8 Best 18 Inch Dishwashers for Every Budget

What is an 18 inch dishwasher?
These dishwashers are designed specifically for small kitchens, where every inch of free space is counted. It is perfect for those who live in a small apartment or cook a little. Nevertheless, slim dishwashers have full functionality of full-size models – the difference is only in size.

How much is an 18 inch dishwasher?
Here we present you the best online offers at a price of $320 to $600.

What to consider:

1. Built-In or Portable
The built-in 18 inch dishwasher fits better in the space of a small kitchen, it works quieter, easier to clean and, of course, is more expensive.
Portable 18 inch dishwashers on wheels require extra floor space, however, they will cost you much cheaper.

2. Adjustable Racks
They are absolutely necessary if you plan to wash dishes or kitchen utensils of a large or non-standard size regularly.

3. Noise
Although you can not completely avoid noise, some machines are isolated better than others. See the decibel (dBA) information for each device. This is especially important if you wash the dishes in the evening when the family members are already sleeping.

4. Energy Efficiency
18 inch dishwashers use energy quite sparingly, but if you want more, find the Energy Star label. Such models are 12% more energy efficient and use 30% less water.

TOP 8 Cheap 18 Inch Dishwashers 2019

EdgeStar BIDW1801SS	white/silver/black, Our choice #1	9.3 / 10 built-in	Check Price
Avanti DW18D1BE	energy-saving, long-lasting, no rust	8.8 / 10 built-in	Check Price
SPT SD-9241SS	stainless steel, Best Portable	9.0 / 10 portable	Check Price
Danby DDW1801MWP	the lowest water usage, crisp white color	8.6 / 10 portable	Check Price
Frigidaire FFBD1821MW	full console, white, the most capacious	8.1 / 10 built-in	Check Price
Avanti DW18D3SE	the slimmest, white, the quietest (40-45 dBA)	8.0 / 10 built-in	Check Price
SPT SD-9252W	the cheapest, white/silver	7.5 / 10 built-in	Check Price
EdgeStar 18"	white, quiet, energy-efficient	6.4 / 10 built-in	Check Price

1. EdgeStar BIDW1801SS: Best Performing Built In 18 Inch Dishwasher

The EdgeStar 18” built-in dishwasher is a great little machine for small spaces. Designed for small loads of dishes, this dishwasher is made for one to two people who run small loads of dishes.

The dishwasher has 6 cycles to chose from. However, even after the machine is done running it stays on. You must manually turn the machine off when it is finished. The machine has a cup rack, silverware holder and two shelves that will accommodate up to 8 place settings. This 18 inch dishwasher does not have a drying setting and dishes must either air dry or be dried by hand.

The machine does run very quiet which is very beneficial in small spaces. You will be quite pleased with how smooth the machine sounds when running. Larger machines can often be loud and disturbing if you use right after a meal and are trying to relax.

It is very important that when you have the machine installed that you have it connected to the hot water line instead of the cold water line. This compact dishwasher does not have a heating element and if you connect it like a larger machine to the cold water you will not get the results you desire when it washes.

2. Avanti DW18D1BE: Energy-Saving Built In Narrow Dishwasher in Black

The Avanti narrow dishwasher is a four cycle unit that easily fits into any small space in your kitchen. Designed for efficiency, the dishwasher has two racks and a silverware holder. The top rack can be adjusted to accommodate pots and pans if you desire. It is a perfect compact dishwasher for light washing or small loads.

The dishwasher has only four cycles. This does not include a drying cycle. You have to hand dry or air dry your dishes after they have been cleaned. The machine also requires that you manually shut it off after the cycle is completed.

Installation is very simple. It requires that you hard wire the machine into your counter area. You are required to hook it up to the hot water lines, however, because the machine does not have a heating element. It is sturdy for its size and seems to be very well made. The only flaw with the interior construction seems to be that the silverware tray does not have a specific area to fit snuggly into.

The interior of the machine is stainless steel that has been coated. This is a very prominent feature because it will keep the machine clean and sanitary. This construction will also help avoid rusting or scale build up on the interior of the machine. Overall, the machine is well put together for its size.

3. SPT SD-9241SS: Best Compact Portable Dishwasher

The SPT 18 inch dishwasher is perfect for anyone who does not have space in their kitchen but still wants dishwasher convenience. The small dishwasher sits on top heavy duty casters and can easily be moved from its storage space into the kitchen when you are ready to use.

The SPT dishwasher has an easy to connect adapter. Simply connect it to your faucet and let it do its job. You can even set the time delay to work when you are not home. The dishwasher has six different wash cycles and you can adjust the upper rack to accommodate larger plates or pots and pans.

