2 Dishwashers in Kitchen: Smart Ideas: How I planned kitchens with two dishwashers and why small spaces can spark big ideas

I once had a client insist we fit two dishwashers into a compact galley kitchen because they hosted weekly dinner parties — I almost laughed, then realized this constraint forced one of my best layouts. Small-space “problems” often push me to invent efficient, clever solutions, and fitting two dishwashers is one of those delightful puzzles. In this article I’ll share 5 practical design inspirations based on real projects where double dishwashers improved workflow, storage, and hosting ease.

1. Stacked compact units for narrow kitchens

When floor width is tight I’ve used stacked slimline dishwashers (18" or specialized 15" models) one above the other in a tall cabinet. This preserves counter run while providing separate zones — one for quick rinse cycles and one for heavy loads. The advantage is clear: save horizontal space and maintain continuous countertop. The challenge is ensuring proper ventilation and service access, which I solve by planning removable panels and dedicated ventilation gaps.

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2. Side-by-side under-counter setup for busy families

On several family projects I placed two under-counter dishwashers side-by-side, allowing one to handle daily plates while the other manages pots or overflow after gatherings. It speeds up cleanup and reduces the temptation to hand-wash. Downsides include losing a cabinet or two of storage, so I often compensate with taller pantry units or integrated drawer storage nearby.

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3. One dishwasher + one drawer dishwasher for flexibility

A combination of a full-size dishwasher and a drawer dishwasher gives great flexibility: quick small loads in the drawer and larger cycles below. I recommended this in an apartment remodel where clients wanted instant small-load cycles without waiting. It’s energy-efficient for light use, though initial cost is higher; I usually balance that by suggesting mid-range models and prioritizing long-term energy savings.

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4. Dedicated prep/cleanup zone with dual dishwashers

I sometimes design a dedicated cleanup island where dual dishwashers flank a sink, creating a seamless prep-to-cleanup workflow. One unit is assigned to dirty prepware, the other for tableware. This setup shines for people who entertain often or run home-based catering. It does require careful plumbing planning and slightly more footprint, but the time saved in cleanup is a real lifestyle upgrade.

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5. Integrating dishwashers into open-plan layouts

In open-plan homes I hide two dishwashers behind continuous cabinetry panels so the kitchen reads clean while offering high capacity. The visual benefit keeps the living area calm and clutter-free, though panel-ready units can be pricier and require precise measurements to maintain seamless lines. I’ve learned to mock up full-scale cabinet fronts to ensure the final look matches the design intent.

For a quick visualization of layouts and to test stacking or side-by-side arrangements, I often use a room planner that lets clients see how two appliances fit before committing to cabinetry changes.

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FAQ

Q1: Is it practical to have two dishwashers in a typical home kitchen?

A1: Yes, if your household frequently hosts or has a high-volume lifestyle. Plan for plumbing, electrical capacity, and some trade-off in storage space.

Q2: Do two dishwashers use more water and energy overall?

A2: Not necessarily — using a small dishwasher or a quick cycle can be more efficient than running a half-full large machine. Energy-efficient models and smart use often offset increased capacity.

Q3: What are common plumbing considerations?

A3: You’ll need separate drain connections or properly configured manifolds, and ensure the hot water supply and electrical circuits meet code. A licensed plumber should verify load and venting.

Q4: Can I stack dishwashers safely?

A4: Stacking requires models designed or rated for that installation and a cabinet structure that allows ventilation and service access. Check manufacturer guidance for load-bearing and ventilation requirements.

Q5: How much counter or cabinet space do I lose?

A5: Side-by-side units cost about one standard cabinet width (24–36") of run, while stacked units use vertical space but preserve counter run. Plan extra pantry or tall storage to compensate.

Q6: Are panel-ready dishwashers worth it for a dual setup?

A6: Panel-ready units keep the aesthetic seamless, especially in open-plan homes, but they add cost and require precise cabinetry tolerances.

Q7: Where can I mock up and experiment with two-dishwasher layouts visually?

A7: I recommend using a free floor plan creator that supports appliance blocks and cabinet dimensions so you can test real scale and circulation before construction.

Q8: Where can I find appliance specs and authoritative installation guidance?

A8: Consult manufacturer installation manuals and local building codes; for US installations, refer to the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) guidelines for clearances and plumbing standards (https://nkba.org).

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