Best Dishwashers of 2025: The Surprising Winner You’ll Want in Your Kitchen
June 16th, 2025 | 17 min. read

If you’re shopping for a new dishwasher in 2025, you’ll notice something: the best models aren’t always the most expensive, or even the ones you’ve heard of.
In this updated review, you’ll discover the top dishwashers for cleaning, quietness, and long-term reliability. One of them is a model you probably wouldn’t expect.
And if quietness is your top priority, you’ll learn a simple trick that could save you hundreds of dollars.
Best Dishwashers at a Glance
Here’s a quick look at the best dishwashers for 2025.
These models stood out for quietness, cleaning, and reliability, based on over 30,000 service calls and what we see in real kitchens.
If it’s on this chart, it’s worth considering.
Noise (dB) | Tub Material | Price | Reliability Rank | Notable Strength | |
LG LDPH7972S | 42 dB | Stainless | $1,149 | 4.7% | Best value, steam, and smart features |
GE Profile PDT755SYRFS | 42 dB | Stainless | $729 | 11.6% | Great features, large silverware capacity |
Bosch Benchmark SHX9PCM5N | 39 dB | Stainless | $1,799 | 9.5% | Quietest Bosch + best plastic drying with CrystalDry |
Miele G 7966 SCVI | 37 dB | Panel-ready | ($4,499) | 10.1% | Auto-dispensing + top-tier racks and crystal care |
Bosch SHX78CM5N | 42 dB | Stainless | $1,799 | 9.5% | Excellent drying and flexible 3rd rack |
Miele G 7186 SCVi SF | 40 dB | Stainless | $4,499 | 10.1% | Best cleaning, ideal for crystal and china |
KitchenAid KDTE204KPS | 39 dB | Stainless | $729 | 7.4% | Quietest under $1K, great rack design |
Fisher and Paykel DD24DAX9 N | 45 dB | Stainless | $1,799 | 21.5% | Ergonomic drawer design, ideal for small loads and tight spaces |
Why This Article Is Worth Your Time
We don’t list every dishwasher brand just to fill space or cash in on affiliate links.
We service what we sell, and we do not accept any money or products for these reviews.
If a brand doesn’t hold up in real homes across Boston, the Cape, and the Islands, we stop carrying it.
Every recommendation in this article is backed by actual performance data from over 30,000 service calls last year, not marketing promises or paid placements.
And unlike most reviews online, we test these dishwashers with real baked-on lasagna, egg-coated plates, and chocolate-covered sports bottles.
So you’ll see how they handle the kind of messes you actually clean.
The Best Dishwashers for 2025
Most Reliable: LG LDPH7972S ($1,149)
Review
If you’re looking for a dishwasher that just works, with no drama, no repairs, and no headaches, start with the LG LDPH7972S.
Based on over 30,000 service calls logged in 2024, LG was the most reliable dishwasher brand we carried, with just a 4.7% service rate.
That means you’re less likely to deal with technician delays, hard-to-find parts, or spending hours figuring out who to call when things go wrong.
Key Features of the LG LDPH7972S
- QuadWash Pro: Four rotating spray arms clean from every angle
- Steam Assist: Loosens stuck-on food and helps dry plastics
- Dynamic Dry: Uses heat, steam, and a fan to dry better than most brands
- Wi-Fi Enabled: Lets you check status or cycle progress from your phone (surprisingly useful once you try it)
Quietness
At 42 dB, LG’s top-end dishwashers are quiet enough for any open-concept kitchen. You won’t hear it over a conversation or background music.
Just don’t fall for the “38 vs. 42 dB” trap. At a certain point, the difference is barely detectable unless your ear is inside the cabinet.
Pros:
✔️Most reliable brand we service (4.7% service rate)
✔️Excellent cleaning with steam and QuadWash Pro
✔️Effective plastic drying with Dynamic Dry
✔️Quiet at 42 dB
✔️Priced hundreds below Miele or Bosch
Cons:
❌Racks aren’t as adjustable or premium-feeling as Miele or Bosch
❌Steam can add slightly to cycle times
Editor’s Note: I get bashed a bit on Reddit and YouTube for endorsing LG as reliable.
LG or any brand can have inconsistent service depending on where you live. That said, you should check service availability in your area before buying.
