'Good Housekeeping' Rates Best Dishwashers
Sept. 17 -- When you buy a dishwasher these days, it's not just about clean dishes, sparkling glasses and avoiding the dreaded dishpan hands.
Many people want a quiet, sleek-looking appliance that conserves energy at a decent price.
The Good Housekeeping Institute tested 10 under-the-counter dishwashers and came up with five that it recommends. The test dishwashers were rated on: performance normal cycle, performance heavy duty cycle, rinsing effectiveness, water consumption, ease of use (racks, flatware basket, control panel, dispensers, owner's manual) and value.
Good Houskeeping's Editor in Chief Ellen Levine presented the results on Good Morning America. Keep in mind that most dishwashers range in price from $500 to $1,300, and cheaper models tend to be noisier with fewer features.
The Winning Models
ASKO (model D3530): Best Overall.The top performer of all the dishwashers tested, this model is very stylish, with stainless steel interior and hidden controls. The inside lights up, for easy loading and it also features fold-down tines (the prongs that stick up) and cup shelves. This model used less water than the other dishwashers tested, with only 11 gallons for normal and heavy duty cycles combinedPrice, $1,299.
KitchenAid, model KUDS01FLBL: The best thing about this model is that it's easy to load. A removable and height-adjustable upper rack helps you fit big platter and pots, making it easy to load. A large flatware basket caddy provides space for long cooking utensils and a mesh sack can be filled with smaller items, such as measuring spoons or small lids. Price, $1,019
Miele, model G892SC: This dishwasher works great for pots and pans. This stainless-steel dishwasher excels at scrubbing hard to clean casseroles and sauce pans. Glasses with milk crust came out virtually spotless. It also features a height-adjustable upper rack that makes way for big platters and pots. Price, $1,299.
Kenmore Elite, model 16482: This dishwasher seems to have baskets for everything, including knives, spatulas and serving spoons. Sensors detect the load's size and soil level and then adjust water volume and temperature. Other special features include sanitizing rinse, delayed start and a child lock. Price, $799.
