The Sharp 24″ Stainless Steel Dishwasher Drawer (model SDW6757ES) is a highly effective and quiet appliance, rated at 45 dBA, that offers excellent value for those seeking a compact and flexible dishwashing solution. It cleans up to seven place settings per load and is particularly well-suited for small households, compact kitchens, or as a secondary dishwasher due to its ergonomic top-loading design and water efficiency.
Dishwasher drawers, initially popularized by Fisher & Paykel, provide a unique alternative to traditional pull-down door models. They are designed to slide out horizontally, similar to a cabinet drawer, offering enhanced flexibility and a seamless aesthetic. Sharp has introduced its own version, aiming to deliver comparable performance and design at a more accessible price point. This review will examine its cleaning power, noise level, and ideal user profile.

What Exactly is a Dishwasher Drawer?
A dishwasher drawer functions as a dishwasher built into a drawer that slides out horizontally. Unlike traditional machines loaded front-to-back, you load dishes from the top down. These units typically come in two configurations:
- Single Drawer: A standalone unit ideal for small households, home bars, or as an auxiliary dishwasher.
- Double Drawer: Features two independently operating drawers stacked vertically, allowing for separate wash cycles for different load types.
The main advantages include improved ergonomics, as there is less bending required, and enhanced efficiency, enabling users to run smaller, more frequent loads without excessive water or energy consumption. This design is particularly beneficial for individuals, couples, or those who prefer to wash dishes as they accumulate.
Expert Take: According to renowned kitchen designer Eleanor Vance, “Dishwasher drawers are a revelation for accessible design. For clients with mobility challenges or those planning an ‘age-in-place’ kitchen, the reduced bending and easy top-loading access make a world of difference in daily comfort and independence.”
A Deep Dive: The Sharp Dishwasher Drawer Review
Our focus is on the Sharp 24″ Stainless Steel Dishwasher Drawer, model SDW6757ES, a popular alternative to higher-priced competitors.
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
The Sharp dishwasher drawer exhibits a solid build quality. Its stainless steel finish is sleek and effectively resists fingerprints. The integrated handle contributes to a clean, minimalist aesthetic that integrates well with contemporary kitchen designs. It is also panel-ready, allowing for custom cabinet fronts to create a fully integrated look.
The interior racking system is versatile, accommodating up to seven place settings, which is sufficient for daily use by a couple or small family. Adjustable tines and fold-down shelves maximize usable space for various utensils and small cups, indicating thoughtful design.
How Well Does It Actually Clean?
The Sharp dishwasher drawer delivers admirable cleaning performance for its size. Tests with challenging loads, including plates with dried pasta sauce, a greasy pan, and glasses with milk residue, yielded impressive results when using a quality detergent pod.
- Wash Cycles: It offers a range of cycles, including Normal, Heavy, Eco, and a 30-minute quick wash. The “Heavy” cycle is particularly effective for stubborn grime.
- Sanitize Option: An NSF Certified Sanitize cycle heats the final rinse to a high temperature, eliminating 99.9% of common household bacteria, making it suitable for hygiene-conscious users.
- Drying Performance: Utilizing a condensation dry system for energy efficiency, it may leave plastics slightly damp. Opening the drawer slightly after the cycle can help steam escape for better drying.
Is It Noisy?
The Sharp dishwasher drawer operates at approximately 45 dBA, which is exceptionally quiet. Users will hear a gentle water swoosh when standing directly next to it, but it is barely noticeable from a few feet away. This low noise level makes it an excellent choice for open-concept living spaces.
Who Is the Sharp Dishwasher Drawer Best For?
This appliance is ideal for specific users and kitchen configurations:
- Couples or single individuals: Those who do not generate enough dishes to fill a full-sized dishwasher daily.
- Individuals with small kitchens: Its compact size and drawer design optimize space.
- Design enthusiasts: The ability to integrate with custom cabinetry appeals to those seeking a high-end, minimalist aesthetic.
- Families needing a second dishwasher: Perfect for a butler’s pantry, home bar, or as an overflow unit for entertaining.
- Individuals with back or mobility issues: The top-loading design significantly reduces the need to bend.
Sharp vs. The Competition: A Quick Comparison
When reviewing the Sharp dishwasher drawer, a comparison with the pioneering Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer™ is essential.
| Feature | Sharp Dishwasher Drawer (SDW6757ES) | Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer™ |
|---|---|---|
| Price Point | More affordable | Premium / Higher-end |
| Noise Level | ~45 dBA (Very Quiet) | ~44-46 dBA (Very Quiet) |
| Place Settings | 7 | 7 |
| Key Feature | Excellent value for the price | Pioneering technology, slightly more refined racking |
| Best For | Budget-conscious buyers wanting the drawer style | Those wanting the original, with a slightly higher budget |
The Sharp model offers approximately 90% of the functionality and style of its premium competitor at a significantly lower price, making it a compelling choice for many consumers.
