Dishwasher buying guide: how to choose the right one

Electrolux’s dishwasher buying guide will help you decide which dishwasher to buy to get an everyday job done - effectively and quietly.

Capacity, place settings, size, and performance are key things to consider, but what else? Let this buying guide help you figure out how to choose the right dishwasher for your family.

1. Assess your needs and habits

Start by addressing your main concern: Do you want to maximise utility savings or prioritise sanitation? Once determined, assess your cleaning habits accordingly in order to make an informed decision.

A nine-place setting dishwasher may fit your family of four, but if you frequently dine out, it may be worth sizing down. If you tend to put off cleaning until the evening, get one with a silent programme and delayed starts. You can move down to our guide for what features to look for in a dishwasher to find further information.

2. Set your budget

How much are you willing to spend for both upfront and running costs? Generally, the more features, the more expensive the dishwasher — but consider the pay-offs. In the long run, you may be able to offset the high price with low utility expenses.

To get the most returns from your investment, it is recommended to get an energy efficient dishwasher. With features like an eco-programme or half load, it properly uses your resources so you can better manage your electricity and water bill.

>>> Related article: How to use dishwasher efficiently

3. Measure your kitchen space

Determine if you have enough space for a 60cm full size dishwasher. If not, consider a 45cm small/mini type.

For home constructions and kitchen remodels, map out the placement of these three

• The sink (and dishwasher)
• Fridge
• Hob

Strategise how you can have the most efficiency in cooking, cleaning, and storage. Will there be enough space when you open your dishwasher? Is it near where you store your dishes?

>>> Related buying guides:

● Tips for buying a new refrigerator
● Tips for choosing a good stove

4. Know about connection & installation process

You’ll need to consider three connections as part of the installation process. Your dishwasher will need a power supply, washing water supply, as well as wastewater drainage.

Also consider rear ventilation and your ‘air gap’, the most effective method to protect your dishwasher from flooding with wastewater. If this is outside your remit, having yours installed and connected by a professional is the best option.

5. Pick your 3 most favourite brands

Consider well established home appliance brands known for their high-quality products, those that align with your sustainability values, like Electrolux Indonesia. Visit their websites and physical stores to deepen your understanding. Afterwards, lock in on three favourites, and carefully compare each one according to your criteria.

Most forget the importance of having an easily accessible customer service centre or hotline. Always make this a non-negotiable. It adds to your peace of mind when you can easily run to someone for repairs and warranties.

6. Choose which types of dishwashers to buy

Built-in dishwasher

This is permanently installed under your kitchen countertop, so it can be designed to be fully or partially integrated with your cabinetry. Built-in dishwashers can be integrated (concealed behind cabinetry) or semi-integrated (concealed with the front control panel visible) and are available in three finishes (stainless steel, white or black).

This is ideal for homeowners building their homes or doing a remodel.

Freestanding Dishwasher

A portable dishwasher on wheels, this can be moved and be temporarily attached to your sink. The moveable design means they can be placed anywhere with water and drainage access. This is usually preferred by renters who prefer to bring their appliances with them.

Available in three finishes (stainless steel, white or black), freestanding dishwashers also come in multiple size variations suiting most allocated kitchen dishwasher spaces.


Below are our top-selling freestanding/compact dishwashers:

7. What features to look for when buying a new dishwasher

Once you have thoroughly understood our own needs, now is the time to look out for what the market has to offer. Here is another checklist of what features to look for in a new dishwasher so you can quickly narrow down your options:

Dishwasher capacity or number of place settings

Dishwasher capacity is typically measured in "place settings," which represents the number of dishes, cutlery, and glassware needed to serve a three-course meal.

Consider the size of your household when choosing a dishwasher. The number of people in your household will determine the appropriate dishwasher capacity, as it correlates with the required place settings. Use the following guide to select the ideal dishwasher capacity based on your household size:

Dishwasher size

The standard size for a dishwasher is 600mm wide, 820mm high and 600mm deep (fitting at least 10 place settings), but it’s critical you precisely measure both the space you have available and the dimensions of the dishwasher.

For small kitchens, a compact diswasher of 450mm wide, 820mm high and 600mm deep should work well and will accommodate around 8 to 9 place settings.

Here’s a guide for dishwasher size and corresponding number of place settings:

Cleaning & drying technology

Ensure your chosen dishwasher has powerful water jets that spray from all directions, so even the toughest stains can be removed. For maximum drying, choose a dishwasher with air dry technology, like this Electrolux UltimateCare 300 dishwasher.

Silent programme for low noise level

A dishwasher that’s too loud won’t be compatible for households with young children or those with an open-plan studio space.

Look for a model with sound levels of 45 db or lower for a whisper-quiet operation. For an even lower volume, some have an Extra Silent programme that only runs at 37 db.

Half load or delayed starts for higher energy efficiency

For maximum savings on water and energy consumption, buy a dishwasher with a high energy rating, preferably one equipped with features like a half load option, air drying, or delayed starts (which run during off peak utility periods).

Modern designs use around six times less water than hand washing, so if you’re wanting to save on one of our most precious resources, choose a high-performance model that delivers a superior clean without any pre-rinsing needed.

Self-cleaning feature for low maintenance effort

For appliance longevity and performance, a general rule is to clean the filter after each wash. Look for one with a self-cleaning programme, good for monthly deep cleans to effectively remove limescale, grease, and odours.

When it comes to odours, wipe door seals, clean the filter and run an empty hot wash with a dishwashing cleaning product. Blockages are dealt with by long hot washes and clearing potential clogs in the filter, spray arm, air gap and drainage hose, while replacing the door seal can help leaks.

Make it last. To get it running at peak performance for longer, choose a dishwasher with a self-cleaning feature which means it’s easier to maintain.

Some additional features to look out for

Consider other dishwasher benefits that you may need, such as a cutlery basket, foldable tines, or glassware supports.

Electrolux dishwashers come with a customisable MaxiFlex drawer dedicated for utensils and cutlery, freeing up space in other racks and ensuring a better clean for every tool. Our range of dishwashers also have ComfortLift which raises the lower basket to a convenient height, so you don’t strain your back when loading and unloading.

Some automatic dishwashers come with your typical cutlery basket, where you stand your knives, forks and spoons up vertically, while others come with a horizontal removable 15 setting cutlery drawer. The more flexibility in the design means the greater options you have for stacking and loading, so you don’t have to hand wash a thing.

8. Consult reviews and ratings

One of the most valuable tools for assessing a dishwasher is unbiased, first-hand accounts from other customers, allowing you to gauge its performance, strengths, and authenticity of claims.

Seek out in-depth reviews, including articles and videos, that thoroughly evaluate each aspect of the dishwasher.

9. Dishwasher FAQs

More Dishwasher FAQs