If you're planning a kitchen remodel, chances are your vision doesn’t include bulky, industrial-looking appliances.
Stainless steel dishwashers can clash with custom cabinetry, disrupting the flow of a cozy farmhouse kitchen, modern minimalist space, or timeless cottage design. While a dishwasher is essential for everyday convenience, it doesn’t have to take center stage—or compromise your style.
That’s where panel-ready dishwashers come in. These integrated dishwashers are designed to blend into your cabinetry, allowing you to attach a custom cabinet front that makes the appliance virtually disappear. The result? A cohesive, clutter-free kitchen layout with a sleek, built-in look that highlights your design choices, not your appliances.
From upscale interiors to cozy, curated kitchens, panel-ready dishwashers combine modern functionality with a built-in look that complements any style.
In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of panel-ready dishwashers and share a few top-rated models that fit beautifully into your dream kitchen.
Create a Beautiful Kitchen with a Panel Ready Dishwasher
Whatever style your kitchen may be, discover how a panel-ready dishwasher will only enhance your aesthetic.
Shop Panel Ready DishwashersHow Do Panel-Ready Dishwashers Work?
Panel-ready dishwashers are designed to blend seamlessly into your kitchen by allowing you to attach a custom cabinet front that matches the rest of your cabinetry. Here’s how they work—and why they’re a smart solution for design-conscious homeowners:
✅ Designed for Custom Kitchens
No two kitchens are alike. From unique angles to non-standard cabinet sizes, custom cabinetry is often the go-to for creating a cohesive, well-fitted kitchen layout. Panel-ready dishwashers support this approach by giving you the flexibility to hide your dishwasher behind a matching cabinet door, preserving your kitchen’s overall aesthetic.
✅ Controls Are Hidden Inside
Unlike traditional models, most panel-ready appliances feature hidden control panels located on the top edge of the door. This design keeps the front completely flush with surrounding cabinets and allows for easy operation without disrupting your design.
✅ Minimal Installation Work Required
These dishwashers are built specifically for cabinet panel installation, meaning they come ready with mounting brackets or kits. There’s no need for advanced woodworking—just align and attach the panel, and your built-in dishwasher will disappear into your cabinetry.
✅ No More Stainless Steel Distractions
If you’re going for a sleek, high-end kitchen or a warm, traditional style, a stainless steel appliance can stand out in the wrong way. A panel-ready dishwasher keeps the focus on your backsplash, lighting, and overall color palette, not on a shiny appliance.
➜ Learn More: Ranking Bosch & Miele Dishwashers [Guide + Reviews]
Pros and Cons of Panel-Ready Dishwashers
Considering a panel-ready dishwasher for your kitchen remodel? Here’s a quick breakdown of the benefits and potential drawbacks to help you decide if it’s the right choice.
Pros
Seamless Kitchen Design
Blends in perfectly with surrounding cabinetry for a streamlined, built-in look.
Customizable Appearance
Accepts cabinet panels in any style or color, matching your kitchen’s unique aesthetic.
Reduced Visual Clutter
Hides stainless steel or plastic finishes, helping the kitchen feel more cohesive and elevated.
Higher Perceived Home Value
Often associated with high-end or luxury kitchens, making it a desirable upgrade.
Same Performance as Standard Models
Offers all the cleaning power and advanced features of traditional dishwashers.
Cons
Higher Initial Cost
Typically more expensive than standard dishwashers, plus added cost for a custom panel.
Requires Cabinet Matching
Needs a professionally made or matched cabinet face, which may involve extra planning.
Best Built-In Panel Dishwashers for a Custom Look
Upgrade your kitchen with a dishwasher that disappears into your design. These top panel-ready models offer powerful cleaning, quiet performance, and a seamless built-in look.
Bosch 800 Series 24" Custom Panel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop now Bosch 800 Series 24" Custom Panel Built-In Dishwasher
Bosch’s 800 Series panel-ready dishwasher is a top-tier option for those seeking powerful cleaning in a quiet, energy-efficient package.
With premium design and seamless cabinet integration, it’s ideal for luxury kitchens. This model excels in water efficiency and offers superior drying results with CrystalDry technology.
The Bosch custom panel dishwasher runs almost silently, making it perfect for open-concept living spaces.
Top Features
- CrystalDry for better drying performance
- 42 dBA ultra-quiet operation
- Flexible 3rd rack for extra loading space
Monogram 24" Custom Panel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop now Monogram 24" Custom Panel Built-In Dishwasher
This Monogram panel ready dishwasher delivers luxury performance and refined style, easily concealed behind your custom cabinetry.
It’s designed to tackle tough food residue with targeted wash jets and a smart soil sensor. The advanced drying system ensures dishes come out spotless and cabinet-ready.
It’s an excellent choice for premium kitchens seeking a built-in dishwasher that balances design and function.
