Having a good dishwasher is life-changing and we're here to help you navigate the shopping process! From size and finish to drying features and third rack options– it can be overwhelming to decide. Read below for a list of questions to ask yourself before you buy. If you want to select a model with even less guesswork, use our Dishwasher Builder Tool which walks you through our simple questionnaire and pairs you with the best model for you.
8 Important Questions to Ask When Buying a Dishwasher.
1. What dishwasher size fits my kitchen?
Standard 24" width dishwasher
Most kitchens will be perfect for the standard 24" width dishwasher which has a large capacity to fit up to 16 place settings.
24" width, ADA-compliant height dishwasher
This is the same width as our standard dishwasher, with an ADA-compliant height for those who have special height requirements.
18" width, ADA-compliant height dishwasher
This is a smaller width than our standard dishwashers, and is a good fit for small space kitchens. The height is ADA-compliant for those who have special height requirements.
2. Which dishwasher handle style do you like?
We have a range of handle styles to select from (our pocket handle and bar handles are a customer favorite!)
Bar Handle: classic and traditional, and provides a spot to hang dish towels for those who like to have towels handy
Pocket Handle: streamlined and classic, the pocket handle blends seamlessly with your kitchen with no obtruding handle or buttons. It's stylish and timeless.
Recessed Handle: the recessed handle is a good option for those who like the controls in front, while maintaining a non-obtrusive look.
Scoop Handle: a classic design, the scoop handle has front controls
Custom Panel: our panel ready dishwashers can be outfitted with a custom panel to integrate with the rest of your cabinetry for the ultimate design-forward aesthetic.
3. What color/finish do you prefer for your dishwasher?
Our most popular finish is stainless steel, which is timeless and sleek- a versatile finish for a range of kitchen styles. Shop stainless steel dishwashers
If your kitchen is filled with kids who like to touch everything or easy cleaning is a must-have for your kitchen, opt for our black stainless steel which helps guard against scratches and fingerprints. Shop black stainless dishwashers
If you're opting for a classic look, a black or white dishwasher will do.
Lastly, our panel ready dishwashers are ready to be outfitted with a custom panel to beautifully integrate with your cabinetry. Shop panel ready dishwashers
Another consideration is whether you prefer the control panel to be hidden on top or displayed on the front.
4. A thorough clean for your dishes with PrecisionWash™.
You shouldn’t have to wash your dishes, before you wash your dishes. All Bosch dishwashers have PrecisionWash™ technology so you have the ultimate confidence that your dishes will come out sparkling clean every time.
With Bosch PrecisionWash™, simply start your dishwasher and walk away. Intelligent sensors continually scan and check the progress of dishes throughout the cycle, and powerful, precision spray arms target every item of every load for the ultimate clean.
Introducing PowerControl™.
The industry's most advanced clean.
PowerControl™ spray arm is the latest innovation from Bosch to give you the deepest clean. PowerControl™ enhances PrecisionWash® performance to target your dirtiest dishes, no matter where you place them on the bottom rack.
5. Dishwasher drying features
A dishwasher isn't truly doing its job if it doesn't clean and dry your dishes. While every Bosch dishwasher has PrecisionWash™, you have the option to select the Drying technology that best suits your lifestyle.
CrystalDry™delivers the ultimate dry, including plastics. Our patented CrystalDry™ technology transforms moisture into heat to get dishes, including plastics, 60% drier.* Learn more about CrystalDry™.
AutoAir™ on the Bosch 500 Series dishwashers automatically releases the door at the end of the cycle to let moisture escape and fresh air in for drier dishes. Learn more about AutoAir™
PureDry™is the base drying system on all Bosch dishwashers which features a Sanitize Option that ends each cycle with an extra hot wash, heating the water to 162˚F which helps thoroughly clean, sanitize, and dry dishes. Learn more about PureDry™
6. Selecting your dishwasher’s noise level
Bosch is the quietest dishwasher brand in the U.S*, so you can enjoy the luxury of a peaceful kitchen, even during busy moments. We offer a range of quiet levels but selecting the right noise level for you comes down to personal preferences and the floor plan of your home.
Pro tip: If you have an eat-in kitchen or open floor plan, carefully consider a dishwasher's noise level. A very quiet dishwasher clocks in at around 40 decibels – like soft music playing in the background. Closed-off kitchen? Noise is perhaps lower on your priority list.
*Based on an average of sound ratings of 24" Full Size Stainless Steel Tub dishwashers contained in major brands websites. Major brands defined as TraQline Top 5 Market Share December 2019.
7. Which 3rd rack is best?
With two different 3rd rack designs for dishwashers and a range of innovations such as the RackMatic® adjustable middle rack and FlexSpace™ tines that fold back to fit your larger items, a Bosch dishwasher with a 3rd rack has the flexibility to accommodate any kind of load.
The standard 3rd rack provides the perfect space for flatware and large utensils. The unique V shape leaves room on the middle rack for taller items like stemware.
The Flexible 3rd Rack accommodates deeper items, while adjustable tines let you customize the rack's loading space. Its unique v-shape with drop-down wings lets you load ramekins and measuring cups with ease. It adds 30% more loading area compared to a Bosch dishwasher with two racks.
8. Do you need a smart dishwasher with Home Connect™?
Now with Home Connect® on every Bosch dishwasher.
From remote monitoring and cycle status notifications, to running diagnostics from the comfort of your home, the Home Connect app allows you to remotely monitor and control your Bosch dishwasher from your smartphone for greater convenience.