The Distance Between the Sink & the Dishwasher

Recommended Distance

• The distance between the sink and the dishwasher should be no more than 36 inches. Closer is even better. In a large, uncrowded kitchen, the dishwasher typically sits directly next to the sink, as measured from the edge of the sink.

Benefits

• Placing the dishwasher within easy access of the sink lets the homeowner rinse dishes and load the dishwasher without dripping water over the floor. A dishwasher placed next to the sink ensures at least 24 inches of counter space above the dishwasher to stack dishes before hand washing or loading dishes in the dishwasher, because most dishwashers are 24 inches wide. Keeping the dishwasher near the sink eliminates the need for lengthy plumbing pipes from the dishwasher to the water outlet under the sink.

Considerations

• In tightly spaced kitchens, the dishwasher may sit at an angle from the sink. If the sink sits at a right angle to the dishwasher, leave 21 inches between the sink and the dishwasher. This allows room for a worker to stand and load the dishes from the sink to the dishwasher. Allow this much space between the dishwasher and a row of cabinets, as well. When planning nearby cabinets, place storage cabinets near the dishwasher to simplify unloading and putting away dishes. Place a food pantry further away.

Planning

• When planning the layout of a kitchen, situate the sink so it is next to or across from the stove and refrigerator, with plenty of counter space for food preparation. Consider also, where the trash can or trash compactor will go. Many homeowners place the trash can under the sink, but a built-in, slide-out storage receptacle in a cupboard near the sink is more convenient.