If you shop at a Yale store in Boston, Framingham, Hanover, Norton, Hyannis, or Nantucket, we’ll service your dishwasher regardless of brand.
Best Dishwasher Under $800: GE Profile PDP755SYRFS ($729)
GE Profile PDP755SYRFS
Number of Cycles: 5 cycles, 11 options | Sound Level: 42 dB | Drying System: Heated Drying with Fan Assist | Third Rack: Yes | Disposer or Filter: Disposer
Review
If you’re looking for a feature-packed, quiet dishwasher under $1,000, the GE Profile PDP755SYRFS is the best option available.
A few years ago, GE Profile went back to the drawing board and completely redesigned their dishwasher lineup.
This model now competes head-to-head with brands like Bosch and KitchenAid, especially in cleaning and drying performance, but often at $200 to $400 less.
Key Features of GE Profile Dishwashers
- Microban Surfaces: Antimicrobial protection on the handles and filters, borrowed from GE’s laundry line. It might even help you avoid your kid’s latest cold. Maybe.
- Bottle Jets: Four spray jets target bottles and deep items on the top rack. (It's a great idea, but honestly, most dishwashers cleaned bottles just fine without them.)
- Silverware Spray Jets: Dedicated sprayers under the silverware basket. (Another clever idea, but in testing, the other brands didn’t fall behind here either.)
- Fan-Assisted Drying: Circulates air to reduce plastic drying time. Most premium brands now pop the door open or use other airflow tricks. This is GE’s take on the trend.
- Piranha Hard Food Disposer: A stainless-steel shredder ring that pulverizes small food particles. It’s not a full grinder, but it does save you from cleaning out a filter.
Quietness
This model operates at 42 dB, which is quiet enough for any open floor plan.
You’ll rarely notice it running. Unlike many quiet dishwashers, GE includes a hard food disposer instead of a removable filter.
That’s a unique combo to GE.
Service You Can Actually Use
GE still runs the largest manufacturer-backed service network in the country, now rebranded as Bodewell (because plain-English names are out of style, apparently).
GE is often your best bet if you want a manufacturer that actually answers the phone and has technicians.
Pros:
✔️Quiet (42 dB) with a built-in hard food disposer
✔️Microban surfaces might keep you from catching a cold
✔️Fan-assisted drying improves plastic performance somewhat
✔️Typically $200 to $400 less than Bosch or Miele
✔️GE has a decent national service network
Cons:
❌Drying isn’t quite on par with Bosch’s Zeolite or Miele’s auto-open door
❌Racks are solid, but not as adjustable as Miele or KitchenAid
❌Bottle wash and silverware washes are only marginally better
Quietest Dishwashers: Bosch Benchmark SHX9PCM5N ($1,799) and Miele G 7966 SCVI ($4,499)
Reviews
If silence is your top priority, these two dishwashers are the quietest you can buy, at least on paper.
The Bosch Benchmark SHX9PCM5N and Miele G7966SCVi operate at 39 dB and 37 dB, respectively.
That’s below the threshold of normal conversation and well into “did it start yet?” territory.
Just keep in mind: below 44 dB, differences become nearly impossible to notice.
If you're paying extra for a 37 dB cycle, make sure you're getting more than just silence.
Bosch Benchmark SHX9PCM5N ($1,799)
Key Features of the Bosch Benchmark SHX9PCM5N
- CrystalDry: Bosch’s volcanic Zeolite element superheats and absorbs moisture. It’s hands down the best for drying plastics.
- PowerControl: Isolates zones on the lower rack to wash delicate items alongside baked-on messes. Editor’s Note: You’ll need Bosch’s HomeConnect app to fully use PowerControl.
- PrecisionWash: Smart sensors monitor and adjust the wash cycle for optimal performance.
- FlexSpaceRacks: Smooth-gliding racks designed for easy loading.
Pros:
✔️Super quiet at 39 dB
✔️Best-in-class plastic drying
✔️Smooth-gliding FlexSpace racks
✔️Lower price than high-end Miele options
Cons:
❌$400 more than the Bosch 800 Series, which shares many features
❌Racking isn’t as versatile as Miele’s
❌No automatic detergent dispensing
Miele G7966SCVi ($4,499)
Key Features of the Miele G7966SCVi
- AutoDos with PowerDisk: Automatically dispenses detergent for up to 20 loads.
