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The Best Dishwasher

Last updated on January 26, 2022

We looked at the top 11 Dishwashers and dug through the reviews from 64 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Dishwashers.

Best Dishwasher

Our Review Process

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Dishwashers are one of the best modern conveniences. Simply slide your dishes inside, press a few buttons, and within an hour, you have clean dishes. But occasionally, you’ll find yourself needing to buy a dishwasher. Maybe yours suddenly died after years of use, or maybe you moved into a place that doesn’t have one. If that happens, you’ll probably be surprised at how many options you have.

The first big decision you’ll have to make is whether you want a portable or built-in dishwasher. Built-ins are just as the name implies. They’ll be installed in your kitchen, where they’ll become part of your cabinetry.  Full-size built-ins are generally about 24 inches in size.

However, there are also more compact and portable dishwashers, which don’t require installation and can be taken with you when you move. If you’re limited on space, you should also consider a countertop dishwasher, which rests on top of your countertops. Although they won’t wash as many dishes as a larger model, they do work well for small kitchens and studio apartments.

“Obviously, size affects both the price you pay, and the amount of water and energy used,” points out culinary expert Julie Chernoff, food journalist, dining editor of Better magazine and member of Les Dames d’Escoffier.

If you opt for a built-in dishwasher, you’ll need installation, so be sure you budget for that as well. Setup on portable models can sometimes be done yourself, following the instructions provided by the manufacturer. But for a built-in dishwasher, unless you’re prepared to tackle the hookups, it’s probably best to plan on using installation services.

Efficiency is one of the top considerations when choosing a dishwasher. After all, no dishwasher will be useful if it doesn’t clean your dishes. Although most of today’s dishwashers excel at maximum cleaning power with minimum energy input, there is one area where they fall short. The condensation method of drying that replaced heated drying is eco-friendlier, but it also isn’t nearly as effective at drying. A rinse agent can help, as well as opening the door to let your dishes air dry for a while before putting them away.

You’ll also be attracted to the many bells and whistles available — and some will be more useful than others depending on your lifestyle and needs.

“Make sure that you have a number of washing cycles to choose from, including light and heavy wash and economy settings,” Chernoff advises. “When looking at capacity, I think it’s nice to have the flatware tray option at the top of the machine, so you have more room to store dirty dishes. Do you wash a lot of tall wine glasses? You’ll want to make sure that your dishwasher racks are adjustable.”

And don’t forget, you’ll have to do some maintenance if you don’t rinse all your plates before you put them in. Make sure to clean out the filter once a month.

Chernoff offers a pro tip to help keep your dishwasher fresh and free from lingering odors: “Once a quarter, in an otherwise empty unit, put a cup of white vinegar in an open, dishwasher-safe container on the top rack of the dishwasher and run a hot cycle,” she says.

Our Picks For The Top Dishwashers

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Our Take
Pros
Cons
 Best Overall

KAPAS Portable LED Display Countertop Dishwasher

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

KAPAS

Portable LED Display Countertop Dishwasher

In addition to cleaning your plates and utensils, this dishwasher also rinses off your produce. The unit is nice and compact and won't take up too much space on your counter. It also has its own water tank, which means you don't have to hook it up to a faucet to use it.

Overall Take

Most VersatileWith this dishwasher, you can use liquid or powder detergents, as well as detergent pods.

 Upgrade Pick

BLACK+DECKER LED Display Portable Dishwasher

BLACK+DECKER

LED Display Portable Dishwasher

Since this dishwasher is able to clean six place settings at once, it's an excellent choice for families who still need a smaller unit. It fits neatly on any countertop and offers up to seven different wash cycles. The LCD screen is a cinch to read and the handle is easy to grip and operate.

Overall Take

Great for FamiliesThis dishwasher hooks directly to your kitchen faucet, so you can begin using it almost immediately.

Pros
" The unit comes with electronic touch controls and LED display that makes it easy for the person to set up and adjust the settings"
Cons
"Required to pre-rinse the dishes in the sink before actually washing them in the unit."
 Compact Build

hOmeLabs 6-Cycle Quick Connect Countertop Dishwasher

hOmeLabs

6-Cycle Quick Connect Countertop Dishwasher

The easy-to-use control panel and delay wash setting make this dishwasher stand out among countertop models. You'll get six wash settings and all the convenience you've come to expect from a dishwasher. The faucet adaptor isn't included with the dishwasher, so make sure you buy one before setting up.

Overall Take

Easy to UseThe control panel on this dishwasher makes use a breeze, letting you start your wish with the press of a couple of buttons.

