A friend in need is a friend indeed! Back in February, more than 300 of you offered your thoughts when I needed a new washing machine. Per your advice and reviews, I purchased a high-efficiency top-loader that works like a charm. Now I have another appliance that needs replacing. So tell me: What kind of automatic dishwasher do you own, and do you love it — or loathe it?
This is not my first time in the dishwasher rodeo. I purchased a hideously expensive Bosche for my Manhattan apartment. The machine not only cleaned dishes to a sparkling degree, but it was quiet to boot. We parted company when I sold the apartment and moved to an old Victorian house in Upstate New York.
My first machine in this old-new house was a medium-priced Whirlpool. It worked perfectly well for 5 years. Then it just up and died. So I replaced it with a more expensive Whirlpool, purchased from a local appliance store. This machine has been a disappointment from day one.
I complained to the seller, but he refused to replace the machine. He tinkered around with it, and proclaimed that “All parts are working.” Well, the parts might work, but the appliance simply does not clean dishes the way it should. I’d call the machine a POS, but that wouldn’t be very lady-like of me.
So what say you? Can you tell me about your own automatic dishwasher, and whether or not you’d recommend it? I’m a member of Consumer Reports, but their reviews and ratings are both overwhelming and confusing.
I’m all ears, folks. So please speak up in the comments field below.
Love ya-
Kevin
Lynn says
We love our Bosch! Yes, more expensive, but it is sooooo quiet, and the dishes are always clean. Think your home deserves one.
Linda says
Sorry you don’t like your Whirlpool. Mine is a “gold series” and has worked fine for a few years. (hope I don’t jinx myself saying that). It has a stainless steel tub, adjustable racks, several cycle choices, and silverware rack on the door (a feature I love!). I’ve been looking for a new refrigerator so I understand your confusion over all the choices. I’m sure you’ll make a wise decision. Good luck, Kevin.
Cari says
I second the Bosch. I’ve got a very full house, we run the dishwasher 2-3 times a day, and oftentimes they’re not properly scraped and rinsed beforehand (ahem, children!), yet the machine never lets us down.
If you’re not up for the Bosch, at least make sure you get a stainless steel tub- that makes so much difference in drying.
Judy says
I had a Bosch for many years – I think it was purchased in ’96 or ’97. When it died in 2015 I got a Whirlpool also. It cleaned OK (although it took forever) but it was not as quiet as my Bosch, I didn’t like the way it loaded and I just was not happy with it. If I was not getting ready to sell my home at the time, I would have purchased a Bosch again.
Sue says
I bought a Bosch about a year ago. Love hate relationship. Actually it is more user not knowing then the machine itself. There had been a time that it ran all night. Didn’t realize there was a filter basket that had to be clean of any debris or else dishwasher considered water still dirty. Or when I wondered why my dishes were not hot dry when done. More energy efficient not to have that setting I read in the manual. Some other quirky things but I I’ll live with it
Terri R says
Kitchen Aid!
Rebecca says
We are currently waiting for the delivery of a Maytag. I came home from work to water on kitchen floor among other issues. So for our 25th silver anniversary it’s a new stainless steel DW!
Lee says
Bosch it is and it’s been super reliable for the past 6 years (knock wood). Very quiet, cleans the dishes really well, and I can stuff it full enough that I don’t need to run it every day. Pricey but worth it. 🙂 Good luck, Kevin!
Emily P. says
Hi Kevin ~ We have a low-end Bosch. It was a bit more money than my husband thought we should spend, but I kind of insisted. In January, we’ll have had it 8 years, no service calls required. Good luck with your decision-making!
Betty-Jean Roppolo says
We had a Kenmore Elite. It lasted about two years – piece of you know what! Now we have a Whirlpool, without all the bells and whistles. It’s ok but not great. Cleans well but doesn’t dry well. Just hope it lasts longer than the Kenmore.
Grazyna says
We have a Bosh Silent Plus. It is very quiet and cleans well but it’s not that quiet in the kitchen when the lower basket is almost full with dinner plates. The basket skips and gets out of alignment and it’s hard to push it back into place. Then I start to swear not quite like a lady. Over then that it’s OK. My husband started to bend some prongs in the basket and it’s a bit better.
Melodie says
I’ve been through 3 dishwashers in 11 years… the first was a Kenmore when we built the house – that was rated very well in Consumer Reports. Hated it… I can’t remember the next one worked well for a while. The current one is a KitchenAid. Best one so far. Quiet and cleans the dishes perfectly
Connie McK says
My sister had to replace her dishwasher lately and said that the salesperson told her that anything outside of a Bosch is like spraying your dishes with a garden hose. Apparently the Bosch machines do an excellent and efficient job of washing dishes compared to all others. I have a Kenmore Elite, which has worked fine for many years (15) and was relatively quiet, but recently it has started making noise. That’s another thing about Bosch – quiet!!
Cary says
Love our Bosch. Good luck!
Tracy says
Bosch stainless steel no-frill machine has been flawless for at least 14 years. Only negative: so quiet I often forget it’s running and open it mid-cycle!
Abby says
I vote for a Miele with the utensil tray. It is quiet, cleans well and the tray makes unloading the utensils a breeze!
Jan says
Bosch all the way. Worth the expense for the quality of the machine. So quiet, so efficient. I love mine and wouldn’t part with it.
Juliana says
Bosch! I replaced a Maytag in my new-old house with a Bosch and was delighted with it. When it finally went after 10 years of almost daily use, I bought another Bosch. Very quiet and cleans well. Some of the cycles are long depending on the model you get, but if you’re in a hurry or the dishes aren’t especially dirty, the speed wash cleans quite well, too.
Constantine says
I’m on my second Bosch. The first was in the previous house and used for 10 years without issue. It stayed with the house when I moved. Redid the kitchen in the new house and went with Bosch without hesitation. No regrets! Very quiet and dishes are always clean. The only negative about Bosch is that there is no dry cycle. Plastics will stay wet. My solution is to remove plastics after the run then tightly close the door again. By the next morning all the ceramic is completely dry, and often still warm. I also always use the ‘sanitize’ setting to get the extra heat, which I think aids in the drying. I love Bosch dishwashers!
Dee says
What a timely piece Kevin What ever you do donot buy a Frigidaire, especially the gallery. Sadly I bought the whole getup…dishwasher, frig, oven…what a mistake. My dishwasher will not drain and Lowes have sent 4 servicemen out. They fix it it works for a few days and then it does’t. So forget warranty. Like with with, they say it is not broken….but it doesn’t work.
I was told the Bosch was great but it depended on the year and model…newer lower end models had some complaints.
The Kitchen Aide was highly recommended- that surprised me…so thinking along those lines.
Going to an appliance store this time…not a department store.
Let us know what you decide and how it goes. Maybe Ill wait on you before I buy 😉
As always loveya posts Kev…..Dee
badger gardener says
I was afraid to even click on this post out of superstition. About a month after your washing machine posts our dryer broke down and we decided we might as well replace the pair because the washing machine was likely going to be right behind it.
Our current dishwasher is a midpriced GE and I give it a rating of “meh”. I hope I haven’t hurt its feelings because I’d like it to last a little longer.
Kathy Jaynes says
How timely! I need a new dishwasher and was headed to buy a Bosch, but will wait for your results. I have had 2 Kitchen Aid dishwashers: the first was fabulous and the second was a lemon. Bought a top of the line Whirlpool next and hated it from the get go.
Thanks so much!
Kay in Neb says
Oh the saga of the dishwasher! 3 years ago my beloved portable Whirlpool finally (after 15 years) needed to be replaced. I got another portable, a Maytag this time. The thing worked for about 3 months and then refused to drain. Service Call #1. 3 months later, same issue. Service Call #2. Said it was fixed, was not. Service call #3 with specific instructions to make sure it drained. Assured me it did. Test it that evening. It did NOT drain. Call to store, demanding they take back the machine. It was junk. 2 months of many calls and being polite but firm, they “allowed” me to return it for credit. (We are long-time customers.) We used the credit for carpet. And then went to a BBS and got a Bosch. I’m not 100% thrilled with it but it’s pretty good. I personally want a grinder and not a “food catcher.” If I have anything like almond butter or other granulated (not dissolve-able) food in it, I end up with gritty glasses. It is quiet and I love the 40 min. express setting. Good luck!
Meg says
Bosch without a doubt. It’s her quiet and cleans beautifully.
T Maeda says
Miele. Quiet, energy-efficient, and cleans like a charm. Long-lasting, beautifully designed, and all the appliances come with terrific customer service.
Holly Starke says
I bought a beautiful, quiet LG but am VERY disappointed in its cleaning function. Don’t buy an LG!
Kate says
Wow, looks like I’m the only commenter who HATES their bottom-of-the-line Bosch. I have to basically wash the dishes before I put them in to get anything clean. I also dislike it also for the control panel: functions are very difficult to change and not intuitive (at least to me). Quiet doesn’t matter to me as I always put it on when I go to bed. I’d replace it with a Kitchenaid if I didn’t have higher priorities.
Janice Prindle says
I second, or third or whatever the number, the straw poll votes for Bosch. For 14 years mine has performed without a problem. The extra $ pays in zero repair bills and no stress.
Save all that for your ongoing house restoration!
Mercy says
I just started renovating my kitchen and after a ton of research, went with a Bosch. It’s not installed yet, but from what I see on here & the reviews online, I’m pretty hopeful!
Love your recipes, Kevin!
Sally Wilkinson says
I have a Bosch and love it for many reasons, but my favorite is that I can put plastic on the lower shelf and nothing ever melts. Second, because my kitchen is part of the family room I can watch tv while the dishwasher is running without a problem whatsoever. Finally, I like having the top rack for flatware. It is so much easier to place flatware there instead of inserting it into tiny individual sections in the basket on the lower shelf. So what’s not to like? Spend the extra money and buy a Bosch. You won’t regret it.
