The best dishwashers with cutlery drawers offer unparalleled convenience for busy households, streamlining the loading and unloading process while ensuring every utensil shines. Choosing the right one means optimizing your kitchen workflow and maximizing cleaning efficiency. With innovations in spray arm technology, sensor drying, and noise reduction, these appliances vary significantly in their ability to handle tough messes and delicate items.
A poorly selected model can lead to missed spots, insufficient drying, or frustratingly long cycles, diminishing your satisfaction and utility bills. Below, we explore 10 top-rated models that excel in both performance and innovative cutlery drawer design, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your home.
For those seeking the best dishwashers with cutlery drawers, Fisher & Paykel’s DishDrawer™ models, such as the DD24DAX9 N Series 7 or the DD24DV2T9 N Series 9, offer a flexible solution where integrated drawers provide ergonomic loading and independent washing capabilities.
These models, available in single and double configurations, are designed for ease of use and can accommodate various dishware sizes, fitting seamlessly into kitchen cabinetry for a streamlined aesthetic.
Best Dishwashers with Cutlery Drawers: At a Glance
| Image | Product | Buy |
|---|---|---|
Best Pick 1  | Fisher & Paykel DD24DAX9 N Series 7 Contemporary Double DishDrawer™ Best for: Contemporary kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 2  | Fisher Paykel DD24SAX9 24″ Drawers Full Console Dishwasher in Stainless Best for: Integrated kitchens | Check Price |
Best Pick 3  | Series 7 Contemporary Single DishDrawer Dishwasher, Fisher & Paykel Built-In Best for: Single households | Check Price |
Best Pick 4  | Fisher and Paykel Double DishDrawer Dishwasher, 14 Place Settings (EZKleen Best for: Efficient cleaning | Check Price |
Best Pick 5  | Series 9 Contemporary Double DishDrawer Dishwasher, Fisher & Paykel Built-In Best for: Luxury aesthetics | Check Price |
How We Picked
We meticulously evaluated dozens of models to identify the best dishwashers with cutlery drawers, prioritizing build quality and real-world performance. Durability and safety were heavily weighted. Models were assessed for their innovative features, such as Fisher & Paykel’s independent drawer operation for energy efficiency and convenience.
We ruled out units lacking robust construction or a proven track record, focusing on those offering superior cleaning and ease of use for years to come. The selection process centered on delivering outstanding value and user experience.
What Most Buyers Get Wrong
Drawer Height and Ergonomics Matter
When opting for a DishDrawer model, consider where you’ll be placing it. Installing a dishwasher drawer at bench height, as highlighted with models like the Fisher & Paykel DD24DAX9 N Series 7, significantly reduces bending for loading and unloading. This ergonomic advantage is a key selling point for drawer dishwashers, differentiating them from traditional standing models and making them ideal for those prioritizing ease of use.
Independent Drawer Functionality
Many double drawer dishwashers, such as the Fisher & Paykel Series 9 DD24DV2T9 N, offer independent operation for each drawer. This means you can run a half load in one drawer while the other is available for dirty dishes, optimizing water and energy usage. When evaluating these models, check the specifications to confirm if each drawer functions as a standalone unit, allowing for flexible wash cycles.
1. Fisher & Paykel DD24DAX9 N Series 7 Contemporary Double DishDrawer™
Best for: Double drawer, independent loads.
Independently wash true half loads across two drawers simultaneously, allowing you to clean delicate glassware in one while tackling pots and pans in the other.
This double DishDrawer dishwasher offers 6 wash programs and runs at a quiet 43 decibels, fitting seamlessly as a built-in unit. It boasts adjustable height for ergonomic loading and consumes 34 gallons of water per cycle.
Pros
- Independent dual drawer operation
- True half load capacity per drawer
- 6 distinct wash programs
- Quiet 43-decibel operation
Cons
- Limited to 6 wash programs compared to some models with more specialized cycles.
This dishwasher is ideal for busy households needing flexible washing options. It allows you to run a small load of fine china without interfering with a larger, tougher wash cycle.
2. Fisher Paykel DD24SAX9 24″ Drawers Full Console Dishwasher in Stainless
Best for: Compact, 7 settings, quiet operation.
Accommodate up to 7 place settings in its spacious 24-inch design, perfect for small to medium kitchens without compromising on cleaning power.
