Overview
A high-quality dishwasher is one of the finest investments you can make for your home. It not only saves you time and stress by removing the need to hand-wash dishes, but it also saves electricity and water, lowering your utility costs.
There are hundreds of dishwasher models to select from, and sifting through them to locate the best dishwasher takes as much time as dealing with a pile of dirty dishes. We've done the legwork for you and found the most trustworthy dishwasher models on the market today, saving you time and money.
1. Best Overall – Bosch 300 Series Dishwasher
2. Best High-end – Bosch 800 Series Dishwasher
3. Best Budget – EdgeStar BIDW1802SS
4. Best Countertop – BLACK+DECKER BCD6W Dishwasher
5. Best Compact – Farberware Professional FCD06ABBWHA
Buying Guides
When selecting the best dishwasher for you, there are numerous criteria to consider; the following are the essential ones that we examined while compiling this list.
1. Style
Dishwashers are almost universally built to fit under the counter alongside your cabinets. The majority are 24 inches wide and 35 inches tall, however there are a few 18-inch wide ones for smaller kitchens. It's usually a good idea to double-check the size of your room and equipment before making a purchase.
A stand-alone or portable kind that connects to your faucet through a hose and drains into your sink is also available. If you're short on room, a countertop model would be the best option. Keep in mind that these counter-top models only have one rack and can't handle a lot of dishes.
2. Finish
Stainless steel is currently the most popular finish for all appliances. However, to match older appliances, you can choose white or black models, as well as black stainless steel or Tuscan stainless steel with a bronze tone. If you choose stainless steel, be sure it's fingerprint- and smudge-resistant, especially if you have children.
3. Energy Efficiency
Every dishwasher comes with an Energy Guide sticker that tells you how much electricity it uses per year to run. The EnergyStar label is given to the most energy-efficient products.
4. Noise
The machine is quieter if the decibel rating is lower. If you can't locate it in the store, go to the manufacturer's website. The quietest versions have a decibel level of 44 or below.
5. Racks
Check to verify if the racks are adjustable and how smoothly they slide out. Racks that move up and down can accommodate large goods such as pots and tall vases.
Fold-down tines, which make room for serving bowls and casseroles, are another useful feature. If you're worried about whether your dinner plates or a beloved platter will fit between the tines, bring them with you to the store.
Dishwashers are increasingly coming with a third flat rack on top to accommodate flatware and tools. Some will be deep enough to accommodate small bowls.
FAQs
1. Is it necessary to rinse the dishes first?
Even if you believe you're helping by rinsing your dishes before placing them in the dishwasher, you may be hindering its effectiveness. This is because pre-rinsed dishes might deceive the sensors in some dishwashers that decide how long a cycle should run.
2. What are the different sizes of dishwashers?
A dishwasher's normal dimensions are 23.75 inches wide by 33.625 inches high by 24.625 inches deep. Units that are ADA-compliant are 24 inches wide, 34.5 inches high, and 24 inches deep. Dishwashers in the compact size range from 18 to 24 inches broad.
3. How long should a dishwasher last?
According to the experts we spoke with, a dishwasher should last about ten years (with some servicing along the way). That depends on how you use them, so make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the best results. Plastic tubs will not survive as long as stainless steel tubs.
The best dishwasher is an appliance that is surprisingly intimate. Everybody has their own preferences and pet peeves. You'll want to pick one that meets your specific requirements. We've chosen our top options based on broad criteria such as quality and current style.