Darla M. says
Hi Kevin,
I feel your pain! When we remodeled our kitchen a few years back we got a KitchenAid. It cleans very well. It seems a little noisy but that may just be because the kitchen is not closed off from the living room so we notice it more.
Good luck,
Darla
Janis says
My sister purchased a dushwasher just this past year. She had purchased a Maytag but was not happy. After researching thoroughly she ended up with the Bosch and has been so pleased with it. My niece and my daughter each, independently, bought a KitchenAid 18 months or so ago. They have no regrets. I have an older Superba KitchAId and it is so quiet and gentle on my beautiful bone china collections. I think you cannot go wrong with Bosch or Miele either. So it really comes down to which features are important to you and, very important, which ‘look’ is best for your kitchen.
Amy says
Go for the Bosch! On my second successful relationship:)
Elizabeth Gifford says
Bosch quality is sliding (I do have their front load washer and dryer which I like a lot).
My Kitchen Aid dishwasher is wonderfully efficient, roomy, QUIET,good value although the handle doesn’t match my horribly disappointing and expensive Liebherr fridge! (couldn’t find any other stainless fridge for that confined space–and I am not about to rip out my kitchen for a fridge–
Kathy E says
We have a Bosch, purchased in 2013. We the way it cleans and how quiet it is. We did have problems with, of all things, the door hinges as soon as it was out of warrantee (of course). But, once we replaced the plastic hinge with a metal one, it is now fine. I would buy one again, but I would check that the metal hinge is part of the design!
Bette says
Bosch all the way!
Jake says
Hi Kevin! We got a KitchenAid 39 dB about 6 months ago to replace the vintage 70’s model.
It is wonderfully quiet, looks fabulous, and does a good job – especially with the PowerScrub for baked on messes in casserole dishes.
However….
– it was almost $1,000
– it takes anywhere from 3 to 7 hours to run depending on options
– it doesn’t ‘vent’ like the old ones on heat dry
Do note that many do not have a heat dry option now, they all take forever, and most need a rinse aid (which I don’t use anymore because everything tastes funny).
Now… most people I talk to run them overnight so no big deal on the time.
If like me you cook a lot *cough cough* or entertain often *cough cough*, forget about doing 2 or 3 loads in one day. None of the ‘express’ modes does anything better than rinsing in the sink either, sadly.
I’m still furious I bought a new one and am waiting with bated breath for it to die.
When it does I’ll put in a bigger commercial style range using that space, and do all the dishes by hand (instead of most of them like I do now)
My 2 cent.
ps- definitely consider a water hammer arrestor if your plumbing is old like mine
Phyllis says
Definitely Bosch!!!
Gina G says
My favorite dishwasher has lasted 23 years, tall and blond with blue eyes . He washes dishes better than any machine…..but, he’s all mine….so, if you must be automated then I think the Bosch is the way to go!
Gary T says
Love my Bosch.
Rose says
Kevin,
We always get a Kitchenaid because they have the stainless steel tub and are very quiet. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND buttons on the top of the door, because this model is constantly getting bumped and it is always going “WHHRRR” when you least expect it. Also, we used to run our dish loads at night when we went to bed. We quit doing that because many of them (and they were Kitchenaid) were causing fires. We were out in the country on hard calcium well water for many years, and the Kitchenaids held up very well for us. Good Luck!
Maria says
You all will hate to read this but I have an ancient Whirlpool that just won’t die. Came with the house and I don’t know how old it was then, but I’ve been here 21 years now! Cleans beautifully, dries perfectly. (It is not quiet, however, so there’s that). None of this matters of course because they don’t make this model anymore. I am reading this thread with interest because I know one day this workhorse is going to give up the ghost. I’m surprised to hear everyone rave about the Bosch because I have a Bosch clothes washer that’s as fussy as a nervous debutante.
Lin says
I am a habitual wash before washing so a cardboard box would do for me. My 25 year old Plain Jane GE is just fine.
Joanne says
I have a Whirlpool. 10 years old–or more. Has 5 options for “sensing” water plus four options (soak/scour) (hi temp scour) (sani rinse) (air dry). I have used ONLY the NORMAL button. We load and might not wash for several days. Everything is sparkling clean. Quiet, Dependable. Which is why I purchased the Whirlpool Fridge that was CONDEMED after 15 months and two breakdowns. You just never know.
Nancy says
We had a whirlpool that was “fine” but never a star and it lasted for about 10 years. I was thrilled when it died and I could justify replacing it. Went to our local appliance store, looked at the Bosch and thought it was just too expensive. The sales person recommended a Kitchen Aid w/ Stainless steel interior and we love it.
Donna Korkus says
Hi Kevin,
I really love the Frigidaire Gallery series, the first one lasted 12 years…A bit more expensive, however, it lasts over time.
Good luck..
Ed P says
Kevy,
Kitchenaid def way to go.
Avoid Bosch at all costs.
Xx
Ed
PaulaK says
on our third Bosch in 20 or so years. they seem to last about 6 or 7 years. Very quiet. Current one, the wash/dry cycles are much longer than previous, about 2 hrs. The stainless tub is nice. Agree with Kate that the controls can be very confusing but we are now in habit of just pushing the same buttons. We did not get the high end one, ours is one up from the lowest level. It seems to not clean quite as well as prior but much better than our relatives’ models, Whirlpool and GE. GE had a recall a few years back and our friends didnt know and it caught fire….so GE went off our shopping list. One bad model perhaps but scary.
Erica says
Hi Kevin, I agree with Abby. Miele is a great choice.
Wendie says
Looks like I’m in the minority with the Bosch. It is super quiet but it runs forever and the dishes are rarely perfectly clean and dry. I do love the slide out shelf for the utensils. We really miss our Fisher and Paykel drawers and would buy them again if we needed a new one. They are pricey but worth it.
Susan M Ager says
We’re on our second Bosch. The new one is great because it shines a red light on the floor when it is working. It’s hard to tell when it’s working because it is so quiet. It also has a terrific very shallow pull-out compartment at the top, where one might lay tiny prep bowls, jar covers, measuring spoons to get clean. I also love that the silverware compartment now has small holes for individual forks, knives and spoons so they do not “spoon” and fail to get clean. Also makes emptying easier. I’m a Boscher for life.
Debbie D says
I bought a middle of the road Bosch about 10 years ago. Still love it! If I had to do it again, I would still get a Bosch. Nice and quiet.
DB says
We’ve had our Bosch for 10+ years and have never had a problem with it. Sooo Quiet!! Prior dishwasher was a Maytag that came with the house when we bought it and it cleaned ok but was so loud we could hear it running on the second floor with bedroom doors closed.
Susan Iseman says
1. We needed a new range, and after many shopping trips, decided on a Thermador which came with a FREE dishwasher. Both work great- they should for the $$$.
2. Another suggestion- call an appliance repair person. We have one locally who installed a new motor in our 10 yr old DW. Worked like a charm after that ($150) and we gave it away when we bought the new arrangement. Have you called the manufacturer for repair recommendation? (My repair person is in New Canaan, CT- too far, maybe? A& J(203) 984-1995: John is really helpful- knows everyone and the good parts people- he may be able to help with info at least!)
Anita says
Hi Kevin, We love our KitchenAid, and I just saw that this one is on sale now- half off!- at Home Depot # KDTE104ESS. Ours is super quiet and cleans well. Can’t wait to see what you decide!
Sally says
We installed a new Kitchenaid last year because it had a stainless steel interior and have been happy with the cleaning aspect. The only problem was that we were always leaning up against the control panel on the front turning it on to any random cycle . And being very quiet we sometimes didn’t realize it was on. We finally discovered that there is a power control feature that prevents that from happening. Note to self-always read the entire owners manual !!
Rachelle says
When I was in my 20’s, I scrimped and saved and bought a portable Kitchenaid dishwasher for my tiny kitchen. Loved it. Bought another a decade later for the first home I owned. Great. Many years later my husband and I bought an acreage and built a home. A builder’s grade Whirlpool dishwasher was installed. I hated it from day one. I waited 17 years for it to die. Determined to make a good choice, I did my research and still came up with Kitchenaid as the best choice for me. We went to the appliance store and looked at all of them, from economical to high end — way out of my budget. My husband had a cheap attack and, between him and the salesman, convinced me to buy a medium grade Whirlpool. I hated it from day one. My angst grew day by day and finally, probably to shut my complaining up, my husband told me to get what I wanted (he actually agreed it was a terrible machine). I gave the medium grade Whirlpool to my bachelor son, who was thrilled to get it as he had a 25-year old dinosaur. The Kitchenaid (a top of the line model, I must admit) is wonderful! Thoroughly cleans and is very quiet. If I live that long, my future ones will always be Kitchenaids!
Vera Harris says
You can’t beat a Bosch; efficient and wonderfully quiet
Mimi says
The only dishwasher I’ve had any regard for is my husband. Sadly he’s not available.
Sylvia C Shelnutt says
Stay with the Bosch! I purchased the Bosch several years ago because a friend had replaced hers with a Bosch and I couldn’t believe how quiet it was. The Bosch was delivered to my kitchen but the installer found that it was too tall for the space because we had ceramic tile installed on the kitchen floor years earlier with the old dishwasher in place. I was informed that the only dishwasher that would fit in my space without cracking out the tile was, the worst appliance brand in the world, GE. I have GE appliances in our second home, installed by the builder, and have had to replace every one of them in less than 10 years. This new GE dishwasher is loud, doesn’t clean well, I have to rinse everything, but it does fit the space. Be sure to check the space you are replacing before you make the purchase.
Joy Windle says
I second Abby’s vote for the Miele with the top utensil rack. Mine has served us well for 10+ years. And, yes, that filter needs to be cleaned out regularly. Happy shopping!
Jay says
We have an old Kenmore that came with the house a year ago, so we’re in the market for a new one, too. I’ve been looking for a dish drawer and having trouble locating one. I’m so glad to read all these comments, but still find all the conflicting stories confusing!
