Small Dishwasher Dimensions: How to Choose the Right Size

On this page (7 sections)

1. What are typical small dishwasher dimensions?
2. How do you measure for a small dishwasher?
3. How much clearance does a compact dishwasher need?
4. Does a smaller dishwasher hold fewer dishes?
5. Which small dishwasher size fits your kitchen?
6. How do you check faucet, drain and counter space?
7. What should you check before buying a small dishwasher?

Small dishwasher dimensions vary by type: compact countertop models can be about 17 inches wide and 17 to 18 inches tall, while a larger countertop model may be over 21 inches wide. Measure the full footprint, overhead clearance, faucet access and drain route before choosing.

A small cabinet can still be a poor fit if it blocks a cabinet door or leaves no room to connect a hose. Compare the machine's outside dimensions with the space you can actually use.

What are typical small dishwasher dimensions?

Small countertop dishwasher dimensions in these examples range from 16.53 to 21.7 inches wide, 16.8 to 19.7 inches deep and 17.2 to 18.1 inches tall. The exact size depends on the model and its capacity.

These are the machines' outside measurements. Allow room for the door to open and for hoses or a faucet connection to reach their fittings.

A smaller footprint can mean smaller dishes or tighter loading. Check the plate diameter and place-setting information along with the width and depth.

If your space allows, compare best dishwashers for small spaces to see other compact formats.

How do you measure for a small dishwasher?

Measure width, depth, height and working clearance at the exact spot where you plan to use the dishwasher. Then check the delivery route and connections before settling on a model.

1. Measure the usable counter width between walls, appliances and other items.
2. Measure counter depth from the wall to the front edge, and note any overhang.
3. Measure from the counter to the lowest cabinet, shelf or other obstruction.
4. Check the space needed to open the dishwasher door and load dishes.
5. Locate the faucet, outlet and sink or drain area, then consider where hoses can run.
6. Measure doorways and turns if you need to carry the machine into a tight kitchen.

Use painter's tape to mark the width and depth on the counter. Place a box or other safe object at the planned height to see whether it blocks cabinet doors or your usual work area.

Compare the tightest measurement with the machine's dimensions, not a rough estimate of the counter. Keep clearance in mind: one COMFEE' mini model specifies more than 19.6 inches between the counter and wall cupboard.

How much clearance does a compact dishwasher need?

Required clearance depends on the model and setup, so check its installation instructions before you choose a location. Height alone does not tell you whether the machine will fit beneath a cabinet.

For example, the COMFEE' portable mini with a built-in water tank calls for more than 19.6 inches between the countertop and wall cupboard. Its height is 17.24 inches, so the extra space matters when checking the full setup.

Also consider access around the machine. You may need room to open the door, fill a water tank or attach a hose without moving other items on the counter.

The faucet connection can affect placement, too. Use the Faucet Adapter Size Chart for Countertop Dishwasher to check adapter sizing, then confirm that the hose can reach without crossing a busy work area.

Does a smaller dishwasher hold fewer dishes?

Often, a more compact machine has limits on plate size or loading, but dimensions alone don't tell you how much tableware will fit. Compare stated capacity and the largest dish size you use.

The NOVETE is 16.9 inches wide and 18.1 inches tall, with 4 place settings and room for plates up to 12 inches loaded at an angle. The COMFEE' mini is 16.53 inches wide and lists 30+ items, with plates up to 9.5 inches.

A six-place-setting COMFEE' model is wider at 21.7 inches and lists room for plates up to 10 inches. Its larger footprint may suit you if you want more place settings and can spare the counter space.

Measure your largest plates and bowls, not only your everyday dishes. If you are considering a single-drawer format, compare its dimensions and loading approach in our single drawer dishwasher guide.

Which small dishwasher size fits your kitchen?

Choose based on the space you have, the dishes you need to wash and how you plan to supply water. These examples show how compact models differ in footprint and stated capacity.

NOVETE: compact footprint with angled plate loading

The NOVETE measures 16.9 x 16.8 x 18.1 inches and holds 4 place settings. It fits plates up to 12 inches when loaded at an angle, according to its capacity details.

It supports either a faucet connection or a built-in 5 L water tank. That flexibility may help if you want to avoid a permanent water connection, but you still need a practical place for the drain hose.

The double-layer design includes a tableware basket, storage rack and cutlery basket. Check the inside layout against the dishes you use most, especially larger bowls or pans.

