Most homes today have a dishwasher for the sheer time-saving convenience and some believe sanitizing the dishes is essential to their family's wellbeing.  Over the past decade there have been many advances in dishwasher design including making them much more energy efficient while improving how the dishwasher can be stacked. 

And redesigning stacking and racking formats has resulted in more dishwashing space, so you can get more done in the same load.  There have also been improvements to operating noise which is a welcome design change. 

When buying a dishwasher, there are decisions to be made regarding stacking features and wash cycles, as well as installation versus portable options to choose from.  I'll take you through some of the decision-making steps so you can find the best dishwasher for your kitchen.

1. Types of Dishwashers

Standard Size Dishwasher - Installed

Dishwasher types are influenced more by capacity than style and the most common is the standard size 24" model that is available as either an installed (electrical and plumbing) unit within your cabinetry, or as a stand alone portable dishwasher with temporary faucet hook-up. 

The installed versus portable decision will more likely be based on whether installing is possible or not, as it requires sufficient space and you may need professional help to complete the set-up.  These units are not interchangeable; a portable cannot be installed and an installed model has no side panels.

• Pros:  Best for convenience, features, style and offers best value

• Cons: Requires plumbing and electrical hook-up; uses cabinet space which could be for storage  

Standard Size Dishwasher - Portable

While a portable dishwasher may not appeal to all, it's the next best thing to an installed unit.  If you rent, move a lot or installing is not possible, a portable dishwasher is the way to go.  The top of a portable dishwasher can also add a handy workspace in the kitchen.

• Pros:  Good variety of features; best non-permanent option; can wheel out of sight; top adds to workspace

• Cons: Must be wheeled to faucet for hook-up; faucet inaccessible while dishwasher is running

Compact 18" Installed or Portable

A smaller model, the 18" dishwasher is most commonly found in portable style, but there are installed models.  This is the ideal choice when space is limited, your dishwashing needs are small, or for cottages and RV's.

• Pros:  Space saver, best for condos, apartments, cottages

• Cons: Smaller capacity; limited features; less energy saving features

Dishwasher Drawers

Another option for small spaces is the dishwasher drawer.  Though more costly, it's a stylish alternative and a good way to save on energy by doing small loads, rather than running a large dishwasher for only a few dishes. It also uses only half the space of a standard model and that may be a consideration if you lack cabinet storage space.

• Pros:  Space saver; best for condos; apartments; cottages or where space is limited; enegy saver for small loads; stylish

• Cons: Smaller capacity; limited features; costly

Countertop Dishwashers

More suitable for a 2-3 person household, the countertop dishwasher is an economical choice that offers dishwashing convenience with a temporary hook-up.  But most are heavy and bulky to place and they should be on a stable cart, counter or table close to the sink.

• Pros:  Ideal for a couple or very small family; cheapest models; easy to use; temporary hook-up

• Cons: Bulky, heavy and needs counter space and faucet hook-up