Drawer dishwashers are redefining kitchen efficiency with their flexible, space-saving designs. Unlike traditional models, these appliances feature pull-out drawers, allowing you to run smaller loads or separate delicate items without wasting water or energy. In 2025, double drawer dishwashers—often with six place settings per drawer—are gaining traction for their versatility and modern aesthetics. This guide dives into the key considerations, top models, pros and cons, and real-world insights to help you choose the perfect 6-drawer dishwasher for your home.
Why Choose a 6 Drawer Dishwasher?
A drawer dishwasher is a type of dishwasher that has one or two separate drawers instead of a single door. Each drawer is essentially its own dishwasher, which allows for more flexibility in terms of usage and energy efficiency. Some benefits of using a dishwasher drawer include the ability to run smaller loads, more flexible loading options, potentially better energy efficiency, and the option to use only one drawer if needed instead of running a full cycle for a small load. If you ask us, double dish drawers are the ideal dishwasher—together they offer the same capacity as a standard dishwasher, but with more flexibility and opportunities for space and energy savings.
Statistics show that an energy star double drawer dishwasher consumes power worth $2.9 per month while regular dishwasher appliances consume power per week, worth $6. Additionally, the double drawers allow for the convenience of having clean dishes in one drawer while the other drawer is being loaded with dirty dishes, ensuring a constant supply of fresh, clean dishes. A double drawer dishwasher is a great option for anyone who wants to save energy and water.
Key Factors to Consider When Buying
Size and Capacity
Double drawer dishwashers are the same size as the standard dishwasher, which means that they don’t consume a lot of space. But the quality of double drawer dishwashers that you buy matters a lot. Dishwasher Size: 24 x 26 x 34 inches. Weight: 120 pounds. Settings: 6 Place Settings Capacity: 14. For standard-size kitchens, it’s worth considering double dishwasher drawers that fit in a standard dishwasher opening. Each operates independently and when paired, they have the same capacity as a traditional 24-inch dishwasher.
Noise Level
One very important thing to consider when buying a Double drawer dishwasher is the machine’s sound level. The last thing you want is buying a dishwasher that is too loud. The best way to know the noise level that comes from the dishwasher is by checking its noise level rating that is measured in dBA. If you want a Double drawer dishwasher that has low noise level, ensure that it has a sound rating of 45 dBA and below.
Energy Efficiency
Prioritize dishwashers with the Energy Star label. Opting for an Energy Star-rated dishwasher not only reduces your environmental impact but also results in lower utility costs over time. Consumers rave about its energy efficiency, making it a smart choice for environmentally conscious households.
Wash Cycles and Features
The more wash cycles the dishwasher has, the more power it typically consumes. The most important thing to check when considering noise cycle is if the appliance has an eco-friendly wash cycle feature. Dishwasher cycles that come standard on nearly every model—normal, quick cycle, heavy-duty, delicate—but fancier units will have even more specific cycles such as mineral-assisted wash and presoak cycle. These extra cycles can be nice to have, but I wouldn’t weigh them too heavily when making a purchase decision. Ultimately, you’ll be using the standard cycles far more than the niche ones.
Installation Requirements
Dishwasher drawers can often be installed in most kitchens, although some models may require certain plumbing or electrical setup. It’s important to review the installation requirements for a specific model before purchasing to ensure compatibility with your kitchen setup. Drawer dishwashers in particular often require you to notify the plumber beforehand, so that they can anticipate a slightly different appliance.
Top Recommended 6 Drawer Dishwashers for 2025
1. Café Dishwasher Drawer (CDD420P2TS1)
The CAFÉ Dishwasher Drawer is a remarkable addition to any modern kitchen, seamlessly combining style with functionality. This built-in dishwasher boasts a sleek design that blends effortlessly with contemporary décor, while its dual-drawer configuration allows for efficient loading and customization of cleaning cycles. Users appreciate the flexibility it offers; the upper and lower drawers can be operated independently, making it perfect for handling smaller loads without running a full-sized dishwasher. Beyond aesthetics, the performance of the CAFÉ Dishwasher Drawer shines through, delivering powerful cleaning capabilities while remaining surprisingly quiet. With a variety of wash settings and a precision drying feature, it effectively tackles everything from delicate glassware to heavily soiled pots.
Pros: Stylish with customizable finishes (stainless steel, matte white, or matte black). Operates quietly at 44 dBA. Energy Star certified with an Eco-Cycle for reduced water and electricity use. 14 place settings match standard dishwasher capacity.
Cons: Requires two separate doses of detergent for each drawer, which can be inconvenient. Loading full loads may require practice to optimize space. Premium price point.
