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Editor's Pick: Kenmore 24-in. Dishwasher w/SmartWash & Sani Rinse |
Whether your goal is to avoid dishpan hands or just save time, dishwashers are the most convenient way to wash your dishes. You can spend quite a bit on models with flashy controls, special cleaning cycles and sleek exteriors, but higher cost does not necessarily mean better washing ability. In fact, you'll find that some of the best dishwashers start at less than $500. Read on for the scoop. |
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 | Type: There are two standards types of dishwashers: undercounter and portable. Undercounter models are built-in and offer space-saving convenience, higher load capacity and stylish exteriors. Portable dishwashers are a great option for renters who don't have a built-in model. |
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 | Size: Most built-in dishwashers fit into a standard 24-inch-wide space under a kitchen counter and hold 12 to 14 place settings. You can get compact dishwashers for small spaces at 18-inches, which hold six to eight place settings. These smaller models are great for apartments and couples. |
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 | Quietness: Today's new models are quieter than those made just a decade ago. If you spend a lot of time in your kitchen, you'll want to find a model with an extra-quiet motor and vibration-absorbing material. |
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 | Efficiency: Did you know that replacing a dishwasher made before 1994 with a new ENERGY STAR model can save you more than $30 a year in utility costs? Many of today's models include features that improve energy efficiency, such as no-heat drying. ENERGY STAR dishwashers only use 4 gallons of water per cycle, compared to 8 gallons of water when filling up a large kitchen sink for hand washing. |
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 | Features: Dishwashers today come with a wide variety of options, including adjustable racks, fold-down tines, water filtration, half-load and steam cycles. Think about how often you wash dishes and what those loads look like before paying more for fancy features you might not use. |
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| ENERGY STAR: ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy, helping us all save money and protect the environment through energy-efficient products and practices. ENERGY STAR appliances meet strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Department of Energy. |
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| Wash Cycles: Most models offer three wash cycles: light, normal and a heavy-duty cycle for pots and pans. Many models offer a rinse/hold cycle that rinses dirty dishes before washing them at a later time. Sanitizing options raises the water temperature above 140° F. |
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| Filters: Dishwashers use filters to keep wash water from redepositing food particles on clean dishes. Newer models have self-cleaning filters, but some models need to be pulled out and cleaned manually. |
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| Delayed Start: An option that lets you set a wash during less costly off-peak hours. |
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| Dishwasher Drawers: These high-end models provide increased flexibility. Use one drawer for small loads or two to accommodate different wash cycles. |
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| Good Housekeeping says the Bosch Integra features hidden controls and is stainless steel inside and out. The dishwasher cut through baked-on messes better than its competitors in the Good Housekeeping Institute's tests while using less water. |
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| The Appliancist says that the stainless steel Kenmore Elite built-in dishwasher features a one-piece fully integrated door that hides electronic control for a sleek and stylish look. A TurboZone with Rotating Spray Jet enables the dishwasher to clean even the most caked-on food, eliminating the need to rinse and soak dishes before washing them. The QuietGuard Ultra sound insulation on this unit ensures the quietest possible operations. |
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| $: Maytag White Undercounter Dishwasher. Entry-level dishwashers can perform as well as their more expensive cousins and offer a lot of bang for the buck. They can feature vinyl-coated racks, removable silverware baskets, three to four wash cycles and rinse-aid dispensers. |
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| $$: Bosch 24-inch Stainless Steel Dishwasher. The dishwashers at this price point have sleek styling, very quiet operation, efficient performance and loads of additional options. |
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| $$$: Miele G2470SCSF. Luxury appliances such as this one are like the Vogue models of dishwashers. Extra options include special inserts to protect fine glassware, foldable spikes to accommodate different pots and pans, hidden control panels, and sensors that regulate water consumption and temperature. |
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