• When buying a new dishwasher, you should choose a model that meets the needs of your household, in terms of size as well as use.
• In households of up to two people, smaller dishwashers with a capacity of 4–8 place settings are more cost-effective. A compact model is more efficient than a large one, as long as you do not have to run it several times per day.
• It is also important to pay attention to the energy label of your dishwasher.
• Noise levels will also be an important factor when making a decision about which dishwasher to buy. An efficient motor and special sound insulation will take care of noise levels. Most modern dishwashers have a noise level comparable to that of washing machines – between 44 and 45 dB.
• Fully integrated built-in dishwashers are hidden after installation. This is ideal if you have a specific kitchen design, but can cause problems if the dishwasher is not working or if you want to take it with you when you move. With a freestanding dishwasher, you do not need to worry about a special layout, as the appliance simply slides into its space.
• When selecting a dishwasher, you need to pay attention to the type of dishes you use and choose a machine with the appropriate washing programmes. For instance, if you use glasses on a daily basis, a dishwasher with a gentle cycle is a must. The programme is designed for drying and rinsing fragile dishes. Washing baby bottles in a dishwasher has a special hygiene function.

Other commonly used functions:

• Intensive mode – for very dirty dishes with stuck-on food residues.
• Eco – a special mode that saves water and electricity.
• Short wash – for lightly soiled dishes that do not need intensive washing.

The range of dishwashers is growing, with countless modes on offer; however, it is worth remembering that energy efficiency is improved when selecting an appliance with the programmes that you will use every day.