Katherine says
You told yourself the answer: Bosch, midlevel and up. Quiet, efficient, highly capable.
Glenda says
My vote also goes to Bosch! Had a Maytag for over twenty years and when it died a couple of years ago, replaced it with a Bosch. Cleans like no other and is so very quiet. The ultimate!
Cindy says
We have ridiculously a expensive Jenn Air by whirlpool. Hate it. It is quiet, but like the new hi efficiency washing machines, it uses so little water & takes so long (3+ hours) that the water isn’t hot when it dribbles in and the dishes don’t come clean. Not sure how energy efficient it is when I have to prewash everything first. It also doesn’t fit our dishes well, so it’s hard to use the space well. I’d suggest that whatever brand you select, take a bunch of your usual dishes into the store and load the DW. Had I done that, I wouldn’t have bought this one. Things that I’ve previously used a DW for – like sterilizing jars for home preserving – isn’t possible because it takes so long. We now prewash all the dishes, run the hot water for several minutes prior to starting the DW so that water is hot, and only load plates, coffee cups and drinking glasses. Everything else gets washed by hand. In reality, I’d rather have the cupboard space if the DW isn’t useful.
Diane says
We got a new Kitchenaide last November and love it. It has the stainless steel interior and is very quiet and does a great job cleaning. At first I wished I had gotten the third shelf but I just lay knives and large serving spoons and the egg beater in amongst the glasswear and pots on the top shelf.
It took a while to learn how best to load it. It gets the dishes cleaner than any DW I have owned. I do not scrub them before loading and use the Tough cycle sometimes. I used Finish Powerballs detergent. I use sterling silver flatware at all meals and have no problems. The machine is very energy efficient and seems to take forever. The controls are on top of the door. There is a light which shines Blue when Washing, Red when drying, and White when finished. When I see the white light I open the door and close it twice to turn off the light.
If you want dishes clean faster there is a Quick cycle but the booklet advises that it uses more energy!
Pat says
Hi Kevin,
Ours is a Bosch and it does a great job. I like the stainless steel tub and the silverware rack that can be lifted out and taken to the silverware drawer. It accommodates large serving bowls as well. I also use it for my second set of china that I got tired of washing by hand and it still hasn’t taken off the gold trim. Good idea about checking with local repair persons. They know which ones are always breaking down and will tell you unlike the sales person.
Pglady says
According to the repairman who came to repair my Whirlpool, Miele and Bosch are best. Going for Bosch this time because we’ve had so many positive recommendations from friends. Good luck!
Linda says
I have had a Bosch dishwasher since 2009. Its been a wonderful dishwasher. Doesn’t do anything fancy, just washes dishes so no warming feature, pre rinse, etc. More buttons just ultimately create more problems. I love this dishwasher, dishes are always clean, its so quiet sometimes you can barely even hear it. Never had any problems. I would definitely recommend it. I paid about $600 for it.
Cissy Wanchic says
My automatic dishwasher is a very efficient if quite elderly model. It’s an authentic Cissy Wanchic. works like a charm if occasionally grumpy.
Claire says
Our Bosch is 14 years old. It’s still running but not as well or as quiet as it used to. We will be replacing it with another Bosch. They work great and are super quiet. They also are better at preventing a leak that could damage the floor. Check the Bosch website they often have rebates.
Joan says
I was surprised when we ordered a Bosch and it could not be installed upon delivery because the plugs for American-made dishwashers (which is what was in the house) and European dishwashers are placed in different locations. Of course, the installer wouldn’t touch relocating our outlet, and an electrician would have been required, so we returned the unit. A friend of mine recently wanted a Bosch for her condo, and had the same issue. If you end up selecting the Bosch, look into your electric location before delivery.
Jeanne bayley says
Love my Miele dishwasher. Bought it over 15 years ago, still washes great. Top pullout for silverware. So quiet, can stand next to it and not hear any noise. Never needed any service. Pricey, we’ll worth every penny.
Janet Sklar says
I have a Thermador dishwasher and I love it. It is absolutely quiet – you can not hear it at all. The only way to know that it is on is the red light that shines on the floor. It dries the items in the unit. If you don’t want it to dry there is a button to not have it dry with heat. It is expensive but worth it. It has a special unit down below that filters food and paper from jars that you can clean monthly so that it does not clog your pipes. Cleans dishes, pots and pans great. Thermador is now owned by Bosch. I have this Thermador going on 9 years and works fabulously with no problems.
PJ says
I run our dishwasher 2-3 times each day. We have had high end models for the last two dishwashers. They did not clean all that well, although they were quieter. The first one lasted 4 years. My stainless steel tubs left my dishes dripping wet. After my thousand dollar dishwasher with the stainless steel tub flooded the new wood floor in my kitchen for the third time in 20 months, I said, “No more!” The repairs parts were only under warranty for 1 year. (Only the steel tub was warranted for 10 years.) The two parts that were needed were going to cost $350 PLUS A SERVICE CALL AND LABOR! I just could not justify that kind of expense. We opted to purchase a Whirlpool that was just over $400. I am extremely happy with it. It cleans well, but has a minimum of extra features. Those features may be convenient, but they are always the first thing to break.
The interesting thing about our purchase was the comments made by the sales person when we explained that we wanted a dishwasher that would work, but were not willing to pay for a high priced model because of all of the trouble that we have had. He said that he hears that all of the time from people with high end models. The repair bills are so high. I decided that I would rather buy one that is more reasonably priced, get a new warranty, and replace it for close to the same price as the repair bill.
By the way, we have rental property and put low end dishwashers in the homes. We have never had to repair or replace them in 5 years. Believe me, I know that the tenants are not as careful about using the dishwasher as I am. I guess it all gets down to what you need and are willing to pay for.
Sandi Kimmel says
I love MOST things about our Bosch…except the angles on most of the racks. I find it really hard to figure out a way to fit some things that don’t angle. I even looked into replacing them with another brand’s racks, but they won’t fit (of course). Otherwise, it’s great.
Barbara Bramblett says
Kevin, Miele is my recommendation. Quiet , cleans well, and 3rd rack for utensils.
Peggy says
Bosch.
I did all the research and finally went with the one I wanted in the first place which was another Bosch to replace our older Bosch.
Bosch.
Lynn says
I’d highly recommend a Miele, if you can get them in the USA (haven’t seen anyone else comment on one). I have had mine for 17 years, including moving it when we moved house. Don’t want to jinx it but I’ve never even had a service call, other than the move and re-installation. I also bought one for my mother about 12 years ago and she’s had no problems at all either. It takes about an hour on the regular cycle but there are also long and short cycles. No need to pre-wash and I don’t use rinse aid. It has a feature for adding salt if you live in a hard water area – I don’t so I’ve not tried that.
Washes all dishes, including those with oven baked food on them, perfectly and I don’t rinse anything before loading. I admit I don’t use it for pans as I have lovely non-stick pans and they don’t like the dishwashing detergent, as you’d know.
We had an ASKO before this one. It was a dud from about 3 months old when a cockroach got zapped across the motherboard. A new motherboard was installed but for some reason (not roaches lol) it kept breaking every 2 months or so. I got rid of it as soon as the warranty period ran out as all I could foresee was expense. Never buy an ASKO.
Amy Dolego says
Oh, the lattice of coincidence…just installed a dishwasher in my rental house on Tuesday. Although it was used, it was only lightly used because it was located in a Butler’s Panty in a multi-million dollar home. As an architectural/interiors photographer, I can attest to the fact that most people in these homes don’t cook a whole lot. It was a DCS, two drawer unit, made by Fisher Paykel. It replaced my previous 2-drawer Fisher Paykel dishwasher that I installed 14 years ago. I loved it. It was expensive then and hideously expensive now, but I got a darn good price on this used one.
Why 2-drawer units? It’s great if you have parties and want to wash the dishes to keep the glassware circulating. It’s great if you have a small kitchen because you can wash the dishes in one drawer and store them in the other drawer instead of unloading. Also, the fast cycle is all one needs to clean them and it takes 31 minutes for sparkling clean dishes. In addition, while many dishwashers dump the detergent onto dishes, the Fisher Paykel dilutes the detergent first, making it a perfect dishwasher for cleaning good silver because it’s the caustic nature of the detergent that wears the silver pieces. And unlike most dishwashers, you have easy access to pull out and clean all the racks and parts. So it’s quiet, quick, energy efficient, good-looking, practical, and efficient.
If I didn’t get this one, I would get a Bosche. While this is a rental, I do believe that good equipment and a pristine home keeps your renters happy and attracts new ones when they leave. Just my 2 cents!
Mary says
I have a Bosch and have been very happy with it except for the pooling of water on cups on my top shelf. I use a rinse aid that is advertised to stop this problem but even after an over night wait I still have water that needs blotting with a paper towel. Anyway, whatever brand you decide on make sure you take a few of your dishes (all shapes and sizes) when you go looking to make sure they fit and give you enough room to really fill it to the maximum. Some of the deep bowls (cereal type) take up a lot of space!
Betty in Arlington says
I loved my Bosch (mid-end) that I got for our townhouse, but Bosch products do not fit into the hole in our current home. So, we were recommended a Whirlpool, which fits and is within 5 DB of the Bosch. Remember to get a higher decible masking machine! Well worth it. Cheers!
Rose says
Get another Bosch. They’re quiet and long-lasting.
Josi says
Bosch!
Louise says
I agree with Bosch. Dishes are clean, and they dry without heat to save energy. The filter is easily removed and cleaned from center bottom. My old dishwashers got clogged and I had to call for service. I’ve had the Bosche about 8 years with no complaints.
