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Bosch Dishwasher Buying Guide

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The Definitive Dishwasher Buying Guide

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How to choose the best dishwasher

If you’re looking for a new dishwasher, this guide will give you the information and insights to find one that will fit your home and lifestyle perfectly. As a global leader in home appliances, we know a thing or two about what makes a great dishwasher that will save you time and effort. This guide introduces all the latest dishwasher features and technologies, and shares hints on how to get the most from your appliance.

Which is the best dish cleaning method – by hand or in a dishwasher?
Stack of crockery and glasses

When you wash dishes by hand, you’re restricted by both the water temperature and the power of washing up liquid as both must come into contact with your hands without discomfort. By contrast dishwashers use water heated up to 70°C which is much more effective at removing bacteria, and dishwasher detergents contain powerful ingredients to target stains and food residue. Some dishwashers feature specific hygiene programmes, like Bosch’s HygienePlus, which rinses dishes with water heated to 70°C - perfect for households with small children or allergy sufferers.

How can I save money on dishwashing?
stack of soiled crockery and cups

Through the use of advanced technology, energy efficient dishwashers use less water and electricity, and you will still get sparkling results. Look out for machines with EU energy ratings of A++ and A+++, which are not only better for the environment but will save you money on your bills. And innovations like Bosch’s LoadSensor detect when you’re washing a smaller load to make sure only the necessary amount of water and electricity is used.

Which dishwasher programmes and settings do I need?
detail of Bosch dishwasher control panel

Many dishwashers offer a range of programmes to cater for different loads, dirtier dishes and for when you’re in a hurry. Typical programmes include delicate 40°C for shining glasses, economy mode to save water and energy, and intensive 70°C to shift heavy grease deposits. You should also look out for flexible programmes like Bosch’s IntensiveZone, which gives a deeper clean to items in the bottom drawer when needed.

How can I wash my dishes more quickly?
tall stack of crockery, cutlery and plates

There are quick wash programmes available on most dishwashers, but many of these can leave dishes damp. Advanced programmes like Bosch VarioSpeed Plus can wash and dry a full load of dishes perfectly clean, by reducing rinse time by up to 66%. Simply select the VarioSpeed Plus option when you need dishes quickly.

How can I load my dishwasher to get the best results?
collection of pots and pans in a Bosch Dishwasher VarioDrawer

Bosch recommends large and tall items go in the bottom rack with their dirty surfaces facing the centre and any openings facing downwards. The top rack should be reserved for smaller items, such as cups and glasses. It’s recommended that your utensils are placed on the highest shelf when washing, but because you can have too many after cooking a large meal it’s important to look for a machine that offers top shelf flexibility. Bosch’s unique retractable VarioDrawer with third level offers even greater flexibility, so you can make the most of your dishwasher space and still get everything cleaned perfectly.

How much space does a dishwasher need?
A VarioFlex Dawer with plates and bowls resting in drawer

Dishwashers come in two main sizes: 45cm wide (slimline) and 60cm wide (standard), so you have a choice of options depending on your kitchen or utility space. Always measure the size of the space before purchasing a dishwasher and if you do need a slimline (45cm) model, check for versatile stacking options like Bosch’s VarioFlex drawers to make sure you get the most from the space available. And if you simply don’t have room for a dishwasher under your worktop, consider a compact counter-top dishwasher.

Should I buy a free standing or integrated dishwasher?
Bosch Integrated Dishwasher ajar in open plan kitchen

If you’re installing your dishwasher in a fitted kitchen, you might favour an integrated model to blend in with your units. On a fully integrated appliance, features like Bosch’s TimeLight enable you to check progress without opening the door, and Bosch OpenAssist allows you to open the door by just pressing on the panel. Freestanding dishwashers don’t need a fascia panel and so are quicker to install, with all controls easily accessible on the front of the appliance. Many Bosch models feature intuitive control panels, so it’s easy to get the right settings and to track progress.