Pros
" It is designed with multiple different racks including the cup holder and specific utensil holders to ensure that they are washed correctly. It is made from solid stainless steel and this will enhance the durability."
Cons
"The interior dimensions of the dishwasher and the rack are limiting, so standard sized plate may not fit"
 We Also Like

Faberware FCD06ABBWHA Stainless Steel Full Panel Countertop Dishwasher

Faberware

Stainless Steel Full Panel Countertop Dishwasher

This dishwasher comes with an Energy Star certification, which means it's designed to run efficiently. The unit is smaller in size, yet still able to clean up to six place settings. A silverware basket is included and you'll have a choice between seven washing programs.

Overall Take

Convenient ChoiceIf you have small children in the home, you'll want to go with this dishwasher, which is equipped with a child lock.

Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, DWYM analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
18

Products Considered

We identified the majority of the dishwashers available to purchase.
11

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

View All Product Rankings

64

Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources including: ABT, New York Times Wirecutter, Consumer Reports, Groom and Style, best7reviews.

6,311

User Opinions Analyzed

We also incorporate user reviews from the leading retailers including

Our experts reviewed the top 11 Dishwashers and also dug through the reviews from 64 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best of the best Dishwashers.

DWYM is your trusted roduct review source. Our team reviews thousands of product reviews from the trusted top experts and combines them into one easy-to-understand score. Learn more.

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Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in their category.

Our Expert Consultant

Julie Chernoff
Culinary Expert

Julie Chernoff is a long-time member of Les Dames d’Escoffier (past president of the Chicago Chapter, and current co-chair of the LDEI Legacy Awards Committee), the Association of Food Journalists (AFJ) and the International Association of Culinary Professionals.

Chernoff is the dining editor of Better, a lifestyle website and print magazine. Her journalism started in the test kitchens of Weight Watchers Magazine. She holds a BA in English from Yale University and is a graduate of the California Culinary Academy. She has spent the last few decades styling, photographing, teaching, developing recipes, editing, thinking and writing about food.

The Best Bang For Your Buck

BLACK+DECKER LED Display Portable Dishwasher

Our Expert Score

0.0
8 expert reviews

User Summarized Score

8.1
77 user reviews

Our Take

Since this dishwasher is able to clean six place settings at once, it's an excellent choice for families who still need a smaller unit. It fits neatly on any countertop and offers up to seven different wash cycles. The LCD screen is a cinch to read and the handle is easy to grip and operate.

What other experts liked

The unit comes with electronic touch controls and LED display that makes it easy for the person to set up and adjust the settings
- Clean Home Zone
It’s seven wash programs is an added benefit for the users. It has a plenty of room making it convenient to fit up to 10 dinner plates. The water hooks up and the water drain system is also made easier to keep the kitchen clean and tidy.
- Disneysmmoms
Its interiors are made of high quality stainless steel meaning its highly durable and can last for long.
- The Kitchennin
August 2, 2019 | Full review
The child lock is another unique feature which could be helpful for parents who may not trust their little ones in the kitchen.
- How to Home
August 11, 2019 | Full review
High-efficiency rating makes it best dishwasher in terms of washing capacity
- Home Stuff Pro
The LED display shows the time of day and helps guide you into programming the washer to work at an appropriate time
- Kitchen Apparatus
It features six place setting capacity that will accommodate up to 10 inches of plates. In addition to that, it comes with 7 wash programs that include soak, rapid, 90 minutes, glass, eco, normal and intensive.
- Top Best 10 Reviews
One of the most important factors you always need to consider whenever you are buying appliances, is safety, so the BLACK+DECKER BCD6W Compact Dishwasher includes a child lock so that you don’t have to worry about the kids safety when you are not in the kitche
- Dishwasher For Counter
January 20, 2019 | Full review

What other experts didn't like

A pre-rinse in the sink is required before the dishes are actually washed in the unit
- Clean Home Zone
Required to pre-rinse the dishes in the sink before actually washing them in the unit.
- The Kitchennin
August 2, 2019 | Full review
Front glass may easily break if you’re not careful while opening and closing door
- Home Stuff Pro
Surface can dent quickly
- Kitchen Apparatus
Not a perfect choice for heavy duty washing option
- Dishwasher For Counter
January 20, 2019 | Full review

