Dishwashers – a buying guide to different models


Dishwashers – a buying guide to different models


For many, a dishwasher is an indispensable helper in everyday life. It saves time, water and energy while ensuring hygienic and thorough cleaning of dishes. However, with the wide range of models and features on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one.
In this article, you’ll get an overview of the most important factors to consider when buying a dishwasher, as well as insights into the different types and brands available.
The article presents a wide selection of dishwashers – from compact models to fully integrated solutions. The aim is to provide an overview of features, capacity and price ranges so that you can more easily assess which type best suits your kitchen and needs. The information about the products is based on publicly available descriptions from manufacturers and retailers and has been summarised to provide a clear and informative overview.
Factors to consider when buying a dishwasher
When choosing a dishwasher, there are several practical and technical factors to consider. Here we look at some of the most important ones.
1. Capacity and size
Dishwashers come in different sizes – usually 45 cm (slim model) or 60 cm (standard). A standard model usually holds 12–15 place settings and is suitable for most households, while a slim model is ideal for smaller kitchens or households with fewer people.
2. Energy class and water consumption
The energy label shows how energy-efficient the appliance is. A model with a high energy class (e.g. A or B) uses less electricity and water, which benefits both the environment and your electricity bill. Also check the water consumption per wash cycle – modern appliances can complete a full cycle with less than 10 litres of water.
3. Noise level
If the kitchen is part of an open living space, the noise level is important. A quiet dishwasher under 45 dB can run without disturbing conversations or television.
4. Programmes and functions
Most appliances have standard programmes such as Eco, Intensive and Quick. More advanced models offer sensor technology that automatically adjusts the amount of water and temperature to the level of soiling. Some also have a half-load function, start delay or app control.
5. Drying and hygiene
Effective drying is important, especially for plastic dishes. Appliances with a heat exchanger or automatic door opening at the end of the programme achieve better drying results. There are also models with hygiene programmes that wash at higher temperatures – ideal for families with children.
6. Design and integration
Consider whether the appliance should be freestanding, built-under or fully integrated. An integrated model is hidden behind a kitchen front and provides a uniform appearance, while a freestanding model is easier to move and install.
Products in focus

The Scandomestic SFO 4102 W is a white dishwasher designed for up to 14 place settings. It is equipped with six programmes, including a half-load programme that allows smaller loads of dishes to be washed without wasting water or energy.
The appliance uses AirDry technology, where the door automatically opens slightly at the end of the programme to allow air to circulate and ensure natural and efficient drying. This feature can be used with several of the appliance’s programmes, including Intensive, Universal, Eco, Glass and the 90-minute programme.
With the delayed start function, the user can schedule the wash cycle to start after 3, 6, 9 or 12 hours, offering flexibility in terms of power consumption and daily routine. Operation is via push buttons on the front, making the appliance easy to use.
The interior is flexible with an adjustable upper basket and foldable plate racks in the lower basket. The upper cutlery drawer provides additional space in the lower basket and ensures that cutlery is thoroughly cleaned and treated more hygienically. The drawer can also be pushed together to make room for tall glasses in the middle basket.
- Capacity: Space for 14 place settings – suitable for medium-sized households.
- Programmes: Six programmes, including a half-load programme for energy-saving operation.
- AirDry technology: Automatic door opening for natural drying.
- Delayed start: Option to schedule the start time (3, 6, 9 or 12 hours).
- Flexible interior: Adjustable upper basket and upper cutlery drawer for optimal space utilisation.
