Last Updated on April 12, 2022 by
What size dishwasher do I need for a family of 4? Although portables or built-in sizes will do, you generally need a dishwasher that fits not just perfectly but is also sizable enough for the household.
For a family of 4, your dishwasher size should measure 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 34-36 inches high. It should feature top, bottom, and third racks for additional space. The dishwasher place settings should be between 7-12, and most importantly, it should support the half load.
A dishwasher size that is either too big or too small will cause a frustrating dishwashing experience. If too big, you would generally be spending more on the bills, and have to wait longer to load dishes. And if too small, the problem is the reverse.
Read also: A dirty filter is why your dishwasher leaks
What Size Dishwasher Do I Need for a Family of 4?
For a family of 4, your dishwasher size should measure 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 34-36 inches high.
Find out the outer dishwasher dimensions of the dishwasher. And then look inside. Consider the size of the racks and as well as rack adjustability, which will increase the capacity for taller items.
The place settings are also important. Refer to the product description to know the place settings the dishwasher packs. For a family of 4, about 8 to 12 place settings are okay.
You want to measure the dimensions of your kitchen space to find out the dishwasher size that can fit in. You should be looking at 24 inches when considering the inches.
Most dishwashers measure the same depth and height. However, width inches run anywhere between 18 and 42.
Read also: stop washing dishes by hand: here’s why
Note that a bigger dimension does not always mean bigger capacity. Thus, you must focus on the rack layouts and any additional interior feature that promises spaciousness.
Determining the size of your dishwasher
Generally, a built-in portable dishwasher is what you need for a family of 4 members. This typically fits within any standard cabinet dimension.
Most such dishwashers measure about 24 inches deep and 33-36 inches in length. The width, as mentioned earlier, can vary.
Read also: dishwasher size for a 5-member family
A dishwasher will belong in one of the categories below in terms of width:
- Large dishwashers: 30 to 42 inches.
- Standard-sized dishwashers: 24 inches wide.
- Compact countertop dishwashers: Approximately 18 inches wide.
The dimensions of the dishwasher will typically correspond with the cabinet cutout size. The actual unit, however, will be slightly smaller for easy installation in the kitchen.
A standard-sized dishwasher is commonly used for residential kitchens and is more convenient for a family of 4.
If you already have a dishwasher and intend to replace it with a new one, measure the cabinet rough opening. You need to buy a dishwasher that is slightly smaller than the rough opening.
For a new build or a remodeled kitchen, round up the dimensions of the dishwasher to leave a sizable cut-out.
Major dishwasher size considerations for family of 4
To further buttress the point on the dishwasher you need for your household of 4 persons, you want to consider the following:
Number of place settings
According to AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers), a place setting shall consist of:
- 1 cup
- 1 saucer
- 1 dinner plate
- 1 bread and butter plate
- 1 fruit bowl
- 1 iced tea glass
- 1 dinner fork
- 1 salad fork
- 1 knife
- 2 teaspoons
The capacity of your dishwasher is also affected by how you load the dishwasher. So, learn to load the dishwasher optimally. Loading a dishwasher correctly also keeps the dishes from coming out soapy.
Third rack
For a family of 4, you need a dishwasher with an extra rack. This rack increases the capacity and makes loading dishes more flexible.
The design of the third rack depends on the model of the standard dishwashers. Utensil racks also called slim third racks, keep cooking utensils and serve ware away.
A dishwasher with a larger third rack will sometimes accommodate dishes such as bowls and mugs. You may also have the dedicated water jets functionality, which is significant in a dishwasher for a family of 4.
Adjustable racks and tines
A dishwasher with more tines adds capacity for your shallow items. If your family regularly washes bigger and oddly shaped dishes, including woks, pans, and pots, you need a dishwasher with foldable, adjustable tines that can slide out.
On some dishwashers, the racks are able to move down or up as required. This helps the dishwasher to accommodate taller items such as deep pots, blenders jars, and pitchers.
