Five Tips for Buying a New Dishwasher

From the outside, most dishwashers look the same; inside, it’s a different story. Get five tips for buying a new dishwasher in this Better Homes and Gardens video:

Knowing which features are most important to you will help you find the best dishwasher for your kitchen.

1. Look for racks that maximize space. A third rack has been added to increase capacity in many new dishwashers. A removable tray means easier loading and unloading of flatware and kitchen tools. Many dishwashers now feature flexible adjustable upper racks that move up or down to accommodate taller items.

2. If your dishes typically need extra effort to clean, choose a spray arm that offers better water coverage from all directions. One dishwasher even delivers a wall of water for powerful cleaning.

3. No one wants to shout over a noisy appliance. Choose a model that operates at 50 decibels or less. Dishwashers are categorized as loud (50+ decibels), quiet (45-50 decibels) and whisper quiet (<= 45 decibels). 4. Think efficiency. New dishwashers use less water and energy than ever before thanks to new standards. Check the model's Energy Star and Energy Guide labels to gauge efficiency. 5. Consider style. Standard dishwashers have controls on the front of the door, but if you prefer a streamlined look, many models now have them located along the top of the door so you can only see them when the door is open.