It’s hard to imagine appliances that were made without the user in mind, but for many appliance shoppers with disabilities, this was the reality for a very, very long time. It wasn’t until the ADA act was passed that brands started developing appliances that took the needs of these individuals into consideration, so users of every background could use their products without limitations.
That’s especially a perk when it comes to dishwashing. Between loading, unloading, and searching for that favorite bowl or coffee mug, accessibility is everything, and ADA dishwashers made the job easier on users with limited reach and special needs. To learn more about these appliances and a list of the best ADA compliant dishwasher from six different categories, follow along in this buying guide with product reviews.
Explore More: Everything You Need to Know about Dishwashers
At a Glance:
What is an ADA Compliant Dishwasher?
What are the Benefits of an ADA Compliant Dishwasher?
Our Top ADA Compliant Dishwasher Picks
Explaining ADA Compliant
Before 1990, appliance shoppers with special physical needs were forced to settle for products with standard dimensions that made operation less than convenient. However, with the passing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), buyers gained access to ADA appliances with specialized designs that addressed the concerns of these buyers.
What is an ADA Compliant Dishwasher?
While subtle, ADA compliant dishwashers come with a few key differences. Most notable is ADA dishwasher height. While standard dishwashers measure between 33–34 inches tall, ADA dishwashers measure 32 inches tall in order to fit beneath compliant countertops.
Function has also been optimized, from racks that are fully reachable from the front of the appliance to controls that are easy to grab and use, all while using a single arm.
Related: The Best Energy-Efficient Dishwashers
The Benefits of an ADA Compliant Dishwasher
The primary benefit of an ADA compliant dishwasher is its superior access for individuals with physical limitations. The lower height makes it easier for persons who use a wheelchair, while the easy-access interior and user-friendly controls make it simple for users of all backgrounds to operate. Additionally, all controls require a maximum of five pounds of strength to activate to make the experience more efficient.
Our Top ADA Compliant Dishwasher Picks
Best Overall: GE® 24" Built-In Dishwasher-Stainless Steel (GDT225SSLSS)
Clean without compromise inside this GE ADA compliant dishwasher that’s packed with great features to make after-dinner cleanup easy. Choose a preselected wash cycle or let the Autosense Cycle with light sensors determine how long and hot to wash a load based on how dirty dishes are. With a 3-Level Wash system and the GE Piranha hard food disposer, all you need to do is place the dishes, run a cycle, and enjoy dishes that are spot-free and ready to set the table.
Features:
- 3-Level Wash system
- Autosense Cycle
- Piranha Hard Food Disposer
- Stainless steel tub
- 51 dBA
Best Value: ASKO 30 Series 24" Built In Dishwasher-Panel Ready (DFI663)
The ASKO 30 Series Panel Ready Dishwasher is perfect for those who are looking for an ADA compliant dishwasher that is both affordable and highly adjustable. This dishwasher features 8 spray zones as well as a self-cleaning system, making it easy to keep your dishes clean without any manual effort. In addition, the quiet operation of this dishwasher ensures that it will not disturb your peace while it cleans your dishes.
Features:
- 8Spray™ Wash System
- SCS+ - Super Cleaning System+™
- 11 Cycle Programs
Best Luxury: Bosch© 800 Series 24" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher (SGX78B55UC)
Select a Bosch ADA compliant dishwasher for one of the most advanced dishwashing machines on the market. Load dishes with ease with the accommodation of an upper third rack and Bosch Rackmatic technology that switches between nine different heights for maximum loading versatility. This smart dishwasher also comes with PrecisionWash that uses powerful sensors to detect soil levels, plus CrystalDry, Bosch’s exclusive drying setting that uses special minerals to leave dishes without puddles or droplets.