Wendy Stewart says
Miele. Everything comes out spotless. Always. It’s quiet and efficient. Also, you can fit an incredible amount of stuff in it because the interior is huge and very well designed. Look for the online video about how to load the Miele and you’ll see what I mean. I’m pretty sure we bought the least expensive one in their line. No troubles, no service calls. Formerly had Kenmore, Kitchenaid, and an Asko (which broke down, unrepairable, in four years) and Bosch. This Miele is way, way better than the previous ones we had. Worth the price.
Nancy Fopeano says
My KitchenAid does a fine job and is very quiet. My only complaint is that the handle is way too big and clunky, but if you don’t mind that design, I can recommend it. The one I have has the controls on the top of the door and a light to indicate whether it is washing, drying, or done. I have come to appreciate the low maintenance aspect of having the controls tucked away out of sight and protected from spills & drips. It also has a third rack on top for flatware or flat items and the middle rack height is adjustable to accommodate large items below or bulky items above. Overall, a decent design…
mindy says
Hi Kev!
I am so happy with my 10 yr warranty Maytag with stainless steel interior. I have had it 2 years and it works great and I cannot even hear it, when working on my island nearby. I was told to go with a stainless interior no matter which brand I chose. Maytag is made in the US (well probably some of the parts are from China, but at least assembled in the US). Purchased at Lowes. Love your blog and you Kevin, thanks for this column! If you need to search a brand or model on Consumer Reports, send me an email and I will search it for you!
Michelle Roch says
Mine is not so much advice on a paarticular model, except to say ” go with expensive Europeans…generally expensive to purchase and repair…but not too many repairs. I also have my tales about Whirlpool/Maytag. I had a similar issue to you with my washer, which they refused to replace. I ended up paying a very expensive repair bill that cost me more than rhe washer, which now works fine…. not great
because these HE machines are hardly adéquate. More work on these is definitely required
Silly perhaps to spend so much on a repair, but not really when you consider the cost to remove and replace, and other issues of size to get things through my Victorian house doorways. I’m sure you get what I mean. I will not buy another American model “anything” again, or at least until they do a much better job on customer relations and their appliances.
Ditto on Consumer Repoets, which I truly appreciate but find hard to get through.
Love your sight.
Anne says
I have an Asko. It was between that and a Bosche when we remodeled 5 years ago. The ASko layout for lining up the dishes, glasses, etc. is what made me choose the Asko. The 3rd/middle “layer” for knives, utensils, shallow plastic-ware is awesome.
Christina Mahoney says
Bosch is worth the price! I also had Bosch in my old home, which I loved (the dishwasher, not the home). I now have two dishwashers in my “dream” house. The original ones were Whirlpools that died within 4 years and we hated every moment. We replaced both with Bosch model SHE68TL5UC/03. What we love about them: quiet, 3 racks, flexible rack configurations, custom cycle settings, controls on the outside with a screen showing when the cycle will be done, a tone that signals when it is done. Good luck with your search!
Karen Mary says
I’ve been happy with Kitchenaid dishwashers. No matter the brand, I’d definitely pay attention to the noise level (having dealt with what sounded like a 747 taking off in my kitchen every night). Happy to read the positive reviews of the Bosch, which I’m considering for next time!
Addie Bambridge says
I love my Maytag! It has loads of different settings that are clearly marked (including a “sanitize” setting); it’s very quiet and cleans beautifully.
martalynne says
Well… I didn’t want to pay too much… went to my local home improvement store and saw delivery and install prices and woo… and then I saw the sign for free delivery and install on the Bosch… Always wanted one and now I have one… Love it! So darned quiet I have to go check to see if it is really running. It cleans so well… and doesn’t have a heat element, so I can put stuff wherever I want to! Ours has a little red light on the floor that indicates when it is running and a chime when complete.
Jean says
I currently use three dishwashers. Mine is a very old Whirlpool that is amazing. Loads of room inside for everything. I only use the economy wash and everything is very clean. My daughter has a Bosch and the racks are not compatible with her Port Meirion China as you have to skip every other slot so the plates don’t flop against each other. The third is my niece’s Bosch and the racks are always popping out of position and beyond annoying. The Bosch are quiet but the interiors are frustrating.
Deva Fjelsted says
I have an old Whirlpool that works just fine, but dishwashers can be temperamental, s0 I’ll not comment on his dependability. The one thing I do know is Cascade platinum dish pods are wonderful and my dishes have never been cleaner.
Judith says
Ditto on the mid priced whirlpool. Have it for over a year. quiet… cleans well…. has 5 sensing buttons…. and sanitize setting…. very happy with it.
Rae says
Had 2 Bosch Dishwashers and hated them. Did not work right. Expensive to repair.
Now have an LG which U love. Quiet, great job, dependable.
Linda says
My very expensive Bosch only lasted 5 years! Repair man indicted problem with these machines. All of the engineering is in the quietness.
Karen says
DO NOT GET A FRIGIDAIRE!!!
Cindy E says
Bought an LG about 9 years ago and shortly thereafter woke up to acrid smoke in the house from the motor melting down. Made the appliance company replace it with a Bosch and have been happy with it since. No issues in all that time. Even gave it a “sex change” (appliance company term), changing the cover from white to stainless.
Marcia says
What a wonderful discourse! I have not read it all, but will go back later.
It’s called “planned obsolescence”. Then the gubmint got involved and regulated the amount of water some of the machines could have. That effected the performance.
sylvia says
I guess I’m one of the few who got a lemon when I bought a Bosch dishwasher. It only lasted eight years even though it was only used every other day. I absolutely adore the KitchenAid which replaced it. It is equally quiet and the interior design fits more dishes and pans. So pleased with it.
Susan says
I have a 1 1/2 year old Bosch. I have not been happy with it. It doesn’t always drain all the dirty water out and it smells awful after a day or so sitting and you open the door. The top rack does not clean well. It is very hard to arrange pots and pans in. The tines are spaced for China. If I used it to only wash 20 place settings of China it might be ok or I had 2 dishwashers, which I don’t need with just 2 people in the house. Make sure you SEE the model you buy and can see how it is set up inside. The sales person told me the one I got was just like the one I went in to buy except some feature I didn’t need, so I ordered this one. May Karma be with you on this journey into the dishwasher purchase. I paid a lot of money for a dishwasher with a nice little red light to let me know it is running because it is so quite, but the cups, glasses and bowls on the top rack are covered in the particles washed off the bottom rack or just didn’t get clean. Good luck!
Missy says
I bought a Bosch SHX68T55UC for $899 last year. Works fine, looks good and it is quiet. List is $999 so wait for a sale.
Michele says
I just purchased a Bosch SHX878WD5N/01 super silence plus 42dBA, stainless steel and so far so good. Being stainless steel though it is a bitch (excuse my French) to keep clean. Every drop of water that hits the outside panel leaves streaks so I am constantly wiping and polishing. I don’t like that at all! Plus you have to use a microfiber cloth or it says you will scratch it. Would not get stainless if I had a family with kids for sure. I wish they made the fingerproof stainless.
pk says
We went with a middle range Bosch 18 years ago and it’s still quiet (ie can’t tell when it’s doing its thing) and cleaning everything well. Have had refrigerator replaced and numerous repairs on oven, but the Bosch just keeps running! Buy a Bosch!
Dorothy Loose says
My first dishwasher was a GE and I loved it because you could use a quick light setting or pot scrubber for heavy duty. It eventually died and srarted the search for a replacement. My husband is a mechanic and suggested Bosch because he found they made great mechanical tools. I like the Bosch very much it’s quiet, cleans very good. My only complaint is that I did not pick a model that had a quick cycle because the cycle seems very long. Apparently most have longer wash cycles now according to the salespeople. I chose a stainless steel interior. I found that the handle had formed a crack and I contacted the manufacturer who replaced it even though it was past warranty. We felt it was a design flaw and have been happy with how we were treated by Bosch. Hope this helps. All the best.
Julia says
Our 2 year old Kenmore Elite started leaking and the dryer stopped working. Spent $400 for new control panel, gasket and heater coil 2 months ago. Had repairman back this week because floor boards were warping. He discovered 2 rust holes in”stainless” steel tank. Must now get new machine.
mary ann hrankowski says
KitchenAid, stainless in and out…..sani-wash, quick wash, 4 hr. delay if needed and cutlery tray to the side…..most important, choose a local owned supplier with ability to get all appliances at one place, they get to know you and will be back again, here in Rochester NY we have a family run been in business over 70 years and their word is their guarantee. my KA runs every day…..over 8 yrs. best wishes
Carmen Cassivi says
Hi, Kevin!
After a heavy summer storm last summer and a power breakage we had several appliances we’ve had to replace, including the dishwasher.
We now have a Frididaire Gallery, though it’s perfect for the cleaning and relatively quiet, the upper tray has large spaces in between where we put dishware, so little cups or other little items FALL out, infuriating. AND the glasses do not hold up straight.
So my recommendation, forget about the Frigidaire Gallery.
MARIA Elena says
The Miele has silverware tray on top And u don’t have to bend down. That feature alone made me check out MIELE and put in our kitchen remodel. I love that machine
Bonnie says
Kevin,
My dishwasher of 20 years died and I found this awesome Maytag MDB8959SFZ 24″ Top Control Dishwasher w/ Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Exterior – Stainless Steel @ Sears. They priced matched Loews and had free pick up. It’s stainless steel inside and I love the oversized silverware baskets that accepts my Onieda sillverware. It is very quiet. In fact even the cats are amuzed by the purr….never intrupts a conversation or TV show. It sertainly is worth a trip for a looksie…..Much more reasonable price than some of those higher end name brands ( that BTW most local appliance repair people don’t know how to work on)
ellie says
When our beloved 25 year old Kitchen Aid stopped working, we replaced it with a Bosch. I bought Bosch in part because my parent’s older Bosch was terrific…and quiet….and in part based on reviews.
My 3 year old Bosch has been fine, but I liked my old Kitchen Aid better because I could put more dishes and glasses in it, and with a better fit. When I was looking for the new dishwasher, I did a trial run by taking some of my glasses, plates and bowls to a big box store and an appliance store. Sadly, none of the dishwashers, including the new Kitchen Aids, had a configuration ideal for my purposes. Doing the trial run was worth the effort….I eliminated a few dishwashers based it.
