Why We Don't Need a Countertop-Integrated In-Sink Dishwasher

Dishwashers come in all shapes and sizes these days, but one particular type of built-in dishwasher has been increasing in popularity: the countertop-integrated model. These compact units are installed directly into a kitchen counter as opposed to under it or on top of it. They’re also known as in-sink dishwashers because they are integrated right into the sink. In-sink dishwashers have some pretty cool advantages: they take up less space than a traditional above-counter model, they have a smaller profile than an under-counter unit, and they blend right into your kitchen so you don’t have to sacrifice design for function. But is an in-sink dishwasher right for you? Here’s why we don’t need a countertop-integrated in-sink dishwasher...

What is a Countertop-Integrated In-Sink Dishwasher?

A countertop-integrated in-sink dishwasher is a built-in dishwasher that’s designed to be installed right into the countertop. Countertop dishwashers are typically shorter than other in-sink models, which means they can be installed under your counter instead of on top of it. A countertop-integrated dishwasher is typically installed right behind your sink’s faucet, which means the controls and spigot will be on the countertop where you can easily reach them.

Why You Might Need an Integrated In-Sink Dishwasher

Some people might need an in-sink dishwasher for one reason or another, but most people don’t. In-sink dishwashers are commonly used in commercial kitchens and large households where space is at a premium. They’re also a good choice when you have physical limitations that prevent you from reaching a standard-sized countertop dishwasher. Dishwashers work best when they’re used as often as possible, but if you don’t have enough counter space for a standard-sized model, or if you don’t have easy access to a floor-mounted model, an integrated in-sink unit may be just what you need.

Why a Countertop-Integrated Dishwasher Won’t Cut It for Us

Countertop dishwashers are a great idea in theory, but they don’t always work out so well in practice. This type of unit has some serious downsides that make us think twice about recommending it. In-sink dishwashers have a smaller capacity than standard-sized units, and if you install it underneath your counter, you’ll lose valuable counter space. An integrated in-sink dishwasher will also have less room for dishes than a freestanding model because the sink and faucet have to fit inside the dishwasher. This may not be a big deal in some situations, but if you regularly host large families or have gatherings where guests dishwash, an in-sink model just can’t cut it.

The Problems With Countertop Dishwashers

Countertop dishwashers have a few notable flaws that make us think twice about recommending them. First, they’re not as durable as many other types of dishwashers. Countertop models are typically made with thinner materials that won’t last as long as a full-sized model. They’re also not as energy-efficient as freestanding models, and they don’t necessarily comply with local plumbing codes. Countertop dishwashers also don’t work as well in certain settings. If your sink is on the small side and you don’t have much clearance behind it, you won’t be able to install a built-in unit. You also want to be careful about installation because an in-sink model will require a plumber in order to hook up the plumbing correctly.

Bottom line

When it comes down to it, we don’t need a countertop-integrated in-sink dishwasher. Countertop models have some obvious downsides, and they’re not the right choice for everyone. They’re best for large households where space is at a premium, but they don’t work well in smaller kitchens. They also don’t work well in homes with a mix of kitchen styles. If you have a large household, you may want to consider an integrated in-sink dishwasher because it’s a more space-efficient option than a standard-sized model. However, if you don’t have these constraints, a freestanding dishwasher will work better for you.