Can anything be more stressful than watching the dishes pile up in the sink?
If you want to keep your kitchen clean, then you want to invest in a great dishwasher. Most types of dishwashers will completely clean your dishes.
In other words, you won’t have to lift a finger!
But how do you go about buying a dishwasher? This detailed guide will break down the dishwasher types so you can decide the best option for your needs.
Here are our recommendations:
Front Control Dishwashers
These dishwashers have a control panel on the front of the door. It’s often considered more convenient compared to other types of dishwashers.
The front panel will also display the time. You won’t have to open the dishwasher to see how much time remains in the cycle.
While prices vary, this is often one of the cheapest types of dishwashers available. You can find one that retails for just under $1,000.
Third Rack Dishwashers
This dishwasher is great if you like to wash dishes and utensils separately. This dishwasher has two main racks for your dishes.
A third rack is at the top of the dishwasher. This is a much smaller rack intended for utensils and smaller dishes. This is often the preferred choice for larger households.
The best thing about this type of dishwasher is its price. While it offers three racks, it isn’t more expensive than front control dishwashers.
You’ll find a great third-rack dishwasher for around $1,200. You can also find cheaper options around $800.
Top Control Dishwashers
With this dishwasher, the control panel is hidden when the door is shut. The control panel is often touch-based. This means it’s easy to toggle between the different options when needed.
The door panels are often smooth, giving your kitchen a stylish look. If aesthetics matter to you, this is one of the best options.
Many top-control dishwashers also have an in-built handle. This handle is ideal for hanging towels.
These will often retail for around $1,200 or slightly higher. You may have to wait for a special sale if you want to buy them at a cheaper price.
Portable Dishwashers
This is a great option if you live alone in a small apartment. Portable dishwashers aren’t particularly popular but can still be a great investment.
You have to attach these to your sink’s faucet. The water then drains into the sink.
As the name suggests, you can also take portable dishwashers while traveling. However, remember that they have limited capacity. If you have several dishes, you might need an additional portable dishwasher.
You can find a great portable dishwasher for under $500.
Now let’s look at some of the specifications for different dishwashers. This will help you break down, which is the ideal option for you.
What’s the Best Dishwasher Size?
There are three main categories for dishwasher sizes: compact, standard, and oversized.
There are variations in sizes within these three categories. But let’s look at the standard dimensions within these categories.
For compact dishwashers, they’ll be 18 inches wide. They’ll be between 34 and 36 inches tall and 24 inches deep.
Standard dishwashers are 24 inches wide, on average. They’re 34 to 36 inches tall and 24 inches deep.
Oversized dishwashers have an even greater size variation. They’ll start at 30 inches wide and are often up to 42 inches! Height is the standard 34 to 36 inches, and they’ll also be around 24 inches deep.
How do you choose the right dishwasher size?
First, you’ll have to see what fits into your kitchen easily. For most kitchens, the standard size will be the only option. You may need to renovate your kitchen if you want a different size.
Next, you must also determine how often you’ll need a high load capacity. For example, a compact or standard dishwasher is sufficient if you live independently.
For the average family, a standard dishwasher is also sufficient. But if your household size has more than five members, you may need to upgrade to an oversized dishwasher.
Make sure you also inquire about your average water usage before opting for oversized dishwashers.
Dishwasher Features
Let’s wrap up our guide by looking at the different dishwasher features. This is the final step you’ll need to know to find your perfect dishwasher.
Consider dishwashers that have adjustable racks. Make sure they can accommodate large dishes but also cookware. You want to be able to put your frying pan in your dishwasher, for instance.
It’s also ideal to choose a dishwasher that offers low-decibel operation. This means the dishwasher will operate without making loud noises.
Most modern dishwashers have this feature. Nevertheless, choose a dishwasher that makes as little noise as possible.
An optional but great feature is the specialty wash cycle option. This is a feature that helps with cleaning cookware. Examples can include heavy-duty, steam washing, etc.
Many modern dishwashers also include Energy Star ratings. This means that they’ve been certified to conserve energy. These dishwashers go beyond federal guidelines for conserving energy while in operation.
The final factor is to consider the dishwasher’s finish. Stainless steel is all the rage now. It has the sleekest look and is easier to clean than other finishes.
You want to choose the finish that looks best with your kitchen’s aesthetic. But you must also make sure you know how to clean the dishwasher’s door without much hassle.
If you’re a resident of Idaho, you can buy the best dishwasher from a retailer specializing in appliances in Boise.
These Are the Dishwasher Types
Now you know the dishwasher types and features to consider for your kitchen.
Start by deciding what type of dishwasher you want. You can choose from variations such as front load, top control, third rack, and portable.
You’ll also have to choose which size suits you best. Standard sizes work for most homes, though larger households may prefer oversized dishwashers.
The final step is to choose what features are most important to you. These range from having adjustable racks, specialty wash cycles, and the finish.
Ready to get to those dishes? Make sure you check out our other home life tips on the blog.