How to Choose the Right Dishwasher for Your Home

Why a Dishwasher is One of the Best Investments for Your Kitchen

A dishwasher does more than save time at the sink. It uses less water than hand washing, reaches temperatures high enough to sanitise dishes properly, and frees up your evenings from one of the most repetitive household chores. If you've been on the fence about buying one, or you're replacing an older model, this guide will help you understand exactly what to look for.

We cover the different types of dishwashers, the features that make a real difference in everyday use, how to size up your options, and what to expect at different price points.

Types of Dishwashers

Freestanding Dishwashers

Freestanding dishwashers are the most flexible option. They sit on the floor, connect to your plumbing, and can be positioned wherever your kitchen layout allows. They're finished on all sides, so they don't need to be built into cabinetry. This makes them ideal for renters, older kitchens, or anyone who wants a straightforward installation without cabinetry modifications.

Most freestanding models are 60 cm wide and hold 12 to 15 place settings. Slimline 45 cm models are also available for smaller kitchens.

Browse our range of freestanding dishwashers to compare capacity and features.

Built-Under Dishwashers

Built-under dishwashers are designed to be integrated into your kitchen cabinetry, sitting beneath the benchtop for a seamless, built-in look. They can be fitted with a custom cabinet door panel to match your kitchen, making them virtually invisible when closed. This is the preferred choice for new kitchens, renovations, and anyone who wants a clean, uncluttered aesthetic.

Installation requires a dedicated space in your cabinetry and connection to your plumbing, so it's best handled during a kitchen renovation or by a professional.

Explore our built-under dishwashers for a sleek, integrated finish.

Freestanding vs. Built-Under: Which is Right for You?

• Freestanding: Flexible placement, no cabinetry modifications needed, easier to take with you if you move. Best for renters, older kitchens, or straightforward installations.
• Built-under: Seamless integrated look, matches your cabinetry, ideal for new kitchens and renovations. Best for homeowners who want a polished, cohesive kitchen aesthetic.

Key Features to Look For

Capacity: Place Settings Explained

Dishwasher capacity is measured in place settings. One place setting includes a dinner plate, side plate, bowl, cup, saucer, and cutlery for one person. As a general guide:

• 8 to 10 place settings: Suitable for one to two people or a small household.
• 12 to 13 place settings: Suitable for a family of three to four.
• 14 to 15 place settings: Best for larger families or households that entertain regularly.

If you regularly cook large meals or have guests, sizing up gives you more flexibility and means fewer loads overall.

Energy and Water Efficiency

Like washing machines, dishwashers in Australia are rated using the star rating system. More stars means lower running costs. Modern dishwashers are significantly more water-efficient than hand washing: a full load in an efficient dishwasher typically uses around 10 to 15 litres of water, compared to 50 litres or more for hand washing the same load. Choosing a higher-rated model pays off over time through lower water and energy bills.

Wash Programs

Most dishwashers include a standard set of programs: a normal cycle for everyday loads, an intensive or heavy cycle for pots and pans, a quick wash for lightly soiled items, an eco cycle for maximum efficiency, and a delicate or glass cycle for fine items. Premium models may also include a steam function, a sanitise cycle, or a half-load option for smaller washes.

Think about which programs you'll actually use. A quick wash cycle is particularly useful for busy households that run the dishwasher multiple times a day.

Drying Performance

Drying performance varies between models and is worth paying attention to. Basic dishwashers use residual heat from the final rinse to dry dishes, which works reasonably well for most items but can leave plastic items damp. Better models use condensation drying, fan-assisted drying, or zeolite drying technology for more thorough results. If you find yourself hand-drying dishes after a cycle, it may be worth investing in a model with improved drying performance.

Noise Level

Dishwasher noise is measured in decibels (dB). Standard models typically operate between 48 and 55 dB. Quieter models run at 44 dB or below, which is barely noticeable in an open-plan kitchen or living area. If your kitchen is adjacent to a living room or bedroom, or you prefer to run the dishwasher overnight, a quieter model is worth the investment.

