Home > Town Appliance Official Blog > What is a Built-In Dishwasher?

What is a Built-In Dishwasher?

What is a Built-In Dishwasher

If you're in the market for a new dishwasher, you may have heard the term "built-in dishwasher" being thrown around. But what exactly is a built-in dishwasher? Simply put, it's a dishwasher that is designed to be installed directly into your kitchen cabinetry, with a custom panel that matches your cabinets, very similar in installation to a wall oven or other integrated home appliances. But there's more to a built-in dishwasher than just its integration into your kitchen design. In this article, we'll explore the features and benefits that make built-in dishwashers a popular choice for many homeowners. From their sleek appearance to their advanced cleaning capabilities, built-in dishwashers offer a range of advantages that make them an essential appliance in modern kitchens. So, whether you're upgrading your kitchen or looking to replace your old dishwasher, read on to discover why a built-in dishwasher may be the right choice for you.

Understanding Built-In Dishwashers: Definition and Design

If you're looking to create a seamless and polished look in your kitchen, a built-in dishwasher is an excellent choice. Specifically designed to be integrated seamlessly into your cabinetry, these dishwashers offer a sophisticated aesthetic that elevates the appearance of your space. When it comes to design, built-in dishwashers come in a variety of styles, sizes, and colors to match any kitchen. Some models are panel-ready, allowing you to customize the exterior of your dishwasher to match your cabinets perfectly. Others come with smudge proof stainless steel or black finishes, offering a modern and chic look. Regarding size, built-in, integrated dishwashers typically come in 18-inch and 24-inch widths, allowing you to choose the best option for your kitchen's needs.

The definition and design of built-in dishwashers enable you to have a functional appliance that blends in seamlessly with your kitchen's design, creating a clean and polished appearance.

Comparing Built-In, Freestanding, and Portable Dishwashers

When considering a dishwasher for your kitchen, you have three main options: built-in, freestanding, and portable. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to compare them to determine which one suits your needs.

Built-In Dishwashers

Built-in dishwashers are designed to be installed beneath your kitchen counter, providing a sleek and integrated look. They offer a wide range of features, including customized paneling to match your cabinetry, and are available in standard and compact sizes. Built-in dishwashers are generally more expensive than other types, but they offer the most permanent and efficient solution for dishwashing. Researching how water softeners work and picking the right one for you can further improve the dish cleaning abilities of your integrated dishwasher.

Freestanding Dishwashers

Freestanding dishwashers are standalone units that can be placed anywhere in your kitchen. They offer more flexibility in terms of installation, but they take up valuable floor space and may not blend in as well with the rest of your cabinetry. They are also generally less expensive than built-in dishwashers but can be noisier.

Portable Dishwashers

Portable dishwashers are designed for those who have limited space or who rent their home and are not allowed to make permanent modifications. These countertop dishwashers differ from the traditional integrated dishwasher in that they are easy to move around and can be stored away when not in use. However, they are generally smaller and less powerful than built-in and freestanding dishwashers and may require additional plumbing and electrical work. Learning more about how portable dishwashers work can ensure you find the perfect dishwasher for your dish washing needs. 

Built-in dishwashers provide the most permanent and efficient solution for dishwashing. They offer a wide range of features, including customized paneling, and have a sleek and integrated look. Freestanding dishwashers offer more flexibility in terms of installation but can take up valuable floor space and may be noisier. A portable dishwasher is ideal for those with limited space or who rent their home but may require additional plumbing and electrical work.

The Aesthetic and Functional Advantages of Built-In Dishwashers

If you're in the market for a new dishwasher, you might be wondering whether a built-in model is right for you. Built-in dishwashers offer many advantages, both aesthetic and functional, that make them a popular choice among homeowners. One of the most significant aesthetic advantages of built-in dishwashers is their integrated design. Unlike portable and freestanding models, built-in dishwashers are designed to fit seamlessly into your cabinetry, creating a streamlined appearance that enhances the overall look of your kitchen. This can be especially appealing if you have an open-concept design where the kitchen is visible from other parts of your home. In addition to their sleek appearance, built-in dishwashers also offer several functional advantages. Many models come with advanced features like multiple wash cycles, half-load options, and delay start timers that can help you save time and energy. Additionally, built-in dishwashers are typically quieter than portable and freestanding models, making them ideal for open-concept living spaces where noise can be a concern. When it comes to selecting the right dishwasher for your home, built-in models offer several advantages over their portable and freestanding counterparts. From their integrated design to their advanced features, a built-in dishwasher can provide both aesthetic and functional benefits to your kitchen.

Space Utilization: How Built-In Dishwashers Optimize Kitchen

One of the primary advantages of a built-in dishwasher is its ability to optimize kitchen space. These dishwashers feature a compact design that allows for efficient use of limited kitchen space. Installing a built-in dishwasher in your kitchen frees up counter space that would otherwise be taken up by a portable or freestanding dishwasher. Another way built-in dishwashers can optimize kitchen space is through customizable installation options. You can choose to install your dishwasher at optimal heights, ensuring that it fits seamlessly into your kitchen layout. This not only saves space but also enhances the overall look of your kitchen.

A built-in dishwasher is an ideal appliance for those looking to optimize kitchen space. Its compact design and customizable installation options allow for efficient use of limited space, making it a popular choice among homeowners.

Compact and Customizable: Built-In Dishwashers for Small Kitchens

If you have a small kitchen, you may worry about finding a dishwasher that fits. However built-in dishwashers are designed to optimize space utilization, making them a great option for compact kitchens. With customizable features and dishwasher dimensions, you can select a model that fits perfectly into your existing cabinetry, so you won't have to sacrifice functionality for style. Look for narrower models that are specifically designed for smaller kitchens, and consider models with adjustable racks, so you can fit a variety of dish sizes. You'll be surprised at how much more efficient your kitchen can be with a built-in dishwasher that is perfectly tailored to your space.

  • Customizable features: Select a model that fits perfectly into your existing cabinetry
  • Narrower models: Designed for smaller kitchens
  • Adjustable racks: Fit a variety of dish sizes

When considering a built-in dishwasher, it is important to take into account the noise level. Some models can be quite loud during operation, which can be disruptive in open-plan living spaces. However, newer models often come with noise-reducing features, such as insulation or noise-canceling technology, that make them much quieter. Another factor to consider is energy efficiency. Built-in dishwashers with an Energy Star rating are designed to save you money on your energy bills. These models use less water and electricity during operation, making them an eco-friendly and cost-effective choice for your kitchen. Finally, it is essential to look for a dishwasher with advanced cleaning and drying features. Many built-in dishwashers at Town Appliance come with features like heated drying, specialized wash cycles, and adjustable racks that help you get the best results when cleaning your dishes. When shopping for a built-in dishwasher, it is crucial to consider the noise level, energy efficiency, and cleaning features to ensure you find the best model for your needs.

Daniel Kraftman Author

Written by

Daniel Kraftmann

Seasoned professional with a background in mechanical engineering, boasts over a decade of invaluable experience in the dynamic world of e-commerce.

For the past five years, he has dedicated his expertise to the appliance industry, becoming well-versed in the intricacies of home appliances, their cutting-edge technology, and ever-evolving features.

As a passionate mechanical engineering enthusiast, Daniel keeps a vigilant eye on emerging trends and innovations in the appliance sector. With a profound understanding of both the engineering principles and the consumer demands, he brings a unique blend of knowledge and practical insight to his blogs.

Back to blog