The 5 Best Drawer Dishwashers

The right dishwasher frees up your precious time and keeps you from getting overwhelmed with piles of dirty dishes. However, the standard drop-door dishwasher isn’t for everyone because it usually requires a lot of space and a lot of bending.

If all that bending is hurting your back, it might be time to switch to a drawer dishwasher. You can opt to get a single-drawer model with a compact size that can fit any kitchen or a double-drawer model that can run independently. 

You can run a small load without feeling guilty about it. More importantly, you won’t have to worry about a sore back because of minimal bending.

Below, we made a list of the best drawer dishwashers. We assessed and rated each model to help you in your search for the right one.

How We Picked

• Cleaning and Drying Performance: No one wants to rewash and hand-dry the dishes after running a full cycle in the dishwasher. Thus, we picked well-performing units that can deliver sparkling clean and dry dishes.

• Value for Money: Drawer dishwashers cost more than your standard drop-door models. Even the single-drawer models can cost over a thousand dollars.

Here at ApplianceGeeked, we understand that affordable doesn’t always mean cheap, and expensive doesn’t always mean better quality. 

To help you find a dishwasher that fits your budget and needs, we chose models that offer the best value for their price. In doing so, we evaluated their overall package, which includes its features, performance, ease of use, and noise level.

• Features: We looked into the different features of the drawer dishwashers we assessed to gauge their capabilities. We also made sure that the features were actually useful and weren’t headache-inducing.

Although a decent unit can clean and dry with limited features, the extra conveniences get bonus points for making dishwashing less tedious.

• Ease of Use: To ensure that the daily operation of the drawer dishwasher is smooth and fuss-free on your end, we picked models that are accessible and easy to use. 

We chose dishwashers that complied with the American Disabilities Act (ADA). Such models can be installed at a more accessible height for persons with disabilities and have simple controls that can be operated with one hand.

• Noise Level: Drawer dishwashers’ noise levels can range anywhere from 30 to 60 dBA. Since some models have two drawers that function independently, the noise will be louder when both are running at the same time.

We chose models with low to moderate decibel ratings because these are less likely to disturb neighbors, especially if you share a wall with them.

Fisher & Paykel Double DishDrawer Dishwasher

Brand	Fisher & Paykel
Model	DD24DCTX9 N
Size	34-36 3/8” x 23 9/16” x 22 9/16”
Place Settings	14 place settings (7 per drawer)
Noise Level	42 dBA
Wash Programs	Delicate, Fast, Heavy, Medium, Normal Eco, Rinse
Features	Fan-assisted Drying, Flood Protection, Knock to Pause, Flow-through Dispenser, Quiet Operation, and SmartDrive Technology

Overall Rating: 9/10

Fisher & Paykel’s DD24DCTX9 N is a double-drawer dishwasher from Series 7 with a contemporary style. Its generous space, powerful wash programs, and flexible racking make dishwashing quick, convenient, and hassle-free.

We like how you can use each drawer independently and run different cleaning cycles simultaneously. You can wash the more delicate stemware in one drawer and wash the grease-filled plates in another, saving you a lot of time.

This also means that you can run smaller loads on a single drawer without using too much energy and water. Whether you run one or both drawers at a time, the dishwasher can operate quietly without disturbing your neighbors.

Another thing we like about the dishwasher is its flexible racks, which have adjustable height and foldable tines that allow you to fit awkwardly shaped pots and bowls. It can even fit full-sized dinner plates measuring up to 12.25” in its top drawer.

However, it can be tricky to load and unload for first-time users. It does get easier over time as you become more familiar with the layout and features.

More importantly, it cleans well and dries thoroughly. It has six different wash programs and fan-assisted drying, which deliver sparkling clean and bone-dry dishes after every wash.

The DD24DCTX9 N is on the higher end of the price range, requiring quite a hefty investment. We do think that is worth the cost as it’s very effective, easy to use, and long-lasting.

Although this model isn’t ADA-compliant, it can be installed at a convenient height to minimize bending. Both drawers open and close smoothly and easily, allowing convenient access to all the dishes.