Rack Design and Flexibility

The internal layout of a dishwasher has a big impact on how useful it is day to day. Look for adjustable upper racks that can be raised or lowered to accommodate tall glasses or large pots, fold-down tines for flexible loading, and a dedicated cutlery tray or basket. Some premium models include a third rack at the top for cutlery and small utensils, which frees up space in the lower baskets.

Delay Start

A delay start function lets you set the dishwasher to begin a cycle at a later time, which is useful for running it overnight on off-peak electricity tariffs or having it finish just as you wake up in the morning. This is a standard feature on most mid-range and premium models.

Smart Features

Some dishwashers now include Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to start and monitor cycles remotely via an app. Others can automatically detect the soil level of a load and adjust the cycle accordingly. These features add convenience but aren't essential for most households.

What to Expect at Different Price Points

Budget (Under $700)

Entry-level dishwashers cover the basics reliably. Expect a standard selection of wash programs, moderate energy and water efficiency, and adequate drying performance. They're a practical choice for renters or households with straightforward dishwashing needs.

Mid-Range ($700 to $1,500)

Mid-range models offer better energy ratings, quieter operation, improved drying performance, more flexible rack configurations, and a wider range of wash programs. Most households will find a model in this range that covers everything they need comfortably.

Premium ($1,500 and Above)

Premium dishwashers deliver superior wash and dry performance, very quiet operation, advanced features like zeolite drying and flexible zone washing, and refined aesthetics. They're a worthwhile investment for larger households, frequent entertainers, or anyone undertaking a full kitchen renovation.

Matching the Dishwasher to Your Household

• Single person or couple: A slimline 45 cm or compact freestanding model is efficient and takes up less space.
• Family of three to four: A 60 cm model with 12 to 14 place settings handles daily loads comfortably.
• Large family or frequent entertainer: A 15 place setting model with a quick wash cycle keeps up with high-volume dishwashing.
• Open-plan kitchen or living area: Prioritise a model with a low noise rating of 44 dB or below.
• New kitchen or renovation: A built-under model with a custom door panel gives the cleanest, most integrated finish.
• Renter or older kitchen: A freestanding model is the most practical and flexible choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a dishwasher more water-efficient than hand washing?

Yes, in most cases. A modern dishwasher uses around 10 to 15 litres of water per full load. Hand washing the same number of dishes typically uses significantly more, particularly if you leave the tap running. The efficiency advantage is most pronounced when you run a full load rather than a partial one.

Can I put all my dishes in the dishwasher?

Most everyday crockery, glassware, and cutlery is dishwasher safe. Items that should generally be hand washed include cast iron cookware, non-stick pans, sharp knives, wooden utensils, and delicate crystal. Always check the manufacturer's guidance for specific items.

How often should I clean my dishwasher?

Clean the filter every few weeks to prevent food debris from affecting wash performance and causing odours. Run a dishwasher cleaner through an empty cycle monthly to remove grease and limescale build-up. Wipe down the door seal and edges regularly to keep them clean.

What's the best way to load a dishwasher?

Place larger items like plates and pots in the lower rack, facing inward toward the spray arm. Glasses and cups go in the upper rack, angled to allow water to drain. Cutlery goes in the basket with handles down for best cleaning, except for sharp knives which should go handles up for safety. Avoid nesting items together, as this prevents water from reaching all surfaces.

Do I need a plumber to install a dishwasher?

Freestanding dishwashers connect to your existing plumbing via a standard hose and are straightforward to install. Built-under models may require cabinetry modifications and are best installed by a professional, particularly if new plumbing connections are needed. Always consult with your local regulations.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Dishwasher?

Browse our complete dishwasher range, including freestanding and built-under models, to find the right fit for your kitchen. Whether you're after a compact everyday model or a premium integrated dishwasher, we have options to suit every home and budget.