Discover our top picks for the best dishwashers currently available, along with our in‐depth buying guide that explains exactly how to choose the dishwasher that best meets your needs and budget.
By 2025 it’s already gracing half of British kitchens (source: AMDEA).
And it’s not hard to see why!
Not only is it extremely practical and easy to use, but it also saves you a tremendous amount of time – over 120 hours a year on average, in fact!
With more than 1.5 million units sold every year (source: AMDEA), the UK dishwasher market boasts dozens of brands and over a hundred different models.
You’re truly spoilt for choice when it comes to finding the perfect appliance for your home.
But which models really stand out?
Which ones offer the best value for money?
And how can you be sure you’re choosing the right one?
To answer all these questions, we’ve put together a comprehensive comparison of the best dishwashers for 2025, along with a detailed buying guide covering everything you need to know before purchasing your new dishwasher.
➞ Please note: This comparison focuses exclusively on freestanding dishwashers with a standard width (60 cm).
If you’re after a reduced-width model (45 cm – a slimline dishwasher) or an integrated unit, please check out our dedicated comparisons via the links below:
➤ [Slimline Dishwasher]
➤ [Integrated Dishwasher]
*Indicative prices – subject to change at any time.
When shopping for a new dishwasher, it’s vital to familiarise yourself with the various features and functions that might catch your eye.
A new unit will set you back several hundred pounds at a minimum, so it pays to choose wisely from the very start. ;D
But what exactly should you be checking?
Here are the nine key criteria to consider when selecting your new dishwasher.
There are two main types of dishwashers:
Freestanding models can be installed pretty much anywhere in your home – as long as you have access to an electrical outlet, a water supply, and a waste connection.
Integrated dishwashers, on the other hand, are designed to be integrated into a kitchen unit made for them.
You’ll typically find these in most fitted kitchens nowadays.
➞ Please note: Integrated dishwashers are delivered without a front panel, so you’ll need to source a matching panel to blend with your other units.
As you might have noticed, this comparison is solely for freestanding dishwashers.
If you’re after an integrated model for your fitted kitchen, please see our dedicated comparison by clicking the link below:
➤ [Integrated Dishwasher]
Dishwashers available in the UK come in two widths:
Although the widths differ significantly, both categories are very similar in design and operation.
The main difference lies in capacity – measured as the number of place settings – which is roughly 30% lower in the slimline models compared to the standard ones.
Another obvious point is space: a 45 cm dishwasher takes up less room than a 60 cm model, which is only natural… ;D
So, which width should you choose?
Are both options equally attractive?
In our view, a standard 60 cm dishwasher is the better option.
They’re generally more economical in the medium to long term, offer a much wider selection of brands and models, and are more practical if you regularly clean large dishes or kitchen utensils.
Only opt for a reduced width dishwasher if you’re really short on space and need to maximise every square centimetre.
➞ Please Note: Some manufacturers also offer “table top dishwashers” that sit directly on your worktop.
Typically 55 cm wide and 45 cm high, these units usually have a capacity of 6 place settings – making them ideal for a single person.
They do offer modest water and energy savings, preventing you from running a cycle on a half-empty machine.
However, we wouldn’t really recommend them.
For more details, please refer to our guide:
➤ [Which Dishwasher Size Should You Choose?]
As you can see, this comparison is focused solely on standard 60 cm dishwashers.
If you’re looking for a slimline dishwasher(45 cm width), please check out our comparison of the 5 Best Slimline Dishwashers to Buy in 2025.
The “number of place settings” is simply a measure of the dishwasher’s capacity.
Most standard 60 cm models currently available offer between 12 and 15 place settings.
But what exactly does a “place setting” include?
It typically consists of:
So, a dishwasher with a capacity of 14 place settings can theoretically hold 14 complete sets.
How do you decide how many you need?
We suggest the following guidelines:
With energy prices having soared in recent years, selecting an energy-efficient dishwasher is crucial if you want to keep your electricity bills in check.
To determine if the model you’re considering is energy efficient, it all comes down to the energy label.
First, check the energy rating.
We advise choosing an appliance with a rating of A, B, C, or D.
Models with an A rating are very energy efficient, but they tend to be significantly more expensive, which can affect their overall value.
Next, take a look at the average electricity consumption per 100 wash cycles.
We recommend selecting a dishwasher that uses no more than 100 kWh per 100 cycles – roughly 1 kWh per wash (about £0.27), which is quite reasonable.
➞ Please note: Dishwashers previously labelled A+ or A++ have vanished following the 2021 energy label update.
If your old model was A++ and you’re surprised not to see them on offer now, know that they’re now classified as E-rated appliances.
Depending on your home’s size and layout, the noise produced by a dishwasher can be an important consideration.
Many users complain about the noise during the wash cycle, which can sometimes become a source of stress and irritation.