Customer Reviews

“There was a learning curve for how to load the dish drawers. But after that, I have loved it. I love that I can wash one drawer at a time or together. I can run smaller loads and not have to wait to have a full load to run it. I have difficulty with the silverware basket as some of my silverware have wider bases and do not fit in the spaces. I also have difficulty filling the rinse aid container as it is on an angle and difficult to know when it is full without it spilling. Overall, I have been very pleased with the performance of this dishwasher. It is very quiet, the dishes get very clean and I like the choices for wash length.” – Amishmom, Fisher & Paykel

“I love the flexibility of the two-drawer Fisher & Paykel Double DishDrawer. I can fill the two drawers any way I like and at different times, so that I don’t have to wait until I have a large load in order to wash. In our household, some things add up quickly and need washing because they are used often. The two-drawer system lets me wash one drawer while I am filling up another, so I don’t run out of certain dishes or silverware while waiting for a large load. I can also use one drawer for cookware and not have to worry about metal clanking against china or glass. This is the second time I have purchased the double drawer system and I am (secretly) glad my old dishwasher failed so I could get my dish drawers.” – Alex F., Fisher & Paykel

Fisher & Paykel Single DishDrawer Dishwasher

Brand	Fisher & Paykel
Model	DD24SDFTX9 N
Size	18 13/16” x 23 9/16” x 22 9/16”
Place Settings	7
Noise Level	42 dBA
Wash Programs	Delicate, Fast, Heavy, Medium, Eco, and Rinse
Features	Fan-assisted Drying, Flood Protection, Flow-through Dispenser, Quiet Operation, and SmartDrive Technology

Overall Rating: 8.2/10

Another Fisher & Paykel drawer dishwasher that made it to our list is the DD24SDFTX9 N from the Series 9 collection. This single-drawer tall dishwasher has earned a spot here for three reasons.

First, it complies with the ADA regulations. This means it’s designed to be very accessible and easy to use.

You can install the dishwasher at bench height for hassle-free loading and unloading, especially for older persons and persons with disabilities. It also has easy-to-reach controls, which you can operate with one hand.

Second, it has flexible racks and generous space that can hold up to 7 place settings. Measuring 18 13/16” x 23 9/16” x 22 9/16”, it’s taller than other single-drawer units and fits large, odd-shaped dishes, as well as round dishes up to 12.25” in size.

The rack layout, however, may come with a slight learning curve as you’ll have to figure out how to adjust your load into a single drawer. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll be much faster when it comes to loading and unloading.

Third, it’s great for small households. Due to its compact size, you can fit it in smaller apartments without disturbing everyone’s peace and without using as much water and energy as your standard dishwasher models.

When buying this dishwasher, you really have to think about the price because it isn’t cheap. This single-drawer model costs as much as middle-range standard dishwashers, which can offer double the space and capacity.

Still, we think its sturdy and sleek build, along with its impressive features and capabilities, make it worth the investment, especially for small households.

Customer Reviews

“We didn’t need, want or have the room for a full-size dishwasher and the DishDrawer is the perfect size for us. It fits beautifully on a shelf in our kitchen and has enough room for a full day’s dishes.

I took off one star because if you’re not careful you can accidentally set the timer or start it when you’re loading or emptying it. I’ve gotten into the habit of turning on the child lock to prevent it from running until I want it to.” – Tina, Fisher & Paykel CA

“Previously having a Generation 1 Dish draw lasting 20 years I decided to upgrade and get the latest model, the upgraded refinements in the draw slides and interface and overall quality of the dishwasher have Surpassed my expectations, it gets used on a daily basis and gets rid of the stains on the most stubborn dirty dishes whilst saving water.” – Andrea D, Fisher & Paykel (originally from Build.com)

GE Cafe CDD420P2TS1 

Brand	GE
Model	CDD420P2TS1
Size	34” x 23 9/16” x 21 3/4”
Place Settings	14
Noise Level	49 dBA
Wash Programs	Pots, Plus, Normal, Express, China, and Rinse
Features	Child Lock, Auto Detergent Dispenser, Water Filtration, Cup Shelves, Knock to Pause, Delay Start

Overall Rating: 7.6/10

The GE Cafe CDD420P2TS1 is a double-drawer dishwasher with customizable premium finishes, stylish hardware options, and brushed stainless steel handles. 