- Clients consistently report the cleanest dishes using AutoDos, though the discs run about $1 per load.
- QuickIntenseWash: A full wash and dry in just 58 minutes.
- Knock2Open Door: Tap the panel, and the door opens. This is perfect for handleless kitchens.
- 3D Multiflex Rack: The most adjustable third rack in the industry. It holds everything from vases and bottles to binkies and oddly shaped platters.
- Delicate Cycles: Miele still leads the market for china and crystal protection.
- CleanAir Drying System: Miele allows air into two ports at the bottom of the dishwasher. The cooler air mixes with the hot, steamy air and is drained as water. The door automatically opens 30 minutes after the cycle to release the moist air.
Pros & Cons of the Miele G7966SCVi
Pros:
✔️Exceptional wash and dry performance
✔️Most flexible and thoughtfully designed racking
✔️Auto-opening door speeds up drying
✔️Ideal for high-end cabinetry and delicate items
Cons:
❌4-hour normal cycles to reach ultra-quiet 37 dB
❌PowerDisk refills cost more than traditional detergent
❌Nearly double the price of Bosch Benchmark
💡 Buyer Tip
Bosch Benchmark: Best for families who want a quiet machine with unmatched plastic drying and excellent reliability, especially if you’re not fussy about loading odd-shaped items.
Miele G7966: Best for those who want to load anything, wash everything, and enjoy specialty cycles for everything from fine china to baby bottles. A close second to Bosch for drying, but better for flexibility and rack design.
Most Popular Premium Dishwashers: Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N ($1,449) & Miele G7186 SCVi SF ($2,149)
Reviews
You don’t need to spend $3,600 to get a great dishwasher.
The Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N and the Miele G7186 SCVi SF deliver premium performance, quiet operation, and strong reliability for $600 to $1,500 less than their flagship counterparts.
They’re the most popular luxury dishwashers we sell for a reason: they strike the perfect balance between features, performance, and value.
Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N ($1,449)
Key Features of the Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N
- CrystalDry: Bosch’s patented Zeolite drying technology that actually dries plastics. It’s the same system used in the Benchmark line.
- PrecisionWash: Smart sensors adjust water pressure and cycle timing to ensure your dishes come out spotless.
- PowerControl: Targets wash zones for flexible loading. (Like in Benchmark, this feature requires Bosch’s HomeConnect app.)
- Flexible Third Rack: Holds more than just silverware and helps optimize loading space.
Pros:
✔️Quiet and reliable; 42 dB is still whisper-level
✔️Best plastic drying system under $1,500
✔️Flexible third rack holds more than just silverware
✔️Excellent energy and water efficiency
Cons:
❌No auto-dispensing detergent
❌Racks aren’t as adjustable as Miele
❌Some features require Wi-Fi or app setup
Miele G 7186 SCVi SF ($2,149)
Key Features of the Miele G7186 SCVi SF
- AutoOpen + CleanAir Drying: The door automatically opens at the end of the cycle to release heat and moisture. No fan required.
- 3D Multiflex Rack: The same ultra-flexible third rack from Miele’s high-end line. It handles everything from long utensils to oddly shaped platters.
- QuickIntenseWash: Wash and dry cycle in under an hour — yes, really.
- Delicate Item Protection: Includes cycles specifically designed for china and crystal.
Pros:
✔️Extremely quiet at 40 dB
✔️Flexible, high-end racking system
✔️Auto-open drying improves plastic performance
✔️Built to last. Miele manufactures most components in-house
Cons:
❌No AutoDos system like the G7966
❌Still more expensive than Bosch 800
❌Plastic drying is excellent, but not quite CrystalDry level
💡 Buyer Tip
Bosch 800: This is the go-to choice for families who want quiet operation, efficient cleaning, and top-tier plastic drying performance, especially if you're loading lunch containers and water bottles daily.
Miele G7186: Best for homeowners who want the quietest possible performance, excellent flexibility, and gentle care for everything from stemware to baby bottles, without the extra cycles and features of their best model.
