45cm vs 60cm Dishwasher: Which Size Is Right for Your Kitchen?

Choosing between a 45cm and 60cm dishwasher comes down to your kitchen space, household size and how often you cook. This guide helps you make the right call.

The Standard: 60cm Dishwashers

The 60cm (standard) dishwasher is the most common size in Australian homes. It typically holds 12–14 place settings per cycle, making it ideal for families of 3 or more. The larger drum also handles pots, pans and baking trays more comfortably.

Best for: Families, households that cook regularly, homes with standard kitchen cabinetry

Capacity: 12–14 place settings

Width: 600mm

The Compact Option: 45cm Dishwashers

The 45cm dishwasher is narrower and designed for smaller kitchens, apartments, units or couples who don't generate a lot of washing-up. It typically holds 9–10 place settings per cycle, which is plenty for 1–2 people cooking regularly.

Best for: Apartments, studios, couples, homes with limited under-bench space

Capacity: 9–10 place settings

Width: 450mm

Key Decision Factors

How Many People Are in Your Household?

• 1–2 people: 45cm is usually sufficient
• 3+ people: 60cm is recommended
• Families of 5+: 60cm is a must, and running daily cycles is normal

How Much Kitchen Space Do You Have?

Measure your under-bench opening carefully. Standard Australian kitchen cabinetry is designed for 60cm appliances, so if you have a standard opening, a 60cm dishwasher will fit perfectly. If your kitchen has a smaller opening or you're in an apartment, a 45cm may be your only option.

Do You Cook with Large Pots and Trays?

Larger pots, baking dishes and oven trays are much harder to fit in a 45cm dishwasher. If you cook regularly and need to wash large items, go with a 60cm model.

Price Difference

45cm dishwashers tend to be slightly cheaper than comparable 60cm models. However, the price difference is usually not significant enough to be a deciding factor on its own.

Top Brands in Both Sizes

Bosch, Miele, AEG, Smeg and Westinghouse all make both 45cm and 60cm dishwashers. We carry a wide range of both sizes at Oceania Appliances.

Shop Dishwashers with Free Sydney Delivery

Browse our full range of 45cm and 60cm dishwashers online or in our Wetherill Park showroom. Free delivery across Sydney and a 3–6 month warranty on every dishwasher.

Call: 0493 142 999 | Showroom: 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park — open 7 days, 10am to 8pm