If you are planning to buy a new dishwasher for your kitchen, consider some things before doing so. If you know which model and brand you are getting, you still need to decide where to install it in the kitchen. The best place to install it seems to be as near to the sink as possible, making you wonder whether you can fit the dishwasher under the sink.
Fitting it under the sink seems like a great idea. However, careful planning is required while installing a dishwasher in your kitchen. This is not limited to where the drainage, water, and power supply is; rather, you also need to consider the kitchen traffic patterns and the amount of space it is going to take up. So, can you fit a dishwasher under the sink?
Can you fit a dishwasher under a sink?
Yes! It is totally achievable to fit your dishwasher under the sink. Get a single bowl sink and fit the dishwasher where you would’ve otherwise had the double, under-sink unit. This is the area beneath the countertop, to the side of the sink bowl and pipe.
Where should you put a dishwasher in a small kitchen?
If your kitchen is small and you’re worried about fitting the dishwasher in it, here are some tips to ease it down for you. Fitting it in the right place is essential to ensure it functions optimally without getting in your way. Here’s how you can do that:
1. Choose a slimline option
Some manufacturers have specifically designed models of dishwashers that could fit in compact spaces. These models are called slimline dishwashers. These come in handy if you wish to install a dishwasher that doesn’t consume much space.
2. Fit it under the sink
As mentioned above, this is a good idea if you want to utilize the extra space underneath your sink. Moreover, the close hot water connection from the sink’s hot water line will make things easier for you if you are worried about running your dishwasher without hot water.
3. Fit it in a corner
The corners of our kitchen tend to go unused. We mostly keep them empty or stuff them with things we rarely need, making a whole lot of space go to waste. You can fit your dishwasher in this space, and this way, you’ll be able to create extra countertop space while also utilizing the space beneath.
4. Add it to the edge of your kitchen
If you can’t fit your dishwasher under the sink or in a corner, then you can fit it at the end of your units, at the edge of your kitchen. This way, you’ll still be storing your kitchen essentials in the center of the kitchen while having easy access to your dishwasher at the end for cleaning up.
How much cabinet space does a dishwasher need?
Most dishwashers measure approximately 24 inches in width, 24 inches in depth, and 35 inches in height with a variety of feet. Therefore, standard-sized dishwashers require a 24-inch cabinet opening – a requirement fortunately met by many kitchens.
How far does a dishwasher door open?
Most standard-sized dishwashers require a clearance of 27 3/8 inches from the front of the dishwasher for it to be able to open fully.
Can you put a freestanding dishwasher in a cupboard?
Yes, you can put a freestanding dishwasher in a cupboard. Similar to a washing machine, your freestanding dishwasher can fit anywhere in the kitchen if it has a water connection and a drainage point nearby. This way, with a little remodeling, your freestanding dishwasher will be able to fit in a cupboard too.
This arrangement might seem similar to a washing machine but don’t do your laundry in the dishwasher, ever!
Do dishwashers need an air gap?
Air gaps are necessary to prevent your drain from cross-contamination with the waste of the dirty dishes that were washed. If you wish to keep your dishwasher from flooding with contaminated water, you will need an air gap. Dishwasher air gaps are also a requirement for plumbing codes in many locations.
Concluding our thoughts on fitting a dishwasher under the sink!
Good planning is required before doing anything. Similarly, you need to plan where and how to install your dishwasher in the kitchen to ensure it works optimally.
All the questions you might have had about dishwasher installation, both in a normal and small kitchen, have been discussed! We hope our insight helped!