Dishwashers
Bosch 300 Series SHE43C75N
Bosch has a reputation for high-end performance, and it doesn’t disappoint with the Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N dishwasher. It’s the personal pick of our U.S. Editor, Mike Prospero, who was amazed at how quietly the dishwasher runs. He says it’s so quiet that he can hardly hear it, even in the kitchen. He often has to check the InfoLight below the handle to ensure it’s on, which he says is a good visual indicator, and is especially welcome for something that runs so quietly. He even tested it to check the decibel level, which he registered at between 47-50 dB, slightly higher than the 44 decibels claimed by Bosch.
If you’d prefer a similarly performing model from Bosch, but one that’s slightly quieter and with a few more place settings (and if you can spare the extra hundred dollars), we also highly recommend the Bosch 300 Series 24-Inch Front Control model. By the numbers, it operates at 46 decibels, has 16 place settings, more versatile racks and smart home connectivity. What the experts say: Interior designer and home chef Chantelle Hartman Malarkey says Bosch is a go-to brand when it comes to dishwashers; shoppers can rely on its appliances to get the job done well. “Bosch dishwashers run quietly, have a large load capacity and are known to dry dishes really well,” she says. “All three of these features are key and make it hard to want to choose any other brand.”
Pros:
- Operates at 46 dB, exceptionally quiet
- 16 place settings for large capacity
- Smart home connectivity with Wi-Fi
- AutoRelease door improves drying performance
Cons:
- Slightly pricier than some competitors
- Rack adjustments can be cumbersome for some users
Samsung Top Control Dishwasher
We recommend the Samsung Control Dishwasher as the best dishwasher overall due to its smart technology and whisper-quiet operating volume, the Bosch 300 Series Dishwasher for its large capacity and suite of special dishwasher features, and the Whirlpool Dishwasher for its relative affordability and brand reputation. Though Samsung’s 24-inch Top Control model earned our top-rated dishwasher seal, the best dishwasher for your home will depend on your budget, space, must-have features, and personal style.
What our editors say: “Recently, my husband and I had to buy a dishwasher—our first time actually picking a model—and we settled on this Samsung for a few reasons,” shares our senior updates editor Karen Tietjen. “First, a third rack was a must for stashing our toddler’s pacifiers, sippy cup lids, and baby-sized spoons and forks. Second, we wanted a quiet machine. Third, it looks so sleek and instantly helped upgrade our somewhat outdated kitchen. One cool feature is that it automatically opens itself when the wash cycle is done to help dry the dishes—and it works.” Dimensions: 24.6 x 23.8 x 33.6 inches | dBA: 46 | Capacity: 15 place settings | Finishes: 2 | Racks: 3 | Energy Star certified: Yes
Pros:
- Whisper-quiet at 46 dB
- Third rack for small items
- Auto-open door enhances drying
- Sleek, modern design
Cons:
- Some users report control panel sensitivity issues
- Higher price point for smart features
Miele G5008
We’ve stress-tested more than 30 dishwashers, and we recommend the Miele G5008 for its strong cleaning performance, features, and reliability for the price. Miele consistently delivers premium products, and this dishwasher is no exception. Designed for longevity, many Miele owners I spoke to have owned their dishwashers for over 10 years. The experts I spoke to say the brand are renowned for lasting up to 15 years, which I think is fantastic value for money. This model received high praise in customer reviews for the easy, intuitive loading and the ‘literally squeaky clean’ results.
Pros:
- Exceptional longevity, up to 15 years
- Intuitive rack design for easy loading
- Squeaky clean results
- Reliable performance
Cons:
- Premium price tag
- Limited availability in some regions
GE Profile PDP715SYVFS
If you already own GE Profile appliances and want your dishwasher to coordinate: The GE Profile PDP715SYVFS might fit the bill. Its Normal cleaning cycle wiped out plenty of gunk, and its antimicrobial Microban-treated handles and filter managed odors well. (This is something we really appreciated while testing machines in summer heat.) A display on the control panel lets you monitor a cycle. In our GH Cleaning Lab tests, a similar model to this dishwasher (which is currently discontinued) plowed through our dirtiest loads with ease, and at 38 dBA, was super quiet. This model is slightly louder at 39 dBA, but that is still incredibly quiet.