Where to Buy: Amazon
2. Fisher & Paykel Double DishDrawer (DD24DDFTX9)
When the dishes you need are sitting dirty in the dishwasher, it’s annoying to have to wait to fill it before running a load. Conversely, filling your sink with dirty dishes while waiting for your dishwasher to stop running is also inconvenient. Fisher & Paykel’s Double DishDrawer removes the frustration by giving you two drawers that can run separately. Simply fill them up one at a time and select from six different wash options (including Quick Wash and Heavy Duty) when it’s cleaning time. The drawers easily slide out and back in and give you a range of racking options, from tines that fold to adjustable cup racks with wine glass supports that can be folded up or down. Plus, the fact that each drawer can be used independently is especially convenient for saving energy when you only have half a load. It also operates quietly—at 44 dBA, this dishwasher gives off a gentle hum that easily fades into background noise.
Pros: Independent drawer operation for flexible load sizes. Quiet at 44 dBA. Adjustable racks for wine glasses and large items. Energy-efficient with six wash cycles.
Cons: Higher upfront cost compared to standard dishwashers. Limited brand availability in some regions. May require specific maintenance, like salt for water softening.
Where to Buy: Amazon
3. EdgeStar BIDW1802
The EdgeStar BIDW1802 18 Inch Wide 8 Place Setting Energy Star Certified Built-In Front Control Dishwasher is a compact yet powerful solution for those with limited kitchen space. With its sleek stainless steel finish, this model not only elevates the aesthetic of any kitchen but also offers a generous capacity, accommodating up to eight place settings. Its energy-efficient design is certified by Energy Star, making it an eco-friendly choice that helps reduce utility bills without sacrificing performance.
Pros: Compact 18-inch design ideal for small kitchens. Energy Star certified for low utility costs. Affordable compared to premium brands.
Cons: Smaller capacity (8 place settings) than standard models. Louder at 52 dBA. Limited advanced features like smart connectivity.
Where to Buy: Amazon
In-Depth Analysis and Insights
Drawer dishwashers, particularly double drawer models, are a luxury appliance category, often priced between $1,000 and $2,000. Their appeal lies in flexibility—running one drawer for a small load or both for a full cycle saves water and energy compared to traditional models. For example, the Café model’s Eco-Cycle uses less water and electricity, potentially saving $50 annually compared to less efficient full-sized dishwashers. However, the need for two detergent doses and specialized installation can add to long-term costs.
Noise is a critical factor in open-plan homes. Models like the Fisher & Paykel and Café, both at 44 dBA, are among the quietest, producing a gentle hum that won’t disrupt conversations. In contrast, the EdgeStar’s 52 dBA may be noticeable in smaller spaces. Energy efficiency is another strong suit, with Energy Star models like the Café and EdgeStar aligning with 2025’s push for sustainable appliances. For deeper insights into energy-efficient dishwashers, check out Which? Eco Buys.
Real-world experiences highlight practical nuances. Users of the Café model love its sleek LCD display and knock-to-pause feature but note that overloading racks compromises wash quality. Fisher & Paykel owners praise the adjustable racks for accommodating tall stemware but mention the learning curve for efficient loading. The EdgeStar, while budget-friendly, is less forgiving with tough stains like baked-on grease, often requiring pre-washing.
FAQs About 6 Drawer Dishwashers
1. Are drawer dishwashers as effective as traditional models?
Yes, modern drawer dishwashers like the Café and Fisher & Paykel deliver comparable cleaning performance to standard models. Their spray arms and cycle options handle everything from delicate glassware to pots with baked-on food, though proper loading is key to avoid missed spots.
2. How much space do double drawer dishwashers require?
Double drawer dishwashers fit standard 24-inch dishwasher openings, measuring roughly 24 x 26 x 34 inches. Single drawer models, like those for small kitchens, may be 18 inches wide. Always check installation requirements, as plumbing may differ.
3. Do drawer dishwashers save energy?
Yes, especially when running one drawer for smaller loads. Energy Star-certified models can reduce annual energy costs by up to $50 compared to non-certified full-sized dishwashers, based on 2025 energy rates.
4. Are they worth the higher cost?
For small households, frequent entertainers, or those prioritizing energy savings, the flexibility and efficiency justify the cost. However, if you consistently run full loads, a traditional dishwasher may be more cost-effective.
5. How do I maintain a drawer dishwasher?
Regularly clean the filter, use rinse aid for better drying, and check for calcium buildup if you have hard water. Some models, like Fisher & Paykel, may require salt for water softening. Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guide to extend lifespan.
Conclusion
In 2025, 6-drawer dishwashers offer unmatched flexibility for modern kitchens, blending style, efficiency, and performance. The Café Dishwasher Drawer stands out for its customizable design and quiet operation, while Fisher & Paykel’s Double DishDrawer excels in versatility. For budget-conscious buyers, the EdgeStar BIDW1802 delivers solid performance in compact spaces. Consider your household size, kitchen layout, and priorities—noise, energy savings, or aesthetics—before investing. For more dishwasher buying tips, explore Consumer Reports.