Pros and cons
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- AirDry function for efficient drying
- Delayed start offers flexibility in use
- Adjustable basket and practical upper cutlery drawer
- User-friendly operation with push buttons
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D – not among the most energy-efficient models
Pros and cons
Pros
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- AirDry function for efficient drying
- Delayed start offers flexibility in use
- Adjustable basket and practical upper cutlery drawer
- User-friendly operation with push buttons
Cons
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D – not among the most energy-efficient models
Pros
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- AirDry function for efficient drying
- Delayed start offers flexibility in use
- Adjustable basket and practical upper cutlery drawer
- User-friendly operation with push buttons
Cons
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D – not among the most energy-efficient models
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Scandomestic
- Model: SFO 4102 W
- Colour: White
- Capacity: 14 place settings
- Number of programmes: 6
- Upper cutlery drawer: Yes
- Interior lighting: No
- Dimensions (H×W×D): 815 × 598 × 570 mm
- Energy efficiency class: D
- Water consumption per wash: approx. 11 litres
- Delayed start: 3, 6, 9 or 12 hours
- Technology: AirDry natural drying
- Item number: SFO 4102 W

The Scandomestic DWF1444WD is a freestanding dishwasher that comes with side panels and a top cover, allowing it to be placed freely in the kitchen. The built-in counterweight ensures stability when the baskets are pulled out, and the top cover can also be used as an additional work surface.
The machine has six programmes, including a half-load programme that allows for an economical wash even when the machine is not fully loaded. The start delay function allows you to schedule the wash cycle to run at a convenient time – for example, at night.
The interior is flexible with a height-adjustable upper basket, allowing space for tall glasses or large plates. In the lower basket, there is a cutlery basket that can be used with or without a lid, depending on whether you want to place the cutlery separately or together. The plate racks in the lower basket can be folded down to create extra space for larger kitchen utensils.
The controls are operated via push buttons on the front, allowing programmes and options to be easily selected. The machine is finished in white and has energy efficiency class D.
- Freestanding design: Comes with side panels and a top cover, allowing it to stand freely in the room.
- Capacity for 14 place settings: Provides ample space for washing up in a normal household.
- Start delay: Option to start the wash cycle after 3, 6, 9 or 12 hours.
- Adjustable upper basket: Makes it easier to adjust the space for different types of dishes.
- Half-load programme: Option for economical washing with smaller loads.
Pros and cons
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- Flexible interior with adjustable basket
- Start delay for scheduling
- Stable construction with counterweight
- Easy operation via the front panel
- No upper cutlery tray
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D is at the lower end of the scale
Pros and cons
Pros
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- Flexible interior with adjustable basket
- Start delay for scheduling
- Stable construction with counterweight
- Easy operation via the front panel
Cons
- No upper cutlery tray
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D is at the lower end of the scale
Pros
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- Flexible interior with adjustable basket
- Start delay for scheduling
- Stable construction with counterweight
- Easy operation via the front panel
Cons
- No upper cutlery tray
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D is at the lower end of the scale
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Scandomestic
- Model: DWF1444WD
- Type: Freestanding dishwasher
- Colour: White
- Number of place settings: 14
- Number of programmes: 6
- Upper cutlery tray: No
- Interior lighting: No
- Start delay: 3, 6, 9 or 12 hours
- Dimensions (H×W×D): 845 × 598 × 610 mm
- Energy efficiency class: D
- Item number: DWF1444WD
- EAN: 5704704014046

The Scandomestic SFO 2203 W is a table dishwasher designed for places where there is no room for a full-sized model. With its compact dimensions of 438 x 550 x 500 mm, it can be placed on a countertop or in a small kitchen environment without taking up much space.
The machine has a capacity for 6 place settings and offers six different programmes, including a quick 30-minute programme for busy days. It also features a start delay function of 2, 4 or 8 hours, allowing the wash cycle to be adjusted as needed.
LED indicators show when salt or rinse aid needs to be refilled, and the included cutlery basket can be used with or without a lid for flexible placement of cutlery.
The SFO 2203 W is designed for low water and energy consumption, making it economical to operate. The white surface gives it a neutral and stylish appearance that fits most kitchens.
- Compact design: Suitable for small kitchens, summer houses and apartments.
- Capacity for 6 place settings: Suitable for smaller households.
