Achieving a Built-In Look with Island Dishwashers
Washing dishes can feel like an endless chore. Between meal prep, busy family dinners and entertaining guests, dirty dishes seem to accumulate at lightning speed. Loading them into the dishwasher provides a little relief - but only if your dishwasher is conveniently located. Having to trek dishes across the kitchen multiple times per day can become a tedious task.
Integrating your dishwasher directly into a kitchen island provides the ultimate solution. Hidden neatly behind cabinetry, an island dishwasher gives you easy access to quickly deal with dishes right where you need it. Achieving a built-in look helps the dishwasher seem like part of the overall kitchen design rather than a hulking appliance dominating the space.
Benefits of Integrating Dishwashers into Kitchen Islands
Installing your dishwasher in an island offers numerous advantages over setting it along the wall or under the counter across from the sink:
- Increased functionality and storage space in the kitchen - Tucking the dishwasher out of the way frees up wall space for extra cabinets and countertops.
- Provides a designated area for dishes and utensils, freeing up counter space - Plates, bowls and glasses have a home right where you need them most during food prep and cleanup.
- Allows for the creation of a separate dining area or social side of the kitchen - With the cleanup zone organized on the island, the rest of the kitchen can be designed for conversing and mingling.
- Reduces the need to carry dishes to and from the main sink, making cleanup easier and more convenient - Everything happens in one spot, minimizing the legwork.
- Can help to hide unsightly dishes and clutter during entertaining or meal prep - Keeping dirty dishes out of sight helps the kitchen stay neat and welcoming for guests.
By thoughtfully incorporating your dishwasher into your kitchen island, you can maximize convenience while minimizing unnecessary steps. Having an organized workflow is essential for an efficient, functional cook space.
Choosing the Right Dishwasher for Island Installation
Island dishwashers require some special considerations during selection. You'll want to ensure you choose an option well-suited for this built-in application.
Size Considerations
First, consider the amount of available space within your island design. Island dishwashers are available in standard 24-inch widths as well as slimmer 18-inch options. Measure carefully to ensure the dishwasher you select will fit into the allotted space.
Capacity is also key. Choose a dishwasher that can accommodate the needs of your household. Larger families may prefer a model with an adjustable upper rack to fit more plates and cookware. For smaller households, a compact 18-inch dishwasher may provide adequate capacity.
Style Options
Select a dishwasher fully integrated style designed to coordinate with cabinetry for a seamless built-in look. Models with hidden controls blend in even further. Stainless steel tub dishwashers pair well with contemporary kitchen aesthetics.
Special Features
Look for efficiency and convenience features fit for an island install:
- Quiet operation - Unobtrusive performance is essential for island placement where noise is more noticeable.
- Delay start - Program your dishwasher to run when energy rates are lower.
- Auto-release drying - Pop open the dishwasher slightly after the cycle to let humidity escape.
- Bottle jets - Ensure water reaches every spot, including inside tall glasses.
Island Design Factors for Seamless Dishwasher Integration
Careful planning is required when designing your kitchen island to accommodate your dishwasher invisibly and effectively.
Placement
Determine the optimal spot for the dishwasher within the overall island. Keeping it near the sink streamlines workflow. Allow for an access point on at least one side for loading and unloading. Provide adequate clearance from surrounding appliances and fixtures to allow the dishwasher to open fully without obstruction.
Custom Panels
For a truly integrated look, add custom wood panels to match your cabinetry. Depending on your model, these may clip, magnetize or slide into place. Work with an appliance expert to ensure a secure fit. Panels should be sealed properly to prevent damage from moisture over time.
Coordinating Finishes
Select finishes that seamlessly blend the dishwasher with the rest of the kitchen. Stainless steel models allow you to carry over other stainless accents from fixtures and hardware. White and panel-ready models can be customized with wood panels to match cabinetry.
Installation Tips for a Built-In Look
Proper installation is key to both the function and form of your island dishwasher. Follow these tips to get a polished, integrated result:
Electrical and Plumbing
Island installations often require re-routing services. Hire a professional to connect plumbing to drain lines and tap into electrical sources. An extension cord draped across the floor creates obvious mess and hazard.
Attaching Custom Panels
Take care securing custom panels according to manufacturer instructions to prevent vibrations or shifting during operation. Check panels periodically and re-tighten clips or magnets if needed.
Adjusting Height and Alignment
Use leveling legs to adjust the dishwasher to align flush with surrounding cabinets and countertops. Take the time to finesse a perfect built-in look.
Troubleshooting Common Island Dishwasher Issues
Despite careful planning, you may encounter some problems unique to island installations:
Leaks
Since access is limited, leaks may go unnoticed until damage occurs. Routinely check for signs of water on cabinets or flooring below. Address any faulty seals or connections immediately.
Noise
With the dishwasher enclosed on all sides, normal operating sounds reverberate. Look for options with sound-dampening insulation to reduce noise.
Limited Accessibility
Opening and closing can be a chore with tight clearances. Allow adequate space for the door to fully open to easily load and unload dishes.
Maintaining Your Island Dishwasher
With your dishwasher tucked out of sight, it's easy to overlook care. Follow these tips to keep your island dishwasher running smoothly for the long haul:
Cleaning and Maintenance
Wipe down exterior surfaces and check/clean filters regularly. Use a citrus-scented cleaner to deodorize the interior and run an empty vinegar cycle monthly to prevent soap buildup and mineral deposits.
Long-Term Care
Replace seals and hoses at the first sign of cracks or leaks to prevent catastrophic damage. Lubricate tracks and rollers to ensure smooth operation of racks. Tighten brackets and panels periodically to prevent sagging.
Achieving the Perfect Blend with Your Island Dishwasher
An island dishwasher lets you streamline kitchen workflow while maximizing style. With smart planning and expert installation, you can achieve a built-in look that seems like it was always part of your dream kitchen design.
Design Inspiration
Get inspired by these beautiful examples of island dishwashers integrated seamlessly:
- This spacious kitchen combines warm wood cabinetry with sleek marble and stainless for an eclectic but cohesive look. The paneled dishwasher blends in perfectly.
- Hiding the dishwasher behind a tambour door maintains the clean lines of this contemporary kitchen. It disappears when not in use.
- This compact galley kitchen uses an 18-inch dishwasher flanked by narrow base cabinets for a built-in look that maximizes function.