3 Best Drawer Dishwashers for Modern Kitchens

If you want a space-efficient, stylish dishwashing solution, drawer models like the Fisher Paykel DD24SAX9 lead the way with 24 full-extension drawers that clean about 7 place settings per load, using only 1.81 gallons of water. They’re quiet at around 44-45 dB and can be customized with panels for a seamless look. The Fisher & Paykel DD24DV2T9 offers similar features, while Brookings cabinetry complements these designs. To make smart choices for your use space and style, keep exploring what fits best—you’ll find more than just a dishwasher.

Fisher Paykel DD24SAX9 24-Drawer Full Console Dishwasher

If you want a new dishwasher that saves space and looks nice, the Fisher Paykel DD24SAX9 might be a good pick. It has 24 drawers, which makes it easy to load and unload right at your counter level. The dishwasher is made with shiny stainless steel and fits into small kitchens, boats, or RVs. It’s about 23.6 inches wide, 22.6 inches deep, and over 16 inches tall. It can hold about 7 place settings and has adjustable racks to fit different dishes. It uses only 1.81 gallons of water per cycle and has six different wash options, including quick washes.

People like this dishwasher because the drawer style makes it easy to reach dishes without bending down. It is very quiet, making only 45 decibels. This means you can run it while family watches TV or works nearby. It also shares the star label for good energy and water use, helping save money on bills.

However, this dishwasher has some downsides. It can only hold a small amount of dishes, so it may not be enough for big families. Some buyers have said the dishwasher can be damaged during shipping, like dents or broken parts. Also, some users find that rinsing dishes before washing helps them come out cleaner and dry better.

This dishwasher is a smart choice for people with small kitchens or limited space. It is simple to use, quiet, and stylish. But keep in mind that it might not be perfect if you need to wash a lot of dishes at once.

Fisher & Paykel DD24DV2T9_N Series 9 Dishwasher

The Fisher & Paykel DD24DV2T9_N Series 9 Dishwasher is a great choice for people who want a stylish and flexible kitchen gadget. It has a drawer design that works like a cabinet, making it easy to open at counter height. This is simple to load and helps avoid back pain.

The dishwasher has adjustable racks. This means you can fit different sizes and shapes of dishes easily. Each drawer can work separately, so you can run two different cycles at the same time or only wash a few items. This is helpful if you don’t have many dishes to clean.

It is very quiet. It makes only 44 decibels of sound, so it won’t disturb your home. The Sanitize option kills 99.9% of bacteria, making your dishes clean and safe. Its built-in look, with matching handles and nice materials, makes it a beautiful part of your kitchen.

This dishwasher is best for people who want a sleek, flexible, and clean way to wash dishes. It is good for small loads and quick washes in a modern kitchen.

Pros:

• Drawer design at counter height makes it easy to load
• Each drawer can run different cycles or wash small loads
• Very quiet with a 44-decibel noise level
• Kills most bacteria with the Sanitize setting

Cons:

• It might cost more because of its high-end features
• It has less capacity than larger dishwashers, so it’s not great for big families
• Needs space at counter height, which may not fit every kitchen layout

Brookings Shaker Unassembled Kitchen Cabinet Base B9, Brown, Solid Wood

The Brookings Shaker Unassembled Kitchen Cabinet B9 is a good choice for small kitchens. It’s made of solid wood, which makes it sturdy and last a long time. The cabinet is 9 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 34.5 inches tall. It has enough space to store things and keep your kitchen neat.

The cabinet has one door, a drawer, and an adjustable shelf. The shelf can move to fit your items. The door opens smoothly thanks to soft-close hinges. This means it closes quietly and gently, so no loud slamming.

You get a durable, classic look with this cabinet that fits many kitchen styles. It’s made with solid wood on the face and door frame. The sides are made of 1/2-inch plywood, which adds strength. But, since it Comes unassembled, you will need to put it together. You also need some tools to do it.

This cabinet is small, so it’s best for extra storage or for smaller spaces. It costs more than cabinets made from cheaper materials like MDF or particleboard, but it is more durable and lasts longer.

Perfect for: People who want a strong, attractive cabinet that saves space and works smoothly.

