Standard 24-inch dishwashers are the most common size for built-in models, designed to fit seamlessly into most kitchen layouts. These dishwashers typically measure 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 35 inches high, making them ideal for households with standard cabinetry. They offer a balance of capacity, efficiency, and performance, accommodating 12-16 place settings, which suits families or frequent entertainers. Unlike compact 18-inch models or countertop units, 24-inch dishwashers provide ample space for larger dishes, pots, and pans, while incorporating advanced features like soil sensors, adjustable racks, and energy-efficient cycles.
Key Features to Look for in a 24-Inch Dishwasher
When shopping for a dishwasher, we need to look at several key features. Size matters. Measure your space first. Standard dishwashers are 24 inches wide. Smaller kitchens may need an 18-inch model. Noise level is important too. Look for dishwashers rated at 45 decibels or lower. These run quietly. You’ll barely hear them. Energy efficiency saves money. Look for ENERGY STAR certified models. They use less water and power. Consider the rack design. Adjustable racks offer more flexibility. They let you fit odd-shaped items easily. Cycle options are crucial. More cycles mean better cleaning for different types of loads. A quick wash is great for lightly soiled dishes. Don’t forget about the controls. Some people prefer hidden controls for a sleek look. Others like visible controls for easy access. Warranty is also important. Look for at least a one-year warranty on parts and labor.
Noise Level
Many modern dishwashers are rated in decibels (dBA) to communicate the noise level of a dishwasher’s cycle. The quietest dishwashers will have an average rating of 38 dBA, but any model rated lower than 44 dBA is considered a quiet dishwasher. The average dishwasher is about 52 dBA, according to industry standards.
Energy Efficiency
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.
Rack Flexibility
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. Above a certain price, you’ll start to find third racks at the top of the dishwasher. They’re shallower than the main two racks and are usually designed to hold silverware or other flat items, like cooking utensils and pot lids.
Top-Rated 24-Inch Dishwasher Models
After scouring customer reviews and stress-testing more than 30 models, we recommend the Miele G5008 as the first dishwasher you should consider. This entry-level Miele model delivers sparkling-clean dishes, and it’s quiet and easy to use. Miele is known for its reliability, durability, and owner satisfaction. It consistently delivered sparkling dishes, no matter which dishwasher detergent we used. Its roughly hour-long Quick wash cycle ranked among the best of the hour-long cycles we tested; only our upgrade pick cleaned better in such a short amount of time. The G5008 features a third rack and a height-adjustable middle rack. Its roomy bottom rack has a grid layout and a section with collapsible tines, allowing more flexibility for oddly shaped or large items, like big pots.
Bosch has a reputation for high-end performance, and it doesn’t disappoint with the Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N. 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.
This built-in KitchenAid KDTM604KPS dishwasher is a top-of-the-line model that offers a host of advanced features including a third level rack, adjustable tines, and a bottle wash setting. Furthermore, its whisper-quiet operating noise level of just 44 dBA makes the KDTM604KPS one of the quietest options on the market. When we tested this dishwasher, we were impressed with its overall design and stylish finish. Its large third rack stood out from other models we examined, and it is angled to help fit various sized glasses and bowls for increased flexibility.
Comparison Table of Top Models
| Model | Noise Level (dBA) | Place Settings | Third Rack | Energy Star Certified | Key Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miele G5008 | 44 | 16 | Yes | Yes | Quick wash, adjustable racks, AutoDos detergent system | $1,200-$1,500 |
| Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N | 44 | 16 | Yes | Yes | PrecisionWash, quiet operation, InfoLight | $900-$1,100 |
| KitchenAid KDTM604KPS | 44 | 16 | Yes | Yes | ProWash cycle, bottle wash, fan-enabled ProDry | $950-$1,350 |
Testing Scenarios and Performance
In our most recent round of testing, we evaluated standard-size, 24-inch built-in dishwashers. 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.
Our experts also assess how well each model can dry dishes-and they take an especially close look at plastic items, which dishwashers tend to have more trouble drying. For noise, a panel of judges listens to an entire dishwasher cycle to identify ¡°any annoying noises,¡± as Larry Ciufo, who oversees dishwasher testing at CR, puts it. The dishwashers that make the least racket throughout the cycle receive the highest scores for noise. We also incorporate feedback from the tens of thousands of Consumer Reports members who take our annual dishwasher survey.
