Top 5 Apartment Dishwasher Reviews: Small Space Solutions

Imagine this: You’ve just finished a delicious meal, but the sink is piling up with dirty dishes. The thought of scrubbing them all by hand feels like a chore you’d rather skip. For many apartment dwellers, this is a daily reality. But what if there was a way to escape the dishwashing dread without needing a huge kitchen?

Finding the perfect apartment-sized dishwasher can feel like a treasure hunt. You want something that fits your small space, cleans your dishes well, and doesn’t break the bank. It’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the choices and confusing specs. We get it – the struggle is real!

But don’t worry, we’re here to help! This post will guide you through the world of compact dishwashers. We’ll break down what to look for, share some great options, and answer your burning questions. By the end, you’ll be ready to pick a dishwasher that makes your kitchen chores a breeze.

Our Top 5 Apartment Size Dishwasher Recommendations at a Glance

Top 5 Apartment Size Dishwasher Detailed Reviews

1. Midea MDF18A1AST Built-in Dishwasher with 8 Place Settings

Midea MDF18A1AST Built-in Dishwasher with 8 Place Settings, 6 Washing Programs, Stainless Steel Tub, Heated Dry, Energy Star

Rating: 8.9/10

The Midea MDF18A1AST Built-in Dishwasher is a smart choice for busy households. This dishwasher is built to fit easily into your kitchen and handles your daily dishwashing needs with ease. Its slim design makes it perfect for smaller spaces, but don’t let its size fool you – it holds a lot of dishes.

What We Like:

  • The slimline design fits into tight spaces, saving valuable kitchen real estate.
  • It comfortably fits up to 8 place settings, perfect for small families or couples.
  • You get six different washing programs to choose from, so you can pick the best one for your dirty dishes.
  • The Heated Dry feature means your dishes come out ready to put away, no extra towel drying needed.
  • The Hi-Temp wash program gets really hot (up to 136°F), making it great for tough grease and sanitizing baby bottles.
  • The stainless steel tub is durable and helps with drying.
  • It’s Energy Star certified, which means it’s good for your wallet and the environment.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it fits larger plates, very tall pots might still be a tight squeeze depending on their shape.
  • It’s important to remember to use only dishwasher-specific detergent, as regular dish soap can cause problems.

Overall, this Midea dishwasher offers a lot of cleaning power and convenience in a compact package. It’s a solid appliance that makes keeping your kitchen clean a breeze.

2. Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings

Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings, 6 Washing Programs, Stainless Steel Tub, UL/Energy Star- Stainless Steel

Rating: 8.8/10

The Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher is a great addition to any kitchen. It efficiently cleans up to 8 place settings of dishes. This dishwasher offers multiple washing options and a durable stainless steel interior. It’s also Energy Star certified, meaning it saves you money on your electricity bill. The built-in style fits seamlessly into your kitchen design.

What We Like:

  • It holds a good amount of dishes with 8 place settings.
  • You can choose from 6 different washing programs for different needs.
  • The stainless steel tub is strong and helps it clean well.
  • It’s good for the environment and your wallet because it’s Energy Star certified.
  • The 24-hour delay start timer gives you flexibility.
  • It’s ADA-compliant, making it accessible for more people.

What Could Be Improved:

  • The 18-inch width might be a little small for some larger families or kitchens.
  • While it has 6 programs, some advanced dishwashers offer even more specialized cycles.

This Honeywell dishwasher offers a solid performance for its size and price. It’s a smart choice for those seeking efficiency and convenience in their kitchen cleanup.

3. Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings

Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings, 6 Washing Programs, Stainless Steel Tub, UL/Energy Star- Black

Rating: 8.7/10

The Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher in sleek black is a fantastic addition to any kitchen, especially for those who need efficient cleaning power without taking up too much space. This dishwasher is designed to handle your daily dishes with ease. Its compact size makes it a great fit for smaller kitchens, apartments, or even as a secondary dishwasher. You’ll love how much it can hold and the variety of ways you can clean your dishes.

What We Like:

  • It holds a lot of dishes! The racks fit 14 place settings, and it even has a top rack just for silverware and a big basket.
  • You have lots of choices for cleaning. There are 6 different wash programs, including one for tough pots and pans and a quick wash for when you’re in a hurry.
  • You can set it to start later. The delay start feature lets you choose when the wash cycle begins, up to 24 hours in advance.
  • The inside is made of stainless steel. This helps it clean better and last longer.
  • It saves energy. This dishwasher is Energy Star certified, meaning it uses less electricity and water, which is good for your wallet and the planet.
  • It’s designed to fit in. The dimensions are 22.6″D x 18″W x 32.4″H, and it’s ADA-compliant, making it easy to use for everyone.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it boasts 14 place settings, the “18 Inch” in the title might confuse some buyers who expect a smaller capacity based on the width.
  • The specific model name “Honeywell 18 Inch Dishwasher with 8 Place settings” seems to contradict the “14 PLACE SETTINGS” feature. This could be clearer.