Ted says
OK, HERE’S the issue with Bosch: No soft-food disposal. This is one of the ways they keep them quieter. If you are okay pre-cleaning your dishes, Bosch is wonderful and, as everyone above says, typically very quiet. BUT, if you want to have a soft-food disposal in your dishwasher, so that any pieces of food will be ground up before entering your water system, you have to get another brand. I’ve liked KitchenAid in the past but haven’t had one for many years. I have two Frigidaires and would say “Meh” to both of them.
Elizabeth says
Kitchen Aid 23 years old no problem daily use. Medium household (7). Large groups ( 14+) 9 times a year.
Cannot vouch for new models.
Christine Swift says
I love my Maytag!! It’ll be 10 years old the week after Thanksgiving…yes my last one died a week before Thanksgiving 2007…with 20 people expected for dinner. The model I wanted (with a delay feature) was not available and I almost gave in just so I didn’t have to wash all those holiday dishes by hand. But I held out and it was worth it. I got the model with stainless interior. I use it AT LEAST once a day and have had very few repair calls in the last 10 years. I must admit, I bought it through Sears and can’t say enough about their repair service. Good Luck!!
Sharon Weber says
I have a Bosch..love, love it…quiet, cleans well, and mine has a third drawer on top for utensils or small things. A tad more money, but as my sainted mother used to say…” you get what you pay for”. In my case she was right.
Arlene says
Kevin , go back to a Bosch and have peace of mind again. Still efficient and quiet, well worth the price. Love mine.
Helga G says
Maytag. Still running quiet and doing a great job on dishes. Even after 20 years.
Ellie B says
Kevin, We bought a Bosch in August of 2004 (high end with Saniwash, which we use constantly. The front has a wood panel to match my custom cabinets). Other than one minor problem, we have had no issues with it. It is so quiet that people don’t think it’s on. We would buy another in a heart beat. Previously, we had a Kitchenaid high-end and loved it; but we bought this Bosch due to the recommendation of our sales person.
Caro says
Hi, Kevin — thanks for doing these polls, and thanks to all respondents. I read the washing machine comments and final choice post with great interest. Our dishwasher is in need of a new pump. It is a builder’s basic (Whirlpool, I think) that we bought for $100 lightly used 10 years ago. It owes us nothing, but it has never been great…loud, dishes need to be positioned just so or some may need rewashing, rack design doesn’t allow a very efficient use of space. In-laws have a 3-yr old Bosch they (and covetous husband!) are very pleased with, so I think we might go with that. Depends on the results you get here! 🙂
Susan Owens says
Hi Kevin,
Whatever you do, don’t waste your money on a Fisher-Paykal 2 drawer model. One was in my house when I moved in and it is practically useless. The drawers hold nothing big, like even a large cutting board, so of course no roasting pans or even pots; and everything needs to be pre washed. I am amazed that they actually call it a dishwasher! I am just waiting for it to break.
Betty says
I previously had a Maytag and thought it was great. After 20+ years we were remodeling and getting new appliances. Our Maytag dealer had closed so went to another appliance store. Bought a Whirlpool gold. Not as loud as my old Maytag but you can still hear it. Plastic stoppers on upper rack have broken twice (it’s 4 years old), not covered by warranty, water pump leaked, not covered by warranty. But my biggest complaint is silver rack in door – hate it. When you’re loading you gave the lower rack out to load plates and you have to close it to load silver. In and out, over and over. I will never get another machine with rack in door.
Nancy Flynn says
BOSCH!!!
We bought our first Bosch about three years ago—previously, we were KitchenAid lovers but the last KA appliances that we bought (fridge and DW) were very disappointing.
The Bosch model we got is the SilencePlus 44dBA. No dryer feature and I find that it makes no difference in the drying of the dishes except that you can put plastic items anywhere and be confident that you won’t open the dishwasher at the end of the cycle and find a piece of abstract sculpture where your Tupperware bowl once was.
For those who say that the plastic items don’t dry? I never had a dishwasher that completely dried plastic items anyway but have had more than a few items melted by a dishwasher’s drying element.
This DW is so quiet!!! An occasional whoosh or soft whirr but that’s about it. Such a pleasure.
Another wonderful thing—the third rack. I absolutely LOVE that thing. You can put so many awkward things in there like small measuring cups, shears, big knives, cheese slicers, etc, etc, etc and they come out glistening. Wonderful use of space.
My Bosch model is completely clean in front with no nooks and crannies to catch crumbs, flour, dust. Highly recommended for those of us who tend to be whirling dervishes in the kitchen.
Here’s a link to the one we bought (disclaimer—I don’t own Lowe’s).
https://www.lowes.com/pd/Bosch-800-Series-44-Decibel-Built-In-Dishwasher-Stainless-steel-Common-24-in-Actual-23-5625-in-ENERGY-STAR/999906163
GB says
Bosch is the way to go, with a current caveat. The power cord from machines from 2012-2015 just got recalled. In today’s USA Today. the serial numbers are listed just as on Bosch website.
Agree about F-Paycal. nothing fits.
Nancy Flynn says
Correction—this is the model we have, with touch pads instead of buttons. Very clean.
Nancy Flynn says
http://www.bosch-home.com/us/productslist/home-appliances/SHX68T55UC
sandie says
KItchen Aid is the best I have ever bought. It is stainess steel inside and it is the best layout for dishes and cutlery I have ever had. You won’t be disappointed.
Mary Ann says
This is so funny because I was at Best Buy yesterday and looked at their dishwashers.
They had some very nice machines Kitchen aid and surprisingly Samsung. We have a friend who remodeled his kitchen and got Samsung appliances and is very happy with them.
My husband liked the Bosche quite a bit mostly because he likes to lay the utensils flat on top.
Presently, we have a Miele. Initially, it was a temperamental peacock, but the company stood behind the repairs and I must say it is a beautiful machine. By the way, Best but has something called a open box special — some of the machines come in with a little (or a lot ) of a ding and the savings on a otherwise good machine could be savings of over a $1,000.
GOod Luck!
Linda says
I have a Bosch & I love it. I had a Kitchen Aid for years but I did not go back to them, but I don’t remember why.
Dave Claussen says
Interesting. I just received this email about DW recalls…
https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2018/BSH-Home-Appliances-Expands-Recall-of-Dishwashers
myriam says
Bosch or Miele!
Kathleen says
Hands down the best is Miele. What an amazing company with how they build their products!
It’s better to go with an entry level Miele and have it last 20 plus years than a top of the line product from other lines that would compare in price. A much better value by far.
Kris Mielke says
I must’ve had the same luck you did. Hated my new dishwasher within days of getting it. I end up re-washing everything anyway by hand or hardly putting anything in it to get it clean. Was okay at the start and progressively it got worse and haven’t had been had it that long. It’s a KitchenAid.
Helen coukos says
We are happy with or kitchen aide.
cathy says
Had a Kenmore for 10 years which cleaned well but had to replace the electronics board 3 times. Just got a Maytag only because the price was right but not happy with it. the design is so poor–top outer rows too narrow for glasses and cups or anything else, but to look at it you wouldn’t suspect that the rows are just a little too narrow so nothing fits–when loaded everything is all crooked, helter skelter — so much space is wasted. Much time wasted trying to fit things in. Bottom poorly designed as well. What a mess. At least the old Kenmore was well laid out and very easy to load, space used efficiently. Oh well, live and learn… No more Maytags…
Barb H says
Hands down a Bosch. After years and years of no automatic dishwasher my husband installed a Bosch for me, best gift ever! It was in an island so you would think it would be double noisy as you would get more mechanical noise from the back plus the normal noise from the front but I kid you not one iota we had to stop anyone from talking to try to listen to see if it was still running. Then…. I had to move and leave it behind… It was a sad day!! Low and behold my new house already had one, the day was saved. I never had any issues at all with either one, the Bosch is a fantastic brand.
Diana Orrock says
We have an Asko, Model D3232 8 Steel System. Purchased in 2009, it is now 8 years old, runs beautifully with several washing options and cleans the dishes and glassware very well. We’ve never owned an Asko before, but I would recommend it.
Goblin says
I have run the gamut of dishwashers and 10 ghosts up it’s the Bosch! Quiet and reliable! Of course no dishwasher lasts or works well if you don’t rinse the food off before you load it which many people don’t do….argh….it’s not a waste disposal. Good maintenance is everything. Love my Bosch and am thinking about buying the oven too. Wish me luck!
Chris Cochrane says
Bosch Ascenta: quiet, gets dishes really clean, efficient loading options, reliable, highly recommended by Consumer’s Reports. What’s not to love?!
Lenore Swan says
An ASKO —-stainless steel. Beautifully quiet—-have to touch it to confirm it is going. Does a magnificent job every time. Love it❤️
Ardelle says
Miele or Bosch based on friends opinions and experience – believe it or not I chose to not have a dishwasher for many reasons – no streaked dishes for one.
Sheri Rice says
We replaced our crappy old white one with a lovely stainless Bosch we bought on Amazon. Easy to hook up and we loved it – plus it made the home more appealing when we sold it to have an “upscale” appliance. In our new house we were delighted to have another Bosch. Works really well. We also use the dishwasher pods to ensure we’re not using too much soap.
Sandy says
Love our Bosch, and have had for years!
Rose says
I am on third dishwasher in 20 years. Was talked into a kitchenaid. It cleans very well but takes an extremely long time (3 hrs to 4 hours) and does not have delay start. It is very quiet. Would look at a Bosch next time which I hope will be a while yet.
Good luck
Nathan Smith says
Two thoughts: We also have a Bosch, and it has been very good; runs quietly and I would heartily recommend the brand. We have had ours about 3 years with no issues. Other thought is the super-cheap contractor grade g.e. machines they put in apartment that seem nearly bullet-proof.