Top Features
- Advanced wash system with zone-targeted jets
- Built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and diagnostics
- Interior LED lighting for easy loading
GE Profile 18" Custom Panel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop now GE Profile 18" Custom Panel Built-In Dishwasher
Ideal for small kitchens, this compact 18" panel-ready dishwasher by GE Profile offers surprisingly strong cleaning in a space-saving format.
It fits flush with cabinetry and is perfect for apartments, condos, or secondary kitchen spaces. Despite its size, it’s Energy Star rated and handles full loads efficiently while maintaining a quiet wash cycle.
Top Features
- Compact design for small kitchen installations
- Autosense Cycle with soil detection
- Stainless steel interior for durability
LG Studio 24” Panel Ready Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop now LG Studio 24” Panel Ready Built-In Dishwasher
Blending modern style with smart performance, the LG Studio panel-ready dishwasher offers advanced cleaning power and Wi-Fi connectivity.
The TrueSteam feature reduces water spots and improves drying, while the QuadWash system ensures dishes get thoroughly cleaned from every angle. It’s a high-tech choice for homeowners who want quiet, seamless performance.
Top Features
- QuadWash multi-motion spray arms
- TrueSteam for sparkling clean dishes
- Wi-Fi-enabled smart functions via LG ThinQ
➜ Learn More: Miele Dishwasher Reviews [Buying Guide]
Thermador Emerald 24" Custom Panel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop now Thermador 24" Custom Panel Built-In Dishwasher
This Thermador Emerald dishwasher offers a quiet, efficient clean with a sleek panel-ready design that blends into luxury cabinetry.
It's engineered for high-performance washing and drying, making it ideal for gourmet kitchens. With adjustable racks and multiple cleaning zones, it’s built for flexibility and ease.
Top Features
- Powerfully quiet at 48 dBA
- Sens-A-Wash system for precise cleaning
- Customizable racking system
KitchenAid 24" Panel Ready Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop now KitchenAid 24" Panel Ready Dishwasher
KitchenAid delivers dependable, high-performance dishwashing with a panel-ready exterior that matches your custom cabinetry.
The ProWash Cycle adjusts in real time for the best clean, while the durable stainless steel tub ensures long-term reliability.
The KitchenAid panel ready dishwasher is a trusted pick for homeowners looking for powerful cleaning and refined design in one appliance.
Top Features
- ProWash sensor-based cleaning
- Extended ProDry system for thorough drying
- Adjustable middle rack for oversized items
Upgrade Your Kitchen with a Built-In Panel Dishwasher
Ready to create a sleek, custom kitchen that doesn’t sacrifice performance?
Panel-ready dishwashers are the perfect blend of style and function, offering powerful cleaning while blending seamlessly into your cabinetry. At Spencers TV & Appliance, we carry top brands like Bosch, KitchenAid, LG, and Thermador to help you find the perfect fit for your space.
Visit one of our locations or browse online to explore our full selection of built-in panel-ready dishwashers. Whether you’re remodeling or upgrading, your friends in the business are here to help.
➜ Learn More: Best Built In Dishwashers | Top Rated Models Reviewed
Frequently Asked Questions
A panel-ready dishwasher is designed to accommodate a custom cabinet panel on its front, allowing it to blend in seamlessly with your kitchen cabinetry. This creates a built-in look that hides the appliance and supports a more cohesive kitchen design. The control panel is typically located on the top edge of the door for a clean exterior.
No, only dishwashers specifically labeled as panel-ready are designed to accept custom cabinet panels. Standard dishwashers lack the hardware and flush surface needed for proper panel attachment. Modifying a non-panel-ready dishwasher is not recommended and may affect performance and warranty.
Panel-ready dishwashers often cost more than standard models due to their specialized design and premium features. You may also need to purchase or custom-make a matching cabinet panel, which can add to the overall expense. However, they add significant visual value to high-end or custom kitchens.
Yes, panel-ready dishwashers offer the same cleaning power, advanced features, and energy efficiency as their standard counterparts. Many top brands, like Bosch, KitchenAid, and Miele, include powerful wash systems, adjustable racks, and quiet operation in their panel-ready models.
Most 24" panel-ready dishwashers are designed to fit standard cabinet openings, though exact dimensions may vary slightly. It’s important to measure your space carefully and confirm specifications before installation, especially to accommodate the added thickness of the cabinet panel.
No, panel-ready dishwashers do not include the cabinet panel. Homeowners must order a custom panel separately to match their kitchen cabinetry. This allows for full design flexibility and ensures the dishwasher aligns with the overall kitchen aesthetic.
Yes, panel-ready dishwashers are ideal for small or open-concept kitchens where visual flow is important. By blending into surrounding cabinets, they help reduce visual clutter and make the space appear larger and more streamlined.
Why Trust Spencers TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencers TV & Appliance has grown to 11 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. After all, getting customers the best price and personal attention is how we compete with big-box stores, day in and day out.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencer’s and see what you’re missing!
Shop Panel-Ready Dishwashers at Spencers
At Spencers TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop panel-ready dishwashers online today. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you find your perfect panel-ready dishwasher. Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!
➜ Learn More: Top Reasons to Consider High-End Dishwashers