This Honeywell dishwasher offers a great blend of capacity, cleaning options, and energy efficiency in a compact design. It’s a solid choice for busy households looking for a reliable and convenient way to keep their dishes sparkling.

4. Midea MDF18A1ABB Built-in Dishwasher with 8 Place Settings

Midea MDF18A1ABB Built-in Dishwasher with 8 Place Settings, 6 Washing Programs, Stainless Steel Tub, Heated Dry, Energy Star, Black

Rating: 9.5/10

Tired of washing dishes by hand? The Midea MDF18A1ABB Built-in Dishwasher is a fantastic solution for smaller kitchens. Its slim design fits easily under your sink, but don’t let its size fool you. It holds a surprising amount of dishes, making it great for families or anyone who entertains.

What We Like:

  • The slimline design saves space, but it still fits a lot of dishes, even large pots and pans up to 11 inches tall.
  • It has 8 place settings, which is plenty for most households.
  • You get 6 different washing programs, like Heavy for tough messes and ECO for saving energy.
  • The Heated Dry feature means your dishes come out ready to put away, no towel needed.
  • The HI TEMP function uses hot water (up to 136°F) to get things extra clean, perfect for baby bottles or germy items.
  • It’s Energy Star certified, so it’s good for your wallet and the planet.
  • The stainless steel tub is durable and looks sleek in black.

What Could Be Improved:

  • It’s important to remember to only use dishwasher detergent, as regular dish soap can cause problems.
  • The manual could offer a bit more detail on each specific program’s strengths.

This Midea dishwasher offers a smart and efficient way to tackle your dirty dishes. It’s a great addition to any home looking for convenience and cleanliness.

5. COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher

COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher, Energy Star Portable Dishwasher, 6 Place Settings & 8 Washing Programs, Speed, Baby-Care, ECO& Glass, Dish Washer for Dorm, RV& Apartment, Black

Rating: 9.3/10

Tired of washing dishes by hand in your small living space? The COMFEE’ Countertop Dishwasher in sleek black is here to help! This compact powerhouse is designed for dorms, RVs, and apartments, offering a convenient solution for keeping your kitchen clean. It’s a perfect size for 2-3 people, fitting up to 70 pieces of tableware, including plates up to 10 inches wide. Don’t worry if you find a little water inside when it arrives; it’s just a normal part of the factory testing process.

What We Like:

  • The 6-place setting is just right for small households.
  • Installation is simple, with direct faucet connection or flexible placement.
  • Eight washing programs, including Baby-Care, ECO, and Glass, handle all your dishwashing needs.
  • The Heavy program uses 12 spray nozzles and high temperatures (up to 154℉) to tackle tough grease and grime.
  • The Speed program cleans dishes in only 45 minutes, perfect for busy times.
  • It’s Energy Star compliant, saving you money on water bills with as little as 2.77 gallons of water per cycle.

What Could Be Improved:

  • While it fits many dishes, larger pots or pans might be a tight squeeze.
  • The need for a specific adaptor for faucet connection could be an extra step for some users.

This COMFEE’ dishwasher offers a great blend of convenience and efficiency for anyone looking to simplify their dishwashing routine. It’s a smart addition to any compact living situation.

The Smart Shopper’s Guide: Finding Your Perfect Apartment-Size Dishwasher

Living in an apartment often means making smart choices about space. This is especially true for appliances. A dishwasher can be a real lifesaver, saving you time and effort. But what if you don’t have room for a full-size one? That’s where apartment-size dishwashers come in. They offer the convenience of clean dishes without taking up too much precious kitchen real estate.

Key Features to Look For

When you’re on the hunt for an apartment-size dishwasher, a few features can make a big difference. Think about what will make your life easier.

