Built-under Dishwashers

Built-Under Dishwashers

A built-under dishwasher is designed to slot permanently beneath your kitchen benchtop. The sides and top are unfinished because they sit inside the cabinetry, and the machine's own front panel (usually stainless steel or black) remains visible. It's a cleaner look than a freestanding machine, without the cost or complexity of full cabinetry integration.

Built-Under vs Freestanding vs Integrated

Built-under is the middle ground between a freestanding dishwasher and a fully integrated model. Unlike a freestanding machine, it is designed to be installed permanently and cannot easily be relocated. Unlike an integrated model, no custom cabinet door panel is required. Controls and the dishwasher's own front panel remain visible, which makes it simpler to operate and less expensive to install.

It's a popular choice for permanent kitchens where you want a tidy, built-in look without the cost of full integration.

What to Look For

The brand makeup of built-under ranges skews towards mid-to-premium, so most models are well-specified. Key things to compare:

• Height and fit. Standard 60cm built-under models stand around 82-85cm tall and most have adjustable feet for levelling under the benchtop. Check the height specification before purchasing.

• Noise. Built-under models in the mid-range typically run at 44-46dB. Premium models from Bosch, Miele and ASKO reach as low as 38-42dB, which is near-silent in an open-plan kitchen.

• Capacity. Standard 60cm models handle 12 to 15 place settings. 45cm slimline built-under models are also available for tighter spaces.

• Cutlery tray or basket. Third-rack cutlery drawers (a flat tray in the top of the machine) are available on many mid-to-upper models and free up the lower baskets for more plates and bowls.

• Drying technology. AutoOpen drying, zeolite drying and condensation drying all outperform basic heated-air drying, particularly for plastics. Worth comparing if you have a lot of plastic containers to wash.

Brands We Stock

Our built-under range includes Fisher & Paykel, Smeg, ASKO, Bosch, Miele, Westinghouse, Haier and LG. ASKO is a strong choice if water efficiency and Scandinavian build quality are priorities. Bosch is the go-to for quiet operation at the mid-range. Fisher & Paykel's built-under dishdrawer models offer a unique drawer format that suits smaller households.

Browse semi integrated and fully integrated dishwashers if you want a more concealed finish, or see our Dishwasher Buying Guide for a full comparison of all types.

FAQs

1. What is a built-under dishwasher?

A built-under dishwasher is designed to be permanently installed under your kitchen benchtop. It sits flush with the cabinetry and has its own visible front panel. The top and sides are unfinished, as they are hidden by the surrounding cabinetry.

2. What is the difference between built-under and integrated dishwashers?

Both types sit under the benchtop, but the key difference is the front panel. A built-under dishwasher shows its own stainless steel or coloured front panel. An integrated dishwasher (semi or fully) has a custom cabinet door panel fitted over the front to match your kitchen joinery. Integrated models give a more concealed look but require a cabinetmaker to supply and fit the door panel.

3. Do built-under dishwashers need a plumber?

Yes. Water inlet and drainage need to be connected by a licenced plumber. If there is no existing power point in the right location, an electrician will also be needed. Unlike a freestanding machine, built-under dishwashers are also typically positioned and levelled during installation, which may involve a small amount of cabinetry adjustment.

4. Can I replace a freestanding dishwasher with a built-under?

In most cases, yes. If the existing plumbing and power are already in place, it is usually straightforward to swap a freestanding model for a built-under one. The main thing to check is height: built-under dishwashers are typically 82-85cm, and you need to confirm that your benchtop height and cabinet opening are compatible.

5. What brands make built-under dishwashers in Australia?

The main brands available in Australia include Bosch, Miele, ASKO, Fisher & Paykel, Smeg and Westinghouse. Bosch and ASKO have the widest selection at the mid-to-premium level. Fisher & Paykel offers dishdrawer-style built-under options that are unique in the market.