This built-in Fisher Paykel dishwasher features a full console with an adjustable rack and 6 flexible wash cycles, including a rapid option. Its quiet operation at 45 decibels ensures minimal disruption, and it’s ENERGY STAR rated for efficiency, using just 1.81 gallons of water.
Pros
- Capacity for 7 place settings
- 24-inch wide built-in footprint
- Full console for control access
- ENERGY STAR certified efficiency
Cons
- A single drawer may limit the ability to run two different wash types simultaneously.
This dishwasher suits smaller families or couples who value quiet operation and efficient cleaning. It offers straightforward controls and good capacity for everyday use.
3. Series 7 Contemporary Single DishDrawer Dishwasher, Fisher & Paykel Built-In
Best for: Single drawer, 7 wash programs, adjustable height.
Clean everything from delicate crystal to heavily soiled pots with 7 wash programs, including a dedicated Heavy cycle, all within a single, easy-to-access drawer.
This Fisher & Paykel single DishDrawer dishwasher features a touch control panel and an adjustable height for ergonomic convenience, fitting into a built-in space. It offers 6 cycle options and displays status via an LED screen, while holding 18 gallons of water per cycle.
Pros
- 7 distinct wash programs
- Adjustable height for ergonomic use
- Touch control panel for ease of use
- Built-in installation for clean look
Cons
- Single drawer design limits simultaneous washing of different load types.
This dishwasher is perfect for individuals or smaller households needing a dedicated, efficient cleaning drawer. Its variety of wash programs handle diverse dishware with ease.
4. Fisher and Paykel Double DishDrawer Dishwasher, 14 Place Settings (EZKleen
Best for: Large capacity, 14 settings, ENERGY STAR.
Handle family-sized loads with a 14-place setting capacity enabled by advanced DishDrawer technology and an efficient SmartDrive system.
This 24-inch freestanding double DishDrawer dishwasher includes 6 wash cycles, a quick wash option, and is ENERGY STAR certified. It features a touch control interface and EZKleen capabilities, consuming 3.44 gallons of water per cycle with a frequency of 60 Hz.
Pros
- Capacity for 14 place settings
- 24-inch double DishDrawer design
- ENERGY STAR certified for efficiency
- SmartDrive technology for performance
Cons
- Freestanding installation requires dedicated space rather than integration into cabinetry.
This dishwasher is an excellent choice for larger families needing substantial capacity and efficient performance. Its double drawers offer flexibility for varied cleaning needs.
5. Series 9 Contemporary Double DishDrawer Dishwasher, Fisher & Paykel Built-In
Best for: Two tall drawers, quick wash, sanitize.
Maximize your cleaning power with two tall drawers that can each independently wash half a load, featuring Quick Wash, Sanitize, and Extra Dry options.
This Series 9 double DishDrawer dishwasher, built-in and controlled via touch, offers 15 place settings across its dual compartments. It runs at a quiet 43 decibels and uses 4 gallons of water per cycle, with an LED display for cycle status.
Pros
- Two independently operating tall drawers
- Sanitize cycle for hygiene
- Extra Dry option for plastics
- Quiet 43-decibel operation
Cons
- Uses a slightly higher 4 gallons of water per cycle compared to some other models.
This dishwasher is ideal for those who prioritize specialized cleaning functions and high capacity. It’s perfect for households with diverse dishware and hygiene concerns.
6. Midea 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher, Slim Space-Saving Design with 8
Best for: Slimline, 8 place settings, smaller kitchens.
Fit a surprisingly large capacity of 8 place settings into an 18-inch slimline body, thoughtfully designed to accommodate plates up to 11 inches.
This Midea under-counter dishwasher features a digital control panel with an LED display and 6 cycle options, including delicate and heavy duty. Its adjustable legs allow for a precise fit within dimensions of 22.6D x 17.6W x 32.4H, using 15.5 gallons per hour.
Pros
- Space-saving 18-inch slimline design
- Accommodates 8 place settings
- LED display for clear status
- Accommodates large plates up to 11 inches
Cons
- Operates at a higher noise level of 52 decibels compared to premium models.
This dishwasher is perfect for small apartments or kitchens where space is at a premium. It offers ample capacity for its compact size and a range of cleaning cycles.
7. DD24SCTX9 Contemporary Tall Single DishDrawer™ Dishwasher “OPEN BOX”
Best for: Tall drawer, 15 settings, complementary design.
Effortlessly load full-sized dinner plates into this tall single DishDrawer, designed to be placed anywhere in your kitchen for ergonomic ease and a clean aesthetic.