- 6 programmes: Including ECO, Glass, 90min, Rapid, Intensive and Universal.
- Start delay: Option to start after 2, 4 or 8 hours.
- LED indicators: Show the need for salt and rinse aid.
- Low energy consumption: Annual energy consumption of 174 kWh.
Pros and cons
- Space-saving and easy to install
- Multiple programmes for different needs
- Start delay function for flexible use
- Low water and energy consumption
- Easy operation with LED indicators
- Limited capacity compared to full-sized dishwashers
- Requires manual water connection if no fixed installation is used
Pros and cons
Pros
- Space-saving and easy to install
- Multiple programmes for different needs
- Start delay function for flexible use
- Low water and energy consumption
- Easy operation with LED indicators
Cons
- Limited capacity compared to full-sized dishwashers
- Requires manual water connection if no fixed installation is used
Pros
- Space-saving and easy to install
- Multiple programmes for different needs
- Start delay function for flexible use
- Low water and energy consumption
- Easy operation with LED indicators
Cons
- Limited capacity compared to full-sized dishwashers
- Requires manual water connection if no fixed installation is used
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Scandomestic
- Model: SFO 2203 W
- Type: Table dishwasher
- Colour: White
- Energy class: F
- Capacity: 6 place settings
- Number of programmes: 6 (ECO, Glass, 90min, Rapid, Intensive, Universal)
- Start delay: 2, 4 or 8 hours
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 438 x 550 x 500 mm
- Annual energy consumption: 174 kWh
- Water connection: Cold water, 3/4 inch thread
- Cable length: 1500 mm
- Item number: 33102203W10000
- EAN: 5704704013308
Product descriptions

The Scandomestic SFO 4102 W is a white dishwasher designed for up to 14 place settings. It is equipped with six programmes, including a half-load programme that allows smaller loads of dishes to be washed without wasting water or energy.
The appliance uses AirDry technology, where the door automatically opens slightly at the end of the programme to allow air to circulate and ensure natural and efficient drying. This feature can be used with several of the appliance’s programmes, including Intensive, Universal, Eco, Glass and the 90-minute programme.
With the delayed start function, the user can schedule the wash cycle to start after 3, 6, 9 or 12 hours, offering flexibility in terms of power consumption and daily routine. Operation is via push buttons on the front, making the appliance easy to use.
The interior is flexible with an adjustable upper basket and foldable plate racks in the lower basket. The upper cutlery drawer provides additional space in the lower basket and ensures that cutlery is thoroughly cleaned and treated more hygienically. The drawer can also be pushed together to make room for tall glasses in the middle basket.
- Capacity: Space for 14 place settings – suitable for medium-sized households.
- Programmes: Six programmes, including a half-load programme for energy-saving operation.
- AirDry technology: Automatic door opening for natural drying.
- Delayed start: Option to schedule the start time (3, 6, 9 or 12 hours).
- Flexible interior: Adjustable upper basket and upper cutlery drawer for optimal space utilisation.
Pros and cons
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- AirDry function for efficient drying
- Delayed start offers flexibility in use
- Adjustable basket and practical upper cutlery drawer
- User-friendly operation with push buttons
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D – not among the most energy-efficient models
Pros and cons
Pros
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- AirDry function for efficient drying
- Delayed start offers flexibility in use
- Adjustable basket and practical upper cutlery drawer
- User-friendly operation with push buttons
Cons
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D – not among the most energy-efficient models
Pros
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- AirDry function for efficient drying
- Delayed start offers flexibility in use
- Adjustable basket and practical upper cutlery drawer
- User-friendly operation with push buttons
Cons
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D – not among the most energy-efficient models
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Scandomestic
- Model: SFO 4102 W
- Colour: White
- Capacity: 14 place settings
- Number of programmes: 6
- Upper cutlery drawer: Yes
- Interior lighting: No
- Dimensions (H×W×D): 815 × 598 × 570 mm
- Energy efficiency class: D
- Water consumption per wash: approx. 11 litres
- Delayed start: 3, 6, 9 or 12 hours
- Technology: AirDry natural drying
- Item number: SFO 4102 W

The Scandomestic DWF1444WD is a freestanding dishwasher that comes with side panels and a top cover, allowing it to be placed freely in the kitchen. The built-in counterweight ensures stability when the baskets are pulled out, and the top cover can also be used as an additional work surface.
