Dishwasher Buying Guide

Dishwasher Types

 Dishwashers can be freestanding, semi-integrated or fully integrated. Semi-integrated models are built into your units but do not have a matching door where as fully integrated models can be fitted with the same doors as your cabinetry to blend in with the kitchen.

Dishwasher Sizes

Dishwashers come in various sizes with the main types being full size which usually have a width of 60cm and slimline models which are usually 45cm wide. Slimline dishwashers usually hold around 10 place settings while a full size one holds around 13 to 16 place settings.

Key Features

Place Settings

Dishwasher capacity is show in place settings, one place setting is a dinner plate, a dessert plate, a glass, a bowl, a teacup with saucer, two knives, two forks and two spoons. Most standard dishwashers hold 13 place settings but some models can hold as many as 16, perfect for larger households.

Quiet Mark

Dishwashers with a quiet mark use brushless motors which means they run more quietly than a standard dishwasher, this is ideal if you have an open living space or want to run your machine overnight. 

Quick Wash

Quick wash programmes are great if you need to get plates clean quickly, some dishwashers can get lightly used dishes clean in as little as 15 minutes. 

Eco Programme

If you want to keep your bills down the eco programme can help, this programme can wash your dishes using 20 to 40% less energy by heating up the water slowly and running a longer cycle. 

Hygiene Cycles

Also known as the baby cycle this is a special intensive programme which brings the heat up to 70°c to make sure that every item is sterilised. 

Adjustable Racks and Baskets

Some models come with adjustable baskets an racks that let you fit bigger pans on the bottom or long stem glasses on touch. It’s also worth looking out for models with an additional cutlery rack as this gives much more room on the main racks.

Built-in Flood Protection

Built-in flood protection does what it says on the tin, if anything goes wrong with your dishwasher during the cycle it will automatically shut off the water supply so you don’t have to worry about flooding.

Sensor Wash

Another great energy saving feature, the sensor wash function works our how dirty your plates are after the initial rinse and adjusts the cycle to only use as much water and energy as is needed. 

Drying Cycle

Some dishwashers have a drying cycle which uses condensation to dry your dishes in a more hygienic way. In the final cycle the dishwasher coats the dishes in hot water then when the hot moisture meets the cool stainless-steel interior it forms droplets that easily drain from your dishes which uses less energy than standard heating technology.