Bosch Benchmark SHX9PCM5N vs. Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N
Benchmark SHX9PCM5N | Bosch 800 Series SHX78CM5N | |
Noise Level | 39 dB | 42 dB |
CrystalDry | Yes | Yes |
PowerControl | Yes (via HomeConnect app) | Yes (via HomeConnect app) |
Cycle Count | 11 total cycles + Extra Dry, Sanitize, Delay Start | 7 total cycles + fewer wash options |
Rack System | FlexSpace™ with smoother gliding racks | Standard 3rd rack, no FlexSpace |
Interior Lighting | Yes | No |
User Interface | LCD premium controls (sleek digital panel) | Standard touch controls |
Wi-Fi Connectivity | Full-featured smart connectivity | Limited (PowerControl only) |
Detergent AutoDispense | No | No |
Plastic Drying | Best in class (CrystalDry + insulation) | Excellent |
Price | $1,799 | $1,449 |
Miele G 7966 SCVi vs. Miele G 7186 SCVi SF
Miele G 7966 SCVi | Miele G 7186 SCVi SF | |
Noise Level | 37 dB (extended cycle) | 40 dB |
AutoDos with PowerDisk | Yes | Yes |
QuickIntenseWash | Yes (60-min full cycle) | Yes |
Cycle Count | 17 cycles + more options (Intensive, ECO, ExtraQuiet, SaniWash, etc.) | 11 cycles, fewer specialty options |
3D Multiflex Rack | Yes | Yes |
Bottom Rack Adjustability | Enhanced: flip tines, wide pot/pan support | Standard adjustable tines |
Interior Lighting | Yes | No |
Control Interface | Full swipe control touchscreen | Button-based control panel |
AutoOpen + CleanAir Drying | Yes | Yes |
Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes | No |
Plastic Drying | Excellent | Very Good |
Price | $4,499 | $2,149 |
Quietest Under $1,000: KitchenAid KDTE204KPS
KitchenAid KDTE204KPS
Number of Cycles: 5 cycles, 7 options | Sound Level: 39 dB | Drying System: Condensation & Heating Element | Third Rack: Yes | Disposer or Filter: Filter
Review
If you’re looking for a quiet, reliable dishwasher under $1,000 and only need the basic cycles, the KitchenAid KDTE204KPS is one of your best options.
At just 39 dB, it’s actually quieter than many models costing $500 to $1,000 more.
While it doesn’t offer the premium features, rack flexibility, or drying performance of a Miele or Bosch Benchmark, it does the basics very well and without the high price tag.
Key Features of the KitchenAid KDTE204KPS
- ProWash Cycle: Automatically adjusts time and water based on soil level. Set it and forget it.
- Quiet Operation: At 39 dB, this is one of the quietest dishwashers you can buy for under $1,000.
- Third Rack: Holds silverware and flat utensils, freeing up space in the bottom rack.
- Heat & Condensation Drying: A hybrid system that works well on plates and glassware, but struggles with plastics and lighter items.
Quietness
At 39 dB, the KDTE204KPS is surprisingly quiet for the price.
It’s quieter than Bosch’s 300 and 500 Series, and nearly on par with the Bosch 800 - all for hundreds less.
If silence is your top concern and you’re shopping under $1,000, this is your machine.
Pros:
✔️Quieter than many premium models at just 39 dB
✔️ProWash cycle takes the guesswork out of cleaning
✔️Third rack adds convenience without complexity
✔️Frequently priced under $900 during sales
✔️American-made brand with solid parts availability
Cons:
❌Drying isn’t as strong as Bosch’s CrystalDry or Miele’s AutoOpen systems
❌Rack system is functional, but not flexible or premium-feeling
❌Fewer specialty cycles and customization options
💡 Buyer Tip
This model is best for homeowners who want a dishwasher that’s quiet, well-built, and easy to use, without the complexity or price tag of higher-end European models.
Most Unique: Fisher & Paykel DD24DAX9 N
Review
Not every kitchen needs a standard drop-down dishwasher.
If you have a galley kitchen, aging-in-place design, or simply hate bending down, the Fisher & Paykel DD24DAX9 DishDrawer offers something completely different.
Instead of a single door, it features two independently operated drawers that slide out like file cabinets.
You can run one drawer for small loads or use both drawers at once, even on separate cycles.
Glassware in one, pots in the other? No problem.
There are 27 models across three series, but the core idea remains the same: modular, ergonomic dishwashing.
However, this DishDrawer layout isn’t for everyone.
It loads differently than a standard dishwasher and can feel cramped if you’re used to deep racks or large-capacity units.
And while it’s ergonomic, the drawers don’t handle large cookware, trays, or baking sheets well.