The machine has six programmes, including a half-load programme that allows for an economical wash even when the machine is not fully loaded. The start delay function allows you to schedule the wash cycle to run at a convenient time – for example, at night.
The interior is flexible with a height-adjustable upper basket, allowing space for tall glasses or large plates. In the lower basket, there is a cutlery basket that can be used with or without a lid, depending on whether you want to place the cutlery separately or together. The plate racks in the lower basket can be folded down to create extra space for larger kitchen utensils.
The controls are operated via push buttons on the front, allowing programmes and options to be easily selected. The machine is finished in white and has energy efficiency class D.
- Freestanding design: Comes with side panels and a top cover, allowing it to stand freely in the room.
- Capacity for 14 place settings: Provides ample space for washing up in a normal household.
- Start delay: Option to start the wash cycle after 3, 6, 9 or 12 hours.
- Adjustable upper basket: Makes it easier to adjust the space for different types of dishes.
- Half-load programme: Option for economical washing with smaller loads.
Pros and cons
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- Flexible interior with adjustable basket
- Start delay for scheduling
- Stable construction with counterweight
- Easy operation via the front panel
- No upper cutlery tray
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D is at the lower end of the scale
Pros and cons
Pros
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- Flexible interior with adjustable basket
- Start delay for scheduling
- Stable construction with counterweight
- Easy operation via the front panel
Cons
- No upper cutlery tray
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D is at the lower end of the scale
Pros
- Large capacity for 14 place settings
- Flexible interior with adjustable basket
- Start delay for scheduling
- Stable construction with counterweight
- Easy operation via the front panel
Cons
- No upper cutlery tray
- No interior lighting
- Energy efficiency class D is at the lower end of the scale
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Scandomestic
- Model: DWF1444WD
- Type: Freestanding dishwasher
- Colour: White
- Number of place settings: 14
- Number of programmes: 6
- Upper cutlery tray: No
- Interior lighting: No
- Start delay: 3, 6, 9 or 12 hours
- Dimensions (H×W×D): 845 × 598 × 610 mm
- Energy efficiency class: D
- Item number: DWF1444WD
- EAN: 5704704014046

The Scandomestic SFO 2203 W is a table dishwasher designed for places where there is no room for a full-sized model. With its compact dimensions of 438 x 550 x 500 mm, it can be placed on a countertop or in a small kitchen environment without taking up much space.
The machine has a capacity for 6 place settings and offers six different programmes, including a quick 30-minute programme for busy days. It also features a start delay function of 2, 4 or 8 hours, allowing the wash cycle to be adjusted as needed.
LED indicators show when salt or rinse aid needs to be refilled, and the included cutlery basket can be used with or without a lid for flexible placement of cutlery.
The SFO 2203 W is designed for low water and energy consumption, making it economical to operate. The white surface gives it a neutral and stylish appearance that fits most kitchens.
- Compact design: Suitable for small kitchens, summer houses and apartments.
- Capacity for 6 place settings: Suitable for smaller households.
- 6 programmes: Including ECO, Glass, 90min, Rapid, Intensive and Universal.
- Start delay: Option to start after 2, 4 or 8 hours.
- LED indicators: Show the need for salt and rinse aid.
- Low energy consumption: Annual energy consumption of 174 kWh.