Its bespoke level of customization is what sets it apart from other models. With a variety of options, you can easily customize the dishwasher to match the style of your kitchen.

We like how the dishwasher comes in three premium finishes – Matte Black, Stainless Steel, and Matte White. You can further elevate its look by adding hardware in flat black, brushed black, stainless, bronze, copper, or brass.

Other than the aesthetics, we love the functionality and features of the dishwasher. It has two spacious drawers that you can operate independently to wash the most stubborn stains off your dishes.

You have six wash cycles to choose from, which you can pair with additional programs like Ultra Dry, Fast, and Sanitize to achieve your desired results. Although it can remove greasy and dried-on stains, it also tends to redeposit tiny particles onto the dishes.

It has one of the higher noise level ratings, but its noise isn’t loud enough to be a dealbreaker. We’ve even seen some reviews emphasizing the need for an indicator to help owners identify that a cycle is still in progress.

The GE Cafe CDD420P2TS1 is one of the cheaper models on our list. However, installing this model can be quite tricky and may require professional services, which could cost you extra.

Customer Reviews

“Two drawers that are different sizes is perfection! If you have a small load, like we do most of the time with just two people, you can use the small drawer and it is very convenient. Larger, or dirtier, loads can be done in the larger drawer. I do like that you can run both drawers independently of each other and at the same time. The drawer and rack design is great as it allows flexibility in how you load, and the side movable shelves are genius and very handy. Given that there is only a bottom washer arm, you do have to load with that in mind, but it hasn’t been an issue so far. The drawer fronts are a nice addition to our kitchen, and the low sound level is also a great benefit. I like the knock to open feature if you need to open the drawer mid-cycle. ” – Jed from Dallas, Cafeappliances.com

“Our kitchen remodel is starting to get wrapped up. I was really wanting a “wow” factor in our space to elevate the new kitchen and the Cafe dishwasher did exactly that. First, it’s absolutely beautiful and elevates the space from a traditional kitchen and made it look extremely custom. Next, the functionality is a 10 out of 10 for my family. Being able to run the drawer cycles separately saves water and energy and allows me to do large or smaller loads of dishes versus traditional dishwashers in which I had to wait to fill up. I am very particular about making sure that my dishes come out spotless and dry and the Cafe does not disappoint. Each drawer has the option to change the configuration to allow for more plates, etc. and each drawer also has a serve-ware caddy. I highly recommend this dishwasher if you are looking for both functionality and beauty for your space. We honestly could not be happier and we have guests comment on it almost daily, in fact our neighbor loves it so much he is adding this unit to his kitchen now!” – Shana1217, Cafeappliances.com

Fisher & Paykel Integrated Double DishDrawer Dishwasher

Brand	Fisher & Paykel
Model	DD24DI9 N
Size	32 5/16” – 34 5/8” x 23 9/16” x 21 3/4”
Place Settings	14
Noise Level	43 dBA
Wash Programs	Delicate, Fast, Heavy, Medium, Eco, and Rinse
Features	Fan-assisted Drying, Flood Protection, Knock to Pause, Flow-through Dispenser, Quiet Operation, and SmartDrive Technology

Overall Rating: 8.8/10

Instead of the contemporary stainless steel look, the Fisher & Paykel DD24DI9 N double-drawer dishwasher comes in customizable panels to match your cabinetry seamlessly. This is one of the reasons why it made it to our list.

If you want the kitchen to have a cohesive design, this dishwasher can bring your vision to life with its bespoke customization. Aside from the panels, you can choose between different handle colors and shapes, but it will cost you extra for the accessories.

The integrated design doesn’t come cheap, costing around $1,799. If it’s within your budget, we think that it’s worth the investment because it cleans well and has convenient features that make dishwashing fuss-free.

Like other Fisher & Paykel models, we like how this one is ADA-compliant. You won’t have to bend down and hurt your back while loading and unloading your dishwasher because it can be installed at bench height.

