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What decibel is a quiet dishwasher?

Dishwashers typically have noise levels between 40 to 50 decibels (dBA), with models on the lower end measuring quieter than their counterparts. If you are looking for a dishwasher that can help you clean up after dinner and run quietly in the background during family movie night, explore Whirlpool brand’s dishwashers with sounds as low as 41 dBA.

A Whirlpool® dishwasher and range in a modern kitchen with teal cabinets. A Whirlpool® dishwasher and range in a modern kitchen with teal cabinets.

What does decibel mean in a dishwasher?

Decibels are used to measure the noise levels in a dishwasher to give you an idea of how loud it will be when running. Denoted with levels of dBA, this translates to “A-weighted decibels,” and the lower the score, the quieter your appliance will be. Generally speaking, modern dishwashers can range between 40 to 50 dBA, which is similar to the sound of someone typing on a keyboard.

To determine this ranking, dishwashers are measured against other kitchen appliances and recorded by a third-party manufacturing company, Owens Corning. Discover quiet dishwashers from Whirlpool brand to find the right model for your home.

A person closing a stainless steel dishwasher surrounded by teal cabinetry. A person closing a stainless steel dishwasher surrounded by teal cabinetry.

What makes a quiet dishwasher?

The structure and mechanics of a dishwasher can go a long way in minimizing loud noises in your kitchen. Factors such as insulation, material, disposal features and water flow can affect the decibel level of your appliance.

  • Insulation - The type and amount of insulation between your dishwasher and cabinetry plays a role in muffling the sounds emitted while your appliance is running.

  • Material - Dishwashers made with stainless steel help dampen the noise and are generally quieter than those structured with plastic. Explore Whirlpool® stainless steel dishwashers for a quiet appliance with a sleek finish to match your kitchen layout.

  • Disposal - Dishwashers with a food disposal feature can emit loud sounds, but many newer models are equipped with a food trap to help minimize noise output.

  • Water Flow - For your dishwasher to function properly, water is pumped in, cycled through a wash and pumped out after the cycle is complete. This process can be noisy, but factors such as water force, water speed, quiet pump systems and cycle innovations can help lower the dBA rating for a quieter dishwasher.

A person starting a dishwasher cycle on a top control panel. A person starting a dishwasher cycle on a top control panel.

Comparing dishwasher decibel noise levels

For a better understanding of decibel levels, refer to the chart below to compare with everyday sounds. Typically, dishwashers range from 40 to 50 dBA, with a lower score resulting in a quieter appliance.

Decibel (dBA) Level Equivalent To:
40 dBA Whispering in a library
45 dBA Washing hands
50 dBA Typing on a keyboard
60 dBA Crashing waves
70 dBA+ Chirping birds to blaring alarm clocks
A Whirlpool® dishwasher and appliances in a kitchen with an island. A Whirlpool® dishwasher and appliances in a kitchen with an island.

Choosing the right quiet dishwasher

Knowing the factors that help minimize dishwasher noise and understanding decibel levels are the keys to finding a quiet semi or fully-integrated dishwasher for your home. Consider select Whirlpool® dishwashers with a 40 to 50 dBA for a quiet appliance that runs in the background while you get back to what matters most. For tips on configuration, style, size and features, check out this dishwasher buying guide to help you choose the right model for the clean you need.

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Shop the quietest dishwashers from Whirlpool brand

A quiet dishwasher from Whirlpool brand can handle everyday mealtime messes and run discreetly while it works. With convenient features like Third Racks and models with sounds as low as 41 dBA, you’ll always have the room you need to load more and run less for a quiet operation.

Learn more about dishwashers from Whirlpool brand

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