Is two dishwashers in a kitchen a good idea or appliance overload? Experts weigh in on the pros and cons of doubling up

If you seem to live in a perpetual cycle of loading and unloading the dishwasher, you may be wondering if two dishwashers in a kitchen a good idea. I know it's something I've certainly considered in the past when designing a kitchen and one I'd think about again.

But, with energy efficiency and rising water bills an ongoing concern, is doubling up a good idea or a luxurious extravagance you don't really need?

We asked three kitchen experts for their views on should you have two dishwashers in a kitchen and here's what they recommend.

Having two dishwashers in a kitchen isn't just for show

For those of you thinking that having two dishwashers in a kitchen is more about appearance than practicality, our experts disagree, listing a whole range of benefits, including how it could even serve to benefit the longevity of your kitchen equipment.

"Having two dishwashers in a kitchen also enables you to have one dedicated to delicate items like glassware and the other to heavy-duty cleaning such as for for pots and pans," says Molly Chandler, designer at Willis & Stone. "This may help to prevent breakages or chips occurring," she notes.

So if you entertain a lot and like to keep your crockery and glassware in top condition, perhaps it's not as unnecessary an idea as you may first think. Read on for more expert advice on the pros and cons of two dishwashers in a kitchen and how to get the best results if you take the plunge.

Molly Chandler

Molly Chandler is a designer with a wealth of experience in creating quality kitchens to suit a wide variety of customer needs. From initial idea through to completed design, Molly understands just how to make a kitchen work well and look the best it can.

The pros of having two dishwashers in a kitchen

So when should you consider having two dishwashers in a kitchen and what are the benefits of investing in more than one of the same kitchen appliance?

"Having multiple dishwashers in a kitchen can be a real game-changer for larger households, avid entertainers or those who cook often," says Nathan Kingsbury, creative director at Nathan Kingsbury Design.

"The main pro is the efficiency it brings, with one dishwasher being able to be loaded whilst the other runs, ensuring you always have clean dishes, cutlery and glassware at hand."

"If you often host large gatherings, two dishwashers can keep the kitchen running smoothly, allowing you to clean up as you go," says Cassie Jones, brand manager at Masterclass Kitchens, "and for busy households, the ability to alternate between clean and dirty loads offers unparalleled efficiency."

The added benefit of two dishwashers in a kitchen? It can appeal to those who prefer modern kitchen ideas where minimalistic design favours a less busy kitchen worktop, although if you're weighing up freestanding or fitted kitchens, it's unlikely you'd want two on display if you choose the former.

"Allowing one dishwasher to handle dirty dishes while the other stores clean ones, reduces the need for immediate unloading and helping to make the kitchen appear more clutter-free as dishes are not stacked up on the worktop," notes Molly Chandler.

"There is also a time-saving aspect," she adds, "as two dishwashers means there is no waiting period between loads, which can be helpful when there is a lot of washing up such as after parties or at Christmas."

And of course, even if you aren't investing in a particularly luxury high end kitchen, appearances do matter, "and having dual dishwashers does add a touch of luxury to the kitchen," confirms Molly, "enhancing its premium appeal and potentially increasing the home’s resale value."

Shop for two dishwashers in a kitchen

Two dishwashers in a kitchen – the cons

But, while two dishwashers in a kitchen may suddenly seem like a must have, the concept isn't without its flaws.

"Adding a second dishwasher increases the overall expense of your kitchen ideas, both in terms of the appliance itself and potentially larger plumbing requirements," notes Cassie Jones.

"One thing to bear in mind is that two dishwashers in a kitchen require a lot more space, and especially in small kitchen ideas, where space is already at a premium, dedicating cabinetry space to a second dishwasher may not be a practical decision," advises Nathan Kingsbury.

If you live in a moderately sized and occupied home, it could end up being the luxury that you could live without. And, with two dishwashers to potentially empty, "a second dishwasher may unintentionally become a storage vessel, leading to frustration when searching for items you assumed were in cupboards," warns Cassie.

And of course, the potential increase in water consumption is to be considered, although it could be argued that this is more about frequency of use rather than the amount of appliances you have. You may for example have two dishwashers as you have a back kitchen, but this doesn't necessarily mean you will use twice the amount of dishes and therefore be running extra loads.

Nathan Kingsbury

Nathan has over 20 years experience in the kitchen industry. For Nathan, designing kitchens is more than just a business; it’s a vocation and passion. He is a natural artist with an inventive, engineering mind, a trained craftsman with a precise eye for detail and a perfectionist.

Cassie Jones

Cassie Jones is the brand manager at British kitchen manufacturer Masterclass Kitchens. Crafting beautiful, functional spaces with nearly 50 years of expertise, their range includes timeless handled designs, modern handleless kitchens, and the Signature Collection, bespoke-style storage at an attainable price.

Choosing the right type of dishwashers and where to install them

So, if two dishwashers in a kitchen is for you, what do the experts advise in terms of the type you should install and where to put them both?

“Multiple dishwashers can take up a larger amount of space, especially if you place them within the kitchen. So, before fitting these appliances, consider the best way to maximise the space available," advises Paul Richardson, showroom stylist at Wren Kitchens & Bedrooms. If your kitchen can’t hold an extra dishwasher, a utility room within short distance of the kitchen is a great place to add extra appliances.

“Purchasing two different styles and sizes of dishwasher can additionally help to make loading more efficient, especially if you are creating different amounts and profiles of washing up each day. For example, opting for one with ample plate and bowl compartments and a section specifically for cutlery and another for large items such as pots and trays will make cleaning up after large meals a little easier.”

"If you are going for two dishwashers, then also consider compact or drawer-style models (especially for smaller kitchens), which can be used independently and are ideal for smaller, more frequent loads," adds Nathan Kingsbury.

"Alternatively, pairing a standard, full-sized model with a high-efficiency dishwasher can provide flexibility for managing different types of dishwashing needs."

Nathan's extra valuable suggestion? "Just always try and choose quiet models to minimise noise when both machines are running at the same time." This Miele G7191 SCVi 125 Integrated Dishwasher available from John Lewis is a Quiet Mark certified product that could be the perfect fit.

In terms of placement, it's about considering what your practical and functional needs are. "Position dishwashers near key work zones, such as either side of the sink or prep area, for maximum efficiency," says Cassie Jones.

"Your primary dishwasher should remain near the sink for easy loading of rinsed dishes, whilst the secondary dishwasher could be installed on the opposite side or in a butler's pantry," adds Nathan.

On the other hand, if speed is top of your list, "installing them side by side will allow for seamless unloading," says Molly Chandler. "Many people also favour placing one in a kitchen island idea which can also work by providing easy access during meal preparation."

Think that you need a large space to have two dishwashers in a kitchen? Cassie Jones says, "while more space is helpful, even medium-sized kitchens can accommodate two dishwashers with clever planning."

Thinking of switching out a kitchen cupboard and adding one yourself? Follow this expert advice on how to plumb in a dishwasher and find out which one we'd recommend buying in our guide to the best integrated dishwashers.