Black stainless steel appliances are still popular but the trend has slowed. Black stainless steel contains the same elements as traditional stainless but has a black matte finish due to an added polymer protective coating. Appliances commonly finished in black stainless steel are refrigerators, dishwashers, and washer/dryer combinations. A kitchen with black stainless steel appliances has a timeless appeal that holds up well even as other home design trends crash and burn. Black is a universal and timeless color that matches nearly everything. It goes with gray, brown, white, beige, and navy. Black stainless steel appliances with white cabinets, in particular, offer a modern appearance and a sleek finish. On the other hand, pairing your black appliances with blue cabinets or other hues like green adds depth and a classic look to your kitchen.
Why Choose Black Stainless Steel Dishwashers?
There are a few smart reasons, beyond great taste, that you may want to switch your kitchen appliances to black stainless. People are loving black stainless steel, because it is surprisingly affordable. Black stainless is a chemical treatment to traditional stainless steel that gives a more modern finish without breaking the bank. Black stainless appliances are less prone to smudges and fingerprints. They’re also less susceptible to condensation from dishwashers, greasy fingerprints on refrigerators, food and prints on cooktops and ovens, you name it. Smudge-proof and fingerprint-proof means less maintenance and cleaning, which every home cook loves. To clean these appliances, all you’ll need is a soft cloth and warm water. Just like that little black dress, black stainless will always be in style. So no matter how many times you redesign your kitchen, your appliances can remain the same.
Top Black Stainless Dishwasher Recommendations
Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N
This high-end Bosch dishwasher can remove tough stains and get all of your dishes (including plasticware) completely dry. The cycles are on the long side-even the ¡°Quick¡± cycle takes about an hour-but the resulting clean is worth it. This dishwasher removed nearly all of the stains from our test dishes during the Heavy cycle, which is a rare feat. The Auto Air function opens the dishwasher door after a cycle has ended to expedite dish drying, and it helped get nearly every test dish in the Normal and Quick cycles bone dry. All in all, the SHP65CM5N is a great way to get Bosch’s performance and features at a lower price. Special features: Flexible third rack, EasyGlide rack system, adjustable tines and rack positions, quiet operation. Shop on Amazon.
KitchenAid KDPM804KBS
The KitchenAid KDPM804KBS stainless steel dishwasher is for those who want a gorgeous, well-designed stainless steel dishwasher for their kitchen and have a budget that’s willing to accommodate. This dishwasher is an easy-to-load, effective cleaner that does a great job at removing debris and stains from dishes without being too noisy. The dishwasher – which has room for 16 place settings – is packed with a stainless steel tub, an angled third rack, powerful rotating jets, and a convenient ProWash cycle for the messiest of dishes. The adjustable middle rack will allow you to accommodate bigger items like a stand mixer bowl or roasting pans. However, what makes the KitchenAid (and its dishes) really shine is its ProDry feature that delivers an impeccable drying performance. Most dishwashers rely on rinse aid, but this one uses a heating element and a fan to circulate hot air in the stainless steel tub. Shop on Amazon.
Samsung Bespoke DW80BB707012
The Samsung Bespoke DW80BB707012 has digital controls and a ¡°white glass¡± finish that is a refreshing change of pace from typical stainless steel. This dishwasher cleaned well in testing, and we were impressed by how quiet it is. Happy Samsung customers said that this dishwasher was remarkably quiet, effective at cleaning, and convenient to use with its mobile app. Dissatisfied reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with the drying function and wash cycle length. This dishwasher is a great addition to any kitchen. It is very quiet while in operation, which is great for open-concept living spaces. It also has a lot of space, which is great for larger loads or for those who like to entertain often. The added convenience of Wi-Fi connectivity is a nice touch, allowing you to control and monitor the dishwasher remotely using your smartphone. Shop on Amazon.
Pros and Cons of Top Models
| Model | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N |
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| KitchenAid KDPM804KBS |
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| Samsung Bespoke DW80BB707012 |
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Testing Scenarios and Performance
Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N
The Bosch 500 Series SHE53C85N lives up to the brand’s reputation for great dishwashers. A scaled-down version of the 800 and 500 Series dishwashers, the SHE53C85N still showcases the cleaning power Bosch is known for. During testing, this dishwasher’s Auto and Heavy cycles handled almost everything we threw at it. The Speed 60 cycle cleared away most stains in just an hour. Despite not being equipped with the higher-series signature zeolite drying, this Bosch 300 Series dishwasher still managed to get dishes completely dry after a cycle.