Pros:
- Quiet at 39 dBA
- Microban-treated components reduce odors
- Strong cleaning performance
- Informative front display
Cons:
- Top rack lacks flexibility
- Fingerprint-prone stainless steel front
KitchenAid KDTM604KPS
Many models now include additional technology that helps bring the noise level down to a very quiet 40 to 50 decibels, but this KitchenAid model achieves an almost whisper-quiet level at only 39 decibels. In addition to being able to take a nap while the dishwasher is running, this high-end model also includes a third rack, ProWash soil sensors that automatically adjust the cycle for the soil level of the dishes and an extended heat dry option that can even evaporate the most determined drops on your plasticware. This model reminded me of the Bosch SHEM63W55N inside and out with its slick, modern design. The top silverware rack is slim but sturdy. The adjustable middle rack was simple to operate and intuitive to move into position to accommodate items of varying sizes.
Pros:
- Extremely quiet at 39 dBA
- Third rack for utensils
- ProWash sensors optimize cleaning
- Effective drying for plastics
Cons:
- Higher cost for advanced features
- Some users find rack spacing limiting
Testing Scenarios and Performance
In our most recent round of testing, we evaluated standard-size, 24-inch built-in dishwashers. In this guide, we focused on traditional dishwashers, but newer designs, including built-in drawer-style dishwashers, are becoming more widely available. Replicating the daily dish usage of a five-person household, we washed close to 100 items in each test load, including bowls slicked with oatmeal, plates painted with a patchwork of dried-on foods, flatware caked with avocado, and glassware smeared with lipstick.
Dishwashers tend to dry metal, glass, and ceramic thoroughly. But few models are particularly good at drying plastic cups and containers. In each of our test loads, we included multiple plastic items, to determine how each machine handled the task. We assessed the flexibility of rack layouts and how well they accommodated dishes both big (a 9-by-13-inch casserole dish, a 2-liter pitcher) and small (ramekins, chopsticks). We took note of how smoothly the racks operated. A height-adjustable upper (or middle) rack helps make space for tall items, like long-stemmed wine glasses, or large cookware. We made sure that these racks lock easily into place so they don’t collapse mid-cycle (we’ve had this happen during testing). Dishwasher manuals include advice on how to most efficiently load specific layouts, which we followed during testing after loading blindly for a few cycles.
The MDB8959SKZ’s heated-dry cycles dry plastic dishes thoroughly—a rarity among dishwashers. We routinely marveled at how well plastic containers and sippy cups dried in our test loads instead of emerging damp and drippy, like they did from other dishwashers. The heated-dry settings tack on anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes to a cleaning cycle, so we recommend using them at night, when cycle duration is less of an issue. Its racks are well designed. If you find the racks on our pick to be more frustrating to load (some people do), the MDB8959SKZ’s are more flexibly designed in a large grid layout. Though the tines on the bottom rack are not foldable, they are widely spaced and angled in a way that better accommodates deeper dishes and bowls than those of our top pick. The third rack is deep enough to nest coffee cups and bowls, and it has large icons that indicate where to correctly place coffee cups.
In our GH Cleaning Lab tests, a similar model to this dishwasher (which is currently discontinued) plowed through our dirtiest loads with ease, and at 38 dBA, was super quiet. We found the dishwasher intuitive to use and easy to program. Loading is easy, and though the top rack isn’t particularly flexible, there are six very secure holders for stemware. Its third rack is a cutlery tray that holds spatulas, tongs, utensils and other flat items safe and out of the main racks. We also appreciated the removable side caddy for oddly shaped utensils, like whisks and slotted spoons. The oversized flatware basket has two very large open sections — one at each end — to accommodate a wide variety of pieces. And there’s a knife holder on the bottom rack for safely cleaning sharp cutlery.
Buying Guide for 24-Inch Wide Built-In Dishwashers
When deciding how to choose a dishwasher for your home, there are several key elements to consider.
Dimensions and capacity: Measure the width, depth, and height of the area where you want to install the dishwasher before you look for it. Standard under-counter dishwashers are typically 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 36 inches tall. You can find compact dishwashers or custom models if you need them. Standard dishwashers can fit up to 14 place settings, which is good for three people, while compact models fit six to eight.
Energy usage: Look for an EnergyGuide label on the best dishwasher. Modern dishwashers are much more water—and energy-efficient than their predecessors. You can compare the dishwasher with similar models by looking at this label. Running an Energy Star dishwasher costs around $35, saving around 2870 gallons of water annually. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Energy Star-certified dishwashers cost about $50 per year to operate and can save approximately 5,800 gallons of water over their lifetime. These machines use modern features like soil sensors, improved filtration, efficient jets, and optimized rack designs to reduce water and energy consumption. You’ll know a product is certified if it has a blue, square label. The EPA recommends choosing a dishwasher with multiple wash cycle options.