Pros:

• Made of solid wood for strength
• Quiet and soft hinges
• Adjustable shelf for more storage options

Cons:

• You need to put it together
• Small size, not for big storage
• Usually costs more than cheaper materials

If you want a tough, good-looking cabinet that works well every day, the Brookings Shaker is a solid choice.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Drawer Dishwashers for Modern Kitchens

When selecting a drawer dishwasher, you need to assess how well it fits your kitchen’s layout, since sizes can range from compact units with a 24-inch width to more expansive models up to 30 inches; proper fit helps avoid costly redesigns. Noise levels matter too—some models operate at just 44 decibels, quieter than a whispering library, while others can reach 52 decibels, nearly a normal conversation. Finally, consider how flexible the loading options are—whether your dishes can be comfortably loaded in individual drawers or if you’re stuck with fixed racks—and whether energy-efficient features and diverse cycle options align with your household’s habits, helping you save on bills and get dishes spotless every time.

Space Compatibility

When choosing a drawer dishwasher, it’s important to check if it fits in your space. These dishwashers are usually about 23.5 to 24 inches wide. Make sure to measure carefully so it will fit perfectly. Even a small mistake can cause problems when you install it.

Many drawer dishwashers are designed to sit at a comfortable height, often at your counter level. Think about your cabinets and countertops to see if they will work with the new dishwasher.

These small dishwashers are great for cozy kitchens, boats, or RVs. They fit where regular models may not. If you want a built-in or integrated look, you might need custom panels to match your cabinets.

Also, leave enough space around the dishwasher so you can open and close the drawers easily. If space is tight, it can be hard to use and may block other appliances or cabinets. Be sure the dishwasher opens smoothly without hitting anything nearby.

Noise Levels

Quiet noise levels are an important thing to look for when choosing a drawer dishwasher. This is especially true if your kitchen is open to other rooms or sharing space with a living area. Most dishwashers make between 45 and 50 decibels of sound. That’s about the same volume as casual outdoor talk. At this volume, the noise won’t bother you. You can run the dishwasher early in the morning, late at night, or when friends visit without disruption.

Some drawer dishwashers have extra soundproofing or noise insulation. This makes them even quieter. They help keep your kitchen peaceful during dishwashing. Many people say that quieter models are more convenient. They help maintain a calm and relaxing home. Choosing a quiet dishwasher means you won’t have loud sounds that disturb your day or night.

Loading Flexibility

Loading flexibility is an important feature because it changes how easily you can fit dishes into your dishwasher. Drawer dishwashers have racks that you can move and change. This helps you load different kinds of dishes, like big pots, tall glasses, plates, or bowls. Each drawer can work separately. This means you can run just one drawer if you only need to wash a few items. It saves water and energy.

Full-sized dishwashers are similar in size to regular ones. They are easy to load because they are at a comfortable height, so you don’t have to bend over. Features like removable racks or adjustable shelves make it easier to fit odd-shaped or bulky items.

Having flexible loading options helps keep your kitchen organized. It also makes unloading faster and keeps your space tidy. You don’t need to be an expert to load these dishwashers — just put in your dishes and start the wash.

Energy Efficiency

When you buy a drawer dishwasher, look for ones that save energy. These models have the ENERGY STAR label. This label means they use less water and electricity. They have special cycles that clean well while saving resources. So, you don’t have to worry about wasting water on small loads.

Many dishwashers let you run only the drawers you need. This helps cut down on water and power use. Some come with smart sensors. These sensors check how dirty the dishes are and adjust the wash cycle. They make sure the dishwasher uses just the right amount of energy.

Choosing an energy-efficient dishwasher can save you money on your bills. It also helps protect the environment. These dishwashers work well and use less water and electricity. Saving energy should be easy, not hard.

Cycle Options

Cycle options are an important part of choosing a drawer dishwasher. They decide how well your dishes get cleaned, how much water and power you use, and how flexible the dishwasher is. Most dishwashers have different cycles. For example, a quick wash works if you need cleaned dishes fast. Heavy-duty cycles are good for really dirty pots and pans. Eco-friendly cycles help save water and electricity, which is better for the environment and your bill.

