Before you head out the door to shop for a new dishwasher for your kitchen, one of the first things you should ask yourself is, "How much space do I have for installation?" This is especially important if you have an older home or custom kitchen that may have unusual dimensions. Most brands make standard-size models, but there are some specialty sizes that are available to fit into spaces that are non-standard.

For more help buying a new dishwasher, check out our dishwasher buying guide!

The typical dishwasher width of around 24" just doesn't cut it for small spaces. For narrow kitchens, small apartments, and other situations, many people turn to the 18-inch dishwasher to maximize space. In this article, we compare five of the best 18-inch dishwashers on the market to help you get the best bang for your buck!

We focused on built in models here, but we also compared the best portable dishwashers if that's what you're looking for. Here are our picks for the best 18-inch dishwashers of 2021 - in no particular order, numbered for your convenience. Check out our dishwasher buying guide for more info on choosing a great new dishwasher!

There's no doubt about it: dishwashers save us a ton of time. We no longer have to spend up to an hour or more processing the day's dishes with a sink full of soapy water and a bunch of towels on hand. Washing your dishes in a dishwasher uses less water than hand washing and is also a lot more sanitary: today's dishwashers heat the water to 140°F or higher to blast away germs.

Your dishwasher may seem to be getting louder by the day. Over time, the motor, pump assembly, and other parts wear out and cause vibrations that result in louder operation. On top of that, older dishwashers just don't have the design features to compete with new models when it comes to noise. There are dishwashers available today that are literally whisper-quiet!

The dishwasher is a staple appliance wherever kitchens are found, but not all kitchens are compatible with the installation of a traditional built-in dishwasher. The portable dishwasher is a great alternative for apartments, offices, gathering facilities, and homes. Designed to hook up to your kitchen sink, you can run your portable dishwasher and then tuck it out of the way until the next load of dirty dishes is ready. 

If you don't have room for a built-in dishwasher, a portable dishwasher might be the perfect option for you. We'll go over the features of a typical portable dishwasher and compare countertop dishwasher models to full size portable dishwashers. We'll also review a popular Whirlpool portable dishwasher and Danby countertop dishwasher, too! (For more information on choosing a new dishwasher, take a look at our dishwasher buying guide.)

There are many factors that go into choosing a new dishwasher, like quietness, reliability, tub material, interior layout - the list goes on. One of the basic things that you need to consider about your new dishwasher before you even open it is the exterior aesthetic. The control placement and handle configuration are some of the biggest contributing factors to the look of a dishwasher. 

In this article, we'll explore the differences between these two control placement options to help you decide which option is right for you! (Check out our dishwasher buying guide for more information on choosing a new dishwasher!)

If you live in a condo or apartment or need a dishwasher for an office kitchen, a portable dishwasher might be the best option. Portable dishwashers offer similar cycle features and interior designs to built-in dishwashers, but can be moved around on wheels and hook up to your kitchen faucet and sink to pull in and drain water. In an older home or other areas with limited cabinet space, a portable dishwasher can provide the cleaning power of a built-in dishwasher without the hassle of installing it into the cabinetry and installing the necessary plumbing. 

If you are designing a new kitchen and want to achieve a modern and professional style, you may want to consider a panel ready dishwasher, also known as an overlay dishwasher. This style allows you to have your cabinetmaker design a panel for the front of your dishwasher which will match the doors on your kitchen cabinets and install a matching handle. These models are designed to hold the custom panel's weight and add a nice look to the kitchen. They may pair well with a panel ready refrigerator and help you achieve that integrated high-end look you desire.

There are many other factors to consider when researching a dishwasher, but if looks are a top concern, a panel ready model may be what you need. For more information to help you choose a new dishwasher, check out our dishwasher buying guide!

Are you looking to upgrade your old dishwasher in 2021? The dishwasher has evolved a lot over the past decade, becoming sleeker, quieter, and more efficient. We’ve compiled some of the best dishwashers on the market for 2021 to help you discover some of the amazing options available! With high-quality features like stainless steel wash tubs and third racks, you have more options than ever before! (For more information on buying a new dishwasher, check out our dishwasher buying guide!)

Let’s explore some of your choices from a variety of brands and at a range of price points. All of them feature stainless steel tubs, and many have third racks to boost capacity. There are many other cool features. The pricing ranges from $799 up to $1,149 (but keep in mind that promotional periods, package deals, and rebates can knock 20% or more off of the list price).

When researching a new dishwasher, you have a lot to consider. Most people want good quality, durability, washing capability and, of course, they want their new dishwasher to be quiet (learn about dishwasher decibel levels in our article, or check out our dishwasher buying guide for more info on buying a new dishwasher).

One of the biggest contributors to how your dishwasher will perform in most of these areas is the materials used in construction, particularly of the interior. Dishwasher interiors and door liners are made of stainless steel or plastic and sometimes a mix of both materials. A stainless steel interior dishwasher is an option you should consider, although they tend to have a higher price. Because plastic is less expensive, it is usually found in lower-end dishwashers. Most manufacturers use plastic to make spray arms, silverware baskets, dishwasher racks, and other interior parts.