The 10 best Dishwashers and how to choose one: what you need to know
The dishwasher is one of the main appliances in our kitchens. Something we wouldn’t even think about a few years ago has become an essential part of our daily life. It doesn’t matter if you live with someone else or alone, a dishwasher is an aid to saving time and energy. And we’re sure couples around the world have fewer arguments about who-does-what at home thanks to this device.
Buying a dishwasher for the first time or buying a new one means analyzing what we really need. The variety and flexibility of this appliance will help us find the perfect one for our home. But what should we think about if we want to buy a new dishwasher?
How to choose a dishwasher: capacity
There is a wide range of styles and features for every need: for a family, a dishwasher with 14 to 16 place settings may suffice. But for couples or singles, you can also find models with less capacity, such as compact models.
Should we therefore say no to a large capacity dishwasher if we are not a family? No, and it is not necessary to wait several days to fill it, to save energy. Most modern dishwashers include a half load program to use the right energy and water that the dishes and cutlery really need.
How to choose a dishwasher: types of installation
We must first understand what kind of installation we need at home. Dishwashers can be built-in or free-standing.
– Built-in dishwashers
They are installed embedded, as part of another piece of furniture. The models are designed to be another part of the kitchen as a whole. You may need some extra plumbing with this option.
– Free-standing dishwashers
Ready for any kitchen. There are many different colors, materials and patterns, but we highly recommend anti-fingerprint stainless steel, to save time when it needs to be cleaned.
How to choose a dishwasher: dimensions
The size is linked to one’s daily needs, and to the available kitchen space. Compact dishwashers can find a place in every corner, and the functions are quite similar to those of the bigger appliances, but with different spaces and quantities.
There are also models designed for narrow rooms. If you want to take advantage of every single meter of your kitchen, those 45cm-wide dishwashers can be a great choice.
How to choose a dishwasher: inside the appliance
The different racks and the organization of the load are very important to optimize times and results. Check out accessories such as baskets, and the flexibility of the elements. Try to imagine how to place your plates and cutlery for best results, both with cleaning and drying.
How to choose a dishwasher: safety
Safety is another important feature when choosing a model. Some systems can block water to stop leaks and prevent flooding. The safety lock for the control panel is also an interesting function if there are children or pets in the house.
How to choose a dishwasher: energy efficiency
It is important to buy a dishwasher with consumption in mind, so you can save time, money, and help the planet.
Dishwashers that have a load sensor or a half load function are preferred. Better if they have an ECO program.
Make sure the energy label is at least A. Not only will you save money, but you will also have generated less CO2 emissions.
If you have a night plan with your energy company, you can save money. Many dishwashers are quiet enough to run overnight, and you’ll also help reduce noise pollution.
Choose a model with your setting in mind to make it last.
New models also come with easy washing programs: the dishwasher will just choose the right program for you.
Buying a new dishwasher doesn’t just mean adding a sleek new cabinet to our kitchen – old appliances usually waste more energy than new ones, and that means more money. A new household appliance for everyday use is also an investment to save.
And finally, here are the 10 best dishwasher models on the market: the choice is yours!
