What Is Your Favorite Dishwasher Handle Style?

Posted on July 30, 2024

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Whether you're preparing your favorite meals or cleaning up after dinner, your dishwasher is an essential part of your kitchen. One often overlooked but crucial aspect is the handle style. While dishwashers for sale typically come with a built-in handle, did you know you can replace it to match your needs and kitchen aesthetic better?

In this blog, we will explore the different types of dishwasher handles and help you choose the style that best suits your kitchen.

Dishwasher Handle Styles

It’s important to choose a handle that complements your kitchen's aesthetic and meets your functional needs. Consider the following:

Bar Handle

Bar handles are the most popular handle style for dishwashers. They’re ideal for those who prefer matching their appliances and want an extra spot for a towel. The bar handle is practical and stylish, providing a functional addition to your kitchen decor. It also adds a bit of symmetry if other appliances in your kitchen, like your oven or refrigerator, also have bar handles.

Recessed Handle

Great for convenience and ease of use. Recessed handles offer a modern look and are particularly suitable for minimalist kitchen designs. They allow easy access to controls without compromising on style, making them a versatile choice for various kitchen setups.

Scoop and Pocket Handles

Scoop and pocket handles are perfect for those who want discreet handles that blend well with their cabinetry, making them a popular choice for contemporary kitchens. The minimalist approach of scoop and pocket handles provides an elegant look that stands the test of time.

Custom Panel Handles

Custom panel handles are the way to go for those looking for a fully integrated appearance. They allow your dishwasher to blend seamlessly with your kitchen cabinets, providing a cohesive and polished look. This option is ideal for high-end kitchens where maintaining a unified aesthetic is crucial.

Dishwasher Handle Styles: Pros & Cons

There are many dishwasher handles available. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of each:

Bar Handle

• Pros: Matches other appliances, provides a spot to hang a towel, keeps the door cleaner. The bar handle is practical for kitchens where every bit of space is used efficiently.
• Cons: Can stick out and get in the way when working close to the countertop. This might be a consideration in tighter kitchen spaces where every inch counts.

Recessed Handle

• Pros: Recessed handles offer convenient control access and are often easier to clean. They are sleek and functional, making them popular for modern kitchens.
• Cons: It may only match some kitchen aesthetics. A recessed handle might blend less if your kitchen design is highly specific or themed.

Scoop Handle

• Pros: Scoop handles create a seamless look and are easy to grip. They are unobtrusive yet functional, ideal for a clean and modern appearance.
• Cons: May offer less to grip compared to other styles. This can be a minor inconvenience for those who prefer a more substantial handle.

Pocket Handle

• Pros: The timeless design, flush appearance, and pocket handle blend well with cabinetry. The pocket handle offers a sleek, integrated look that complements various kitchen styles.
• Cons: The surface can be simpler to clean but may offer less grip when opening the door. The flush design might be less comfortable for some users.

Custom Panel Handle

• Pros: Its fully integrated look can match kitchen cabinets exactly. Custom panels allow for complete design harmony, making the dishwasher indistinguishable from the rest of the cabinetry.
• Cons: Generally more expensive and may require professional installation. The custom nature of these panels means they are often more costly and may need specialized fitting.

What Is an Appliance Pull?

An appliance pull is the hardware you grip to open drawers or cabinets, whereas a handle is used for heavier doors like refrigerators or dishwashers.

When selecting a dishwasher, you may come across various appliance pull design options and different control panel placements. These features define the overall look of your dishwasher. You may want to match the look of your dishwasher handle to your other appliance pulls.

Types of Appliance Pulls

• Bar: The most common type, straightforward and easy to replace. Bar handles are versatile and can be used on various appliances, providing a consistent look across your kitchen.
• Tubular: A more pronounced version of the bar handle. Tubular handles offer a robust and modern look, perfect for contemporary kitchens that require durable and stylish hardware.
• Arched: The handle curves into a soft arch for an easier grip. Arched handles are both stylish and ergonomic, providing a comfortable grip that’s easy on the hands.
• Finger Pulls: Stylish, but make sure they’re comfortable for you to use. Finger pulls are minimalistic and often used for a sleek, modern aesthetic, but comfort should not be compromised.
• Recessed: Recessed handles are ideal for minimalist looks. They blend seamlessly with your cabinetry, providing a clean, unobtrusive appearance perfect for modern kitchens.
• Ring: Ring handles add a vintage or antique feel. They are perfect for traditional or vintage-inspired kitchens, adding a touch of elegance and nostalgia.