Keep in mind that the noise from a dishwasher isn’t quite the same as that from a washing machine. ;D
But unlike washing machines – which are often placed away from the main living areas – dishwashers are usually installed in the kitchen, an important point if your kitchen is open-plan or adjoins your living space.
Either way, we recommend ensuring that the model you choose isn’t louder than average.
Check the energy label to make sure it doesn’t exceed 46 dB.
If you’re after an especially quiet model, aim for one that produces no more than 44 dB.
For more on these ultra-quiet dishwashers, see our comparison of the 5 Quietest Dishwashers of 2025.
Let’s be honest – price is often the deciding factor when buying a new appliance.
For dishwashers, we suggest budgeting between £300 and £400 for an entry-level model, £400 to £700 for mid-range options, and over £1000 for the top-of-the-range models.
The price differences between various brands can be quite significant, even for models that seem technically similar at first glance.
Ultimately, it comes down to the quality of materials, manufacturing reliability and durability, the technology used, after-sales service, and of course, the manufacturer’s profit margin.
Design is an important factor if you want to maintain a certain visual harmony among your kitchen appliances.
Some brands – like Bosch – offer models with a sleek, modern design that will integrate seamlessly into a contemporary kitchen.
Of course, nothing beats a fully integrated dishwasher hidden behind a front panel that blends perfectly with your cabinetry.
However, not everyone wants or can afford that level of integration. ;)
Our advice?
Consider the design and overall style of your current kitchen when choosing your new dishwasher, but don’t let looks be your sole priority.
A dishwasher that looks great is nice, but one that’s reliable and efficient is even better! ;D
A cutlery tray is a feature available on many mid- to high-end models, and in our opinion, it makes a significant difference.
The ease of use and extra space it provides in the lower rack are the two main advantages of a cutlery tray over a traditional cutlery basket.
While we wouldn’t advise choosing a model solely because it has a cutlery tray, it’s certainly a bonus you’ll appreciate in everyday use.
Finally, let’s discuss the additional features and wash cycles available.
Depending on the brand and range, some models offer extra options such as:
It’s up to you to decide which of these features might be useful, but do bear in mind that generally, the more options there are, the higher the price! ;D
No matter what others say, the brand remains a crucial point of reference in a market where hundreds of models compete to stand out and attract new customers.
A reputable brand is also a mark of quality, long-term reliability, and good customer service when needed.
So, which brands should you prioritise?
Which ones offer the best value for money?
We’ve published a full ranking of what we consider the 7 Best Dishwasher Brands to choose in 2025 – do have a look!
To summarise briefly, here are the brands we most recommend:
Each brand has its own pros and cons – we detail these in our reviews.
Our main advice is to choose dishwashers from brands known for their performance and reliability, even if it means spending a little extra.
After all, quality and durability do come at a price.
Investing in a dishwasher is a significant expense (several hundred pounds at least).
However, the benefits it offers are so compelling that the cost is entirely justified.
Here’s a quick rundown of the main Pros and Cons:
When it comes to washing appliances, water consumption is a key factor in determining running costs.
The more water used, the higher the electricity consumption and overall cost.
Fortunately, modern dishwashers are extremely efficient in both water and energy use.
In fact, hand-washing dishes can use far more water in comparison.
On average, standard-sized dishwashers featured in our top picks use between 9 and 11 litres per cycle.
For perspective, washing the same amount of dishes by hand might require over 40 litres of water.
A dishwasher can lead to significant savings on both water and electricity.
For further details on dishwasher water consumption and why they’re so efficient, please check out our dedicated guide:
➤ [How Much Water Does a Dishwasher Use? Link]
Electricity usage mainly depends on the wash cycle you select.
The biggest consumer of power is the heating element – the cost per wash cycle depends largely on the amount of water used and the temperature to which it’s heated.
Add in the drying system and the electronic controls, and you’re typically looking at an average consumption of about 1 kWh per cycle.
That equates to roughly 27 pence per cycle*. (*Indicative rate)
Here are a few handy tips to get the most out of your dishwasher:
The dishwasher is clearly an appliance that can save you a great deal of time and money on your future water and energy bills.
While it might not be ideal for everyone – especially if you live alone or in a very small space – if you take the plunge and invest in one, you’re unlikely to regret it. ;D
We hope this comprehensive comparison and buying guide for the best dishwashers for 2025 has helped you progress in your search.
Good luck, and see you soon on ApplianceReviews.co.uk! :D
Below you’ll find all our reviews, top picks and buying guides to help you discover everything you need to know about dishwashers:
➤ Best Dishwashers 2025: Top Picks & Reviews
➤ Are BOSCH Dishwashers any Good? Review & Top Picks
➤ Are MIELE Dishwashers any Good? Review & Top Picks
➤ Are BEKO Dishwashers any Good? Review & Top Picks
➤ Are HOTPOINT Dishwashers any Good? Review & Top Picks
