Cooking for a crowd, using big serving platters, or simply enjoying a meal on oversized dinner plates? Not all dishwashers can handle today’s larger crockery, baking trays, or platters without awkward stacking or poor cleaning results. Here’s what to look for in a dishwasher designed for large plates—and the top models that make clean-up effortless, no matter the size of your dishes.
Quick Picks: Best Dishwashers for Large Plates
- Bosch Serie 8 Free-standing Dishwasher (SMS8EDI01A) – View Price
Best Overall: Extra-tall tub, height-adjustable racks, and foldable tines to fit even the biggest plates and platters. - LG QuadWash Freestanding Dishwasher (LDP6797S) – View Price
Best for Family Loads: Flexible upper rack, large capacity (15 settings), easily fits wide plates, oven trays, and big mixing bowls. - Fisher & Paykel Double DishDrawer Dishwasher – View Price
Best Drawer Style: Each drawer handles plates up to 290mm wide and offers adjustable racks for platters or deep pans.
Why Standard Dishwashers Struggle with Large Plates
- Height limits: Standard top racks block tall dinner plates (28–32cm) on the bottom rack.
- Non-adjustable racks: Some models have fixed racks, making it impossible to fit large trays, platters, or deep dishes.
- Poor water coverage: Crowded or poorly designed racks leave spots or don’t clean the entire surface of big items.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look For
- Height-adjustable upper rack: Raises up for more space below—vital for tall dinner plates and serving dishes.
- Fold-down tines and flexible rack design: Lets you create more room for platters, trays, or wide bowls.
- Extra-tall tub (60cm/24” models): Premium dishwashers offer taller interior space for today’s crockery sizes.
- Third rack for cutlery: Frees up space in the lower basket, so nothing blocks large plates.
- Strong spray arms: Reaches every part of a loaded rack, so big items come out spotless.
- Good reviews for large plate fit: Always check user feedback for real-world fit for oversized items.
Detailed Reviews: Top Dishwashers for Large Plates
Bosch Serie 8 Free-standing Dishwasher
Who it’s for: Households who regularly use dinner plates up to 32cm, serve on big platters, or need room for baking trays and oversized cookware.
- Key Benefits:
- Rackmatic height-adjustable upper basket for up to 5cm more space below.
- Fold-down tines on both racks—create custom space for any dish shape.
- Third rack for utensils and cutlery—frees up both main baskets.
- Handles plates up to 32cm diameter (even with upper rack in high position).
- Superb cleaning and drying—even when fully loaded.
- Pros:
- Best-in-class flexibility for plates, platters, and pans.
- Ultra-quiet and energy efficient.
- Cons:
- Premium price, but a true long-term investment for large families or entertainers.
- Final Verdict: The first choice for anyone with big plates or hosting needs—makes clean-up effortless.
LG QuadWash Freestanding Dishwasher
Who it’s for: Families or home cooks with lots of wide plates, serving dishes, and bakeware.
- Key Benefits:
- SmartRack system—upper rack adjusts to fit tall items below.
- Foldable tines on all racks.
- Fits plates up to 31cm, plus big bowls, baking dishes, and roasting pans.
- QuadWash arms reach every surface, no matter the load.
- Pros:
- Huge capacity, flexible layout, budget-friendly for size.
- Strong, reliable cleaning on full loads.
- Cons:
- Need to adjust racks for very large plates (but easy once you get the hang of it).
- Final Verdict: Excellent value for those with big crockery or who host often.
Fisher & Paykel Double DishDrawer Dishwasher
Who it’s for: Smaller kitchens or families who want ergonomic loading and easy fit for plates up to 29cm.
- Key Benefits:
- Each drawer fits plates up to 29cm (standard dinner and lunch plates).
- Adjustable racks for small trays and platters.
- Run one drawer or both—great for parties or frequent meals.
- Waist-height loading—no bending for heavy platters.
- Pros:
- Flexible, ergonomic, and easy for daily use.
- Good cleaning and drying performance.
- Cons:
- Each drawer slightly smaller than full-size models (so big serving platters might not fit).
- Final Verdict: Top drawer option for smaller plates and homes that want easy, quick clean-up without bending.
Comparison Table: Best Dishwashers for Large Plates
| Model | Max Plate Size | Rack Features | Third Rack | Noise | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch Serie 8 | Up to 32cm | Height-adjust, fold-down tines | Yes | Ultra-quiet | See Price |
| LG QuadWash | Up to 31cm | Height-adjust, flexible layout | No (cutlery basket) | Very quiet | See Price |
| Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer | Up to 29cm | Adjustable, ergonomic drawers | No | Very quiet | See Price |
FAQ Section
How do I fit oversized plates in my dishwasher?
Use the height-adjust feature to raise the top rack. Fold down tines to create open space for wide plates or platters. Always load the biggest items first, then fill in around them.
What if my serving platters are very long?
Some extra-long platters may only fit diagonally or on their edge. Bosch Serie 8 is best for large platters—measure your item before purchase.
Are flexible racks standard on new dishwashers?
Most mid- and premium-range models have adjustable or flexible racks. Entry-level models may not—always check before buying.
Can I wash oven trays and baking sheets?
Yes, if the trays fit. Use the lowest rack, fold down tines, and leave space for spray arms to spin freely. Pre-soak very greasy pans for best results.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Large plates and serving dishes are no problem with the right dishwasher. Bosch Serie 8 and LG QuadWash lead the way with flexible, extra-tall designs—so you spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meals. Check latest deals and enjoy effortless clean-up after every feast!