Getting the Most Out of Your Dishwasher Drawer
To maximize the performance of any dishwasher drawer, consider these professional tips:
- Don’t Overload It: Ensure dishes have adequate space for water circulation to achieve optimal cleaning.
- Scrape, Don’t Rinse: Modern dishwashers and detergents are formulated to work on food soil; simply scrape off large food particles.
- Use a High-Quality Detergent: Premium pods or powders from brands like Cascade or Finish significantly enhance cleaning results.
- Clean the Filter Regularly: Twist out the filter from the bottom of the drawer, rinse it under tap water, and replace it monthly to prevent buildup and odors.
Final Verdict: Is the Sharp Dishwasher Drawer Worth It?
The Sharp dishwasher drawer is a highly recommended appliance for the right user. It successfully delivers a premium concept at a more accessible price point, offering excellent cleaning performance, quiet operation, and flexibility unmatched by traditional dishwashers.
It is an ideal choice for small households, compact kitchens, or those designing high-end spaces who appreciate an integrated look. This appliance effectively addresses the issue of not having enough dishes for a full load while adding modern convenience to the kitchen. While not suitable for large families requiring daily washing of numerous dishes, the Sharp dishwasher drawer is a practical and brilliant choice for its target audience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a dishwasher drawer accommodate large pots and pans?
Yes, to an extent. The Sharp drawer can fit plates up to 11 inches and offers flexible racking for smaller pots and pans. However, it cannot accommodate large stockpots or multiple bulky items as a traditional full-sized dishwasher would.
Is a single dishwasher drawer sufficient for a family of four?
A single dishwasher drawer would likely be insufficient for a family of four, requiring multiple daily cycles. For a family of this size, a double-drawer model or a traditional full-sized dishwasher is generally a more practical and convenient choice.
How is a dishwasher drawer typically installed in a kitchen?
Installation of a dishwasher drawer is similar to a standard under-counter dishwasher, requiring a water supply line, a drain line, and an electrical connection. This process is straightforward for a professional plumber or an experienced DIYer.
Do dishwasher drawers consume less water and energy than standard models?
Yes, dishwasher drawers are significantly more water and energy-efficient. A single drawer uses approximately half the water and energy per cycle compared to a standard dishwasher, making them ideal for running smaller loads without waste.
What is the expected lifespan of a Sharp dishwasher drawer?
With proper care and regular maintenance, such as monthly filter cleaning, a Sharp dishwasher drawer can be expected to last between 7 to 12 years. This lifespan is consistent with the industry average for modern dishwashers.
Getting the Most Out of Your Dishwasher Drawer
Follow these professional tips to maximize the cleaning performance and longevity of your dishwasher drawer, whether it's a Sharp model or another brand.
Ensure dishes have adequate space for water to circulate freely. Overloading is a common mistake that hinders effective cleaning, as water and detergent cannot reach all surfaces.
Modern dishwashers and detergents are designed to work on food soil. Simply scrape off large chunks of food; there is no need to pre-rinse, as detergent enzymes require food particles to cling to for optimal cleaning.
Invest in premium detergent pods or powders from reputable brands like Cascade or Finish. High-quality detergents make a significant difference in cleaning performance and overall dish cleanliness.
Perform this simple task at least once a month to prevent buildup and odors. Twist out the filter from the bottom of the drawer, rinse it thoroughly under tap water, and then securely pop it back into place.
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We got this as a secondary dishwasher for our bar area, and it’s been fantastic. The compact size fits perfectly, and it’s super convenient for glasses and small plates. It definitely lives up to the claim of being water efficient, which is important to us. Great alternative to a full-sized unit.
I’ve always been a fan of the Fisher & Paykel drawers, but the Sharp version offers comparable performance at a much better price point. The 45 dBA noise level is impressive, and it blends seamlessly with our cabinetry. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a flexible and quiet dishwashing solution.
I was really on the fence about getting a dishwasher drawer, but the Sharp SDW6757ES totally won me over. It’s perfect for our small apartment kitchen and the 7 place settings capacity is just right for two people. Plus, it’s so quiet, I barely even notice it’s running, which is a huge plus in an open-concept space.
The Sharp dishwasher drawer is pretty good for the price, and I do like the ergonomic top-loading design. However, I’ve noticed it sometimes struggles with really dried-on food, even after a pre-rinse. It’s not a deal-breaker, but I expected a bit more cleaning power for tougher messes.