💡Pro tip: Bring your plates and pans to the showroom and test them in the drawers. It’s the best way to know if it fits your lifestyle.
Key Features of the Fisher & Paykel DD24DAX9
- Drawer Design: Two separate drawers for flexible, independent washing. Ideal for small households or as a second dishwasher.
- Flexible Loading: One drawer for stemware, the other for plates or pans. Fits most daily loads easily.
- Small Load Efficiency: Run just one drawer when needed to save water and energy.
- SmartTouch Controls: Simple, intuitive controls inside each drawer front.
- Quiet Operation: At 45 dB, it’s quieter than most traditional dishwashers, though not silent.
Pros:
✔️Unique drawer design is easy to load and unload
✔️Run small loads in one drawer to save water
✔️Great as a second dishwasher or in a prep/bar area
✔️Quiet enough for most kitchens (45 dB)
Cons:
❌Polarizing format. You’ll love it or leave it
❌Lower capacity than traditional dishwashers
❌Doesn’t handle oversized cookware or trays well
💡 Buyer Tip
This DishDrawer is best for designers, downsizers, or homeowners looking for a space-saving, ergonomic, or secondary dishwasher.
It's especially useful in islands, butler’s pantries, or accessory kitchens.
Dishwasher Performance Testing: What We Actually Tested
Unlike most reviews, we don’t just list specs. We test these dishwashers the way you actually use them.
To measure real-world performance, we loaded each model we tested with:
- Baked-on lasagna dishes
- Delicate china and glassware
- Tupperware stained with red sauce
- Sports bottles coated in chocolate syrup
Each machine was run on its normal or auto cycle with no pre-rinsing.
Here's how they performed:
Washing
Miele performed the best, leaving only a small trace of egg on the plate. Bosch came in second.
LG was a pleasant surprise, as the steam feature helped loosen baked-on stains.
GE was decent, especially in the sports bottle test - every dishwasher did well, even those without dedicated bottle-wash features.
Drying
Bosch was the best in drying, proving that the Zeolite feature works.
Miele was a close second, and as a Miele owner, I can confirm that the door popping open at the end of the cycle makes a difference.
The other three brands performed as expected, delivering dry dishes but leaving plastics slightly wet, typical for most dishwashers.
What We Learned
- Bosch is unmatched for drying plastics, thanks to Zeolite and better insulation.
- Miele delivered the best wash overall, especially with delicate items.
- LG punched above its price with strong cleaning and steam-drying.
- GE surprised us with solid drying, but don’t expect miracles on Tupperware.
- KitchenAid and Fisher & Paykel did fine on plates but struggled with plastics.
Dishwasher Reliability (Based on 30,000+ Service Calls)
When most sites talk about “reliable dishwashers,” they’re just repeating manufacturer claims. We do things differently.
At Yale, we track real service data, and in 2024, we logged over 30,000 service calls across the brands we sell.
That gives us a unique look at which dishwashers hold up in the real world and which ones don’t.
We define reliability as the percentage of units requiring service within the first year.
The following service rates are based on a minimum of 100 products sold and a total sample of over 5,000 products within 12 months.
Service Rates | |
LG | 4.7% |
Thermador | 6.9% |
KitchenAid | 7.4% |
Bosch | 9.5% |
Miele | 10.1% |
Bosch Benchmark | 10.9% |
GE Profile | 11.6% |
Beko | 17.7% |
Café Appliances | 20.3% |
Fisher and Paykel | 21.5% |
Grand Total | 9.9% |
LG, Thermador (made by Bosch), KitchenAid, Bosch, and Miele are the most reliable dishwasher brands to consider.
Thermador and Bosch's dishwashers are both made by BSH Home Appliances.
With a reliability rate of 9.9%, dishwashers are more dependable than most other appliances.
💡Pro Tip: Always check service availability before you buy. A great dishwasher is only great if someone can fix it.
If you buy from us in Boston, Framingham, Hanover, Norton, Hyannis, or Nantucket, we’ll handle the service ourselves. No third-party techs, no call center runarounds.
American vs. European Dishwashers
You’ve probably noticed that dishwashers fall into two major camps: American-style (like GE, KitchenAid, Whirlpool) and European-style (like Bosch, Miele, and Fisher & Paykel).
While they all wash dishes, the experience is very different, and that matters when you’re spending over $1,000.