Pros and cons
- Space-saving and easy to install
- Multiple programmes for different needs
- Start delay function for flexible use
- Low water and energy consumption
- Easy operation with LED indicators
- Limited capacity compared to full-sized dishwashers
- Requires manual water connection if no fixed installation is used
Pros and cons
Pros
- Space-saving and easy to install
- Multiple programmes for different needs
- Start delay function for flexible use
- Low water and energy consumption
- Easy operation with LED indicators
Cons
- Limited capacity compared to full-sized dishwashers
- Requires manual water connection if no fixed installation is used
Pros
- Space-saving and easy to install
- Multiple programmes for different needs
- Start delay function for flexible use
- Low water and energy consumption
- Easy operation with LED indicators
Cons
- Limited capacity compared to full-sized dishwashers
- Requires manual water connection if no fixed installation is used
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Scandomestic
- Model: SFO 2203 W
- Type: Table dishwasher
- Colour: White
- Energy class: F
- Capacity: 6 place settings
- Number of programmes: 6 (ECO, Glass, 90min, Rapid, Intensive, Universal)
- Start delay: 2, 4 or 8 hours
- Dimensions (H x W x D): 438 x 550 x 500 mm
- Annual energy consumption: 174 kWh
- Water connection: Cold water, 3/4 inch thread
- Cable length: 1500 mm
- Item number: 33102203W10000
- EAN: 5704704013308
Different types of dishwashers
There are several types of dishwashers that differ in size, function and installation method.
1. Freestanding dishwashers
These models can be placed anywhere there is a water and drain connection. They are easy to install and move, making them ideal for rented flats or kitchens without built-in space.
2. Built-under dishwasher
A built-under model is placed under the worktop, but the front remains visible. It offers an elegant and integrated appearance without requiring special fronts.
3. Fully integrated dishwasher
Here, the entire front is hidden behind a kitchen panel, so the appliance blends in with the rest of the kitchen. The control panel is usually located on the top edge of the door, giving a minimalist look.
4. Slim and compact models
Slim models with a width of 45 cm and tabletop dishwashers are good options for small kitchens or single households. They have a smaller capacity but still provide efficient cleaning.
5. Industrial and semi-professional models
For large households or businesses, there are more powerful appliances with shorter programme times and higher capacity. They are more expensive but can be advantageous if a lot of dishes are washed daily.
Different brands of dishwashers
The dishwasher market is diverse, and several manufacturers specialise in different segments.
Bosch
Bosch is known for reliable and energy-efficient appliances with a focus on user-friendliness and low noise levels. Many models feature sensor technology that optimises water and energy consumption.
Siemens
Siemens offers modern design and advanced features such as Home Connect app control and flexible basket systems. The brand appeals to those who value technology and convenience in everyday life.
Miele
Miele stands for quality and durability. The appliances often have particularly robust components and special programmes for glass and delicate materials.
Electrolux
Electrolux combines functionality with good value for money. Many models offer quick programmes and flexible interior solutions, making them ideal for busy families.
AEG
AEG focuses on innovation and energy efficiency. Their models often feature advanced drying systems and sensors that adjust the programme to the load.
Frequently asked questions
How much water does a dishwasher use?
Modern dishwashers usually use between 7 and 10 litres of water per wash cycle, which is significantly less than washing by hand. Older models can use up to twice as much.
Can you wash plastic in the dishwasher?
Yes, but plastic often dries less well than porcelain or glass. Choose a programme with a higher temperature or an appliance with automatic door opening for better drying results.
Do you need to rinse the plates beforehand?
Most newer appliances have sensors that detect the level of soiling, so pre-rinsing is not necessary. However, remove food residues to prevent the filter from clogging.
How often should you clean the filter?
The filter should be cleaned about once a week to ensure optimal performance and avoid unpleasant odours. Also remember to check the spray arms for food residues.
How long does a dishwasher last?
The lifespan depends on use and maintenance, but most appliances last 8–12 years. Regular cleaning and descaling extend the lifespan.