Apryl Kingsley says
I’ve been buying Kenmore dish washers since 1978.I buy the Elite model now. They wash well, are very quiet and they check it once a year. If an appliance under contract
breaks they fix it. I do recommend them and watch for a sale. Presenting one is about 10 years old.
Lyn Morrison says
The only dishwasher I have ever had is my good old hubby,, works well ,never breaks down, and is quiet while he is working!!!
Reeni Sherman says
Absolutely the Bosch. We have an 18” one be ause our house is so small. So quiet. Sometimes the silverware doesn’t clean ss well as I wish, but I do tend to overload it. Silence is so important.
Sigrid says
Used to have a Bosch and loved it, but then we moved and I wasn’t ready to pay that much money again as we will not stay in this house either. Bought a Samsung not too long ago with a stainless steel tub. It cleans really good and is very! quiet. We went for the base model but you might want to consider the next step up. Our model does not have an air dry option which is annoying during hot and steamy summer days. Love how quiet it is, though, and for the price I’m more than satisfied.
Maralee A Thompson says
Try a kitchen aid with a stainless steel tub. They are all made in China and all appliances last for about 12 yes. If you are lucky. I love my kitchen aid. It is quiet and gets the job done. I do not expect any appliance to last more than 12 years. Good luck!
Clytie says
Kleenmaid without question. Quiet, efficient and reliable. Mine is 4 years old and never a problem. Also bought Kleenmaid oven, cook top and range hood and love them all.
Lori says
Miele……….it’s awesome!!!
Anne in Vermont zone 4/5 says
When the dishwasher installed in this house when we bought it died we steered clear of Bosch because my son had one with a stainless interior that was rusting!
Bought a Kenmore because I could look at it locally and it has a plastic interior lining. I know plastics can be bad, particularly when heated, but I have lived this long and don’t care. It has a stainless exterior which I hate because it ALWAYS looks a mess: Inevitably there are drips on the front when I open it with wet hands. It may be, or was, the fashion, but never again for me. I am headed back to White when I need it and can find it. As for the Kenmore, the quick wash works well if you rinse. If you don’t rinse, as I do not (being English and not seeing the point of washing the dishes before you wash the dishes as it were) I use the long cycle which works perfectly every time. Long may it last, though I doubt it will.
Annie says
I wanted a Bosch, but went with a Kenmore which I swore I’d never own again after a bad experience. I’m all about the racks and how they fit my dishes. I have Fiesta ware and the Bosch was not going to work. They say it holds 12 place settings, but that’s because the tines are so close together the stoneware type dishes just don’t fit. Corelle is fine. I actually took my dishes in with me to see how they fit. They are basically all quiet these days if you’re getting a mid-range machine. Just check the numbers. My upper rack bracket broke on one side after several years but I’m cheap and don’t want to pay for a service call so I ordered new parts for both sides and replaced them myself. I’m very happy with my Kenmore.
paula says
Recently purchased a Bosche to replace my 20-year-old Maytag. It is wonderful, my dishes actually sparkle. It is so quiet I have to check the light at the bottom to see if it is on!
Corinna says
Kevin,
Please spring for the Bosch!
You’ll never regret it!
I did the research and tentively decided on a Bosch. So quiet, dishes so sparkling! Going on 9 years with no problems!
Love, love, love, your website and look forward to every email.
Jan Hurlow says
In our last house we put in Fisher & Paykel dishwashers. Plural because two stack or one on each side of the sink. They have a great upper rack for wine glasses etc. I don’t believe we ever ran out of space. But we served maybe 12 at a time. Check them out.
Joanne in Zone 6b says
I have a KitchenAid that meets the description provided by MaryAnn (#100). It was what the builder included for no upgrade cost when I bought the house in 2007. It’s quiet and I rarely have to re-wash things, but I do rinse before loading because I don’t run it everyday. I’ve not yet needed a repair on it. In reading all of the previous responses, the Bosch owners seem much more certain that their machines are the best. If I had to replace mine, I’d look seriously at a Bosch. Good luck, Kevin!
Terri says
I have a Bosch. Quietest, most efficient machine I have ever had. No comparison to Whirlpool.
Rose says
I bought a LG when we remodeled 9 years ago. There were several brands that would have worked but I selected it for external appearance. It cleans great and is quiet. Interior holds everything; there are various ways you can load dishes. Top rack can be lowered for bigger items. The normal cycle is over 2 hours long, but it has a variety of other cycles that I do not use that may be shorter. How well they clean depends in part on the detergent you use. Check Consumers ratings of dishwasher detergents and use their top rated one.
Crystal says
I have had several dishwashers in TOH, from expensive to not so. Appliances do not seem to last as long anymore, so I went with a least expensive model-a Frigidaire. It is relatively quiet, and works well. The only downside is that it has no adjustable rack. I hand wash most pots and pans anyway.
Good luck in your dishwasher shopping.
Kristin says
We have a Bosch, and absolutely love it. It amazes me how much easier it is to unload silverware from the top utensil rack. My only issue was the layout of the bottom was a challenge for our bowls at first, but we’ve figured it out. Quiet and powerful and (mostly) designed very well. We have had so many issues with other dishwasher brands over the years, that I suspect we are now converted to Bosch for life. I feel as if many manufacturers think appliances are disposable, but I think the darn things should last, and should do their job.
Liz says
I had a Bosch for 8 years. It was super quiet. One complaint I had was the shape and size of the basket for the silverware. The bottom rack had tines that were fully adjustable (you could collapse some to make room for something odd shaped or large). Problem was they would collapse after I loaded dinner dishes so hubby put tie-wraps around the bottom to hold them in place. Overall the layout choices were disappointing for the layout of dishes so when I went looking for a new dishwasher my priorities were to improve on those issues. I ended up with a Kitchen Aid and I really like it. Mine also has the third tray pull out up at the top. I have never had a problem with the clean out filter area but my Bosch needed it pulled out and rinsed every so often. This unit is also super quiet so no sacrifices were made in that area. We were told that the average life of a dishwasher is 8 years so keep that in mind too. Problem nowadays is the cost of replacement parts and labor which don’t always warrant doing them considering the age of the dishwasher at that point.
Diana Tirpak says
Yikes! I didn’t know there was so much to talk about dishwashers but I have certainly learned a lot. Ours is a four year old Bosch and I have no complaints except that the configuration of the racks could be better for my use. Our plates have a slight lip to them and they don’t fit in the tight spaces of the very vertical prongs which fill three fourths of the bottom rack. Perhaps they have changed the configuration but if I were to buy another dishwasher I would take a few of my plates with me before I bought. Being the old Jalopie that I am I feel everyone’s pain and frustration with breakdowns, cheap workmanship, and poor quality because I, too, have dealt with all of the above in the last fifty years. This isn’t only about dishwashers.
Diane says
We purchased our second KitchenAid last year. Our first served us for 26 years. While it took some time to figure out how best to load, we are very pleased. Most often I pre-rinse because we generally don’t run it everyday, but even when I don’t pre-rinse because I am running immediately, it cleans great. It is also very quiet and the drying feature works well.
We were limited on models as several years prior we had changed our flooring to tile and installed a new countertop with an ogee edge making height of the replacement model an issue (live and learn). So glad there was a KitchenAid model that could slip into the space. We continue to be pleased with KitchenAid.
Linda Berry says
I bought a Kenmore when new house was built that was still going strong after 18 years when we sold the house. My only complaint…bottom rack was not tall enough to hold larger plates like my Christmas dishes and top rack was not tall enough to hold wine glasses. When moving to a new log home, these two thing were my main concern. I went with a Kenmore Elite, works fine, quieter than my old one but seems like the cycle takes a long time to complete.
An important feature to me is the ‘water heat’ or ‘high temperature’ option.
Love your website!!
Trudi says
I have to chuckle at the LONG list of comments. I hope they narrow the field . We have a Kitchen Aid. It does clean well but it’s noisy. Its about 7 years old and still going strong. . Dear God don’t let it break …. There have been too many repairs lately to pay for. . plus house taxes are due
Anne Mitchell says
My vote joins others – A Bosch, very quiet and efficient. And I chose the
bottom of that line and it has lasted 0 years, no service call. Hope that
helps a bit. – In addition the Kitchen Aid that preceded it lasted 11 years
but was not so quiet.
Eloise says
Bosch absolutely. Reliable and so quiet my model has a small light that shines on the floor when it’s running so you know it’s on. Nothing ever gets stuck in the wands. Best dishwasher I ever owned.
Margo P says
Bought a new Frigidaire and had the motor replaced 3 times in the first 2 months. Repairman said the motors are now made in Mexico by AO Smith. Check consumer reports & ask around as each model differs in quality. We put 2 layers of sound deadening insulation over ours and its so quiet we have to check to make sure its still running! Worth the little effort it took. Good luck.
Sarah H says
Just got a Bosch in May. I HATE IT!!!! Does not dry the dishes unless you open the door right after it’s done and air dry them. Do them at night, and the whole thing is soaking wet still in the morning. Water runs down into the filter and stays there. Stinks to high heaven. Just awful. Maybe the older ones were great, but this one is terrible. I have had 2 Kitchen-aids and loved them both. One I had for 22 years and it was still working when we moved. My other one just died after 20 years. Had no problems with it at all. The heating elements were exposed where this Bosch has the element covered. Also I don’t like the upper rack. Very hard to load the dishes. I could put so much more in the Kitchen Aid. I would definitely not recommend the Bosch. Not worth the money.
Rhoda says
We have a Kitchen Aid that my husband, (also named Kevin Lee) found a few years ago on clearance for $800 (originally $1200). I about died when I heard the price, but it’s a very nice appliance, easy to load, cleans well with lots of options and stainless steel in and out. It’s pretty quiet too. I’ve never had a Bosch, so I can’t compare, but here is a handy website.
https://blog.yaleappliance.com/bid/52334/kitchenaid-vs-bosch-dishwashers-reviews-ratings
Tiffany George says
KitchenAid. We bought it 6 years ago and have been sooooo impressed with the way it cleans, how quiet it is, and the many cleaning options without being so high tech you need to bust out the manual just to turn it on.