1. Size and Capacity
  • Dimensions: Apartment dishwashers are typically smaller, often around 18 inches wide instead of the standard 24 inches. Measure your available space carefully before you buy.
  • Place Settings: This tells you how many dishes the dishwasher can hold. Look for models that can handle at least 6-8 place settings. This is usually enough for a couple or small family.
2. Wash Cycles and Options
  • Normal Wash: This is your everyday cycle for regular loads.
  • Heavy Duty: For pots and pans with tough, baked-on food.
  • Quick Wash: Ideal for lightly soiled dishes you need in a hurry.
  • Energy Saver/Eco Mode: These cycles use less water and energy, which is good for your wallet and the planet.
  • Sanitize Option: This cycle uses higher temperatures to kill germs. It’s great for baby bottles or if someone in your household is sick.
3. Noise Level

Dishwashers can be noisy. Look for models that advertise a low decibel (dB) rating. Anything below 50 dB is generally considered quiet. This is important if your kitchen is close to your living area or bedrooms.

4. Energy Efficiency

An ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher uses less energy and water. This saves you money on your utility bills over time. Check for the ENERGY STAR label.

Important Materials

The materials used in a dishwasher affect its durability and performance.

  • Stainless Steel Tub: These tubs are very durable and resist rust and stains. They also help keep the dishwasher quiet.
  • Plastic Tub: Cheaper models often have plastic tubs. They are lighter but can be less durable and may not insulate sound as well.
  • Durable Racks: Look for racks with a good coating that won’t chip or rust easily. This protects your dishes from scratches.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some things just make a dishwasher better, while others can make it less ideal.

Improving Quality:
  • Adjustable Racks: These let you move shelves up or down to fit taller items or more dishes.
  • Third Rack: Some smaller dishwashers have a slim third rack at the top for silverware or small utensils. This frees up space in the lower rack.
  • Soil Sensors: These sensors detect how dirty your dishes are and adjust the wash time and water usage accordingly.
  • Delayed Start: This lets you set the dishwasher to start at a later time, perhaps when electricity rates are lower or when you’re asleep.
Reducing Quality:
  • Flimsy Construction: If the dishwasher feels wobbly or the parts feel cheap, it might not last long.
  • Poor Drying Performance: Some dishwashers don’t dry dishes very well, leaving you with water spots.
  • Limited Wash Options: If a dishwasher only has one or two basic cycles, it might not handle all your cleaning needs.

User Experience and Use Cases

An apartment-size dishwasher is perfect for specific situations.

  • Apartment Dwellers: Obviously, this is their main purpose! They fit where full-size models won’t.
  • Small Households: If you live alone or with one other person, a smaller capacity is often all you need.
  • Guest Houses or In-Law Suites: They provide convenient dishwashing without needing a full kitchen setup.
  • Busy Professionals: Save time on chores so you can focus on other things.
  • Seniors: Easier to load and unload than a full-size unit, and they reduce the physical strain of handwashing.

Imagine coming home after a long day and not having to face a sink full of dirty dishes. You simply load them into your compact dishwasher, select a cycle, and relax. The machine does the hard work for you. They are designed to be easy to use, with simple controls and straightforward loading. While they might not hold as much as a giant dishwasher, they are a fantastic solution for smaller living spaces and busy lives.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the typical width of an apartment-size dishwasher?

A: Apartment-size dishwashers are usually about 18 inches wide, compared to the standard 24 inches for full-size models.

Q: How many place settings can an apartment-size dishwasher hold?

A: Most apartment-size dishwashers can hold between 6 to 8 place settings.

Q: Are apartment-size dishwashers energy efficient?

A: Many apartment-size dishwashers are ENERGY STAR certified, meaning they use less energy and water.

Q: What is the difference between a stainless steel tub and a plastic tub?

A: Stainless steel tubs are more durable, resist rust, and help keep the dishwasher quieter. Plastic tubs are less expensive but may not be as long-lasting or quiet.

Q: Can I fit large pots and pans in an apartment-size dishwasher?

A: It depends on the model, but some apartment dishwashers have adjustable racks that allow you to fit taller items.

Q: How noisy are apartment-size dishwashers?

A: Look for models with a decibel (dB) rating below 50 dB for a quiet operation.

Q: What is a “place setting”?

A: A place setting includes one dinner plate, one salad plate, one bowl, one cup, one saucer, and a complete set of silverware.

Q: Do apartment-size dishwashers have different wash cycles?

A: Yes, most have a normal wash, heavy duty, and quick wash cycle. Some also offer eco-friendly or sanitize options.

Q: Is a third rack useful in a small dishwasher?

A: A third rack is very useful for silverware and small utensils, freeing up space in the main racks.

Q: How do I measure the space for my new dishwasher?

A: Measure the width, height, and depth of the cabinet opening where the dishwasher will go. Also, check for plumbing and electrical connections.

In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.

If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.

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