Do They Make Compact Dishwashers?

Size

• A standard dishwasher is usually about 24 to 30 inches wide, 25 inches deep and 34 inches tall. The typical size of a compact dishwasher is about 18 inches wide, 22.5 inches deep and 32.5 inches high. A compact dishwasher is fairly similar in depth and height to a standard, but it's much narrower. Drawer dishwashers are even smaller than compact washers are. Portable dishwashers also come in compact sizes.

Capacity

• Compact dishwashers have a much smaller load capacity than the full-sized version. Whether a dishwasher is standard or compact is actually defined by its capacity, not its overall size. A compact dishwasher holds fewer than eight place settings plus six serving pieces, whereas a standard typically holds at least 12, plus six serving pieces. A place setting is assumed to have five pieces. For an individual or a small family, the tiny size and capacity may seem more convenient than having a large dishwasher, as you don't have to wait as long as you would to fill a standard dishwasher.

Price

• Though they are less common than standard dishwashers, compact dishwashers are not extraordinarily expensive in comparison to standard models. A standard dishwasher starts at about $200, and a compact dishwasher typically costs about $350. If you are buying a compact dishwasher because you only need to wash dishes for a few people, you may save money on water and energy by not using a full-sized dishwasher.

Use

• A compact dishwasher might appeal to you for several reasons. It takes up less space, which is important if you have a small kitchen. It's more practical if you live alone or with only one or two other people, as it can take a while to fill a full-sized dishwasher to capacity in a small household. If you entertain frequently, a compact dishwasher is a good addition to a butler's pantry or wet bar.