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Midea MDF18A1AST Built-In Dishwasher: Is This 8-Place Setting Energy Star Unit Worth It in 2026?

A compact 18-inch built-in dishwasher best suited for small kitchens. It cleans well but runs louder than average and skips most smart and convenience features.

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Key Specifications

Noise Level
52 dB
Width
17.6"
Height
32.4"
Depth
22.6"
Best For
Full Kitchen

Best For

How this product scores for different use cases

Small Kitchen / Apartment
95/100

The 17.6-inch width and under-counter installation make this a strong fit for apartments and tight kitchens. It delivers 8 place settings and 6 programs in a compact footprint.

Budget Buyer
78/100

At $449 with Energy Star certification, 6 wash programs, and a stainless steel tub, it delivers reasonable value for a slimline built-in. Buyers seeking sub-$400 options will find better deals elsewhere.

Quiet Home
54/100

At 52 dB, this unit runs louder than the 50 dB category average and well above the 42 dB quiet threshold. It is not suited for open-concept kitchens or nighttime operation.

Family Household
47/100

At 8 place settings and 17.6 inches wide, this dishwasher is too small for most family households. Standard family needs exceed what this slimline model can handle per load.

Premium Kitchen
40/100

This model lacks interior lighting, adjustable racks, a third rack, steam cleaning, delayed start, and WiFi. It does not meet the feature expectations of a premium kitchen setup.

Smart Connected
28/100

This model has no WiFi, no app control, and no compatibility with Alexa or Google. It offers only push-button controls and a digital display.

Our Verdict

This dishwasher is 17.6 inches wide. It fits kitchens where a standard 24-inch model will not. That narrow size is its biggest selling point.

You get 6 wash programs and a 136°F sanitize function. Energy Star certification helps keep electricity and water costs down. The stainless steel tub handles high-heat drying without warping.

The 52 dB noise level is above average. There is no delayed start, no adjustable rack, and no WiFi. If those features matter to you, this model will fall short.

What We Like

  • 17.6-inch width fits spaces where standard 24-inch dishwashers do not
  • 6 wash programs cover Heavy, ECO, Delicate, Quick, Rinse, and Normal loads
  • Sanitize and Hi-Temp cycles reach 136°F to clean baby bottles and heavily soiled items
  • Energy Star certified for lower energy use compared to non-certified models
  • Stainless steel tub resists odors and handles high-heat drying better than plastic tubs

What Could Be Better

  • 52 dB noise level is louder than the 50 dB category average for built-in dishwashers
  • No delayed start feature, which most competing models in this price range include
  • No adjustable upper rack, limiting loading options for tall items
  • No interior lighting, a feature found in many competing built-in dishwashers
  • No third rack, which competitors at this price point increasingly offer for utensil storage
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Standout Features

17.6-inch slimline width
Roughly 6 inches narrower than the standard 24-inch built-in dishwasher, opening up installation in tight spaces
6 wash programs
Above the 3 to 4 cycle average for compact dishwashers in this price range
136°F Hi-Temp and Sanitize cycles
Matches the sanitize temperature performance found in full-size dishwashers at higher price points

Full Specifications

Performance

Noise Level52 dB
Noise RatingNoisy

Dimensions

Width17.6 inches
Height32.4 inches
Depth22.6 inches

Best For

Use Case 1Full Kitchen
Use Case 2Apartment / Small Kitchen
Use Case 3Vacation Rental

Features

Included Features

Heated Dry
Sanitize Cycle
Stainless Steel Tub

Not Included

Adjustable Racks
Auto Sense
Child Lock
Delayed Start
Food Disposer
Interior Lighting
Leak Protection
Quiet Operation
Rinse Aid Dispenser
Steam Cleaning
Third Rack
WiFi Connected
Works with Alexa
Works with Google

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Midea MDF18A1AST Built-in Dishwasher with 8 Place Settings, 6 Washing Programs, Stainless Steel Tub, Heated Dry, Energy Star

How wide is this dishwasher?

It is 17.6 inches wide and 22.6 inches deep. It fits under a standard counter at 32.4 inches tall with adjustable legs.

How loud does it run?

It runs at 52 decibels. That is louder than the 50 dB average for built-in dishwashers and not suited for open-plan kitchens.

Can I connect this dishwasher to my phone or smart home?

No. This model has no WiFi and does not work with Alexa or Google. Controls are push-button with a digital display only.

Does it sanitize dishes?

Yes. The Sanitize and Hi-Temp functions heat water to 136°F. This is suitable for baby bottles and heavily soiled cookware.

How many dishes can I wash at once?

It holds 8 place settings per load. The interior fits plates, pots, and pans up to 11 inches tall.

Scores

Overall Score 80/100
Value Score 85/100
Popularity 75/100

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Tags

slimline 18 inch compact built in energy star stainless steel tub no wifi mid noise sanitize cycle under counter

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Scored 80/100

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