Dishwasher Trends

HSM Staff

Most people agree that a dishwasher is something they just can’t do without. That does not mean that they are willing to settle for less than fabulous results. We want our dishwashers to be energy efficient, provide versatile loading options, deliver exceptional cleaning (complete with numerous cycle options); all while looking good and being quiet too. Fortunately, the many of the top dishwasher manufacturers have listened.

Ariston Dishwasher

Photo courtesty Ariston


Most dishwashers on the market are energy efficient- 670 carry the energy star rating. According to Energy Star, “dishwashers [those labeled with the energy star] use at least 41 percent less energy than the federal minimum standard for energy consumption.” These models use substantially less water than their predecessors. You can expect to save as much as $30 annually on your utility costs by running an energy efficient model. Energy Star Logo

Manufacturers have added specialized racks to many of their models to make them more load friendly. KichenAid includes racks to accommodate stemware and a silverware basket that can be split for smaller loads. Miele has increased its number of racks from two to three: (top) cutlery, (middle) glassware, and (bottom) plates. Frigidaire models feature an additional basket for small items and tines that can be folded to accommodate large ones. More expensive models will generally offer better loading flexibility, but only pay for the additional features if you will REALLY use them.

Most dishwashers come equipped with multiple wash cycle options to maximize results. High end models include a steam option, but many consumer reporting agencies have concluded that the slight improvement in cleaning is not worth the $850 to $1,500 price tag. What does seem to improve performance are models that feature separate, concentrated jets. These extended cycles clean heavily soiled dishes better than the normal cycle alone and fall within the $600 price range.

Stainless steel continues to be the finish of choice for kitchen appliances- nearly 80% of us buy stainless. While it does require a little more cleaning (darn fingerprints), stainless works in any style kitchen. Black or white models can usually be purchased in a stainless option for as little as $100 more. And it just looks good.

While dishwashers have become more energy efficient, their run times have grown longer. If your kitchen borders a living area or you run it during the day, you may want to consider a quieter model. These models do come with a higher price tag however. So if price is more important, load it up and press start at bedtime.

Any feature that you could possibly want in a dishwasher is probably available for budgets big and small. Be mindful of the features that are really important to you though. While some trends are hip and now they may not feel that way tomorrow. Avoid throwing your money away by doing your research and purchasing brands with a proven track record.

To Rinse or Not to Rinse?
That's the question, but how you answer it comes down to your personality.

Personally, I'm a rinser. The primary reason I'm a rinser is simple: I don't like the odor. I only run full loads and sometimes it takes a couple of days to fill the dishwasher. I don't really want to think about the smell of two day old fishy plates-ewwwwww.

Now for all of you nonrinsers, I hear you. the manufacturers' instructions insist that it is not necessary to rinse the dishes before placing them in the dishwasher. And from all that I've read, nonrinsed plates get just as clean as the rinsed ones- go figure.

Perhaps I could be converted to the other side, but only if I ran a load every day. Well, that could be a good reason for dessert with every meal.

 How to Load a Dishwasher
The following will help ensure maximum wash action.

  • Make sure the water can reach all items. Avoid blocking small items with larger ones.

  • Place bowls and plates facing toward the center of the dishwasher and glasses face down.

  • Place glasses between tines (not over) to allow water to properly drain from the tops.

  • When loading flatware, place some with the handles up and others with the handles down.