B.A. Grodhaus says
Our 20 YO Maytag is having problems. 20 GOOD years! We’ve seen how their quality has eroded based on Consumer Reports. I’ve printed out the first 4 pages of CR’s Dishwasher scores. After reading the majority of recommendations & disses, I’m even more confused about which to buy. Let us know what you choose & how it’s performing.
Jacob M. Edingfield says
Kevin,
It looks like Bosch leads the way, but for my preference here where we do have hard water and all, the KitchenAid is the best way to go. Yes, it runs quieter, dishes come cleaner, no pre-cleaning. I bought the top of line KitchenAid with the stainless steel tub/and surround and have found it to be one of the best. Also, Maytag makes a great machine if a KitchenAid is not available. The Maytag was over 10 years old and still cleaned and ran quiet as the newer models. Both purchases were based upon research from Consumers Guide.
Linda says
We moved into our house and the dishwasher is 2 drawers with wood on the outside to make it look like cabinets I HATE IT! It cleans fine, but even with the 2 drawers it is smaller than a reg. size dishwasher. A large salad bowl you would use for company takes up 3/4 of the drawer….we are washing everyday, sometimes twice a day….this uses lots lf water.
Jane Smythe says
Hands down Miele. Silent and excellent at cleaning with great warranties. Love the cutlery tray.
Marcia Zerance says
Kevin, Nothing but Bosch for me. I’ve moved into two houses that had other brands and had to change them out to Bosch. Nothing cleans like a Bosch, and they are soooo quiet. You will not be disappointed!
Nancy says
Love, love, love my Fisher & Paykel dish drawers now 12 years old and only one minor service call. Backstory: soon after we bought a Bosch, which we loved, we gutted and renovated our kitchen. I was intrigued by the dish drawers for several reasons – loved the idea of “half” a dishwasher since we were empty nesters and being conscious of the cost of running a dishwasher, didn’t want to have to wait for days to wash dishes – plus since we do entertain a bit, we loved the idea of being able to get the first half of the dirty dishes started sooner rather than waiting for a full load later plus although we only bought two drawers, we designed the cabinets so we/or anyone after us could install another two dish drawers for double dishwashing capacity in “half units” so to speak. I’ve seen online that many people aren’t happy with F&P service but we have never had a problem. Regardless of what brand you choose, I would encourage you to consider dish drawers. P.S. another benefit for me is that if I have pans that I don’t mind going in the dishwasher, the “pins” all fold down and there is plenty of room for large pans.
Bevv Haley says
Kitchenaid
Mary says
I have had my Bosch for 30 years! No repairs, I love it.
Mary
roseann siegel says
Bosch. I love it. It is so quiet! Dishes are clean. Lots of room too. Appliance repairman told us it will last too.
Kathy says
I have a Bosch and love it. It is so quiet and cleans very well.
Mari says
I love our Kitchen Aid. Actually my husband picked it out because how smoothly the main top rack glided in and out! The two front corners you can put a dirty glass that needs extra water spray. The rack is adjustable, dropping down for taller items. But then the rotating arm hits the larger dinner plates There is also a shallow top rack that’s above very handy for small items or silverware. On the main rack you can place a roast pan backwards (yes that sounds odd, but it is set up that way) and choose the extra cleaning cycle. It has a quick 57 minute cycle I often use. There are a number of choices and some take a long time. This machine is VERY quiet. I would buy it again. Have had it a year.
Linda says
I ask the clerks for the pros and cons of the appliance i need to buy! 🙂
Cissy says
Bosche or mielle. You get the picture though I can’t spell it!!
Patricia Nadreau says
After reading all of the above comments I guess I am the only one who has ever had an ISE or IN-SINK-ERATOR dishwasher. I love it, but I don’t think the Insinkerator company makes dishwashers anymore, just disposals. This is my second one and it is 19 years old. The first one is probably still running in the home I sold 20 years ago. This house came with a White-Rogers dishwasher which I hated. It did a terrible job. My IN-SINK-ERATOR has never needed repairs, dishes do not have to be pre-rinsed and it is somewhat quiet. It also sounds faster than some of the other brands, at less than an hour, including the dry cycle. The model I have now has adjustable racks which I love. I will be in the same boat as you, Kevin, if it ever stops working since they don’t make these any longer. From the comments, the KitchenAid sounds best to me, but it probably isn’t in my fixed income budget these days. I’ll be waiting to see what you choose and how happy you are with your choice.
Chris says
We have such intimate relationships with our appliances! All the love, the hate, the passion! These comments make fascinating reading.
I’ve got a mid-range Bosch in NYC, and a pricier Kitchen Aid here in the mid-Hudson Valley. Both are very good and pretty quiet, clean well — and I’m sloppy about barely rinsing crud off dishes, if I do it at all.
Rack and silverware basket designs vary surprisingly (Bosch better than Kitchen Aid, for me), and I’d really recommend — however weird it’ll look — that you take some pieces of your everyday silver to the showroom when you shop. Maybe even your china, though that part of the design is more flexible. And check whether the rack dividers can fold down to accept large pieces. This aspect really makes a difference in everyday use.
Joan says
Last year I remodeled the kitchen and bought the entire suite in Kitchen Aid. Very SEXY. The guys unpacking the fridge said “this fridge is money ” of the interior. Not sure what that is in young-people speak but I think it was a compliment.
Robbi says
Love my Kitchen Aid. Never a problem. The interior configuration is the best I have ever owned.
Stainless interior and exterior. Extremely quiet.
Marion says
All dishwashers are slow these days. We had a terrible Kenmore and it should have been replaced but they kept stalling until it was too late. We went with a lower end Bosch and it is great. Super quiet and plenty of variability in the racks. I actually did not like the cutlery tray so we use the one from our old Kenmore but it fits fine.
Julie says
Bosch for sure. It cleans well and is very quiet which is important in my smallish house where the kitchen is rather open.
Mundi says
Miele! Miele! Miele!
I’ve had them all GE, KitchenAid, Asko, Bosch and the Miele is the BEST!
Cindy Pearson says
Bosch! I’ve had mine for three years now, and prior to that I had Kitchen Aid (the repair man came several times and never could fix it) and before that about four other cheaper brands. None of them can compare with the Bosch in how well it cleans and how quiet it runs. I was nervous that it didn’t have a disposal in the bottom and that you have to periodically rinse out the trap. But I’ve since learned that the disposals in most dishwashers are not meant for dishes and food to be thrown in haphazardly and that it will ruin the disposal to use it like a regular under-the-sink disposal anyway. Rinsing the trap is about 4 to 6 times a year and takes about 3 minutes. Very worth it for the clean dishes! I cannot say enough about this machine! (I’ve recommended it numerous times — perhaps I should be a Bosch spokesperson — and EVERY person I’ve told has loved their Bosch.)
Arlene says
I’ve had about 6 dishwashers in over 50 yrs. Top of the line Kitchenaid is my go to. Earlier models had a disposal that’s no longer available. I just got my last one 1 1/2 yrs ago and it has the 3rd top shelf that’s new. I really like this feature. I was told many times by the appliance repairman to stay away from Bosch because of the cost to repair.
Diane Hoelle says
We love our Bosch. We’ve run it every other day for almost 8 years (without pre-rinsing and without soft water) it still runs perfectly. No repairs and every dish clean even though we load it to the max. It was worth the extra cost!
Janet says
Kevin, I bet I win the award for dishwasher longevity…we installed a GE Potscrubber in our new home in 1980 and it is still going strong! I think it does a great job, but it is noisy compared to today’s models. I researched and read Consumer Reports and got the highest rated machine for that time. I’ve never regretted that decision. Good luck with your search!
Margaret Vanhull says
Previous home (now a rental) has Maytag still going since 1995 while current home’s Maytag has been free of repairs since 1999. That’s 21years & 18years respectively of reliable performance. Surprised at how often other folks have needed to replace these appliances. Think newer models may not be made to last.
carol says
To all of the many Bosch owners: Please let us know if you rinse your dishes before loading and also, how much do you have to dry your dishes if you need to put them away right after the dishwasher is done. Oh, and also how long does the dishwasher take on a normal setting. I’m spoiled by having American dishwashers, I love that they dry the dishes and I especially love that they have food grinders and all I have to do is scrape and no rinsing. I don’t see the point of having a dishwasher that takes 3 hours because it’s saving water only to have me wasting even more by having to rinse before loading. I would rather have a bit of noise than give up that food grinder and since since some American brands have switched to the European design (for the sake of sound reduction) it would be good to know how inconvenient the grinder-less models actually are. So…. are you guys all rinsing?
Loretta PNW says
Hey Keven,
I replaced all my kitchen appliances to match (first time ever!) and they are Samsung. Whatever brand make sure you have a stainless steel tub, adjustable racks and at least an upper, middle and lower spinner. If it is well insulated it will be quiet. After all that, it is just packaging. =) I’ve owned a KitchenAid (it was great) and Kenmore (it was OK) but my new Samsung beats them all for cleaning and quiet. Have never owned a Bosch, but it appears to be a very popular brand. All the best to you and your dirty dishes!
Brenda says
Kitchen Air, Whisper Quiet Ultima
Came with the house, we have had it 11 years.
I never rinse a thing, run it every 2 to 3 days and still everything is clean.
And it is sooo quiet!
