For Clean Dishes

Dishwashers

No more washing by hand! Simply place your dishes in the dishwasher and let them be conveniently cleaned. Fully integrated models disappear completely behind the kitchen front, offering a visually appealing kitchen design. Save time and effort in your daily routine!

The Dishwasher – Water and Energy Efficient Dishwashing

Avoiding dishpan hands has never been easier: Dishwashers clean dirty dishes quickly and efficiently, using less water and energy. We have summarized the most important criteria to help you when you need to buy a dishwasher, either because you want to or because your old one is broken.

Criteria for Buying a Dishwasher:

• Type & Size
• Functions & Noise Level
• Manufacturer
• Price
• Accessories

When is a Dishwasher Worth It?

A dishwasher is always worth it when dirty dishes pile up and you want to avoid shriveled hands (so-called "washerwoman hands"). Of course, you can also use gentle dish soap that is kind to your hands and dishes. However, a dishwasher that automatically cleans dirty cups and plates is much more practical and resource-efficient. Modern dishwashers use about half as much water and a third less energy than washing dishes by hand. Additionally, they help keep the kitchen tidy, as less dirty dishes accumulate by the sink or on the countertop.

What to Look for in a Dishwasher?

If you decide on a dishwasher, you should definitely pay attention to its energy and water consumption. All important information can be found on the energy label. The energy efficiency class, from A to G, is primarily indicated. You can also find the consumption per cycle, the number of place settings, the noise level, and the duration of the most economical program.

Economical dishwashers have at least energy efficiency class C, with around 300 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year and 9 liters of water consumption. Dishwashers with a hot water connection (so-called freshwater dishwashers) are even more economical, using as little as 6 liters of water.

What Are the Dimensions of Dishwashers?

Size is also an important factor. The right dishwasher dimensions depend on the household size and the available space in the kitchen. Small kitchens (e.g., single kitchens) can get by with a 45 cm dishwasher or a countertop dishwasher. Multi-person households (e.g., family kitchens) need more loading capacity and standard dishwashers or large dishwashers with a width of 60 cm and a height of 80 cm or 85 cm.

In addition to size, the number of place settings is important. A place setting describes how much dishware the machine can hold. It includes one piece from each category: dinner plate, soup plate, dessert plate, saucer, cup, glass, knife, fork, soup spoon, teaspoon, and dessert spoon.

• Standard: 60 x 80 cm (WxH) - approx. 14 place settings
• Small: 45 x 80 cm (WxH) - approx. 10 place settings
• Large: 60 x 85 cm (WxH) - approx. 16 place settings

Types

The size of the dishwasher often depends on the type. These types of dishwashers can be distinguished:

• Integrated Dishwashers: Integrated dishwashers, also called built-in dishwashers, blend seamlessly into the kitchen. They can be further divided into fully integrated and semi-integrated. The semi-integrated dishwasher shows part of the control panel, while the fully integrated dishwasher is completely hidden behind the kitchen front. The latter usually has a projected floor display indicating the remaining time.
• Under-Counter Dishwashers: Under-counter dishwashers are also built-in models. They are placed under the countertop but are not typically covered with the kitchen front.
• Freestanding Dishwashers: Freestanding dishwashers, also called stand-alone dishwashers, can be placed freely in the room, such as next to the countertop. Their top surface can be used as an additional storage or work area. Some models are also under-counter capable.
• Countertop Dishwashers: Countertop dishwashers are small dishwashers for the countertop, offering space for six to eight place settings.
• Professional Dishwashers: For large commercial kitchens and kitchens with special hygiene requirements, there are professional dishwashers that clean a lot of dishes quickly and efficiently.

How to Load a Dishwasher Correctly?

A dishwasher typically has various racks (listed from top to bottom), which are also height-adjustable:

1. A cutlery basket or cutlery drawer for knives, forks, spoons, etc.
2. An upper rack for cups, bowls, and glasses
3. A lower rack for plates, large dishware, and pots

Depending on the manufacturer, the dishwasher racks have foldable parts and compartments that can be individually adjusted to the dishware, such as special holders for large wine glasses. The important thing when loading the dishwasher is that the spray arm's movement is not restricted.

• Place knives and forks with the handle up, spoons with the handle down
• Align plates towards the center, large plates on the edges
• Place cups at an angle

Which Program to Use for a Dishwasher?

Dishwasher programs depend on the model and manufacturer. The standard program washes dishes at about 65°C. There are also eco programs (Eco) that wash with less water and energy, and intensive programs that wash at higher temperatures.

• ECO
• Intensive
• Quick
• Hygiene
• Glass
• Automatic

Which Dishwasher Washes the Fastest?

For quick washing, dishwashers have a quick program that cleans dishes in about 1 hour. Miele offers the fastest dishwasher with QuickPowerWash and a washing time of 58 minutes.

Which is the Best Dishwasher?

A manufacturer comparison is necessary before buying a dishwasher. Depending on the model and brand, there are differences in performance, quality, and price. Which dishwasher is the best depends on your specific requirements. If you value design and technology, choose a Bosch or Siemens dishwasher. For quality and durability, opt for a V-ZUG or Miele dishwasher. Solid and simple options are available from Bauknecht or Privileg. Bargain hunters can find discounts and B-stock dishwashers on sale. Generally, a good dishwasher costs from around €600.

What Dishwasher Accessories Are Available?

A new dishwasher is one thing. Having the right accessories is another. To ensure dishwashers work efficiently and get dishes sparkling clean, you need aids such as good dishwasher detergents, rinse aids, and salt.

• Cutlery Basket: Classic cutlery baskets are removable and placed in the lower rack of the dishwasher. Modern dishwashers have a cutlery drawer at the top, which can also hold small items.
• Dishwasher Tabs & Powder: To ensure cleanliness, the machine needs suitable dishwasher detergents. These are either dishwasher tabs or powder, sometimes gel or liquid detergent. Tabs are particularly convenient and often offer comprehensive protection with detergent, rinse aid, and descaler. Dishwasher powder is usually a bit cheaper.
• Rinse Aid: Rinse aid in the dishwasher improves drying in the machine and helps avoid unsightly limescale deposits on the dishes.
• Special Salt: Special salt, also called regenerating salt, is needed for the dishwasher. It softens the water and prevents limescale buildup. Additionally, you should occasionally run the dishwasher empty on the highest program to remove all dirt deposits.