ON THE LUST-HAVE LIST

The top three tech-savvy features to fulfil your dishwasher dreams:

1 Smart technology

Love an app? “The LG Smart ThinQ mobile app pairs with your home Wi-fi to let you download new specialty cycles, diagnose problems and receive alerts on your phone when the wash is finished,” explains senior marketing manager Brad Reed of LG Home Appliances.

2 Ergonomic convenience

Favourable ergonomics inspired AEG and Electrolux’s ComfortLift dishwashers, which feature hydraulic lift technology. “With the click of a handle, the lower level lifts upwards, which helps make loading and unloading effortless,” says senior brand manager Gary Brown of Harvey Norman.

3 Air-drying capabilities

Say goodbye to water residue on your dishes and glassware. Dishwasher doors that automatically open slightly after a cycle use airflow to help the drying process. Various brands offer this functionality – look for AEG and Electrolux’s Airdry technology, LG’s QuadWash auto door-open feature, Smeg’s Enersave and Miele’s AutoOpen feature.

GET THE RIGHT FIT

The appliance size you choose comes down to the available space, says Brad of LG. “Most people are looking to fill an existing 600mm alcove,” he explains. “A standard full-sized dishwasher is usually a perfect fit.” In a small space, a 300mm to 400mm alcove requires a slimline option or, in an even more compact kitchen space, you may look to a Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer (above) to fit under the benchtop. When a standard size just won’t do, taller models may fit the bill. “Our XXL range measures 850mm x 600mm, giving you 4cm of extra height in the upper basket,” explains Elisha Pritchard, product manager for dishwashing and refrigeration for Miele.

SIZE MATTERS

When shopping around for the best machine, compare internal layouts and capacity. “Most full-sized dishwashers (left & above) have a 14 to 15 place-setting capacity, which suits families, while DishDrawers usually hold around seven place settings per drawer,” says Gary of Harvey Norman. He recommends models with adjustable racks and removable cutlery trays that allow for different stacking configurations and plenty of flexible tines to secure wine glasses. “A versatile option is the Bosch Series 8 dishwashers that have 14 folding racks so it can fit irregular and oversized plates and pots,” advises dishwashing and consumer product manager Martin Szymiczek of Bosch.

“When choosing a dishwasher, the most important factors to consider are visual design, washing versatility and cleaning effectiveness” - Brad Reed, LG

A fully integrated machine, such as the Miele G 6999 SCVi XXL (right), is designed to be completely concealed behind cabinet panels, keeping the appearance sleek and seamless. “The control panel is located inside the top of the door,” says Gary Brown of Harvey Norman. Expect to pay upwards of $3199.

Built-in machines (as below) are the most common style of dishwasher. They often don’t have a top as they’re designed to fit snugly underneath a bench. Starting at $450, the two main front-panel finish options are white enamel or stainless steel.

A fully integrated, full-size machine (below) suits a busy family home and looks the part. Smeg’s fully integrated DWAFI6D15PO (below centre) features a 15 place-setting capacity.

Electrolux ESF8735ROX ComfortLift freestanding dishwasher in Stainless Steel, $1499, Harvey Norman.

Fisher & Paykel DD60SI9 integrated dishwasher, $1449, Harvey Norman. Stockists, page 194

15-place XD3A15BS QuadWash freestanding dishwasher in Black Stainless Finish, $1549, LG.

Smeg ‘Retro’ semi-integrated dishwasher in Red, $2850, Smeg.