What are the quietest dishwashers?
EarPlugs resting on white background

There are many low-noise dishwashers available, but it’s important to check that these can still perform to a high level. Noise levels are important especially if you entertain in the kitchen. Look for dishwashers offering noise ratings of around 40-45db(A), and for special programmes like Bosch’s SuperSilence Plus, which reduces noise to only 38db(A).

What are the latest dishwasher trends and technology?

If you haven’t bought a new dishwasher for a few years you might not be up to speed with the latest design and technology developments. The best new dishwasher models are packed with features to save time, water and electricity, and are designed to give maximum protection to your dishes, glasses and cutlery. Some even have neat features like internal LED lighting. From smart dishwashers that can reorder detergent automatically, to built-in drying systems and flexible drawers that make them easier to load, there are many new dishwasher features to look out for.

Bosch Freestanding dishwasher in blue background

Latest Dishwasher Features & Benefits

Home Connect Phone with Amazon on screen in ktichen with Bosch Dishwasher

What are wi-fi enabled smart dishwashers?

Home connect Logo

Smart dishwashers enable you to control your appliance remotely via an app on your tablet or smartphone, giving you more convenience and flexibility. Bosch models with Home Connect let you remotely set your dishwasher and keep track of progress from wherever you are, and they can even re-order dishwasher tablets automatically using Amazon Dash Replenishment so you never need to run out of detergent again. Home Connect can also make your home smart by connecting to other wi-fi enabled appliances and devices. You can even voice-control them using Alexa and Google Home smart speakers.

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PerfectDry Plate comaprison, one half speckled with water and one dry

How can I stop hand drying items when the dishwasher finishes?

ZeoLith Drying icon

Many dishwashers leave a lot of moisture behind when the washing cycle has finished, meaning you have to hand dry items before you put them away. Bosch’s unique PerfectDry feature uses natural Zeolith minerals to dry everything to perfection, including pans, glasses and even plastic items. All lunchboxes and containers will be perfectly dry and cupboard ready, so you'll never have to pick up a tea towel to finish the job again.

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How can I get glasses sparkling clean without polishing them?

Shine and dry Icon

Many Bosch models include Glass 40°C, a protective program for gently cleaning and drying glasses without the need to polish them before putting them away.

How can I protect my dishwasher from water damage?

AquaStop icon

The Bosch AquaStop system protects your dishwasher and your kitchen from water damage. AquaStop automatically senses a leak and shuts off the water supply automatically, and then alerts you to the problem on the control panel.

How can I protect delicate dishes and glasses from damage?

Heat Exchanger Icon

Bosch dishwashers with a built-in heat exchanger take perfect care of delicate glasses and porcelain. By pre-heating the water use in the rinsing tank, temperature shocks between hot water and cold water are avoided.

How can I reduce electricity and water consumption?

ActiveWater Icon

Bosch’s ActiveWater is an innovative rinsing technology that reduces water and energy use by targeting water distribution, increasing water circulation, and heating water more quickly. The result is perfectly cleaned dishes and reduced environmental impact.

What are the latest Bosch dishwashers?

Bosch Dishwasher SMS67MW00Gv2 Which? Award Best Buy

What is a Which? Best Buy dishwasher award?

It can be really helpful to get independent advice when you’re trying to choose the best and most reliable dishwasher. Which? independently tests dishwashers to ensure they’re efficient and provide great dish cleaning, awarding Best Buy status to the most impressive models so you can be sure you’re buying the right one for you. We’re proud of our Bosch models with Which? Best Buy awards.

View Bosch Dishwashers Top Picks

Bosch Dublin showroom

Discover inspiration for your kitchen at the Home of Innovation

We are delighted to offer our customers the chance to see Bosch appliances in action. In addition to one-to-one product advice, we also host FREE cookery demonstrations in our Dublin showroom. These demonstrations are a fun, interactive way for customers to receive product advice and ask any questions they may have about buying or using Bosch appliances.

Find out more here

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