KitchenAid KDPM804KBS
In our labs, we put each dishwasher through around 30 hours of tough trials to evaluate its performance on both counts. The KitchenAid KDPM804KBS did a great job cleaning and drying our test loads and even removing lipstick from the rims of the cups. To evaluate the cleaning performance, we meticulously soil multiple place settings of plates, bowls, cups and saucers, glassware and cookware with our standard greasy, starchy messes and make sure everything we’ve applied is dry and baked on (and yes, we skip the pre-rinse!).
Samsung Bespoke DW80BB707012
The Samsung Bespoke DW80BB707012 cleaned well in testing, and we were impressed by how quiet it is. In our experience, dishwashers that fall around 45 decibels on average are practically silent (unless you’re standing right next to them). Using an app, we measured decibels at various points in a cycle. While the measurements didn’t always match the advertised decibel level, nothing went over 55 decibels.
Buying Guide for Black Stainless Dishwashers
Key Features to Consider
- Stainless Steel Tub: Enhances durability and drying performance. Stainless steel retains heat, stays clean and lasts forever.
- Noise Level: The quietest dishwashers will have an average rating of 38 dBA, but any model rated lower than 44 dBA is considered a quiet dishwasher.
- Third Rack: Offers more capacity and versatility for cutlery and small items.
- Adjustable Racks: Customizable loading with three height levels and nine rack positions.
- Drying Technology: Look for models with auto wash sensors, which detect the dirt levels in the water and adjust the cycle accordingly to get the best clean – as well as good drying credentials, like Bosch’s CrystalDry technology or an automatic door function that lets steam out when the cycle ends.
- Energy Efficiency: All dishwashers carry Energy Guide labels, so you can compare models for how much energy they use and approximately how much they will cost you per year to run. For a dishwasher, energy use is almost entirely tied to water use.
Size and Fit
Most dishwashers measure 24 inches wide and 24 inches deep. If you have a small kitchen, you might consider an 18-inch-wide dishwasher that’s 24 inches deep. Measure your space, and don’t forget to account for the adjustment of the leveling feet. Most standard models are 24 inches wide and about 35 inches high, and kitchens are generally designed to house a model of those dimensions, but there are slimmer dishwashers to accommodate smaller spaces.
Finish Considerations
As with all appliances, stainless steel is currently the finish of choice. However, you can find white or black models to match older appliances or black stainless steel or so called Tuscan stainless steel with a bronze tone. If you’re going with stainless steel, ask if it’s fingerprint- and smudge-resistant, especially if you have kids in the house. Black stainless is easier to clean than regular stainless and hides smudges and fingerprints. If your appliances are likely to suffer dings and nicks, it may not be the best choice since any scratches will strip away the dark coating and become noticeable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are black stainless steel dishwashers more expensive than regular stainless steel?
Yes, black stainless steel dishwashers typically cost $200 to $300 more than their traditional stainless steel counterparts due to the added polymer coating that creates the matte black finish. However, the price difference varies by brand and model.
How do I clean a black stainless steel dishwasher?
Use a soft cloth and warm water to wipe down the surface. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbers, as they can damage the protective coating. For stubborn smudges, a mild dish soap solution can be used, followed by a dry cloth to prevent streaks.
Do black stainless steel dishwashers scratch easily?
Black stainless steel is prone to visible scratches, which can remove the dark coating and expose the underlying stainless steel. Handle with care and avoid using sharp objects near the surface to maintain its appearance.
Can I mix black stainless steel with other appliance finishes?
Yes, black stainless steel pairs well with various finishes, including traditional stainless steel, white, or black appliances. For a cohesive look, consider choosing appliances from the same brand to ensure the black stainless tones match.
Are black stainless steel dishwashers energy-efficient?
Energy efficiency depends on the model, not the finish. Look for Energy Star-certified dishwashers, which use at least 12% less energy and 30% less water than standard models, regardless of whether they are black stainless or another finish.
Conclusion
Black stainless steel dishwashers offer a sleek, modern aesthetic that elevates any kitchen while providing practical benefits like smudge resistance and easy maintenance. Models like the Bosch 500 Series SHP65CM5N, KitchenAid KDPM804KBS, and Samsung Bespoke DW80BB707012 stand out for their cleaning performance, quiet operation, and advanced features. When choosing a dishwasher, prioritize features like stainless steel tubs, adjustable racks, and energy-efficient designs to suit your household needs. With the right model, you can enjoy sparkling dishes and a stylish kitchen for years to come. For more insights on kitchen appliances, check out Consumer Reports or Good Housekeeping.