Miele G5008 Performance
The cleaning performance was outstanding – even on the QuickIntenseWash cycle with our toughest messes – as all items emerged squeaky clean and noticeably shiny. Plus, we found the controls easy to navigate and the racks easy to load and adjust. Unique to Miele is its AutoDos detergent system which works with Miele’s PowerDisk, dispensing the precise amount of powder detergent for the cycle you’ve selected based on the soil level of your load and the hardness of your water.
Bosch 500 Series Performance
Bosch’s 300 Series dishwasher is among the most highly rated dishwasher across several major retailer sites, coming in just below average in price for the number of amenities it offers. In person, this was one of the slickest-looking dishwashers of the bunch. But beware, that sleek modern stainless steel is known for getting covered in fingerprints, especially if you have little ones who tend to touch and grab everything in sight.
KitchenAid KDTM604KPS Performance
Users love the cleaning performance of the KitchenAid dishwasher, with many praising how effective the ProWash cycle is, which adjusts settings for optimal cleaning results with the powerful wash system and multiple cycle options. The fan-forced ProDry system dries dishes way better than any other DW I’ve seen.
Pros and Cons of Top Models
Miele G5008
- Pros: Exceptional cleaning, quiet at 44 dBA, reliable brand, AutoDos system, quick wash cycle.
- Cons: Higher price point, lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, AutoDos requires specific detergent disks.
Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N
- Pros: Quiet operation, PrecisionWash system, affordable for features, sleek design.
- Cons: Fingerprint-prone stainless steel, standard washing system compared to premium models.
KitchenAid KDTM604KPS
- Pros: Whisper-quiet at 44 dBA, fan-enabled ProDry, customizable racks, bottle wash option.
- Cons: Higher cost, long cycle times for some settings.
Buying Guide for 24-Inch Dishwashers
When you’re looking for a dishwasher, there are a few questions you should ask yourself that will determine the model that’s right for you. 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. The more features a dishwasher has, the pricier it will be, so think through which extras you’ll actually use. For example, many models now come with WiFi, which offers cycle customization.
Steps to Choose the Right Dishwasher
- Measure your kitchen space to confirm a 24-inch model fits.
- Determine your household size to estimate needed capacity (12-16 place settings for families).
- Check noise ratings; aim for 45 dBA or lower for quiet operation.
- Look for Energy Star certification to save on utilities.
- Evaluate rack flexibility and cycle options for your dishwashing needs.
- Consider warranty and brand reliability based on user reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the average lifespan of a 24-inch dishwasher?
Most 24-inch dishwashers last 9-12 years with proper maintenance. High-end brands like Miele may last up to 15 years, while budget models may need replacement sooner.
Are stainless steel tubs better than plastic?
Stainless steel tubs are more durable, resist stains, and improve drying performance compared to plastic. They often come at a higher cost but are worth it for longevity.
How much water does a 24-inch dishwasher use?
Energy Star-certified models use 2.5-5 gallons per cycle, dependingÖβ¿¶¼¤¬¤Ë¤¸¤á¤ë¡£Energy StarÕJ¶¨¥â¥Ç¥ë¤Ï¡¢1¥µ¥¤¥¯¥ë¤¢¤¿¤ê2.5¡«5¥¬¥í¥ó¤òʹÓä·¤Þ¤¹¡£ÊÖÏ´¤¤¤è¤ê¤â´ó·ù¤ËÉ٤ʤ¤¤Ç¤¹¡£
Can I install a dishwasher myself?Which brand offers the best warranty?
Bosch and Miele typically offer at least a one-year warranty on parts and labor, with some models including extended warranties on specific components. Check manufacturer details for exact terms.
Conclusion
Choosing the right 24-inch dishwasher involves balancing performance, features, and budget. Models like the Miele G5008, Bosch 500 Series, and KitchenAid KDTM604KPS stand out for their cleaning power, quiet operation, and reliability. By focusing on key features like noise level, energy efficiency, and rack flexibility, you can find a dishwasher that meets your household’s needs. For more insights, visit Consumer Reports or Wirecutter for detailed reviews and buying guides.