Julie R says
Currently I do not have a dishwasher, other than my own two hands. The dishwasher that was already in our house when we moved in many years ago, didn’t work good. The dishes came out with food still on them. Had to end up washing them by hand and the dishwasher was extremely loud running. Finally it bit the dust completely and can’t say that I am sorry to see it go. In its place I put a storage unit that has a drawer up on top with a two shelves down below. It is so useful. I can’t recommend any certain brand of dishwashers, but from many of the comments that I have read, it sounds like Bosch is popular with many folks. That is good to know in case I ever decide to get another dishwasher. I have never had Kitchen Aid appliances, but I have heard that they make great reliable appliances. So those brands sound like good ones to consider. I do like the brand Kenmore as far as washers go. I had to replace our old Kenmore washer of 28 years, and I replaced it with another Kenmore and I’m very happy with it so far. Good luck Kevin, with finding a new dishwasher and please let us all know what you decide on.
Linda DiCioccio says
http://www.dontwasteyourmoney.com/dishwasher-recall-500000-dishwashers-recalled-starting-fires/?partner=scripps&partner-sub=WEWS&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=scripps&utm_content=WEWS
Thought you might be interested in this!
Sparky says
Whirlpool. I’ve had mine since the 1980s! I stand by this maker.
maureen says
Just got this about 6 months ago since redid kitchen. It’s a Maytag since that was our old one and I got used to the layout. Although this is much better than the old one. Seems to have way more room. This has a stainless tub, buttons are on top of door out of sight from front. I can’t believe how quiet this is. Sorry I don’t know a name that they give this other than the brand name. I had no idea which brand was recommended, so went looking and this is what we came up with. Sure cleans better, you don’t even have to pre-rinse. It has a huge silverware basket which runs the length from front to back on 1 side. I don’t like the ones on the door….just me.
maureen says
Just adding a little something to my post above. Bonnie posted with the same dishwasher on Oct. 20th.
Marcy says
Maytag!! It has served us well for years. However, we do have hard water here, and I’ve found that I cannot use inexpensive dish detergent. We used cascade powder for years until they were required by law to change their formula. We now use finish power ball tabs.
KCM says
Thought you might want to see this. Hope it helps.
https://www.consumerreports.org/dishwashers/maker-bosch-expands-dishwasher-recall/
Kip Morrissette says
We bought our Kenmore/Kenmore Elite, Stainless Steel Tub, May of 2016 from Sears. The owner of our family owned Sears, who could have any brand he wanted, owns the same one.
We had thought along the line of Bosch but we decided against it as replacement parts are hard to get. The Bosch was more expensive but the price wasn’t our first concern as we knew this would be our last Dish Washer as we are both older than dirt.
The washer is so quiet you don’t know it’s running. It’s quieter than my brother’s new top of the line Bosch.
Before you make your decision, please do check out the Kenmore/Kenmore Elite. It has great setting selections, and washes VERY clean. We don’t have to pre-rinse the dishes but we do a ‘lick and a promise’, just out of habit as there are only the two of us so we don’t run it everyday. I know our 2016 washer isn’t all that old so I can’t say how long it will last but right now, I wouldn’t even consider a different one.
Good luck Kevin. You have a lot of recommendations and good friends helping to provide you with information.
Judi says
We love our Bosch. Purchased in 2002 and we have moved it twice. It is very quiet.
Suzette Sykes says
We renovated our NYC apartment’s kitchen and bath in 2015 only to decide to relocate in 2016 leaving behind brand new appliances including a GE dishwasher that replaced a 20+ year old unit. We moved into a 30 year old house and it has a very old Whirlpool dishwasher that works better than the new one we had in NY! It dries without any water stains (1st dishwasher we have had that doesn’t) and is super quiet! We have been reluctant to replace it because it works so well!
Cathy M says
Well, I haven’t spotted any posts for this dishwasher type. We have a Fisher & Paykel–they are dishwasher drawers. We have two stacked one on top of the other, so basically the two drawers make up the size of a conventional dishwasher.
Things I like: We are only 2 people so like the ability to run “half a load” and have everything cleaned up instead of waiting to fill the conventional size. Saves water and probably some other resources. Like the pulling out drawer concept instead of the door that opens down to the floor. Cleans well and has several different cycles. Since we have two drawers, you can run each on a different cycle.
Things I dislike: MUST scrape or rinse dishes first, don’t want any food particles clogging drains. Do NOT overfill; the drawers have to be able to seal when they close and anything that creates an obstruction will result in a leak. If the leak sensor is tripped, it will prevent usage until it dries out. Nice that you will prevent accidental flooding but PIA when it’s just a small drip. Bottom line — don’t overfill. Good idea to put the dishwasher on a separate electrical circuit so you can turn off the circuit and don’t have to hear the “wet alarm” beeping. Like all new appliances, there’s software and where there is software there are upgrades and usually requires a service call — not DIY any more. Fortunately we only needed one software update in about 15 years time.
Also, since you are running 1/2 a dishwasher, can’t use those packaged detergents as that is too much soap.
Not excessively loud but probably not as quiet as a Bosch.
I would look for this brand again as I love the drawers.
Dan says
I would buy one that had a macerater. I have a Kenmore but I don’t like having to scrape the plates off.
Jean Fields says
I replaced the appliances in our new home after moving in, a couple years ago. I did my research and settled for a Bosch stainless steel interior dishwasher because it is rated #1 as quiet. I also like the top silverware tray which you lay out your silverware, keeping them from banging together, as well as larger utensils. The top tray can also be removed if you need room for larger items on the bottom tray with a silverware side tray. The Bosch is pricy, however. The top of the line Kenmore has come out with a quiet dishwasher and is now rated very high, and has a little larger footprint than the Bosch. I also had my kitchen tile counters replaced with a beautiful granite, and had a beautiful 5 burner Bosch stovetop installed.
Jean Fields says
I just checked to see if the Bosch I have was on the list of recalls.
Thankfully, my dishwasher is (Silence Plus 44dBA) and is not on the recall list.
Judie V. says
I’ve had Kenmore, whirlpool, GE, there was a basic Maytag in this house when we bought it, did a great job. After a lot of research,I decided to replace it with another Maytag. Now I have a beautiful stainless, extremely quiet dishwasher, adjustable racks, all the bells & whistles, the only problem is that its just a pretty face, it really doesn’t do a good job cleaning the dishes. I just noticed that the door was coming apart, last Maytag for me.
Cate says
Have you considered dishdrawers such as the Fisher & Paykel? These are our favorite appliance for so many reasons! You can run smaller loads more frequently (we run one each day for our family if 4) and you can load one dishdrawer while the other still has clean dishes without having to unload all the clean dishes before reloading, as with a traditional-style dishwasher.
Ideally, I would love them to be both at waist-height (one to left of sink and one to right, or a 2nd in the island where we eat…dreams). BUT, reality is we have them stacked one on top of the other, and they are still marvelous!
Paula Dansereau says
Bosch!! I love mine & it is my second one over the years.
Sari S. says
Building my house 6 yrs ago with a very tight budget, I purchased a used Bosch off of Craigslist from someone redoing their kitchen in a different finish. I have no idea how old it is but it’s still fabulous! I could never have afforded a new one, what a treat! Much better than the new clothes washer, which I’ve had to replace already.
Love your blog!
kate says
I got a more expensive LG a few months ago that I love so far. It has a third rack which is amazing for small things like water bottle lids and other little odds and ends. Its also super quiet and cleans really well.
Kathy H. says
GE– don’t recommend it unless like us you fall in love with the slate finish (no smudges!). Not as good as cleaning/drying as the old Kitchenaide that came with house but we were replacing all appliances with the slate. But want to pass on that we got extended warranty gratis from Cocca’s appliance in Albany for Columbia County home– which came handy when after 2 years the GE’s electrical panel died. The tech said that water dripped on the control panel hidden at top of door, perhaps b/c our old kitchen is not perfectly measured so panel isn’t as tucked under as it should be. Tech said in future we should consider a controls-in-front model. And to be fair, the slate finish is blessedly smudge-free and basic 18″ GE diswasher in the NYC apartment has worked flawlessly for 12 years.
Allyson Sites says
Sounds like everyone like Bosch. Wish I had spent a few hundred more, and gone with the bosch for above $1000. We had a whirlpool portable for years, and it worked well. Had a reno about 8 years ago, and bought a Maytag for approx $800. It was great EXCEPT the control panel died on us twice. The business we bought it from, replaced the $100 panel the first time. Second time, we replaced ourselves for $150. This fall, it failed for the third time. Time to say goodbye. Now, I have a new Kitchenaid KDTE104ESS4. It’s a piece of CRAP! It was approx $800-900, stainless steel POS. I might’ve well bought the most basic whirlpool I could find. The thing does NOT clean dishes. I taken it apart, cleaned all the bits, and still, glasses come out with bits of sandy grains glued to the insides. I have to pre-wash all my dishes, before washing. What’s the point. I guess, the only way to get a good dishwasher, is to spend over $1500. Geesh.
Ana says
A few years ago i bought Kitchen aid. Stainless steel inside out. Perfect washing until warranty is gone in 13 months. Every function one by one started failing. Repair place, on the phone, told me after hearing about issues : let me guess! Its kitchen aid!!
Shockingly its their common issue with control panel. Cheaper to buy new dw than repair. Now, my last cycle One hour wash is gone. Need yo buy a new. People like bosch but i dont like the spacing of the bottom rack….
KYTOM says
Kevin,
Earlier in the year I was in need of a new dishwasher. My old one just quit working after five years.
I remembered you had a discussion on dishwashers a few years ago. I took your advice and purchased a Bosch 800 40-decibel dishwasher in May 2021. I am vey happy with the performance. I like how quiet it runs, every item comes out sparling clean, the upper rack for utensils etc. etc. I sometimes use the handy rinse cycle. The two cycles I use the most are ECO and Sanitize/Crystal Dry and both clean equally well.
Ops, I opened the door twice while it was still running, because it is so quite. I solved the problem by cutting a small 3×3 inch square of tin foil and putting it on the floor under the red light. Problem solved.
I enjoy your site and have cooked many of your recipes and used your gardening tips over the years.