This machine is very quiet to use. You can hear it humming while you are in your kitchen area, but it is barely noticeable when you are in a different room. In addition to the very quiet motor, the machine is Energy Star rated so you are not running up your power bill by using the device. One drawback, however, is that the machine does not have a drying cycle.

The last thing that sets this machine apart is the stainless steel interior. This is perfect for keeping everything clean on the interior of your dishwasher and helps prevent scale build up from hard water and rusting inside the machine. Stainless steel also helps prevent smells from attaching to the interior of the dishwasher which can occur over time in washers that have plastic interiors.

4. Danby DDW1801MWP: Portable Dishwasher with the Lowest Water Consumption

The Danby portable 18” dishwasher is very useful in areas that have nowhere to mount a dishwasher permanently. The dishwasher is built on top of very sturdy wheels and has a nice counter on the top that can be used for storage when not in use. The machine glides effortlessly into place when you are ready to use.

Simply connect the machine to your faucet and pick the setting. The machine offers six different wash settings. It does not have a drying cycle. The dishes are very wet at the end of any cycle and will need to be hand or air dried before putting them away.

The machine is Energy Star rated and it uses only 3.5 gallons of water for every cycle. This is one of the lowest water consumption cycles on the market. Even with the low water usage the machine does provide a great cleaning.

An additional benefit to this machine is that it runs exceptionally quiet. You can set the machine and let it run while you are relaxing in another room and not be bothered with loud noises. The machine has a pump draining system that also runs very quietly.

5. Frigidaire FFBD1821MW: Quietest Full Console 18 Inch Dishwasher in White

The Frigidaire is another little machine that will easily fit into a small space in your kitchen. The bright white exterior is easy to keep clean and will match just about any kitchen decor. The machine is an Energy Star rated machine which is perfect for people concerned about cost and environmental protection.

The machine is designed to hold a little more on the interior than your typical small dishwasher. You can fit 10 place settings in the machine at one time and they still all come out clean. The machine has six cleaning cycles. However, it does not have a drying cycle and dishes must air dry or be dried by hand.

The best part of this machine is the motor. The motor is powerful enough to provide a superior clean, but quiet enough to not be annoying. The machine runs very quietly in comparison to many similar models. The interior of the machine is stainless steel which is another major benefit.

This dishwasher is very easy to install and must be straight wired into your kitchen. You are required to hook it up to the hot water system because it does not have a heating element.

6. Avanti DW18D3SE: The Quietest and the Slimmest Narrow Dishwasher

Avanti Products is known as a manufacturer of compact refrigerators for almost 4 decades. Avanti is focused on the production of budget equipment for the kitchen: microwave ovens, gas and electric ranges, beverage coolers and, of course, the smallest upright and chest freezers. So, 18 inch dishwasher continues this wonderful tradition: affordable appliances for small rooms.

This dishwasher can be considered one of the quietest – when working it makes noise only 40-45 decibels, while the usual models work at 50-55 decibels (and this is still considered a good result). In addition, it is one of the thinnest – 17.8 inches instead of 18 – if your kitchen is fitted with a built-in dishwasher, then this one.

Three-stage filtering system, rinse aid dispenser, 4 wash automatic cycles and 8 standard plate setting capacity – full functionality of a full-size dishwasher for less than $400. This unit comes with 2 wash nylon coated racks and silverware basket, measuring spoon and cup for detergent, and, of course, installation manual. And the last thing: this device is Energy Star rated for excellent energy efficiency.

7. SPT SD-9252W: The Cheapest Built-In 18 inch Dishwasher

Despite the lowest cost, this built-in white dishwasher is almost as good as the more expensive 18 inch models. It features 2 dish racks, which are easily pulled out and provide up to 8 standard place settings. The upper rack is adjustable and makes it possible to place dishes of large size or non-standard shape. The basket for the cutlery and utensils is fixed on the lower rack.

This dishwasher has all necessary programs: All-in-1, Heavy, Normal, Light, Rinse and Speed. The full cycle takes 173 minutes, and a simple rinse – about 25 minutes. The delayed start function will allow you to transfer the beginning of washing dishes for 1-24 hours. This model belongs to the category of energy-efficient: on the most intensive cycle, it consumes 1,29 kilowatt per hour and 17 liters of water.

This dishwasher comes with everything you need to install and the assembly is very easy. In the upper left part, there is a display that will show you the error code, if something goes wrong. After you inform the manufacturer of the error code, it must replace the failed part by warranty.