Factors When Choosing Appliance Handles

• Size: Ensure they fit the pre-drilled holes on your appliances. Choosing the right size ensures proper installation and functionality, avoiding the need for additional drilling or modifications.
• Shadow: Old handles may leave residue or missing paint. Consider any marks left by previous handles when selecting new ones, as this can affect the overall look of your appliance.
• Durability: Choose sturdy handles for heavy appliances. Durable handles ensure long-lasting performance and reliability, especially for frequently used appliances like refrigerators and dishwashers.
• Grip: Ensure they are comfortable to use. Ergonomic handles make daily tasks easier and more comfortable, reducing strain on your hands and wrists.
• Style: Match them with your kitchen’s overall design. Consistent styling helps create a cohesive and harmonious kitchen space, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

Dishwasher Visible & Hidden Controls

Before choosing your handle style, decide whether you want your dishwasher's controls to be visible or hidden.

Visible Controls

• Ease of Access: The dishwasher's controls are located on the front, near the handle. They allow you to easily see and change settings without opening the door.
• Status Visibility: The remaining time and current settings are easier to see, making it convenient to monitor the progress of your wash cycle at a glance.
• User-Friendly: Visible controls are generally more intuitive for guests or new users who might not be familiar with hidden control placements.

Hidden Controls

• Child Safety: These controls are installed on the top edge of the door, providing a seamless and clean appearance. They are not accessible during a wash cycle, which can be an advantage if you have young children at home who might be tempted to press buttons.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Hidden controls create a sleek and flush look that blends seamlessly with your kitchen cabinets, contributing to a minimalist and uncluttered kitchen design.
• Ease of Cleaning: Fewer crevices mean less time spent cleaning. The smooth surface without protruding buttons or dials is easier to wipe down and maintain.

Types of Appliance Handles From Top Brands

Several brands offer customizable hardware options to suit your specific preferences:

Café: Offers six finishes, including brushed copper and brushed black. Café handles are known for their high-quality finishes and colorful designs.

Monogram: Offers minimalist pulls on their appliances that pair well with stainless steel. Monogram handles provide a sleek and modern look, ideal for contemporary kitchens that prioritize a minimalist aesthetic.

JennAir: This brand’s Rise and Noir collection offers sleek handles for a modern look. Choose Rise for lighter-colored kitchens and Noir for darker-toned kitchens.

Which Dishwasher Handle Is Your Favorite?

When it comes to style, you can't go wrong with any option. What's most important is how the handle fits your kitchen design and lifestyle. Each handle style has unique advantages and can enhance your kitchen's functionality and aesthetics.

Visit a local Bray & Scarff location near you or browse our website to explore our range of dishwashers and discover the one that's perfect for your kitchen! Contact us or head to one of our appliance store locations throughout Maryland and Virginia to talk to a designer about dishwasher handles.

Are you considering remodeling your kitchen but don’t know where to start? Bray & Scarff offers top-quality kitchen appliances and professional kitchen remodeling services. We have a team of 25 in-house kitchen and bath designers ready to bring your dream kitchen to life.

Related readings from our blog:

• What is the Advantage of a Drawer Dishwasher?
• Top 5 Best Panel-Ready Dishwashers
• Avoid These 7 Dishwasher Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions About Dishwasher Handles

Can you change the handles on your appliances?
Yes, but check your brand’s requirements. Some brands may have specific guidelines for replacing handles, so it’s important to verify compatibility before making changes.

Can you change the hardware on appliances?
Easily replace damaged or unfashionable hardware. Updating hardware is a simple way to refresh the look of your appliances without needing to replace the entire unit.

Do appliance handles have to match?
No, but matching handles create a unified look, so we recommend it. Consistent handles can enhance the overall aesthetic of your kitchen, creating a harmonious and polished space.

Which is better, a pocket handle or a bar handle on a dishwasher?
Both styles have their pros and cons. A bar handle provides a spot to hang a towel and matches other bar-handled appliances, while a pocket handle offers a sleek, flush appearance that blends with cabinetry. The choice depends on your kitchen's design and your personal preference.

Can you replace the dishwasher handles?
Yes, you can replace dishwasher handles. Ensure you check your dishwasher model's compatibility with the new handle. Some replacements may be straightforward, while others might require professional assistance.