At a Glance:
7 Most Reliable Dishwasher Models
What Makes a Dishwasher Reliable?
After-dinner cleanup is one thing, but dealing with a dishwasher that doesn’t get dishes clean the first time is a hassle nobody likes to deal with. The solution is being able to pick the most reliable dishwasher from the wide sea of selections—but usually, that’s easier said than done. With more than 85 years in the industry, we at Albert Lee know how to spot a quality dishwasher, which is exactly what we’ve done in this guide to the market’s top rated dishwashers. From performance to upgrades, our list of best-sellers has what you’re looking for with the power to make dinner cleanup a one-time job.
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Shop Dishwashers7 Most Reliable Dishwasher Models
Like you, we ask ourselves, “Which dishwasher is the best?” After extensive, independent research, our best results revealed reviewing features, capacity, and wash levels is the best way to compare dishwashers. Here’s how our top contenders square up!
KitchenAid® 24" PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop This KitchenAid Dishwasher
This model is included in our dishwasher buying guide because it has one of the largest capacities on the market. It has 7.25 cubic feet of usable tub space with 16 place settings to fit each and every piece of dinnerware. Not only does it have ample room, but it is also flexible. Enjoy the third rack that can hold 10 extra glasses or the fold-down rows that can accommodate bulky items, plus an advanced wash and fan-assisted drying system that runs at a near whisper at just 44 dBA.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KDTM804KPS Review:
“Best dishwasher that we have ever owned! The dry feature is AMAZING, even plastic containers get dry.”
Maytag® 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
You don’t have to spend a lot of money to buy one of the high quality dishwashers on our list. This model by Maytag is both reliable and affordable. It has Dual Power Filtration, so you never need to pre-wash your dishes. Save time by skipping the scrubbing and enjoy clean dishes every time.
⭐Featured Maytag MDB4949SKZ Review:
“Everything is clean and it is relatively quiet. I like having the controls on the front as it is hard for me to see them on top. I should have bought a Maytag when I remodeled the kitchen 5 years ago.”
Bosch® 800 Series 24" Stainless Steel Top Control Built-In Dishwasher
As far as brands go, Bosch is regularly names as the most reliable dishwasher brand and tops the list of dishwasher ratings for experts and users alike. This model is a great example of why. Part of the Bosch 800 Series, this dishwashing machine is packed with features like the EasyGlide™ rack system and an exceptionally quiet motor. This model is so quiet that Bosch had to install an InfoLight to alert customers when the appliance is running.
Compare Top Brands: Bosch vs JennAir Dishwashers: A Side-by-Side Comparison
GE Profile™ 24" Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Built-In Top Control Dishwasher
Shop This GE Profile Dishwasher
A big consideration as you shop dishwashers is whether a smart dishwasher is right for your lifestyle. If hands-free operation and diagnosing sounds like your pace, this dishwasher by GE Profile is a great option. It lets you manage your appliance through the SmartHQ™ app. Choose from various cycles and receive alerts when your dishes are done. This model also comes with bottle jets, which are perfect for families with infants or people who love staying hydrated.
KitchenAid® 24" PrintShield™ Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop This KitchenAid Dishwasher
With more than 1,500 perfect ratings, this KitchenAid dishwashing machine’s track record is one of the most impressive in its class. In a hurry? Turn on the Express Cycle, which cleans 72% better than KitchenAid’s competitors while getting dishes clean in an hour KitchenAid also boasts a ProDry™ system that gets your dishes dryer, faster. Over 50 jets and fan-assisted drying together with 16 place settings, this dishwasher under $1,500 is worth every cent.
⭐Featured KitchenAid KDTM604KPS Review:
“The cleaning/drying is a major upgrade from our old model and we love the third rack. Our dishes never looked so good coming out of any dishwasher we've ever owned.”
Learn More: Bosch vs KitchenAid Dishwashers | Reviews & Top Picks
Thermador® Sapphire® 24" Custom Panel Top Control Built In Dishwasher
Shop This Thermador Dishwasher
In terms of the best performance dishwasher, Thermador offers one of the strongest lineups in the luxury class. This model makes easy work of even the heaviest messes with ZoneControl and a clean water system for speck-free dishes. Dry dishes are also no problem. With StarDry technology—special minerals that produce heat when wet—this premium dishwasher can dry even plastics. Wash up to 16 plate settings at once with peace of mind with Energy Star® qualified performance at a quiet noise rating of 44 dBA.
Miele 24" Clean Touch Steel Front Control Built-In Dishwasher
Miele is a luxury brand, so it makes sense we’d have a dishwasher from its catalog on our most reliable dishwasher list. This model delivers commercial-grade performance, along with nice perks like a ComfortClose door that conveniently stays in place for easy loading. This appliance is also economical. It uses just 2.4 gallons of water to clean your dishes in Economy mode. Built with quality, German engineering, this Miele dishwasher is designed to last up to 20 years.
