How to choose
Most dishwashers do a solid job cleaning even the dirtiest dishes. Here's what to consider at the store:
Decide how many options you need. Adjustable racks and fold-down tines help dishwashers hold large bowls and other awkward items. But you may want to skip them if you rarely cook for crowds. Think twice about half-load cycles, which allow you to wash just one rack; running two half-load cycles can use more water and energy than one normal load. Half-load cycles that use only the top rack also limit your options, since some top racks can't accommodate dinner dishes or silverware. As for "grunge" cycles, we've found most regular dishwashers can handle even baked-on food.
Check quietness and energy use. New dishwasher models are probably quieter than the one you have now. But you might want the quietest we tested if you have an open kitchen near a dining or family room. You'll also hear a lot about Energy Star labels. We suggest using our energy scores, which are based on much dirtier loads. Indeed, a more-efficient dishwasher could save you more over its lifetime than buying a less-efficient, lower-priced model.
Use enzyme-based detergents and rinse aids. Both tend to yield cleaner results. Rinse aids reduce spotting, while enzyme-based detergents help dissolve food starches and proteins. Some detergents, such as Ecover, Citra-Dish, 365 Everyday Value, and Seventh Generation, clean reasonably well without phosphates, which harm the environment.
Keep style in perspective. Most dishwashers have deleted the bottom panel below the door, adding space for taller items inside and sleeker styling outside. While hidden controls also add style, cycle progress isn't obvious at a glance. A good compromise: partially hidden controls, which show that the machine is running and often display remaining cycle time.
Check cycle time. The normal cycle (including drying time) ranges from about 80 minutes to 150 minutes, but longer cycles don't necessarily clean better. Models with cycle times of about 100 minutes cleaned as thoroughly as others that took 145 minutes.
Decide how many options you need. Adjustable racks and fold-down tines help dishwashers hold large bowls and other awkward items. But you may want to skip them if you rarely cook for crowds. Think twice about half-load cycles, which allow you to wash just one rack; running two half-load cycles can use more water and energy than one normal load. Half-load cycles that use only the top rack also limit your options, since some top racks can't accommodate dinner dishes or silverware. As for "grunge" cycles, we've found most regular dishwashers can handle even baked-on food.
Check quietness and energy use. New dishwasher models are probably quieter than the one you have now. But you might want the quietest we tested if you have an open kitchen near a dining or family room. You'll also hear a lot about Energy Star labels. We suggest using our energy scores, which are based on much dirtier loads. Indeed, a more-efficient dishwasher could save you more over its lifetime than buying a less-efficient, lower-priced model.
Use enzyme-based detergents and rinse aids. Both tend to yield cleaner results. Rinse aids reduce spotting, while enzyme-based detergents help dissolve food starches and proteins. Some detergents, such as Ecover, Citra-Dish, 365 Everyday Value, and Seventh Generation, clean reasonably well without phosphates, which harm the environment.
Keep style in perspective. Most dishwashers have deleted the bottom panel below the door, adding space for taller items inside and sleeker styling outside. While hidden controls also add style, cycle progress isn't obvious at a glance. A good compromise: partially hidden controls, which show that the machine is running and often display remaining cycle time.
Check cycle time. The normal cycle (including drying time) ranges from about 80 minutes to 150 minutes, but longer cycles don't necessarily clean better. Models with cycle times of about 100 minutes cleaned as thoroughly as others that took 145 minutes.