Here’s how they compare:
Key Differences Between American & European Dishwashers
American-Style (GE, KitchenAid) | European-Style (Bosch, Miele) | |
Drying System | Heated drying element + fan | Condensation drying + AutoOpen door (no heater) |
Noise Level | Typically 44–50 dB | Usually 38–44 dB (quieter overall) |
Food Disposer | Yes (grinder or shredder, e.g. GE's Piranha) | No — removable filter for quieter operation |
Rack Design | Deep, fixed racks; fewer adjustments | Slimmer, highly adjustable racks with 3rd rack |
Panel-Ready Models | Rare | Common (especially Bosch, Miele, Fisher & Paykel) |
Exterior Design | Bold handles, visible controls | Sleek fronts, hidden top controls |
Installation Fit | Often protrudes past cabinetry | Flush, integrated look (especially panel-ready) |
Which One Is Right for You?
- Choose American-style if you want a deep tub, like the idea of a hard food disposer, and prefer traditional rack layouts.
- Choose European-style if you want a quieter machine, better energy efficiency, and a more seamless look, especially with custom panels.
💡Pro Tip: GE Profile is one of the few American-made dishwashers that blends both styles.
It’s 42 dB quiet but offers a hard food disposer. KitchenAid also started manufacturing a paneled dishwasher that does not protrude, priced at $1,799.
Understanding Dishwasher Silence Ratings (And What They Actually Mean)
If your kitchen opens to your living or dining space, noise matters. But here’s the part most people, and many blogs, get wrong:
A few decibels won’t change your life.
But crossing the 44 dB threshold will.
That’s the cutoff for what’s considered whisper-quiet. Anything below 44 dB is nearly silent during a normal cycle.
And while the difference between 42 dB and 39 dB may look impressive on paper, it’s practically undetectable in most homes.
What Do Dishwasher Decibel Ratings Mean?
Noise Level | Experience | |
50+ dB | Standard/older models | Noticeable hum, may disrupt conversation |
44–49 dB | Average quiet | Like background AC noise |
40–43 dB | Quiet | Hard to hear without standing over it |
< 40 dB | Ultra-quiet (Miele, Bosch) | Practically silent, can't tell it’s on |
🔍Read More: Quietest Dishwashers By Decibel Rating
Dishwasher Drying Performance: What Actually Works?
If you’ve ever unloaded soaking wet plastics or dishes with pools of water in the mug tops, you know drying is just as important as cleaning.
The problem?
Most manufacturers either don’t explain how drying works or they just assume you'll use rinse aid and deal with the rest.
Here’s a breakdown of the major drying systems, what they do, and how the top brands compare:
Drying Technologies by Brand
Drying Method | Standout Feature | Plastic Drying Rating | |
Bosch | CrystalDry (Zeolite) | Superheats air using volcanic minerals | ★★★★★ — Best overall |
Miele | AutoOpen + CleanAir | Door pops open, pulls cool air in | ★★★★☆ |
LG | Dynamic Dry + Steam | Uses residual heat, fan, and steam | ★★★★☆ |
GE Profile | Fan-Assisted Condensation | Vents moist air + door pop (on select) | ★★★☆☆ |
KitchenAid | Heated Dry + Condensation | Basic hybrid system | ★★☆☆☆ |
Fisher & Paykel | Residual Heat Only | No fan or door pop | ★★☆☆☆ |
What We Found in Testing
- Bosch's CrystalDry is the only system that dries plastic as well as plates. It uses Zeolite, a natural mineral that gets really hot and absorbs moisture at the same time.
- Miele's AutoOpen door releases steam at the end of the cycle and pulls in cooler air for faster drying, especially effective on glassware.
- LG uses steam and a fan to assist plastic drying. It’s surprisingly effective and found in models under $1,200.
- KitchenAid and Fisher & Paykel struggle with plastics, especially Tupperware and utensils - expect to towel dry.
If you're constantly washing:
- Tupperware
- Baby bottles
- Sports bottles
- Lunch containers
Then prioritize Bosch with CrystalDry or Miele with AutoOpen. They’re the best in the industry for drying plastics without baking your dishes.
Rack Design
You don’t notice a great racking system, but you’ll definitely notice a bad one.
