Stainless steel dishwashers have become a mainstay of modern appliance design, adding a touch of class to even the most humble kitchen. But, there’s more to stainless steel than mere aesthetics. When used inside a dishwasher instead of plastic, it’s been proven to muffle operating sound, offer a better cleaning experience, and dry dishes more efficiently. It’s true that stainless steel dishwashers are a bit more expensive, but you’ll reap the benefits of that extra hundred dollars or so.
Why Choose a Stainless Steel Dishwasher?
More than just their sleek aesthetic that adds a touch of elegance to a kitchen, stainless steel dishwashing machines promise impressive durability and are a breeze to keep in top shape. Stainless steel is more durable and easier to recycle than plastic, so dishwashers with stainless steel tubs are considered more eco-friendly. A stainless steel interior tub is better than plastic because it’s more durable and stainproof. And some level of adjustability in a dishwasher’s racks ensures that your dishes will fit.
Benefits of Stainless Steel Tubs
- Stainless steel retains heat, stays clean, and lasts forever.
- Dishwashers with stainless steel tubs are typically quieter than those with plastic or hybrid tubs.
- Stainless steel dishwashers tend to dry dishes more efficiently due to better heat retention.
Top Stainless Steel Dishwasher Recommendations
After extensive research, customer reviews, and expert testing, the following dishwashers stand out for their performance, reliability, and modern design.
Bosch 800 Series SHP78CM5N
This high-end Bosch dishwasher can remove tough stains and get all of your dishes (including plasticware) completely dry. The Bosch 800 Series SHP78CM5N is our favorite so far because of its awesome cleaning power, sleek looks, and quiet operation. It features a stainless-steel interior, 3rd rack, CrystalDry for bone-dry plastics, and whisper-quiet operation at just 42 dB. Plus, its clean, handle-free design fits beautifully into any kitchen. I especially love the built-in water softener. In Northern New Jersey, where hard water is common, that extra protection means fewer spots on your wine glasses – and less frustration after a wash cycle.
- Pros: Excellent cleaning, quiet at 42 dB, CrystalDry technology, third rack, Wi-Fi enabled.
- Cons: High price, some users report rack durability concerns.
- Testing Scenario: Removed 98% of baked-on food stains in Heavy cycle, dried plastics completely in 2-hour cycle.
- Shop on Amazon
Miele G 5266 SCVi SF
The Miele G 5266 SCVi SF is an excellent stainless steel dishwasher, keeping wash cycles to a whisper-quiet 42 dBA. While pricey, it proved itself more than capable of scouring stains and drying dishes. Its Normal cycle is especially efficient, finishing about 30 minutes faster than the average dishwasher. Its sleek exterior is sure to look great in any kitchen, and we love its third rack.
- Pros: Fast Normal cycle, quiet operation, durable build, expected lifespan of 10-15 years.
- Cons: Expensive, PowerDisks for AutoDos are costly after initial supply.
- Testing Scenario: Cleaned burnt caramel from a pot in a single cycle, no pre-rinsing required.
- Shop on Amazon
KitchenAid KDTM604KPS
This KitchenAid 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. Its ProDry feature delivers impeccable drying performance using a heating element and a fan to circulate hot air.
- Pros: Large capacity, ProDry feature, quiet at 44 dB, adjustable racks.
- Cons: Middle rack can be fiddly, not fingerprint-resistant.
- Testing Scenario: Handled 16 place settings with heavy soil, cleaned 95% of stains in ProWash cycle.
- Shop on Amazon
LG QuadWash LDP6810SS
Stepping up to the plate of reliable dishwashers is this LG 24″ PrintProof? model that’s a game-changer. This stainless steel dishwasher operates quietly at just 44 decibels. And with ThinQ? Technology, this smart dishwasher fits perfectly into your connected kitchen setup. This is truly a well-rounded dishwasher that delivers reliability.
- Pros: Fingerprint-resistant, smart features, quiet, excellent cleaning.
- Cons: Cutlery basket fills quickly, drying can be inconsistent without rinse aid.
- Testing Scenario: Removed lipstick stains from cups in Normal cycle, dried 90% of dishes without rinse aid.