Consider it if the 16.9-inch width fits and your plates can load at an angle. Measure the available height and hose path as well as the footprint.

COMFEE' mini: a smaller width and manual-fill option

The COMFEE' mini measures 16.53 x 17.13 x 17.24 inches and holds 30 or more items, with plates up to 9.5 inches. Its built-in 1.32-gallon tank allows manual filling, and it can also connect to a faucet.

Its published clearance guidance calls for more than 19.6 inches between the counter and wall cupboard. Include that requirement when comparing the machine's height to your available space.

This size may be a fit if your everyday plates are 9.5 inches or smaller. Measure larger plates and serving dishes before deciding.

Choose it when the narrower width helps your layout and you have room for the stated overhead clearance. Plan where to drain it and how you will fill its tank.

COMFEE' six-place-setting model: more width for a larger load

The COMFEE' six-place-setting countertop dishwasher measures 21.7 inches wide, 19.7 inches deep and 17.2 inches high. It holds up to 6 place settings and lists a maximum plate diameter of 10 inches.

This model can connect to a faucet with a suitable adapter and may sit on a table or fit in a cupboard, depending on your setup. A cupboard fit still depends on the opening, connections and access around the machine.

Consider this wider size if you need the extra place settings and have enough counter depth. Check the cupboard opening and hose route before planning an enclosed placement.

If your kitchen needs a different installation position, see our guide to a small dishwasher under sink.

How do you check faucet, drain and counter space?

Check the water connection and drain route alongside the dimensions. A machine may fit on the counter but still be awkward if the faucet adapter or drain hose cannot reach.

Countertop models in these examples support faucet connections, and two also include built-in water tanks. A tank can make manual filling an option, but a drain route is still part of the setup.

Before buying, check the following:

• Whether the faucet has a removable aerator or a compatible adapter.
• Whether the inlet hose can reach the faucet without pulling tight.
• Whether the drain hose can reach the sink or another approved drain point.
• Whether a nearby outlet is accessible without routing cords across the sink.
• Whether the machine leaves enough room for normal counter tasks.

The NOVETE includes a 61-inch inlet hose. The COMFEE' mini lists a 1.44-foot hose, so compare the reach with your own faucet position.

If you are choosing a unit for a rental or a compact apartment, compare the room and installation details in our apartment size dishwasher dimensions guide. A small kitchen island may also change your available counter area; see our small kitchen island with a marble top guide if you are planning a separate work surface.

What should you check before buying a small dishwasher?

Confirm the machine fits in use, not just on paper. Match the outside size to your counter, then check capacity, overhead clearance, connections and door access.

A cheap small dishwasher can still be the wrong size if it cannot fit your plates or leaves too little counter room. Compare small dishwasher size with the items you wash most and the available space around the appliance.

For a final check, write down the usable width, depth and height, plus the clearance required by the chosen model. If any measurement is close, verify it again at the exact placement point before you buy.

Choose the NOVETE if its narrower footprint and angled 12-inch plate loading suit your counter. Choose the COMFEE' mini if the slimmer width and tank filling fit your routine, or the wider six-place-setting model if your space can take its larger footprint and you want its listed capacity.

Frequently asked questions

What are the dimensions of a small countertop dishwasher?

Small countertop dishwashers vary, but the examples here range from 16.53 to 21.7 inches wide, 16.8 to 19.7 inches deep and 17.2 to 18.1 inches tall. Check the exact model's outside dimensions, then add any clearance required for hoses, faucet use and ventilation.

How much space should I leave above a countertop dishwasher?

Leave the clearance required by the specific model. One COMFEE' compact model calls for more than 19.6 inches between the counter and wall cupboard, so measure from the counter to the lowest obstruction and check the installation instructions before you buy.

Will a small dishwasher fit 10-inch plates?

Some compact models accommodate plates up to 10 inches, while others have a smaller limit. The COMFEE' six-place-setting model lists a maximum plate diameter of 10 inches; check how plates load and whether they must sit at an angle.

How do I measure for a countertop dishwasher?

Measure the available width, depth and height, then check the faucet, cabinet clearance, outlet and drain route. Include room to connect hoses and open the door.

Compare your measurements with the machine's outside dimensions and the maker's required clearances.

Is a countertop dishwasher smaller than an apartment-size dishwasher?

A countertop dishwasher generally takes up less floor or cabinet space because it sits on the counter, but its width and height still vary. Apartment-size models can be wider or built into cabinetry, so compare the exact dimensions and installation needs for both types.