When it comes to kitchen appliances, dishwashers often play second fiddle to flashier gadgets like blenders and Instant Pots. But let’s be real, who wants to spend their evenings scrubbing caked-on lasagna off plates? Not this writer, that’s for sure.
So, let’s give credit where credit is due and talk about how to pick the perfect dishwasher for your needs.
Capacity – Bigger isn’t always better: Finding the right fit
When it comes to dishwashers, capacity is measured in place settings. And while it may be tempting to go for the biggest model available, remember that bigger isn’t always better.
A dishwasher that’s too large for your needs is just a waste of space (and money). On the other hand, getting a dishwasher that’s too small means you’ll have to run it multiple times to get all your dishes clean.
So, before you start shopping, take a look at your current dishware collection and consider how many place settings you’ll need to accommodate it.
Are you a family of four with a never-ending supply of Tupperware? Then you’ll probably want to go for a dishwasher with a larger capacity. Do you live alone and mostly eat takeout? A smaller model might be more your speed.
Features
When it comes to dishwashers, there are a lot of bells and whistles to choose from. But which ones are worth your money?
Let’s break it down:
Adjustable racks
These allow you to customize the layout of your dishwasher to fit oddly-shaped pots and pans. They’re especially useful if you’re someone who likes to cook with a lot of big, bulky items.
Delay start
This feature lets you set your dishwasher to run at a later time, which is perfect if you want to run it overnight or during off-peak energy hours.
Water-saving
This one is great for households on wells or with low water pressure. It uses less water than a standard dishwasher, which can help save you money on your water bill.
And the list goes on, with features like steam cleaning, self-cleaning filters, and more.
So, take a look at the features available, and decide which ones align with your needs and lifestyle. And remember, just because a dishwasher has more features, doesn’t mean it’s better. Sometimes less is more.
Size and Installation – Measure twice, buy once: Choosing the right size
When it comes to purchasing a dishwasher, size is an important factor to consider. Not only do you need to make sure that the dishwasher will fit in your kitchen, but you also need to ensure that it will fit through doorways and around corners as you bring it into your home.
Before you start shopping, measure the space where the dishwasher will go. Make sure to measure the width, depth, and height of the space, and also take into account any nearby cabinets or appliances that might impede installation. Once you have the measurements, you can start looking for dishwashers that will fit the space.
Also, consider the installation process. Dishwashers come in two types: freestanding and built-in. Freestanding dishwashers can be placed anywhere in the kitchen. Built-in dishwashers, on the other hand, are installed into the cabinetry and are typically more expensive. Make sure to choose the one that fits your budget and your kitchen design.
Brand and Price – Brand loyalty vs. budget-friendly: Finding the right balance
When it comes to purchasing a dishwasher, brand and price are important factors to consider. Some people swear by a particular brand, while others are more interested in getting the best deal.
When looking at brands, research on the reliability and customer service of each brand. It’s also a good idea to read customer reviews to get an idea of how satisfied people are with their dishwashers.
In terms of price, dishwashers can range from budget-friendly models for a few hundred dollars to luxury models that cost thousands. It’s important to set a budget and stick to it, but also keep in mind that a more expensive model might be more energy-efficient, have more features, or be more durable in the long run.
Conclusion
Picking the perfect dishwasher is all about finding the right balance of capacity, features, size, brand, and price for your needs. Take the time to research, consider your options, and don’t be afraid to contact experts for help.
And remember, a dishwasher may be a humble appliance, but it can make a big difference in your daily life. Happy shopping!