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7 Best 18 Inch Dishwashers 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Bundle of FRIGIDAIRE FFBD1831US Dishwasher, 18 inches, Stainless Steel + Frigidaire 1/2 HP Corded Garbage Disposal for Kitchen Sinks

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,161
Capacity
Noise Level
Drying Performance

Most important from
157 reviews

Capacity
This little dishwasher is a champion, handling everyday loads and tough, stuck-on residue with ease.
Noise Level
Impressively quiet and efficient, it cleans and dries dishes remarkably well, making it perfect for smaller kitchens.
Drying Performance
Impressively quiet and efficient, it cleans and dries dishes remarkably well, making it perfect for smaller kitchens.
Interior Material
The stainless steel interior not only looks great but also resists stains and odors, ensuring long-term durability.
Size and Installation
The compact design fits perfectly in tight spaces, adding functionality without compromising on performance.

The Frigidaire FFBD1831US 18-inch dishwasher and garbage disposal bundle offers a compact and efficient solution for smaller kitchens. With a capacity to clean up to 8 place settings in one cycle, this dishwasher is ideal for small households or apartment living. It features a dual spray arm system that ensures thorough cleaning for every load. The inclusion of a National Sanitation Foundation Certified Sanitize Cycle adds an extra layer of cleanliness, making it great for those who prioritize hygiene.

The heated drying system effectively dries dishes, reducing the need for manual drying. The dishwasher's stainless steel interior is durable and resists stains and odors, while the compact design makes it an excellent space-saving option for tighter kitchens. Additionally, the energy efficiency of this appliance is commendable, as it is ENERGY STAR certified, which can help reduce electricity bills over time. The sound reduction system ensures that it operates quietly, which is a significant advantage for open-concept living spaces.

However, the limited capacity might be a drawback for larger families or for those who entertain frequently. The six wash cycle options, including Energy Saver and Heavy Wash, offer versatility, but some users might find the choices somewhat limited compared to other models that offer more specialized settings. The bundled garbage disposal unit, with its powerful grinding system, is a useful addition, helping manage food waste efficiently. It comes with BIOSHIELD antimicrobial odor protection, which prevents unpleasant smells. This bundle is a practical choice for those looking to maximize kitchen efficiency in a compact space, but it may not suffice for bigger households with more extensive dishwashing needs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,161
Capacity
Noise Level
Drying Performance

Most important from
157 reviews

Capacity
This little dishwasher is a champion, handling everyday loads and tough, stuck-on residue with ease.
Noise Level
Impressively quiet and efficient, it cleans and dries dishes remarkably well, making it perfect for smaller kitchens.
Drying Performance
Impressively quiet and efficient, it cleans and dries dishes remarkably well, making it perfect for smaller kitchens.
Interior Material
The stainless steel interior not only looks great but also resists stains and odors, ensuring long-term durability.
Size and Installation
The compact design fits perfectly in tight spaces, adding functionality without compromising on performance.
#2

SPT SD-9254SSA 18″ Wide Built-In Stainless Steel Dishwasher w/Heated Drying, ENERGY STAR, 6 Wash Programs, 8 Place Settings and Stainless Steel Tub

Rating
10.0
Capacity
Wash Cycles and Options
Interior Material

Most important from
171 reviews

Capacity
An excellent fit for saving cabinet space, delivering spotless dishes each time.
Wash Cycles and Options
Dishes come out bone dry when using the normal cycle with high temp and heated dry options.
Interior Material
Offers the same internal quality as higher-priced brand name models, making it a great value for the price.
Size and Installation
Installation can be straightforward for those experienced, but the instruction manual is not user-friendly for novices.

The SPT SD-9254SSA is an 18-inch wide built-in dishwasher, making it a good fit for smaller kitchens or spaces where a full-size model may not be practical. It offers a capacity of 8 place settings, which is suitable for small households or couples. This dishwasher is ENERGY STAR certified, meaning it meets or exceeds federal guidelines for energy efficiency, potentially saving you money on your energy bill.

Additionally, it has a stainless steel tub, which is durable and resistant to staining, ensuring longevity and cleanliness. The noise level is 52 dB, which is relatively quiet but may still be noticeable in a very silent environment. It includes 6 wash cycles, providing versatile cleaning options to handle various types of dish loads.

The heated drying function enhances drying performance, although some users might find it less effective compared to more advanced drying technologies. The time delay feature allows you to schedule washes up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your routine. Some handy indicators, like the error alarm and rinse aid warning, help in maintaining the machine's optimal performance. At 54 pounds, it is relatively lightweight, which might affect its stability. Installation should be straightforward with the provided components.