Some dishwashers have special cycles. These can include a sanitize cycle, which kills more germs, or an extra dry cycle for plastic items. You can also change settings to control how long the wash lasts, how hot the water gets, and how strong the cleaning action is. This makes it easier to get your dishes just right.

Some dishwashers have two drawers that work separately. This lets you run different cycles at the same time for different loads. It saves time and makes cleaning more flexible. Choosing the right cycle options can also cut down on water and energy use. Eco modes, for example, can use up to 30% less water and power. Overall, flexible cycle options help keep your dishes clean while saving resources.

Style & Finish

Choosing the right style and finish for your drawer dishwasher is important. It helps your kitchen look nice and makes the dishwasher last longer. Modern dishwashers often have smooth, built-in designs that match your cabinets. They look neat and keep your kitchen looking clean.

Finishes like stainless steel give a modern look. They are tough, and resist fingerprints, scratches, spots, and rust. Some dishwashers let you add your cabinet panels. This makes the dishwasher look like part of the cabinets, giving it a built-in feel. You can also pick from colors like black, white, or stainless steel. These options suit many different styles.

When you pick a finish, think about how it will look and how easy it is to keep clean. A good finish makes your kitchen look good and helps the dishwasher last longer. It’s a simple way to make your kitchen look nice and get a durable appliance.

Capacity Limits

Most drawer dishwashers can clean about 7 place settings at once. This size might not be enough for big families that have lots of dirty dishes every day. If you are used to loading a regular dishwasher, you’ll see that these smaller models hold roughly the same amount as the bottom rack of a big one. This means you can’t wash really large loads all at once.

For busy families or larger households, this can be a problem. You might have to rinse dishes first or run several loads. This can take more time and make things less easy. Some drawer dishwashers have more than one drawer and let you run each one separately. But, this also means you can only wash small loads at a time.

When picking a drawer dishwasher, think about how many dishes you usually need to clean each day or week. Do you find yourself reloading it often? If yes, a small drawer dishwasher might get frustrating. It might not have enough space, and you may spend more time running extra loads.

Installation Ease

Installing a drawer dishwasher is often easier than you think. Most models are made to be simple to set up. You usually don’t need special tools or skills. The instructions that come with the dishwasher are clear and easy to follow. Many dishwashers have adjustable parts to help you level and lock them in place easily.

Getting the size right is important. Most drawer dishwashers fit into standard kitchen cabinets. They come with pre-drilled holes to make mounting easier. Check your space carefully before buying.

You also need to make sure your home’s electrical and water connections match the dishwasher. Most models use a regular 120V outlet and have water inlet and outlet hoses included. Before starting, look at your kitchen’s plumbing and electrical setup. This helps avoid surprises and makes the installation smooth.

Some dishwashers are designed for simple DIY setup. Still, double-check your kitchen’s infrastructure first. Being prepared makes the process quick and hassle-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Energy-Efficient Are Drawer Dishwashers Compared to Traditional Models?

Drawer dishwashers are more energy-efficient than traditional models because they use less water and power, thanks to their compact size and targeted washing cycles. You save energy and reduce utility bills while enjoying convenient, space-saving design.

What Maintenance Do Drawer Dishwashers Require Regularly?

You should regularly clean the filter, check for blockages, and wipe down the door seals to prevent mold. Also, run occasional cleaning cycles and inspect spray arms to guarantee ideal performance and avoid buildup, keeping your drawer dishwasher efficient.

Can Drawer Dishwashers Be Integrated Into Existing Kitchen Cabinetry?

Yes, you can integrate drawer dishwashers into your existing cabinetry. You’ll need to guarantee proper measurements, modify the cabinetry if necessary, and follow installation guidelines for a seamless, built-in look that matches your kitchen’s style.

Are Drawer Dishwashers Suitable for Small or Compact Kitchens?

Yes, drawer dishwashers are great for small kitchens because they save space and fit seamlessly into compact areas. You can use them efficiently without overwhelming your kitchen’s layout, making them a practical and stylish choice.

What Are the Most Common Issues Faced With Drawer Dishwashers?

You might face issues like clogging, leaking, or incomplete cleaning with drawer dishwashers. Regular upkeep, proper loading, and choosing reputable brands help prevent these problems, ensuring your machine runs smoothly and efficiently.