The Beginner's Guide to Dishwashers: Everything First-Time Buyers Need to Know

Buying your first dishwasher is an exciting step toward a more convenient kitchen. No more standing at the sink after dinner parties, no more pruney fingers from scrubbing pots, and no more debates about whose turn it is to wash up. But with dozens of brands, hundreds of models, and a bewildering array of features, where do you even begin?

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know as a first-time dishwasher buyer in Australia. By the end, you'll understand the different types available, which features actually matter, and how to choose the perfect model for your household.

Types of Dishwashers Explained

The first decision you'll face is what type of dishwasher suits your kitchen layout and lifestyle. Each type has distinct advantages depending on your situation.

Freestanding Dishwashers

Freestanding dishwashers are the most common and flexible option. They have finished sides and tops, allowing them to stand alone anywhere you have the necessary plumbing and electrical connections.

• Best for: Renters, those who might move house, kitchens without built-in cabinetry space
• Pros: Easy installation, can relocate if needed, typically lower cost
• Cons: May not match cabinetry aesthetically, visible gap at the top if countertop is high

Built-In (Underbench) Dishwashers

Built-in dishwashers are designed to fit under your kitchen counter, with unfinished sides since they'll be surrounded by cabinetry.

• Best for: Homeowners wanting a seamless kitchen look, permanent installations
• Pros: Clean, integrated appearance; saves floor space
• Cons: Requires professional installation; harder to relocate

Fully Integrated Dishwashers

Fully integrated models take the built-in concept further—the entire front accepts a cabinet panel, making the dishwasher virtually invisible when closed.

• Best for: Design-focused kitchens where appliances should be hidden
• Pros: Completely concealed behind matching cabinetry
• Cons: Most expensive option; requires custom cabinet panel

Understanding Dishwasher Sizes

Dishwashers come in standardised sizes, making it easier to fit them into existing kitchen spaces. Here's what you need to know:

Standard (60cm) Dishwashers

• Dimensions: Approximately 60cm wide, 85cm high, 60cm deep
• Capacity: 12-16 place settings
• Best for: Families of 3 or more, those who entertain frequently

Compact (45cm) Dishwashers

• Dimensions: Approximately 45cm wide, 85cm high, 60cm deep
• Capacity: 9-10 place settings
• Best for: Couples, apartments, small kitchens

Benchtop Dishwashers

• Dimensions: Approximately 55cm wide, 45cm high, 50cm deep
• Capacity: 4-6 place settings
• Best for: Singles, tiny kitchens, holiday homes

Place Settings: What Do They Actually Mean?

You'll see dishwashers advertised as holding "12 place settings" or "14 place settings." A place setting is a standardised measure representing one person's worth of dishes from a typical meal:

• 1 dinner plate
• 1 dessert plate
• 1 soup bowl
• 1 cup and saucer
• 1 glass
• 1 knife, fork, and spoon
• 1 teaspoon

In practice, you'll rarely load exactly this way. Pots, pans, and serving dishes take up more room than standard place settings suggest. As a general rule:

• 1-2 people: 9-10 place settings (compact) works well
• 3-4 people: 12-13 place settings handles daily needs
• 5+ people: 14-16 place settings prevents frequent half-loads

Essential Features to Consider

Modern dishwashers come packed with features, but which ones actually matter? Here's our breakdown:

Must-Have Features

• Adjustable racks: Fold-down tines and adjustable upper racks accommodate different dish sizes
• Delay start: Run your dishwasher during off-peak electricity hours to save money
• Multiple wash programs: At minimum, you want Normal, Eco, Quick, and Intensive cycles
• Good energy rating: A 4+ star rating significantly reduces running costs

Nice-to-Have Features

• Third rack/cutlery tray: Frees up space in the lower basket for more dishes
• Half-load option: Uses less water and energy when you don't have a full load
• Auto-sensing: Detects soil level and adjusts water usage accordingly
• Quiet operation: Below 45dB is ideal for open-plan living areas

Premium Features (Worth It for Some)

• Wi-Fi connectivity: Monitor cycles and receive notifications via smartphone
• Auto-open drying: Door cracks open after the cycle to improve drying without extra energy
• Zone washing: Intensive cleaning for specific rack areas
• Interior lighting: Makes loading and unloading easier

Understanding Energy and Water Ratings

In Australia, all dishwashers must display energy and water efficiency labels. These ratings significantly impact your running costs over the dishwasher's 10+ year lifespan.

Energy Rating (Stars)

• More stars = less electricity used per cycle
• Each additional star typically represents 25-30% energy savings
• A 6-star dishwasher might cost $40-50/year to run; a 3-star model could cost $80-100/year

Water Rating (WELS)

• Measured in litres per wash cycle
• Efficient models use 10-12L per cycle
• Less efficient models may use 15-20L or more

For detailed information on calculating long-term costs, see our Energy Ratings Guide.

Installation Considerations

Before purchasing, ensure your kitchen can accommodate a dishwasher:

Plumbing Requirements

• Water supply: Cold water connection (some models can connect to hot water)
• Drainage: Connection to your sink drain or a dedicated waste pipe
• Proximity: Most dishwashers are installed adjacent to the kitchen sink for easy plumbing access

Electrical Requirements

• Dedicated power point (preferably not shared with other major appliances)
• RCD (safety switch) protection as per Australian regulations
• Standard 240V/10A outlet for most residential models

Popular Brands in Australia

The Australian market offers dishwashers from numerous manufacturers, each with different strengths:

• Bosch: German engineering, excellent build quality, quiet operation
• Miele: Premium quality, exceptional longevity, higher price point
• Fisher & Paykel: New Zealand innovation, drawer dishwashers, good local support
• Samsung/LG: Smart features, competitive pricing, good mid-range options
• Westinghouse/Electrolux: Solid performers, good value, widely available

Budget Expectations for 2026

Understanding what your budget will get you helps set realistic expectations:

• Under $600: Basic features, lower energy ratings, adequate for light use
• $600-$1,200: Mid-range sweet spot with good features, decent efficiency, reliable brands
• $1,200-$2,000: Premium features, excellent efficiency, quieter operation, better build quality
• $2,000+: Top-tier performance, advanced features, longest expected lifespan

For most first-time buyers, the $700-$1,000 range offers the best balance of features, efficiency, and reliability. Don't forget to factor in installation costs if you need professional help (typically $100-$200).

Armed with this knowledge, you're ready to start shopping with confidence. Remember, the best dishwasher isn't the most expensive one—it's the one that fits your space, meets your household's needs, and operates efficiently for years to come.