You will be hard pressed to find someone who enjoys the washing up. Which means that if you have the space in your kitchen, then this could be the ideal appliance to add into the room. If you want to treat yourself to a new dishwasher then you might want to read through our dishwasher buying guide to help you to find the right appliance for you.
Which size?
The main thing to consider when you buy a dishwasher is the capacity that you need. This can be worked out by the amount of plates and utensils that you need to wash. A 12 place dishwasher, which is the most common size can wash 12 dinner plates, 12 soup plates, 12 dessert plates, 12 cups and saucers, 12 tumblers and 12 knives, forks and spoons.
For some people a full sized dishwasher is too big for their kitchen. Which means that they opt for a slimline model instead, these models are 45cm wide and can take 9 place settings, but they are the same height and depth as full size models.
A compact model is the next size down which can fit only 4 place settings in. Whether you think that a dishwasher is going to be too big for you, you need to consider the pots and pans that you will use too.
Integrated or free standing
Depending on your kitchen style and size, you may need to consider a free standing or an integrated dishwasher. A freestanding dishwasher is a standalone appliance, that will usually fit underneath a worktop and be fully visible.
If you like the idea of your dishwasher blending in with the rest of your kitchen, then you may want to consider an integrated model, which will be hidden behind a door that matches in with your kitchen.
For those that like something inbetween, then they may want to buy a semi-integrated model which is only partially concealed, meaning that the controls are easy to access.
Features
Just like many modern appliances, dishwashers come with a range of features that are designed to make life that little bit easier.
The features that you choose will really depend on what your family needs. One of the main ones to look for is that it comes with adjustable height racks, this means that you can lower or raise the racks within the dishwasher to accommodate larger items.
Another key feature to look for is fold down prongs, as much like an adjustable height rack, it means that you can easily move things around and cater for that large pot that needs washing. If you like to make sure that you use your dishwasher during the evening when electricity is cheaper, then op for one with a delayed start function. This means that you can set it to wash when you want, perfect for having warm plates ready for serving up dinner.
If you have a family, then you will want to keep your kid’s safe, a child safety lock feature on your dishwasher is great for this, as this will stop them being able to open it, you can also have a dishwasher that comes with flood protection, ideal if someone was to go wrong during a cycle.
If you are fed up of washing up, then perhaps the time has come to buy a dishwasher for your home? No matter which size or style you go for, you are sure to soon see the benefit of having one in your kitchen, helping you to clean your dishes and make sure that they are always sparkling.
Help and advice
Do you need dishwasher repair help or troubleshooting advice? More information can be found on our dishwasher service page.