Rating
10.0
Capacity
Wash Cycles and Options
Interior Material

Most important from
171 reviews

Capacity
An excellent fit for saving cabinet space, delivering spotless dishes each time.
Wash Cycles and Options
Dishes come out bone dry when using the normal cycle with high temp and heated dry options.
Interior Material
Offers the same internal quality as higher-priced brand name models, making it a great value for the price.
Size and Installation
Installation can be straightforward for those experienced, but the instruction manual is not user-friendly for novices.
#3

FRIGIDAIRE 18 in. ADA Compact Front Control Dishwasher in Stainless Steel with Dual Spray Arms, 52 dBA, includes room-of-choice delivery

Rating
9.8
Wash Cycles and Options
Size and Installation

Most important from
157 reviews

Wash Cycles and Options
Delivers reliable performance without compromising on cleaning quality.
Size and Installation
Perfectly sized for small kitchens, making it an excellent fit for limited spaces.

The Frigidaire 18-inch ADA Compact Dishwasher is a solid choice for those needing a smaller built-in dishwasher without sacrificing key features. It fits up to 8 place settings, making it suitable for small families, couples, or individuals with limited kitchen space. The dishwasher is Energy Star certified, which means it uses electricity efficiently and helps reduce utility bills. Its noise level is 52 dB, quiet enough to operate comfortably even if you're in the same room. The dual spray arm system cleans dishes thoroughly, and the NSF certified sanitize cycle adds extra cleanliness for health-conscious users.

You get six wash cycle options including Energy Saver and Heavy Wash, providing flexibility for different dishwashing needs. The stainless steel interior is durable and helps with better drying, which is supported by the heated drying system to reduce leftover moisture. The compact dimensions (18"D x 22.5"W x 35"H) make it easy to fit into tight spaces, and it meets ADA standards, so it's designed to be accessible for users with disabilities.

The 8-place setting capacity might be limiting for larger households or frequent heavy use. While the noise is relatively low, it isn’t the quietest on the market when compared with premium models. Controls are basic front buttons with no advanced digital display, which can be simpler but less customizable. This dishwasher achieves a balance of efficiency, space-saving design, and performance, making it a practical option for compact kitchens or anyone needing an ADA-compliant appliance.

Rating
9.8
Wash Cycles and Options
Size and Installation

Most important from
157 reviews

Wash Cycles and Options
Delivers reliable performance without compromising on cleaning quality.
Size and Installation
Perfectly sized for small kitchens, making it an excellent fit for limited spaces.

Buying Guide for the Best 18 Inch Dishwashers

Choosing the right 18-inch dishwasher can make a significant difference in your kitchen's efficiency and cleanliness. These compact dishwashers are perfect for smaller kitchens, apartments, or for those who don't need a full-sized dishwasher. When selecting an 18-inch dishwasher, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find a dishwasher that meets your requirements in terms of performance, capacity, and convenience.
CapacityCapacity refers to the number of place settings a dishwasher can handle in one cycle. This is important because it determines how many dishes you can clean at once. For 18-inch dishwashers, capacity typically ranges from 6 to 8 place settings. If you have a small household or don't generate a lot of dirty dishes, a lower capacity might be sufficient. However, if you entertain guests frequently or have a larger family, you might want to opt for a higher capacity within the 18-inch range.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency indicates how much electricity and water the dishwasher uses. This is important for both environmental reasons and to keep your utility bills low. Dishwashers are rated by the Energy Star program, and those with this certification are more efficient. Look for models with the Energy Star label to ensure you're getting an energy-efficient appliance. If you use your dishwasher frequently, investing in an energy-efficient model can lead to significant savings over time.
Noise LevelNoise level is measured in decibels (dB) and indicates how loud the dishwasher will be during operation. This is important if your kitchen is close to living areas or if you run the dishwasher at night. Dishwashers with a noise level of 45 dB or lower are considered very quiet, while those between 45-50 dB are moderately quiet. If you are sensitive to noise or have an open-plan living space, opt for a quieter model to avoid disturbances.
Wash Cycles and OptionsWash cycles and options refer to the different settings available for cleaning your dishes. This is important because it provides flexibility for different types of loads. Common cycles include normal, heavy, and quick wash, while additional options might include sanitize, eco, and delay start. If you have varied dishwashing needs, such as heavily soiled pots and pans or delicate glassware, look for a model with multiple cycles and options to ensure thorough and appropriate cleaning.
Drying PerformanceDrying performance indicates how well the dishwasher dries your dishes after washing. This is important to avoid having to hand-dry dishes after a cycle. Some dishwashers use heated drying, while others use condensation drying. Heated drying is generally faster and more effective but can use more energy. If you prefer your dishes to come out completely dry and ready to put away, consider a model with a strong drying performance.
Interior MaterialThe interior material of a dishwasher can be either stainless steel or plastic. This is important for durability and maintenance. Stainless steel interiors are more durable, resist stains and odors, and can handle higher temperatures, which can improve drying performance. Plastic interiors are generally less expensive but may not last as long. If you want a long-lasting, easy-to-maintain dishwasher, opt for a model with a stainless steel interior.
Size and InstallationSize and installation refer to the physical dimensions of the dishwasher and how it fits into your kitchen space. This is important to ensure the dishwasher fits properly in the designated area. Measure the space where you plan to install the dishwasher and compare it to the dimensions of the models you're considering. Some 18-inch dishwashers are designed for built-in installation, while others are portable. Choose the type that best suits your kitchen layout and installation preferences.

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