Although it’s slightly smaller than Fisher & Paykel’s DD24DCTX9 N model, it still has generous space. Each drawer has 7 place settings and flexible racks, which include pitch-adjustable tines, foldable cup racks, cutlery baskets, and knife clips.

The rack accessories are included in the price, but they aren’t as sturdy as we hoped. We’ve noticed some complaints about the accessories not being able to support heavier dishes upright.

Still, we don’t think that the tines are a dealbreaker. We think that knowing the proper way to load a dishwasher will help you ease your worries and get the dishes done in no time.

Customer Reviews

“We have had F&P Double DishDrawers since we moved into our home in Brisbane’s Bayside and love them. We are a mature couple and they are perfect for the two of us -and even better when we are entertaining as I can pack as we go and then turn – finished by the time we go to bed. This latest set is an Integrated Double DishDrawer, as we had our new home built and the DishDrawers installed to match the exterior cupboards.” – Chris, Fisher & Paykel

“Having two dishwasher drawers is super useful — we typically have one clean and the other dirty, and we do a load a day. The turn-around time for a dish being dirty to it being clean is less than a typical single large dishwasher, if you do one of those every other day. Also, when open it takes less space than a standard dishwasher, which was a key buying decision in our last house. We like it so much that when we moved to a new home, we chose the same dishwasher. There are some drawbacks I guess. The tolerances are a bit tight; I wish that it would notify me if an obstruction prevents normal operation. I am used to loading it correctly to avoid that. Also sometimes some dishes don’t get adequately clean but this can happen with any dishwasher. I do use “Eco” mode a lot. Installation is difficult. We did need ours serviced once, and another time I managed to correct a problem myself.” Mr. Smiley, Fisher & Paykel

Fisher & Paykel Integrated Single DishDrawer Dishwasher

Brand	Fisher & Paykel
Model	DD24SI9 N
Size	16 1/8” x 23 9/16” x 21 3/4”
Place Settings	7
Noise Level	43 dBA
Wash Programs	Delicate, Fast, Heavy, Medium, Eco, and Rinse
Features	Fan-assisted Drying, SmartDrive Technology, Flow-through Detergent Dispenser, Knock to Pause

Overall Rating: 9.2/10

Fisher & Paykel’s DD24SI9 N single-drawer dishwasher has a panel-ready finish that you can customize to match your kitchen cabinetry. With its sleek, modern appearance, compact size, and affordable price, it has earned a spot on our list.

The dishwasher is installed flush under your countertop top for a seamless integration. Along with its panel-ready finish, it will help bring the look of your entire kitchen together to create a single harmonious style.

You do have the option to add a round or square handle in the color aluminum or black. However, be prepared to spend a little extra because the accessories are sold separately.

It also comes with various rack accessories that offer more flexibility for loading different dishes. Like other Fisher & Paykel dishwashers from Series 9, the rack accessories feel a bit flimsy and may not be able to support the full weight of heavier items.

The Fisher & Paykel’s DD24SI9 N is the most affordable drawer dishwasher on our list. Although it doesn’t cost as much as the other models, you have to keep in mind that it only has a single drawer that offers 7 place settings. 

For the same price, you can get high-performing standard dishwashers with twice the space. Still, we believe that this model is a worthy investment, especially for a small home. 

Whether it be an apartment or a motorhome, this compact model can take care of all your dishwashing needs without taking up too much space. 

We would also recommend it to older couples who are tired of all the bending that comes with drop-door dishwashers, as well as to smaller households that don’t have to deal with large piles of dishes.

Here at ApplianceGeeked, we’re all about do-it-yourself repairs and installations. This single-drawer dishwasher is quite easy to install and shouldn’t give you a hard time even if you aren’t a professional.

Customer Reviews

“Never thought I needed a dishwasher in our motorhome, but I love it. It’s so quiet and being the drawer model it blends in with the cabinets. It also serves as safe storage for the glass coffee carafe when we are traveling down the road.” – Alison, Fisher & Paykel

“I installed this into our 2018 Tiffin motor coach and although I’ve only had it for about 3 months, it works great. It doesn’t dry plastic very well but it cleans the dishes that I put in it. It’s a nice addition to our coach.” – David, Fisher & Paykel