Over the years, we’ve seen brands take very different approaches to how a dishwasher loads. And in tight Boston kitchens or larger family homes on the Cape, every inch counts.
What to Look for in Rack Design
- 3rd Rack Flexibility: Look for racks that adjust for tall utensils, ramekins, or espresso cups, not just flat silverware.
- Adjustable Middle Rack: You’ll want to raise or lower it to fit wine glasses or stock pots.
- Stemware Holders: Essential if you own fragile glassware, especially on Miele and Bosch.
- Ball-Bearing Glides: Found on Miele and Benchmark. Feels smoother and lasts longer.
Top Rack Systems by Brand
Rack Standouts | Notes | |
Miele | 3D MultiFlex Rack, stemware grips, split-tine lower rack | Most adjustable rack system on the market |
Bosch | FlexSpace + 3rd Rack | Great layout, smooth glide on Benchmark |
KitchenAid | SatinGlide Rails, 3rd level silverware rack | Good layout, less flexible than Miele/Bosch |
LG | Height-adjustable racks, easy-glide middle rack | Not as premium-feeling, but effective |
GE Profile | Fold-down tines, bottle jets, silverware basket jets | Good layout, but 3rd rack is limite |
Fisher & Paykel | Each drawer acts like its own rack system | Modular but shallow |
Washing Performance: How Well Do They Actually Clean?
All dishwashers clean, but not all clean equally well on stuck-on messes, silverware corners, or fully packed racks.
All dishwashers clean, but not all clean equally well on stuck-on messes, silverware corners, or fully packed racks.
Washing Performance Summary
Cleaning Standout | Notes | |
Miele | Precision-engineered spray arms + QuickIntenseWash | Consistent cleaning even on short cycles — no steam used |
Bosch | PrecisionWash + PowerControl | Excellent with baked-on food; great zone targeting |
LG | QuadWash Pro + Steam Assist | Steam boosts cleaning — great at this price point |
GE Profile | Bottle Jets + Silverware Jets | Clever features, but others clean just as well |
KitchenAid | ProWash Sensor Cycle | Strong performer, simple setup |
Fisher & Paykel | Standard spray in each drawer | Best for light to moderate loads |
💡 Pro Tip: If you need to clean up baked-on casseroles, stuck egg yolks, or heavily used wine glasses, go with Miele or Bosch.
For everyday family loads at a better price, LG and GE Profile are highly capable.
How to Choose the Right Dishwasher in 2025
After reviewing all the best models, here's what it really comes down to:
How do you use your dishwasher, and what annoys you the most?
If You Have a Busy Household...
- You need: Strong cleaning, plastic drying, and flexible racks
- Best options: Bosch 800, LG LDPH7972S, or Miele G 7186
If Silence Is Your Top Priority...
- Any of these dishwashers will be fine
If You Entertain or Have Delicate Items...
- You need: Adjustable racking + delicate cycle support
- Best options: Miele G7186 or G7966, Bosch 800
If You Want Simplicity Without the Cost...
- You need: Basic cycles, quiet operation, and value
- Best option: KitchenAid KDTE204KPS
If You Want Something Unique or Ergonomic...
- You need: Drawer design and small-load flexibility
- Best option: Fisher & Paykel DishDrawer
Final Thoughts
You probably didn’t wake up this morning thinking you’d care this much about drying plastic or third racks.
But if you choose the right dishwasher now, you’ll avoid years of:
- Rewashing dishes by hand
- Toweling off soggy Tupperware
- Wondering who’s supposed to fix it when it breaks
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Steve Sheinkopf is the third-generation CEO of Yale Appliance and a lifelong Bostonian. He has over 38 years of experience in the appliance industry, and he is a trusted source of information for consumers on how to buy and repair appliances.
Steve has also been featured in numerous publications, including the
New York Times,
Consumer Reports,
The Boston Globe,
Bloomberg Radio, the
New York Post,
The Wall Street Journal, and
Entrepreneur, for his knowledge of how to buy appliances and appliance repair.
Steve is passionate about helping consumers find the best appliances for their needs, and he is always happy to answer questions and provide advice. He is a valuable resource for consumers who are looking for information on appliance buying, repair, and maintenance.
Despite being the worst goalie in history, Steve is a fan of the Bruins and college hockey, loves to read, and is a Peloton biker. The love of his life is his daughter, Sophie.
A Note About Pricing
Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.
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