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Dishwashers measurement guide
The most important step in choosing a new dishwasher is figuring out exactly what space you’re working with. This handy guide walks you through all the key measurements you’ll need to take, so you can pick a plate-cleaning machine that’ll fit just right.
Finally getting ready to retire the sponge for good, or is your old model due a shiny new upgrade? Either way, this guide cuts out the guesswork to give you clear, simple steps to find a dishwasher that fits perfectly.
Dishwasher types
Integrated
Integrated dishwashers sit behind a cupboard door instead of being on display all the time. They’re great options if you’re going for a seamless kitchen look.
Semi-integrated
A semi- integrated model is a best-of-both-worlds option. It still sits behind a cupboard door, but the control panel is always visible. Meaning you get that sleek, tidy look while still being able to see your appliance’s display when you need to.
Freestanding
A freestanding dishwasher can be placed wherever there’s a water and electric connection. Since it’s not built-in, it’s super easy slot in anywhere there’s enough room.
How to measure
Step one
Start by measuring from the floor (or where the base of the dishwasher will sit) to the underside of the countertop. Now you’ve got the max height your new dishwasher can be without bumps getting in the way.
Step two
Next up, measure the gap where your dishwasher will sit from counter to counter. That’s your max width. Remember, leave a little wiggle room so your new model can easily slide on in there – it’ll save you a lot of hassle later.
Step three
Now measure the space from the back wall to the front of your cabinetry – that’s your max depth. Don’t forget, you’ll have to leave a little extra room for pipework to fit ‘round the back.
Step four
Finally, make sure there’s enough room for the door to lie flat without bumping into cabinets, walls, or anything else. Give yourself enough space to load and unload it easily – you don’t want to have to start popping in plates from weird angles.
What to measure
Short on space but still dreaming of ditching the washing‑up?
A slimline dishwasher could be the perfect fit. These narrower models are usually around 45cm wide, so they slide neatly into tighter gaps while still giving you plenty of room for your daily dishes. Just measure the height, width, and depth of your cabinet space as normal, and check the infographic to see exactly what to allow for pipework and door clearance. They’re a brilliant option for smaller kitchens, flats, or anyone wanting big convenience in a compact package.
Top tips
Give your appliance a bit of breathing room around the back, usually around 5 to 7cm. This’ll give your pipes and connections room to fit comfortably.
Got mouldings or trim around your cabinets? These little stylish touches can reduce the available width, so make sure to factor these into your measurements.
Cabinets and countertops aren’t always perfectly straight, so it’s best to measure from a couple of places to spot any unevenness early. It'll prevent a headache later on.
If you’re replacing your current dishwasher, you’ve already got a great shortcut. Just measure your old model and use that as a simple way to make sure the new one’ll fit right in.
Door hinges
If it’s an integrated dishwasher you’re after, you’ll want to get the hinge type just right. The door has to line up exactly with your cabinets, so the wrong hinge can really throw everything off. Check this now to save yourself from awkward gaps and costly refits later.
Most standard models use a sliding hinge, which attaches to the cabinet so the door can glide up as it opens.
A fixed hinge connects the cabinet door directly to the dishwasher for a snug fit – this is ideal for heavier models.
Which one you’ll need depends on the height of your baseboard. If the space under your cabinets is less than 9cm, either will work. But if it’s over 9cm, you’ll need a fixed hinge. And if you’re swapping out your old model, sticking with the same hinge type is the best bet.
Delivery & installation
FAQs
- What are the standard dishwasher measurements?
Most full-size models stick to pretty similar measurements: around 60cm wide, 82 to 85cm tall, and a depth of 55 to 60cm.
On the other hand, slimline models tend to be about 45cm wide, but the height and depth will be similar so they can still tuck neatly under your counters.- How do I measure for a dishwasher in the UK?
Grab your nearest tape measure and check the width, height, and depth of the space your dishwasher will go in. Full-size models usually need around 60cm of width, while a slimline will fit into 45cm. Don’t forget to leave a little room for pipes and connections in the back.
- How much space do I need around a dishwasher?
You should leave a few millimetres on either side so it can slide right on in, plus a round 2 to 5cm at the back for pipes and connections. You’ll also want to make sure the door can fully open without bumping into anything.
- Should I remove my old dishwasher before measuring?
No need to remove your old model, just measure the space it’s already sat in. You’ll only need to get rid when it’s time to swap it out for your shiny new one.
- How deep does a dishwasher need to be?
Most models need about 55 to 60cm of depth to fit under your typical kitchen counter. Remember to leave a little extra room at the back for pipes and connections too.
- What if my dishwasher space is smaller than standard?
If the gap under your counters is narrower than the usual 60cm, a slimline dishwasher could still fit right in since they only need around 45cm. If you’re dealing with a really snug space, just make sure your measurements are accurate and compare them against any model you’re eyeing up to make sure it’ll definitely be a good fit.
- Do I need to measure door clearance for a dishwasher?
Yep, you’ll want to make sure there’s enough room for the door to lie flat and the baskets to slide out without hitting anything. You’ll usually want to allow about 68 to 76cm for this.
- Is measuring different for freestanding and integrated dishwashers?
Overall, measuring for both types of dishwashers is pretty much the same. The only difference is that an integrated model needs to fit snugly into your cabinets, so you’ll want to make sure everything lines up nicely.