What to Look For

  • If you’re in the market for a built-in dishwasher, installation is an important consideration. You can do it yourself, but you’re dealing with wiring and plumbing, so a professional installer is usually best. If you buy from a store or website, installation is typically an add-on item, so make sure you look for that.
  • With some dishwashers, setup is much easier. You’ll just connect them to the faucet using an adaptor and plug it in to get started. With the hOmeLabs Countertop Dishwasher, the faucet adaptor is not included, so you’ll need to buy one to have on hand when it arrives.
  • If you live in a smaller place, you may want to look for a quieter unit. Some models run at only 42 decibels, which means you can even have a conversation standing next to it.
  • Cycle flexibility can come in handy if you’re picky about the way your dishes are washed. The hOmeLabs Countertop Dishwasher and Danby Countertop Dishwasher both have six wash settings. Some models have a one-hour cycle setting that can come in handy when you’re in a hurry.
  • Look for a build that prevents leaks. If the dishwasher detects a leak, whether it’s running or not, a feature called AquaStop will shut everything down.
  • You’ll get the most space in a dedicated unit that is not only roomy, but also has a double-flex silverware basket. Some models are small but spacious, offering an adjustable top rack to help you make room for pans or baking sheets on the bottom rack. Some compact models will hold six place settings. However, if you routinely cook with large pots and pans, you may find you have to handwash those items.
  • If your dishwasher is in view of your other living areas, you may like a model with a red light that shines on your kitchen floor when the machine is running. They also tend to show the time remaining on your wash.
  • The hOmeLabs Countertop Dishwasher has an especially easy-to-use control panel, with buttons that walk you through your options and a simple start button when you’ve chosen your settings.
  • Without a good latch, someone could walk into the kitchen and open the door, interrupting your wash. Dishwashers with a self-latching door are ideal, as they keep your door closed unless someone in your household is really determined to open it.
  • The stainless-steel build of many of today’s dishwashers make them more durable than previous generations. Stainless steel protects against rust and gives the dishwasher a classy look. Look for strong wheels, so you can get years of reliable use out of your new portable dishwasher.
  • You’ll find that most of today’s dishwashers struggle to dry dishes. You’ll especially notice it with plastics, as they cool off too quickly for the moisture to evaporate. Some models don’t have a heat dry option, so you’ll definitely need to open the door to allow air drying.
  • For streak-free dishes, make sure you use a rinse aid no matter which dishwasher you choose.
  • You’ll usually find you pay the most for a built-in dishwasher, even before you add on installation. But you get more power from built-ins as well, so it’s worth considering. Countertop dishwashers are the cheapest, but you sacrifice rack space for that benefit.
  • Many dishwashers don’t come with a self-cleaning filter, while other built-in dishwashers do, so keep that in mind if that’s important to you.
  • One handy feature that has become popular on portable dishwashers is a time-delay option. You can set your dishwasher to start up from one to 24 hours in advance. That means you can keep your dishwasher from running during the hours that others in your household are likely to need the hot water. The hOmeLabs Countertop Dishwasher also includes a delay wash feature.
  • If you’re looking for a portable or countertop dishwasher, measurements are essential. The hOmeLabs Countertop Dishwasher is 17.2 by 19.6 by 21.6 inches. Other models are similar in size to the hOmeLabs version, at 21.65 by 19.69 by 17.24 inches.
  • For those concerned about water consumption, look for a model that uses up to 3.1 gallons of water each wash. The hOmeLabs Countertop Dishwasher uses up to 3.30 gallons. Water use will vary depending on the wash cycle you choose.
  • It’s important to check the water temperature limits of any portable dishwasher you choose. Some models can withstand water temperatures all the way up to 154 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Before you buy, take a look around at the layout of the interior of the dishwashers you’re considering. Make sure it will accommodate the glasses, silverware, cookware and utensils you use on a typical day.

Dishwasher Rankings

1. KAPAS Portable LED Display Countertop Dishwasher

Overall Score: 9.3
Reviews Included: 1

2. BLACK+DECKER LED Display Portable Dishwasher

Overall Score: 9.2
Reviews Included: 11

3. hOmeLabs 6-Cycle Quick Connect Countertop Dishwasher

Overall Score: 9.1
Reviews Included: 12

5. EdgeStar Automatic Off Energy-Saving Dishwasher

Overall Score: 8.9
Reviews Included: 6

6. Danby Compact Easy Set-Up Countertop Dishwasher

Overall Score: 8.8
Reviews Included: 10

8. SPT Time Delay Adjustable Dishwasher

Overall Score: 8.7
Reviews Included: 13

9. Bosch Stainless Steel ‎Fully Integrated Dishwasher

Overall Score: 8.6
Reviews Included: 10

10. SPT Rinse Aid Customizable Dishwasher

Overall Score: 8.6
Reviews Included: 11

11. GE Profile Full Panel Dishwasher

Overall Score: 8.3
Reviews Included: 4

More to Explore

As your dishwasher is cleaning your after-dinner dishes, take a moment to thank Josephine Garis Cochran. The wealthy Illinois woman was tired of her servants breaking her fancy dishes, so she went in search of a machine that clean her plates instead. When she couldn’t find one, she built her own, first by measuring her dishes, then creating wire compartments that set inside a wheel. She filed for a patent for her invention in 1886 and showed it off for the first time at the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair. Although her device was only used by restaurants and hotels initially, she eventually found a company that could help her get it in the homes of families. That company later became KitchenAid.

More to explore