The dishwasher might be responsible for a kitchen’s cleanup, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done in style. Today’s dishwashers are a far cry from early models, and buyers now have access to a variety of styles to suit functional and style needs. To see all the possibilities, follow along in this article as we break down three different dishwasher door styles, along with their benefits and considerations.
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Does the Dishwasher Door Matter?
Some users prefer a dishwasher with a sleek presentation. Others enjoy the good, old-fashioned handle. The great news is dishwashers come in an array of handle and control options to meet the design and user needs of buyers from all backgrounds and lifestyles.
Deciding the type of handle or controls is a minor detail, considering obvious appliance considerations like performance, features, and size, but it’s still one we recommend shoppers not rule out.
Take these 4-piece kitchen appliance suites, for example. Notice a reoccurring theme? Hint: It’s the handles. It might seem trivial when each piece is evaluated individually, but as a complete ensemble, the matching hardware provides seamless cohesion. It’s a subtle nod to intelligent interior design with an eye for professional detail.
With that being said, a cohesive look is great, but function always comes before form. Follow along to see the benefits each dishwasher door type provides.
Front Control
This is the classic dishwasher door style, which places controls on full display. There’s no guessing how to select wash cycles and functions, and since manufacturers have the entire front panel for the controls, there are no limits to the size of the buttons. Front control dishwashers also feature a recessed handle for easy cleanup and a clean profile.
The panel design also provides a clear view to useful info, such as a cycle timer or which phase the dishwasher is currently running. All in all, these machines are super practical to use.
Pros:
✓ Cheapest dishwasher models
✓ Easy user experience
Cons:
✗ Not completely integrated
✗ Buttons can be accessed to small children
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Top Control
Also referred to as “hidden” or “integrated” controls, top control dishwashers offer a sleeker approach to dishwashing with models that deliver a featureless profile. The clean look of a top control dishwasher is preferred by buyers looking for an upscale look in the kitchen, especially in aspirational kitchens full of built-in appliances. Instead of displaying the controls directly on the front of the dishwasher door, these models fit the buttons along the top ridge of the door.
Shoppers exploring this category of dishwashers will find even more style options in the form of pocket handles and towel bar handles.
- Towel Bar: With no need to access controls from the door, a towel bar can be used instead, doubling as a handy place to hang dish towels.
- Pocket: Opt for this choice if your goal is a completely sleek dishwasher with a minimal presentation.
Having the controls inside of the dishwasher door does come with its own considerations, though, — mainly knowing how long it takes for a cycle to finish or which part of the cleaning process the dishwasher is on. Luckily, brands have counteracted this problem with creative features.
⊳ High-end top control dishwashers, like those from Miele and Bosch, often include a floor beam to indicate when the dishwasher is in use, and select models even display a countdown timer.
⊳ Many dishwashers—both mid-end and premium—now feature Wi-Fi connectivity. Once synced to your home’s network, users have the option to receive push notifications once a cycle is done and can routinely check the progress from a smart device.
Pros:
✓ Streamlined look
✓ Easier to clean
✓ Often paired with upgraded features
Cons:
✗ Controls tend to be smaller
✗ Harder to know when a cycle is over
✗ More expensive
Custom Panel Dishwashers
Buyers are no longer locked into the ordinary dishwasher finishes, thanks to custom panel-ready dishwashers. These dishwashing machines offer a fully customizable front that can be paired with a top control dishwasher for a completely integrated dishwasher or with a front control model for a classic look with an upgraded design.
Keep in mind, this is a premium appliance feature, so be prepared to shell out a little more for these units. Additionally, custom panels do not ship with the appliance. Instead, buyers select the finish they desire and have a professional fit the dishwasher with the personalized front panel.
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Ready to put what you've learned here and in our dishwasher buying guide to test? Then explore our entire appliance catalog of name-brand products for the home. Shop deals online, by phone at (888)-396-8165, or one of our appliance showrooms, including locations in Wisconsin, Indiana, Illinois, and Iowa!