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The dishwashers that topped our tests

We reveal the top-rated models and share our expert dishwasher shopping tips to help you find the best. 

mystery box dishwashers that wont let you down this summer
Last updated: 06 December 2022

What to look for in a dishwasher

Our dishwasher expert Ashley Iredale says you should look for these eight features in a new dishwasher:

  1. Anti-flood device: This will stop leaks in the hose, not just the machine. 
  2. Concealed heating element: This protects items from damage if they fall through the basket, and stops food from being burnt onto the element, which can cause a bad smell. 
  3. Fault display: Notifies you of any problems, whether simple or more serious.
  4. Accessible filters: Filters that are easy to remove and clean. 
  5. Fan or auto open: Some models now come with fan-assisted drying, and others even automatically open once the cleaning cycle is complete, which helps with drying. 
  6. Salt dispenser for softening hard water: Dishwasher detergent may not work as well in areas with hard water. Look for a dishwasher with a salt dispenser, which will make the water softer for a better wash. 
  7. Child safety: If you have small children (including guests) look for child-safe door locks, control locks and detergent-dispenser locks. 
  8. Water connection: Check whether a hot or cold connection is recommended for the machine. If you're connecting hot water, check the recommended maximum hot water inlet temperature – you may need a tempering valve if the water in your pipes is too hot. 
Ash Dishwasher two up

Quite the dish: CHOICE expert Ashley Iredale.

Stacking options

Consider the following features to give yourself more flexibility when stacking your dishwasher:

  1. Adjustable plate racks: Some models come with fold-down racks, which can be useful if you want to put pots and pans in your dishwasher. 
  2. Height-adjustable top baskets: An 'easy-to-lift' top basket offers you more versatility when loading – you can adjust the height without needing to remove the top basket completely. Some models can even be adjusted when fully loaded. 
  3. Cutlery tray or basket: This depends entirely on your cutlery loading preference – a tray lets you sort cutlery as you load, whereas a basket lets you sort the cutlery drawer.

How to get the most out of your dishwasher

  • Use a good detergent: Your dishwasher is only as good as the detergent you put in it. Check out our dishwasher detergent reviews to find the best product for you. 
  • Put dirtier items closer to the middle of the dishwasher: Anything in the corners of the baskets won't be cleaned as thoroughly. Check our guide on how to load a dishwasher, and find out the definitive answer to the age-old question – should you stack your cutlery up or down?
  • Check that the spray arm can move freely during the wash cycle. If it gets stuck, your dishes won't get clean. 
  • Don't bother pre-rinsing your dishes: Just scrape and go. Our test results show that you don't need to rinse before you put the dishwasher on, which means you can save the water. 
  • Deep clean your dishwasher: Giving it some love will improve performance and avoid any nasty smells. Our guide to cleaning your dishwasher tells you everything you need to know. 

The top-rated dishwashers we tested

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Stock images: Getty, unless otherwise stated.

We put more than 50 of the most popular dishwashers through their paces in our labs, including conventional, drawer, slimline and compact models. These models are our four highest scorers, which means they're all recommended by CHOICE.

miele g 7319 scu xxl

Miele G 7319 SCU XXL.

Miele G 7319 SCU XXL

  • CHOICE Expert Rating: 84%
  • Price: $2999
  • Washing score: 80%
  • Drying score: 96%

Read the full Miele G 7319 review.

bosch sms8edi01a

Bosch SMS8EDI01A.

Bosch SMS8EDI01A

  • CHOICE Expert Rating: 82%
  • Price: $2099
  • Washing score: 80%
  • Drying score: 91%

Read the full Bosch SMS8EDI01A review.

miele g 5210 bk brws

Miele G 5210 BK BRWS.

Miele G 5210 BK BRWS

  • CHOICE Expert Rating: 82%
  • Price: $1799
  • Washing score: 79%
  • Drying score: 92%

Read the full Miele G 5210 BK BRWS review.

aeg ffe83800pm

AEG FFE83800PM.

AEG FFE83800PM

  • CHOICE Expert Rating: 82%
  • Price: $2499
  • Washing score: 77%
  • Drying score: 98%

Read the full AEG FFE83800PM review.

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Stock images: Getty, unless otherwise stated.