SPT SD-9252 is also available in silver – actually, stainless steel – color. It has the same features, pros and cons, except cost – SPT SD-9252SS is a bit cheaper. And yet, despite the cheapness, we do not recommend buying these models because of their unpredictability. Sometimes they break down in the most unexpected places, which is why their ratings are so low (3-3.3 from 5).

However, some lucky ones managed to install this washing machine without problems and it has been serving for many years. If you consider yourself lucky and want to save around $50 whatever it takes – take your chance!

8. EdgeStar 18″ Built In Dishwasher: Most Advanced and Convenient Control Panel

The EdgeStar 18” dishwasher is a great little machine that is perfect for small spaces. The machine has the capacity to handle 8 place settings and is great for a single person or couple to keep the dishes clean. It has two racks and a silver wear bin for easy cleaning.

One of the best features of this machine is the control panel. It has easy to use controls and unlike many machines of this size, has a buzzer indicator when the washing is complete. You can set the machine to six different wash cycles depending on what you need to clean. There is no drying cycle.

The machine is Energy Star rated and does not require a lot of power to use. It must be hard-wired into your kitchen and requires that you run hot water to the system. There is no heating element in this dishwasher to heat water or dry dishes.

The machine is very quiet to run, even with the pump draining system. The pump draining is a benefit because it makes sure that water does not remain at the bottom of the dishwasher when it is done. The interior of the machine is stainless steel.

So, what is the best 18 inch dishwasher?

If you are looking for a small dishwasher for your home or office, you have a lot of options. The first thing that you must decide is if you want a slim dishwasher to mount into your kitchen or if you are seeking a portable model that you bring out when needed.

If you choose from built-in dishwashers, the most popular and highly rated is EdgeStar BIDW1801BL. It cleans very well and it is easy to install. The machine has very spacious racks and every cycle produces clean plates, regardless of what was on them when they were placed in the dishwasher.

As for energy efficiency, the Avanti DW18D1BE ranked at the top for energy and water consumption levels. This machine provides a very good clean to dishes and glasses and does so without running up the power bill or overusing the water.

For a portable machine, the absolute favorite is the SPT SD-9241SS machine. It is easy to use, easy to connect and has the adjusting racks that allowed you to place larger items in it to get cleaned. The machine is Energy Star rated and has low water consumption. Perfect for everyday use.

In the end, if you are looking for a really good small dishwasher, look for ones that will fit your lifestyle and your space. You have a choice of energy efficient models and those that do not have to be mounted into the wall to use. The choice is all up to you on what fits your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About 18 Inch Dishwashers

How many gallons of water does an 18 inch dishwasher use

On average, a small dishwasher will use about six gallons of water for the entire cycle. This is a very cost-saving way to wash a load of dishes at one time. In comparison, it usually takes in excess of 20 gallons of water to wash the same load of dishes by hand. The reason for the large difference in water volume is because of the habits that people have when washing dishes.

Many people will leave the water running while washing their dishes. This can lead to excessive water use when cleaning your tableware. When you leave the water running while washing the dishes you are wasting almost 3.5 times the water that you would be using a small dishwasher.

If you have invested into an 18 inch dishwasher that is Energy Star rated, you will save even more water. These dishwashers are designed for powerful cleaning with even less water used. An Energy Star rated small dishwasher will only use four gallons of water per load.

For the best water efficiency, set your dishwasher for the appropriate type of wash. If it is just a light cleaning that is needed, you can run a light cycle that requires even less water to complete.

How many amps does an 18 inch dishwasher use

Your average slim dishwasher will run at 120 volts or 8.5 amps. The exact amps may depend on the brand of the dishwasher that you purchase. However, most of the smaller dishwashers will run right in this range for amps.

Energy Star rated machines will use less electricity than non-rated machines. Some machines may even run as high as 10 amps. It will be important to check the specs of the machine you have purchased to make sure that you hook it up to the appropriate breaker in your home.

A typical energy saving small dishwasher should not need to have a dedicated breaker to operate. If you are operating it on a high wattage breaker you may be able to run a few appliances from the same breaker. However, it is very important to work with an electrician in regard to this matter so that you do not overload any circuit breakers in your home and risk damaging your home or your appliances.

How much dishwasher soap (liquid) to use

Using the right amount of dishwasher detergent in your machine is important. Using too much soap is a waste of money and supplies. Over use of soap can also lead to films being left on your dishes.

The appropriate amount of soap to use in a small dishwasher would be about two tablespoons. Yes, that is it! Your dishes will look great and come out clean with that little of soap.

