Why a Quiet Dishwasher Matters for Your Home
In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, a quiet dishwasher can be a welcome addition to any household. The hum of a dishwasher can often be a source of annoyance, especially when it disrupts your conversations, work-from-home sessions, or even your peaceful slumber. Fortunately, technology has advanced, and today’s dishwashers are quieter than ever. A quiet dishwasher can be a game-changer for many households. From enjoying after-dinner conversation in the kitchen to homes where the living room or bedrooms are in close proximity to the kitchen, a quiet dishwasher gives households the flexibility to run the dishwasher at any time without noisy interruptions.
Top Picks for the Quietest Dishwashers in 2025
After scouring customer reviews and stress-testing more than 30 models, we recommend the Miele G5008 as the first dishwasher you should consider. This entry-level Miele model delivers sparkling-clean dishes, and it’s quiet and easy to use. It has a strong warranty, and it will last. The G7000 series has a two-year warranty for parts and labor, which is the longest initial warranty of our picks. An optional five-year extended warranty is available. Miele also has high user satisfaction and reliability ratings, and it has a reputation for durability. At 42 decibels, we could barely tell it was on. Its door can open automatically at the end of a cycle. Though this is not a critical feature, it can expedite drying (plastic items included) and visually alert you that a cycle has ended—which is helpful if a typical beep or light isn’t sufficient.
Another standout is the Bosch 800 Series SHPM88Z75N. This dishwasher clocks in at an ultra-quiet 40 dB in sound tests. It incorporates all of the key Bosch technologies, including the CrystalDry feature for a bone-dry finish and a water softener. The MyWay third rack is large enough to hold bowls and ladles in addition to extra silverware. The GE Café CDT875M5NS5 is another whisper-quiet dishwasher, operating at just 39 dBA. It features a gorgeous, upmarket look that dazzles with Café’s Platinum Glass finish. For those seeking the ultimate in quietness, the Miele G7566SCViSF hums along at a super-quiet 38 dB. Upgrades, like the AutoDos automatic detergent dispenser, glass touch controls, and interior lights, make loading and unloading a much more pleasant task.
Comparison Table of Top Quiet Dishwashers
| Model | Noise Level (dBA) | Key Features | Price Range | Where to Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miele G5008 | 42 | AutoDos, auto-open door, adjustable racks | $1,000-$1,500 | Amazon |
| Bosch 800 Series SHPM88Z75N | 40 | CrystalDry, MyWay third rack, PrecisionWash | $1,200-$1,600 | Amazon |
| GE Café CDT875M5NS5 | 39 | Platinum Glass finish, adjustable racks | $1,300-$1,800 | Amazon |
| Miele G7566SCViSF | 38 | AutoDos, Knock2Open, interior lights | $2,000-$3,000 | Amazon |
Key Features to Look for in a Quiet Dishwasher
When we talk about the quietness of a dishwasher, we refer to its noise level, measured in decibels (dBA). Decibels are a unit of measurement that quantifies how loud something sounds to the human ear. As a general rule, every increase of 10 decibels doubles the perceived noise level of a dishwasher. Regarding dishwashers, a decibel level of 44 dBA or lower is considered quiet, with some models reaching as low as 38 dBA. Several factors contribute to how a dishwasher works and what makes it quiet:
- Insulation: High-quality insulation absorbs sound, preventing it from escaping the dishwasher.
- Advanced pump technology: Modern pumps are designed to operate more quietly while maintaining efficiency.
- Sound-absorbing materials: Many quiet dishwashers use materials like bitumen or mastic layers to dampen vibrations and reduce noise.
- Improved motor design: Brushless DC motors, found in many top-rated quiet dishwashers, operate more silently than traditional motors.
Most dishwashers now have soil sensors, which detect how dirty your dishes are to determine how much water and time are needed to get them clean. Above a certain price, you’ll start to find third racks at the top of the dishwasher. They’re shallower than the main two racks and are usually designed to hold silverware or other flat items, like cooking utensils and pot lids. Some dishwashers can let you know when a cycle is running by shining a light on the floor beneath it. Some may even display the time remaining. Many dishwashers have rack tines that fold down to accommodate large or bulkier dishes.
Pros and Cons of Top Quiet Dishwashers
Miele G5008
- Pros: Outstanding cleaning performance, quiet at 42 dBA, long warranty, durable build, AutoDos detergent system.
- Cons: Higher price point, AutoDos requires proprietary PowerDisk detergent.