This built-in DishDrawer dishwasher provides 15 place settings with 15 cycle options, including a rapid wash, and runs at a quiet 43 decibels. It’s designed for complementary style within the Fisher & Paykel appliance family, using 1.81 gallons of water per hour.
Pros
- Tall drawer accommodates full-sized plates
- 15 place setting capacity
- 15 distinct cycle options
- Designed to complement Fisher & Paykel appliances
Cons
- Single drawer limits the ability to run multiple, different wash cycles simultaneously.
This dishwasher is suitable for households with standard-sized dinnerware and a desire for flexible placement. Its tall design simplifies loading, reducing the need to bend.
8. Fisher & Paykel Series 9 Integrated Single DishDrawer™ Dishwasher
Best for: Integrated, sanitize, quick wash.
Achieve extra hygiene with a 99.9% bacteria kill rate from the Sanitize option, alongside a Quick wash modifier that speeds up cleaning without compromising performance.
This Series 9 Integrated Single DishDrawer dishwasher offers 15 place settings and 15 cycle options, including an Extra Dry setting ideal for plastics. It runs quietly at 43 decibels and uses 1.64 gallons of water per cycle, with flexible racking inside.
Pros
- Sanitize option kills 99.9% of bacteria
- Quick Wash modifier for speed
- Extra Dry setting for plastics
- Integrated design for custom cabinetry
Cons
- Water consumption of 1.64 gallons is higher than some single-drawer models.
This dishwasher is perfect for those prioritizing hygiene and efficient cleaning cycles, especially for households with plastic items. Its integrated design allows for a flush kitchen look.
9. Fisher & Paykel Series 9 “Integrated” Tall Double DishDrawer™ Dishwasher
Best for: Integrated, customizable, dual drawers.
Seamlessly integrate this double DishDrawer dishwasher into your kitchen cabinetry with customizable door panels for a unified look, while maintaining superior dish care.
This Series 9 Integrated Double DishDrawer dishwasher features two independent drawers, each offering 15 place settings and 10 cycle options, running at a quiet 43 decibels. It supports flexible racking for diverse dishware arrangements.
Pros
- Seamless integration with cabinetry
- Customizable door panel options
- Independent dual drawer operation
- Quiet 43-decibel operation
Cons
- Door panel customization requires a separate purchase or matching cabinetry.
This dishwasher is ideal for custom kitchen builds or renovations where a seamless aesthetic is paramount. It offers high capacity and flexible washing for demanding households.
10. Fisher & Paykel DD24DI9 Series 9 Integrated Double DishDrawer™ Dishwasher
Best for: Integrated, compact, dual drawers.
Customize with your own kitchen cabinetry for a truly integrated look, featuring two drawers that operate independently to wash different types of loads simultaneously.
This Series 9 Integrated Double DishDrawer dishwasher offers 15 place settings across its two drawers with 9 cycle options, and runs at a quiet 43 decibels. It is designed for ease of use, with convenient bench height placement and flexible racking, using 12.85 liters of water.
Pros
- Integrated design with custom cabinetry options
- Independent operation of two drawers
- Bench height placement for ease of loading
- Flexible internal racking system
Cons
- Features 9 cycle options, which is fewer than some other double drawer models offering up to 15.
This dishwasher is perfect for modern kitchens seeking a fully integrated look and the flexibility of dual, independent drawers. It offers efficient cleaning for varied household needs.
The DishDrawer’s True Compromise
When investing in a dishwasher with a cutlery drawer, the critical decision hinges not on brand prestige but on the fundamental trade-off between drawer autonomy and overall capacity. Buyers often get lost in the aesthetics or the promise of multiple wash cycles, overlooking the core functional split that dictates how you’ll actually use the appliance day-to-day.
Consider the Fisher & Paykel DD24DAX9 N Series 7 Contemporary Double DishDrawer™ and its brethren: the allure of two independent drawers, each capable of washing half a load, is undeniable. This design, as seen in models like the Fisher & Paykel Series 9 Integrated Single DishDrawer™ Dishwasher, offers the flexibility to run a small load of delicates in one drawer while a more robust cycle tackles heavily soiled dishes in the other. This is ideal for households with varied daily needs, from a few breakfast dishes to a full dinner service.
However, the depth and clearance within each drawer can be a limiting factor for larger items, forcing a decision between a full-load wash in a traditional single tub or two smaller, potentially less efficient, drawer washes.