While there’s no one-size-fits-all dishwasher, understanding key features will help you find the perfect match for your home. Beyond the ability to clean tough messes, consider factors like dishwasher type, capacity, noise level, energy efficiency, and controls when shopping around. By evaluating these features, you can find a dishwasher that fits your space and budget while making cleanup feel less like a chore. No matter which model you buy, cleaning your dishwasher is essential to keeping it in tip-top shape.
The more features a dishwasher has, the pricier it will be, so think through which extras you’ll actually use. Hygiene: Best for items that need sterilising, such as baby products or chopping boards. This programme will wash at a high temperature. Sensor wash: Found on dishwashers with built-in sensors, the programme time, temperature and amount of water will adjust according to how dirty the dishes are. Adjustable racks: Giving you extra flexibility, these racks can be moved up or down to accommodate larger plates on the bottom rack, or tall glasses on the top. Automatic open-door drying: The door automatically opens at the end of a cycle to allow fresh air in and moist air out. Child lock: This stops curious children from fiddling with the buttons or opening the door mid-cycle. Delay start: Allowing you to start the dishwasher at a set time, this feature is ideal for running the cycle during off-peak utility hours.
There are dishwashers to fit every budget. You could get a basic model with only a few cycles in a standard finish for less than $500. What you likely won’t get is a model with a wide assortment of cycles, stylized controls, flexible racks, a front panel that matches your cabinets or one that’s noticeably quiet. For those perks, you’ll have to trade up. While it’s not necessary to go totally top-of-the-line to get good cleaning performance, spending $1,000 to $1,500 will get you solid cleaning performance along with a nice assortment of perks and maybe even Wi-Fi connectivity. At the very least, we recommend getting a stainless steel tub, all the basic cycle features — including a boosted drying option — and if possible a fingerprint-resistant door.
It’s generally recommended that you leave at least 27 inches in front of your dishwasher for the door to open comfortably. And if the dishwasher is pushed into a corner, leave at least 2 inches between the open door and side of the wall or cabinet. Some people aren’t bothered by the hum of a running dishwasher, while others can’t stand it. It’s important to figure out where you fall in advance. When considering prospective models, make sure to check the model’s decibel level (dB). For reference, a dB of 31 to 50 is considered average room noise, while 30 and below is on the level of whispering or rustling leaves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the standard size for a built-in dishwasher?
Standard under-counter dishwashers are typically 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 36 inches tall. You can find compact dishwashers or custom models if you need them.
How many place settings can a 24-inch dishwasher hold?
Standard dishwashers can fit up to 14 place settings, which is good for three people, while compact models fit six to eight.
Are 24-inch dishwashers energy-efficient?
Modern dishwashers are much more water—and energy-efficient than their predecessors. Running an Energy Star dishwasher costs around $35, saving around 2870 gallons of water annually. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Energy Star-certified dishwashers cost about $50 per year to operate and can save approximately 5,800 gallons of water over their lifetime.
What features should I look for in a 24-inch dishwasher?
Beyond the ability to clean tough messes, consider factors like dishwasher type, capacity, noise level, energy efficiency, and controls when shopping around. Adjustable racks, sensor wash, automatic open-door drying, child lock, and delay start are valuable features.
How quiet should a dishwasher be?
When considering prospective models, make sure to check the model’s decibel level (dB). For reference, a dB of 31 to 50 is considered average room noise, while 30 and below is on the level of whispering or rustling leaves. Many models now include additional technology that helps bring the noise level down to a very quiet 40 to 50 decibels.
How long do 24-inch dishwashers typically last?
According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, the average dishwasher lasts about nine years. When we spoke to appliance repair experts about how long appliances should last, they claimed a good dishwasher should last 10-to-13 years.
Do 24-inch dishwashers dry plastic items well?
Dishwashers tend to dry metal, glass, and ceramic thoroughly. But few models are particularly good at drying plastic cups and containers. One thing our testers have found helpful for drying is to open the dishwasher door when the cycle is done, which lets steam out and allows fresh air to circulate. (Some full-sized models have incorporated a feature that pops the door open automatically.)