So why is the dispenser area so big? The truth is, when dishwashers first entered the market the soaps that were used were not as concentrated as they are now and the machines used a lot more water to clean. Now, soaps are concentrated so that very little can be used, and water use has dropped because newer designs have created better washing with less water waste.

Over time, the design area for the dispensers has not been changed to accommodate these new trends.

But what about soap manufacturer recommendations? The truth is, manufacturers are pleased when you overuse their product because that means you have to buy more, plain and simple.

How much dishwasher powder to use

If you use powdered dishwasher detergent, it is very important that you check the specs of your dishwasher. Many of the newer dishwashers recommend that you avoid using powdered detergents in their machines. This is due to the amount of water that newer machines use.

In the past, dishwashers used double the amount of water that they typically use now and there was sufficient time for the powdered detergent to dissolve. Now, many machines use lower temperatures and less water during their wash cycles and the powdered detergent is not effective.

If your machine does allow for powdered detergent, you will be able to get a very good clean using about two tablespoons of soap per load. While this may seem like a very small amount, it is just the right amount for a clean load of dishes.

Recommendations by manufacturers often do not take into account new Energy Star rated machines that clean more powerfully with less water. Many of the recommended amounts are based on machines from 30 years ago. Additionally, when you use more product you will ultimately purchase more.

How many dishwasher tablets to use

Dishwasher tablets or pods have become one of the most popular types of soaps to use in a dishwasher. These tablets are premeasured and often include other washing aids to give your dishes the ultimate clean. These tablets have become so popular that many new dishwasher manufacturers are recommending these in lieu of any other type of dishwasher soap.

To use these pods correctly, you should only place one pod in your dishwasher at a time. Place the pods in the dispensing bin and close the lid just like you would with powdered or liquid soap. The dishwasher will handle the rest.

Regardless of how dirty the dishes are and how many dishes are in the washer, you need to only add one pod. These are highly concentrated soap pods that can clean your dishes thoroughly with just one pod being used.

You do not have to add rinse aids or any other treatments to your dishwasher when you use the tablets. Most of the dishwashing pods already contain these agents and you would just waste your money.

What causes water hardness

Water is considered “hard” when it contains an excessive amount of magnesium and sometimes calcium. The minerals in the water can leave stains on your bathroom appliances, cause films to occur on your shower glass, and can cause you to use more soap while cleaning.

The minerals come directly from the groundwater that enters your home and cannot be controlled unless a softening system is installed on your water supply. The content of magnesium and calcium in the ground water is based on the soil at your location.

Hard water is not bad for you to consume. It may have a mineral taste to it, but it is otherwise harmless. The most common issue with hard water is that it affects how soap works and leaves stains on anything it touches. Hard water is also the most common reason for spots to appear on dishes that have been run through a dishwasher.

Over time, hard water can have a corrosive effect on your faucets and other metal pieces that are located in areas where you frequently use water. The hard water can also lead to damage to appliances that use water on a continual basis like a dishwasher or a coffee maker. If you do not have a softening system in place, you will need to “descale” these items often to remove mineral build up.

How to test water hardness

If you believe that your home has hard water, you can have it tested. Many companies that provide softening systems for your home can come out and conduct a free water test. They will take samples of your water and test to see the magnesium and calcium content. If the content of these minerals registers over a specific amount, your house will be considered to have hard water.

If you do not want to work with a softening company at first, there are independent companies that will test your water and give you an unbiased opinion on the mineral content. As an advantage, these professionals can also tell if there are any additional issues you should address about the water in your home.

A final way that you can have your water checked is to contact your local water department and request a check. This may not be an effective method for everyone. Water departments in larger cities often provide this service, but it may take a while to receive the service and there may be a fee. Smaller towns are more open to performing this service for their clients.

How to soften water hardness

There are a few options that you can use to overcome hard water problems in your home. If you want to rid your entire home of hard water, you will need to have a water softening system installed. These units are connected directly to the incoming water supply and they clean the water before it enters your home.

The softening systems work by using a salt additive. The salt actually attracts and removes the magnesium and the calcium from the water. If you have a softening system you will have to add salt to the system on a regular basis to make sure that it continues to work properly. Large bags of specially prepared salts are used for this function.

If you are not interested in a whole house system, you can add filters to any of your faucets that you are concerned with having hard water. These small filters attach to the faucet and filter the water as it exits. These devices use a filter system that is very similar to a pool filter. The filters need to be changed on a regular basis.

A final way to remove the hardness of your water only applies to water you drink. There are several water pitchers that have filtration systems attached. If your only concern with hard water is what you drink, these will work effectively.