The Fisher and Paykel Double DishDrawer Dishwasher, 14 Place Settings (EZKleen) represents an attempt to bridge this gap by offering a substantial 14 place setting capacity across its two drawers, suggesting a move towards larger households that still crave the drawer convenience. Yet, even with this increased capacity, the fundamental constraint of the drawer format remains: a single, tall pot or serving platter might still present a loading challenge that a more conventional, taller tub dishwasher would easily accommodate. The Midea 18 Inch Built-in Dishwasher, on the other hand, prioritizes space-saving with its slimline design, indicating a preference for environments where footprint is paramount, though this inherently sacrifices the dual-drawer functionality seen in the Fisher & Paykel line.
Ultimately, the defining characteristic of best dishwashers with cutlery drawers is whether the system prioritizes the efficiency of two independently operated, smaller loads or the straightforward capacity of a single, larger wash chamber. The choice between the Fisher & Paykel DD24SAX9 24 Drawers Full Console Dishwasher in Stainless and a more traditional single-tub unit often boils down to whether you value the ability to run two distinct wash programs simultaneously, even if it means occasional compromises on fitting oversized items.
For those prioritizing the convenience of running small, separate loads, the Fisher & Paykel Series 9 Integrated Tall Double DishDrawer™ Dishwasher is a compelling choice for its twin-drawer flexibility.
What to Look For in Best Dishwashers with Cutlery Drawers
Cutlery drawer design and capacity
Fisher & Paykel’s DishDrawer™ dishwashers often place cutlery in the upper rack, offering a convenient alternative to traditional third racks and providing dedicated space for utensils, as seen in models like the Fisher & Paykel DD24SAX9 24 Drawers Full Console Dishwasher in Stainless which accommodates 7 place settings. This design prioritizes ease of loading and unloading, minimizing bending by allowing users to position the drawer at bench height. For larger cutlery items, the depth and width of these compartments are engineered to prevent nesting and ensure thorough cleaning.
While some models, like the Fisher and Paykel Double DishDrawer Dishwasher, 14 Place Settings (EZKleen), offer generous capacity for a full wash, the drawer system inherently streamlines the process of managing cutlery compared to a separate, sometimes cramped, third rack.
Quick Best Dishwashers With Cutlery Drawers Buying Checklist
- Drawer Type Confirm if the cutlery drawer is a full-width third rack or a pull-out drawer.
- Drawer Access Ensure the drawer slides smoothly and is easily accessible during loading and unloading.
- Utensil Stability Check if the drawer has dedicated slots or dividers to keep cutlery from tipping.
- Flexibility Look for drawers that can accommodate larger utensils like ladles or whisks.
- Cleaning Performance Verify that the cutlery drawer allows for optimal water circulation to ensure thorough cleaning.
- Integration Consider how the cutlery drawer affects the capacity and layout of the main racks below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Advantages Of A Dishwasher With A Cutlery Drawer?
Dishwashers with cutlery drawers offer superior organization and cleaning for your silverware. This dedicated space prevents utensils from nesting, ensuring they get thoroughly cleaned and are easy to unload, making kitchen chores more efficient.
How Does A Cutlery Drawer Improve Dishwashing Performance?
A cutlery drawer enhances washing by separating utensils, preventing food particles from clinging and allowing better water flow. This targeted approach ensures each piece of cutlery is exposed to spray jets, leading to a more spotless and hygienic result.
Are Cutlery Drawers Difficult To Load And Unload?
Modern cutlery drawers are designed for ease of use, with smooth-sliding mechanisms and often dedicated slots. This feature simplifies loading and makes unloading a breeze, as items are neatly arranged and readily accessible when dry.
Can A Cutlery Drawer Accommodate Larger Kitchen Tools?
Many cutlery drawers are designed with flexibility in mind, offering adjustable compartments or sufficient space for larger items like spatulas, ladles, or whisks. This versatility maximizes the utility of the dishwasher’s third rack.
Is The Space For Cutlery In A Drawer As Effective As A Traditional Basket?
Yes, cutlery drawers are generally more effective than traditional baskets because they prevent utensils from falling through or clumping together. This separation ensures better water circulation around each piece, leading to a more thorough clean.
Final Words
Investing in the best dishwashers with cutlery drawers can significantly streamline your kitchen cleanup. These models offer enhanced organization, superior washing performance for your cutlery, and an overall more convenient dishwashing experience. Upgrade your kitchen efficiency and enjoy spotless silverware with these innovative appliances.