Additional rack height gives the dishwasher more space for bigger items on the bottom rack. For a family of 4, smaller items can go to the top.
If you have to wash pots and pans regularly, a dishwasher with extra height on the second rack is what you need. An increased second rack height makes the dishwasher space-generous for the bulky dishes after the meal.
Best dishwasher for family of 4
In this section of the publication, we review 3 dishwashers we tested, and consider sizable for a family of 4. Below are our affordable picks:
Kucht K7740D Professional 18″ Front Control Dishwasher, Stainless Steel
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B07H9V587F” locale=”US” src=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31ocyCfUx8L._SL500_.jpg” tag=”realikal-20″ width=”500″]
Kucht K7740D is the second dishwasher we reviewed but we are listing it first due to a couple of interesting features it packs.
Capacity
This dishwasher features 8 place settings in upper and lower baskets. It also uses a silverware basket divisible into 3 separate modules you can use in the upper and lower racks.
The first rack is removable, the second is adjustable while the third rack is a silverware basket. If your racks ever get damaged, they may be a bit costly to replace.
Filtration
We particularly like that this dishwasher uses multiple mesh filter systems that can separate soiled water and clean water in various chambers. We noticed water and energy efficiency using this feature. Always clean the filter to avoid dishwasher leaking.
Smart wash
You need to try the smart wash when you buy this K7740D dishwasher. This system automatically tells the wash cycle needed to clean your dishes, saving you the time to decide what cycle is best for your dishes.
Certification
Kucht K7740D is Energy Star and UL certified.
6 wash cycles
It packs up to 6 wash cycles you can select from, including normal, heavy, eco, rapid, rinse, and glass. The heavy cycle also washes baby toys like these top-rated dishwashers.
Exterior finish
The exterior of this dishwasher is finished with stainless steel for durability.
Controls
It features an integrated console with concealed electronic touch controls just on the front fo convenience.
What we really like:
Tub finish
The tub is finished with stainless steel, and coated to resist corrosion.
Noise
The noise level is just 46 dB. This is quieter than your normal conversation with people.
Installation Type
This is a built-in dishwasher for a family of 4 members. It is easy to install and matches any contemporary kitchen.
Warranty
Kucht offers a massive 4-year warranty for parts and labor. You also enjoy lifetime video chat support with Kucht specialists.
What we don’t like:
Installation kit
We had to buy the installation kit separately, including clamps, power cord, connectors, and hoses.
[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B07H9V587F” key=”wide-orange” locale=”US” tag=”realikal-20″]
Cosmo COS-DIS6502 24 inch Top Control Built-in Tall Tub Dishwasher, Fingerprint Resistant, Low Noise 45dB in Stainless Steel
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B077TH5G1B” locale=”US” src=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31bpNDtty4L._SL500_.jpg” tag=”realikal-20″ width=”500″]
Cosmo COS-DIS6502 is the first dishwasher we reviewed but decided to place it second on this compilation.
The features we look out for include:
Quietness
This built-in dishwasher is ultra-quiet at just 45 dB. A normal human conversation is about 62 dB, so you can tell how quiet this machine is. Thanks to the exterior sound insulating pads pre-installed by Cosmo.
Read this trick to learn how we make dishwashers even noiseless.
Capacity
This machine has a tub measuring 24 inches tall and supports 12 place settings for multiples dishes for your family of four.
The top rack fits out large and irregular-sized dishes while the bottom rack fits bowls, plates, and cookware.
4 wash cycles
It supports 4 wash cycles, including auto, heavy, normal, and express. Each of these cycles washes pretty clean.
Heated dry
If you need to dry the dishes immediately, use the heated dry option. However, heated dry is not as efficient as the air dry option in dishwashers.
Delay start
This feature allowed us to schedule this machine to wash at a set time. You can focus on other activities while the dishwasher already knows when to wash what you load.