Features:
- PrecisionWash System
- CrystalDry technology
- Rackmatic adjustable middle rack
- 3rd rack
- Home Connect wireless controls
- 46 dBA
Best Sanitizing ADA Dishwasher: Bosch© 300 Series 24" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher (SGE53B55UC)
No surface is left unclean when you run a load inside this Bosch ADA dishwasher. Its series of high-performance features like PrecisionWash and PureDry technology fully submerge each plate, cup, and piece of silverware in a state-of-the-art wash for table-ready dishes the first time. Enjoy the extra convenience of a nine-level adjustable middle rack, Home Connect Wi-Fi app management, plus a silent 46-dBA operation that lets you run a load without noisy interruptions.
Features:
- PrecisionWash System
- Plastic-safe PureDry System
- Rackmatic adjustable middle rack
- Home Connect wireless controls
- Stainless steel tub
- 46 dBA
Best Smart ADA Dishwasher: LG 24" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher (ADFD5448AT)
The power to start and stop a load of dishes is easier than ever with ThinQ Technology on this 32-inch height dishwasher from LG. Simply select a cycle from a smart device and let the LG QuadWash system with four spray arms with rotating action shower dishes in a full clean. Unlock more room to fit bulky dishes by simply adjusting the EasyRack middle tray with three unique height settings that smoothly adjust from level to level. Once a cycle is done, this dishwasher with 14 place settings automatically opens, venting steam and moisture for dishes that are dry without using extra energy.
Features:
- QuadWash Technology
- EasyRack Plus
- ThinQ Technology
- Auto Open door
- Stainless steel tub
- Energy Star certified
Best 18” ADA Dishwasher: GE Profile® 18" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher (PDT145SSLSS)
Small but mighty, this 18-inch ADA dishwasher from GE Profile is a compact yet convenient addition to kitchens with tight space. Wash up to eight place settings with its 3-Level wash system that targets the upper, middle, and lower zones for a complete wash. Debris that washes off goes through the GE Piranha Hard Disposer that pulverizes foods at 3,600 rotations per minute, ensuring a spotless finish for dishes.
Features:
- Piranha Hard Food disposer
- 3-Level Wash System
- Stainless steel tub
- Autosense Cycle
- 47 dBA
- Energy Star certified
Our Choosing Process
Bad design and a tedious user experience are red flags for any appliance, but especially for ADA dishwashers. While making our list, we followed three core principles in order to ensure a smooth process for all members of the home.
Design
The days where ADA standard dishwashers with gaudy designs are long gone. Nowadays, many brands—even luxury brands, like Bosch—incorporate elegant designs that allow these specialized appliances to fit seamlessly into kitchen schemes. We also placed heavy value on the design of racks, gliding mechanism, and door and control design, so every stage of use is enjoyable.
Brand Spotlight: Our Review of Bosch Dishwashers
Performance
There should be no difference in how well an ADA dishwasher cleans compares to a standard dishwasher. Short dishwashers still come with plenty of place settings and are capable of delivering powerful dish care just like their counterparts. Additionally, select models even come with Wi-Fi enabled controls for even easier operation for users with physical limitations.
Noise Level
Generally, ADA dishwashers register on noise levels around 50 decibels (dBA). The quietest models on the market are as silent as 38 dBA, meaning ADA compliant dishwashers run on the louder side of the noise spectrum. However, well-insulated models with stainless-steel tubs are the quietest options available, keeping operation as loud as a regular conversation.
Why Trust Us?
At Spencer’s TV & Appliance, we strongly believe every appliance shopper should be entitled to an experience that is simple and satisfying. That’s why we stock a healthy selection of ADA appliances in our catalog to meet the needs of every user’s lifestyle and background.
Our story has always been about accommodating the needs of every one of our customers, and now nearly 50 years later, we’re more than committed to providing the service with every purchase. It’s these virtues that have made us more than just another appliance supplier—we’re Arizona’s appliance provider with the largest selection and best prices around.
Shop ADA Dishwashers at Spencer’s TV & Appliance
No matter your needs, at Spencer’s TV & Appliance, our product specialists have the right knowledge to pair you with an appliance that is easy to use and with the powerful performance you expect.
To discover ADA dishwashers and more, shop online or visit one our 10 appliance showrooms across the Valley, including locations in Phoenix, Mesa, Glendale, and Scottsdale!