What Makes a Dishwasher Reliable?
Aside from knowing which dishwasher brand is most reliable, understanding what to look for in a dishwasher can help you choose the best possible model for your home. Start your search by developing a list of criteria that make a few top dishwashers stand out from the rest. Here are a few factors that can help you find the most reliable dishwasher for your home. Click the ➕to learn more.
➕Advanced Dishwasher Motors
A good dishwasher motor is reliable, quiet, and protected by a manufacturer's warranty. Look for brands that showcase their motors and are excited for customers to try them out. One of the most popular designs right now uses an inverter drive motor to maximize power without using too much energy.
➕Silent Dishwasher Operation
The quietest dishwashers run at 38 decibels (dBA). Look for a dishwasher that runs at the low forties or below for a more enjoyable user experience that doesn’t interrupt your daily routine.
➕Stainless Steel Dishwasher Tub
A stainless steel dishwasher tub is better than plastic because it is more durable. This means your dishwasher can run for longer without leaking. Stainless steel also helps reduce noise on top of resisting stains and odors.
➕Advanced Dishwasher Features
There are a few other advanced features to explore in your search. A few things to look for include:
- Heated drying: Modern dishwashers should get any dish clean and dry. Advanced dishwasher drying features include fan-assisted systems, heating elements, and—as featured on our Thermador pick—special minerals that promote dryness.
- 3rd rack: A dishwasher third rack is essential for providing extra storage for oddly shaped utensils and knives. The extra tray doesn’t affect loading below and is a convenient way to increase loading flexibility.
- Wi-Fi connectivity: A smart dishwasher might not be the first thing that comes to mind when it comes to reliability, but having the power to start or stop a load from virtually anywhere is handy to have. With Wi-Fi compatibility, users can rely on running a cycle at any time and any place.
How to Avoid a Bad Dishwasher
Along with knowing what features to look for in a dishwasher, it helps to understand what to avoid. This can help you quickly understand which dishwasher is good and which is bad when comparing multiple options. Here are a few things to avoid:
✅ Plastic Dishwasher Tubs: These are more likely to wear out because of the extreme heat. This can cause leaks or force you to replace your dishwasher sooner than you want.
✅ No Third Dishwasher Rack: This limits your storage options and makes your dishwasher harder to load.
✅ Dishwashers Over 50 dBA: Not only is this unnecessarily loud, but it is disruptive to your home. You may find it hard to sleep or enjoy your favorite shows with your dishwasher churning and humming. Additionally, lack or insulation and carefully manufactured parts means a more likelihood of wearing and breaking down.
✅ Dishwashers with Fewer Than 14 place Settings: Small dishwashers force you to run more cycles to clean your dishes, driving up your water and electrical usage, as well as the overall wear of the dishwasher.
Dish care is an everyday essential, and that means a reliable dishwasher is all the more important. Whether it’s one of our top picks or the many more quality dishwashers part of our full selection of models, Albert Lee can help you find the right fit for your dishwashing needs. Explore our favorites and more today at one of our Puget Sound appliance stores near you today!
FAQ
What is the average lifespan of a dishwasher?
Most dishwashers are designed to last around 10 years. However, some of the most reliable models can last up to 15 years. Dishwasher longevity depends on how it is used, the brand, and if the homeowner keeps up with regular maintenance. With the right care, your dishwasher might last longer than you expect.
How much is a dishwasher?
Dishwashers vary significantly in pricing. You can find a basic one for $500 or could spend more than $2,000 for a luxury unit. Explore your favorite dishwasher brands to get an idea of their price points and set a budget based on what you feel comfortable spending.
Who sells dishwashers near me?
If you live in the Pacific Northwest, look no further than Albert Lee to find a dishwasher near me. There are six locations across Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue. Find your nearest location and stop by for a positive shopping experience.
Why Trust Albert Lee?
Since 1939, Albert Lee Appliance, a three-generation, family-owned business, continues to grow and serve the greater Pacific Northwest with quality products you can count on and service you can trust. We are proud to have served this community for so long and wouldn’t be here without our loyal customers. There is a reason why we are Washington’s largest independent appliance dealer, and it’s not a secret. Simply put: We have the experience. We have been the original appliance experts for over eight decades (and counting).
Shop Dishwashers at Albert Lee
At Albert Lee Appliance, we provide quality name-brand appliances for great prices. Shop dishwashers online or visit us today at one of our six locations in the Pacific Northwest. In the meantime, browse our website to shop Albert Lee appliance sales and check out Albert Lee appliance reviews online to ensure every purchase is an informed one. More available than ever, our experts at Albert Lee Appliance are always happy to help you explore the most reliable dishwasher brands, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Contact us today!
Learn More: 4 Dishwasher Sale Secrets for Puget Sound Shoppers