Filtration
It uses an optimal multiple filter system that saves energy and water by simply separating soiled and clean water.
What we like:
Sanitize rinse
If you need to sanitize your dishes, use the sanitize option.
Control
Its hidden touch-enabled control panel ensures convenient access.
Warranty
Like many dishwasher manufacturers, Cosmo gives 1-year limited warranty.
Noise
Not the quietest dishwasher we have reviewed but at 45 dB, we can say for a fact that this machine operates quietly.
Certifications
This is an Energy Star and UL-rated machine.
Material type
It uses stainless steel and not plastic.
What we don’t
No delivery installation
Unfortunately, Amazon does not offer installation services for this Cosmo COS-DIS6502.
No installation kit
We only received the drain hose/line and the anchor clips with a couple of screws. Normally, however, dishwashers do not arrive with a water supply line.
[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B077TH5G1B” key=”wide-orange” locale=”US” tag=”realikal-20″]
Galanz GLDW09TS2A5A Built in Dishwasher, 9 Place Setting, 18 Inch, 6 Cycles, 3 Options, Stainless Steel
[easyazon_image align=”center” height=”500″ identifier=”B08DLRLQQ8″ locale=”US” src=”https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/316kYmfgwHL._SL500_.jpg” tag=”realikal-20″ width=”500″]
Galanz GLDW09TS2A5A is the third dishwasher we reviewed and a built-in. The features in this dishwasher that make it good for a family of 4 include the following:
6 Cycles
There are 6 cycles to pick from, including normal, heavy, delicate, light, rinse and express.
Capacity
What makes this dishwasher the size of dishwasher you need for a family of 4 is its 9 place settings. It also contains the needed racks to help you load more dishes. The fork shelf is removable, the top basket is adjustable and it features a bottom rack or basket.
Quietness
Galanz GLDW09TS2A5A is the loudest in this list at 49 dBa sound level. Do not misinterpret the number, GLDW09TS2A5A is quite quiet. It is no way as loud as a normal human conversation.
What we like:
Stainless steel
We prefer stainless steel to plastic, and this machine is finished with stainless steel. Speaking of design, it is quite sleek for any contemporary kitchen.
Water softener
If you live in a soft water area, make use of the water softener reservoir to get rid of magnesium and calcium from your water to avoid cloudy and chalky dishes.
Flexible loading
With the flip tines and quick-adjust top rack, tossing items on this dishwasher is even easier. Even first-timers can load the dishes like they have the experience.
What we don’t:
For a dishwasher its price, there are no major downsides we can tell.
[easyazon_cta align=”center” identifier=”B00EWCUK1Q” key=”wide-orange” locale=”US” tag=”realikal-20″]
Considering a dishwasher rough opening
Earlier on, we mentioned considering the rough opening when buying a dishwasher for your family of 4. This depends on your cabinet capacity.
Rough openings are typically 24 inches wide, 24 inches deep, and 34-36 inches high for standard-sized dishwashers for a family of 4.
The widths and heights of a dishwasher should be slightly smaller than the opening dimensions. Note, however, that listed dishwasher depths typically include the floor depth, which makes the depth slightly larger.
Some dishwashers use adjustable feet if you deem it necessary to add height.
Ensure that the dishwasher levels even if the floor does not for water to drain properly. Also, adjust the dishwasher legs if the front and back floors of the openings are not level. You could always place shims below the dishwasher.
Opening dimensions for a 4-member household
Large and standard dishwashers usually measure the same height and depth. On a compact countertop, this is not the case.
When measuring the dimensions, look at the following:
- Width. Measure from cabinet to cabinet, leaving a small breathing space on the sides.
- Height. Measure from floor level to the lowest point of the countertop.
- Depth. Measure from the front of the cabinets to the back of the opening
Also, measure about 27 inches of open space in the dishwasher front for item loading and unloading.
Meanwhile, for a single-person apartment, is a dishwasher really worth it for singles?