Bosch 800 Series SHPM88Z75N
- Pros: Near-silent at 40 dBA, excellent drying with CrystalDry, flexible MyWay third rack, competitive pricing.
- Cons: Lacks water softener, some users report longer cycle times.
GE Café CDT875M5NS5
- Pros: Whisper-quiet at 39 dBA, premium design, effective cleaning, adjustable racks.
- Cons: Expensive, drying performance inconsistent for plastics.
Miele G7566SCViSF
- Pros: Quietest at 38 dBA, luxurious features like Knock2Open, superior cleaning and drying.
- Cons: Very expensive, complex features may not suit all users.
Testing Scenarios and Performance
In our Cleaning Lab tests, the Miele G5008 loaded, cleaned, and dried like a dream and it has a great capacity. The cleaning performance was outstanding—even on the QuickIntenseWash cycle with our toughest messes—as all items emerged squeaky clean and noticeably shiny. Plus, we found the controls easy to navigate and the racks easy to load and adjust. When we test dishwashers, we challenge them with dirtier loads than you would ever have at home. We uniformly apply, then bake-, dry-, and burn-on mac and cheese, hamburger, oatmeal, egg yolk, milk, and more to cookware and 10 five-piece settings of dishes, glassware, cups, saucers, and flatware. The Bosch 800 Series SHP78CM5N scrubbed out every stain we threw at it, in record time, and has great smart features. The GE Café CDT875M5NS5 impressed with its intensive cycle, lifting even the most stubborn burnt-on stains from dishes.
The quietest dishwashers earn top-rate scores in our tests, which involve a panel of judges who listen to each dishwasher that we test through its entire cycle—even if it takes 3 hours. Noise is one of the primary criteria considered when assessing dishwashers, and while a majority do well enough in this category, the models listed above stood out. Manufacturers report a model’s noise level in decibels, averaging the readings over the dishwasher’s full cycle. But that isn’t necessarily the best indicator of noise output. Our score takes into account the peak noises noted by our judges.
Buying Guide for Choosing a Quiet Dishwasher
- Check Noise Levels: Look for models with a noise level of 44 dBA or lower. Dishwashers with a noise level of 38 dBA are considered the quietest, providing an almost silent operation while efficiently cleaning your dishes.
- Consider Tub Material: Stainless steel tubs don’t really do anything for noise, but they can help dishes dry better, since stainless steel cools down quickly and can help draw moisture away from dishes at the end of a cycle.
- Evaluate Features: Decide if you need advanced features like third racks, smart connectivity, or automatic detergent dispensers. Premium models offer more than just quiet operation, including advanced drying systems and custom wash zones.
- Budget Wisely: You don’t need to spend more than $899–$999 for a quiet dishwasher. A noise level of 44 dB or lower is sufficient for most homes, even in open kitchen layouts.
- Check Warranty: After the first year of the warranty expires, some manufacturers offer limited five-year (or more) warranties on parts (not labor), like the electronic controls and racks should they be defective. Some offer lifetime warranties for the stainless steel door and tub if they should rust through.
For more buying advice, visit Consumer Reports Dishwasher Buying Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the quietest dishwasher available in 2025?
The Miele G7566SCViSF is the quietest dishwasher, operating at 38 dBA, offering near-silent performance with premium features like AutoDos and Knock2Open.
How is dishwasher noise measured?
Dishwasher noise is measured in decibels (dBA). A level of 44 dBA or lower is considered quiet, with 38 dBA being the quietest. Testing involves listening to the dishwasher through its entire cycle to account for peak noises.
Do stainless steel tubs make dishwashers quieter?
No, stainless steel tubs don’t significantly reduce noise but improve drying by cooling quickly and drawing moisture from dishes.
Are quiet dishwashers more expensive?
Quiet dishwashers range from $900 to $3,000. Models like the Bosch 800 Series offer excellent quiet performance at a mid-range price of around $1,200.
Can I run a quiet dishwasher overnight?
Yes, models with noise levels of 44 dBA or lower are ideal for overnight use, especially in open-plan homes, as they won’t disturb sleep or conversations.
Conclusion
Choosing the best and quietest dishwasher for your home involves balancing noise levels, cleaning performance, and features that suit your lifestyle. The Miele G5008, Bosch 800 Series SHPM88Z75N, GE Café CDT875M5NS5, and Miele G7566SCViSF stand out for their whisper-quiet operation and exceptional cleaning capabilities. By considering factors like noise ratings, tub material, and warranty, you can find a model that enhances your kitchen’s tranquility and efficiency. For further insights, explore resources like Good Housekeeping’s Dishwasher Reviews.