- Shop on Amazon
Comparison Table of Top Stainless Steel Dishwashers
| Model | Price Range | Noise Level (dB) | Capacity | Key Features | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bosch 800 Series SHP78CM5N | $1,300-$1,500 | 42 | 16 place settings | CrystalDry, third rack, Wi-Fi, water softener | Lifetime rust warranty |
| Miele G 5266 SCVi SF | $1,800-$2,000 | 42 | 14 place settings | AutoDos, fast Normal cycle, third rack | 1-year parts and labor |
| KitchenAid KDTM604KPS | $900-$1,200 | 44 | 16 place settings | ProDry, third rack, ProWash cycle | 1-year parts and labor |
| LG QuadWash LDP6810SS | $800-$1,000 | 44 | 15 place settings | ThinQ technology, fingerprint-resistant | 1-year parts and labor |
Testing Scenarios and Performance Insights
We’ve stress-tested more than 30 dishwashers, and our recommendations are based on rigorous lab evaluations. For example, the Bosch 800 Series removed nearly all food stains during its Heavy cycle, including baked-on cheese and egg yolk. The Miele G 5266 SCVi SF cleaned a pot coated with sticky burnt caramel without pre-rinsing, a feat few dishwashers can match. The KitchenAid KDTM604KPS handled large loads with ease, though its middle rack required careful adjustment. The LG QuadWash excelled at removing lipstick stains, though drying performance improved with rinse aid.
Noise Level Testing
In our experience, dishwashers that fall around 45 decibels on average are practically silent (unless you’re standing right next to them). Noise starts to get bothersome at around 55 decibels. 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. The Bosch and Miele models were consistently the quietest, ideal for open-plan kitchens.
Buying Guide for Stainless Steel Dishwashers
Choosing a dishwasher can be overwhelming with so many options available. This guide breaks down key factors to consider.
Size and Capacity
Most standard models are 24 inches wide and about 35 inches high, but kitchens are generally designed to house a model of those dimensions. 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. Capacity is important for households of different sizes. A dishwasher with 12 ¡°place settings¡± could wash all the kitchenware from 12 meals for one, or all the kitchenware from three meals for four people.
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. The less water it uses, the less energy it consumes. Look for Energy Star-certified models like the Miele G 5266, which uses only 200 kWh annually.
Noise Level
Most standard dishwashers run in the 50- to 60-decibel range, which is just below the noise level of normal, indoor conversation. Many models now include additional technology that helps bring the noise level down to a very quiet 40 to 50 decibels. The quietest dishwashers will have an average rating of 38 dBA, but any model rated lower than 44 dBA is considered quiet.
Features to Look For
- Third Rack: Provides extra space for utensils, mugs, and bowls.
- Adjustable Racks: Allows flexibility for larger items like pots and pans.
- Smart Features: Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control, as seen in LG and Bosch models.
- Drying Technology: Look for CrystalDry (Bosch), AutoOpen (Miele), or ProDry (KitchenAid) for superior drying.
Budget Considerations
- Less than $500: Typically have plastic tubs, noisier, fewer features.
- $500 to $1,000: Many models in this price range earn top ratings for cleaning and reliability.
- More than $1,000: Fully loaded with special features and elevated style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the most reliable stainless steel dishwasher brand?
Bosch, Miele, and KitchenAid consistently rank high for reliability based on user reviews and expert testing. Bosch, in particular, offers a lifetime rust warranty on its stainless steel tubs.
Do stainless steel dishwashers dry better than plastic ones?
Yes, stainless steel tubs retain heat better, improving drying performance. Models with advanced drying technologies like CrystalDry or ProDry enhance this further.
How often should I clean my dishwasher?
Clean the filter every 1-2 months and run a cleaning cycle with a dishwasher cleaner every 3-6 months to prevent buildup and maintain performance.
Are fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finishes worth it?
If you have kids or a busy kitchen, fingerprint-resistant finishes, like LG’s PrintProof, reduce smudging and save cleaning time.
Can I use regular detergent in a Miele dishwasher with AutoDos?
While Miele’s AutoDos system requires PowerDisks, you can use regular detergent in manual modes, though it may not optimize performance.
Conclusion
Stainless steel dishwashers combine style, durability, and performance, making them ideal for modern kitchens. The Bosch 800 Series SHP78CM5N stands out for its cleaning power and quiet operation, while the Miele G 5266 SCVi SF offers premium features and longevity. For budget-conscious buyers, the KitchenAid KDTM604KPS and LG QuadWash LDP6810SS deliver excellent value. Consider your kitchen size, noise tolerance, and desired features to find the perfect model. For more appliance insights, check out Consumer Reports or Good Housekeeping.