No matter where you might find yourself currently in your search for a new dishwasher, there’s a consistent theme despite which brand or what price point you’re exploring — the stainless-steel dishwasher tub. It’s natural to assume the difference is purely cosmetic, but considering the price swing (the difference can be dramatic), you can’t help but wonder, “Is there more to it than just looks?”
In short, a stainless-steel dishwasher tub is far superior than plastic, and the addition of one on a dishwashing machine comes with a few added benefits aside from being a better-looking model. In this quick guide, we’ll show you the ins and outs of these appliances to help you decide if the option is worth the investment.
In This Article:
- Pricing
- The Benefits of a Stainless-Steel Interior
- Are All Stainless-Still Options Equal?
- Should I Avoid Plastic Tubs?
Stainless-Steel Dishwasher Tubs Pricing
Let’s clarify for a moment. While a stainless-steel tub often comes with an upcharge of around $100 – $150 compared to plastic tub dishwashers, options can still be found on the lower-end of pricing, starting around $500 – $600.
With that in mind, all higher-end dishwashers come with a stainless-steel tub. However, many of these models also come with noise-reducing technology, and when combined with the noise-dampening properties of metal, these dishwashers tend to be the quietest on the market.
Shop Stainless Interior Dishwashers for Every Budget
Why is Stainless Steel Preferred?
Simply put, a plastic tub cannot compete with the list of bonuses that come along with a stainless dishwasher interior. Here’s what you get when you upgrade to stainless steel:
- Durability: Because it’s made from metal, stainless steel resists hot temperatures better, adding durability, while also retaining temperatures, allowing the heating element to work less.
- Superior Drying: Thanks to conduction, stainless steel is able to dry dishes faster by drawing heat from dinnerware and turning it into condensation that then drops to the bottom of the appliance instead of puddling on dishes.
- Less Maintenance: Stainless steel is also less porous than plastic, meaning it won’t stain or absorb odors from foods like red spaghetti sauce on a white, plastic tub.
All in all, the benefits are considerable, including the ability to withstand long periods of high-heat rinses up to 160 degrees, giving dishes a proper and sanitary wash. And as mentioned, since the tub helps with heating and drying, the process is far more energy-efficient and durable than with a plastic tub.
Learn More: Which Dishwashers Dry Best?
Are All Stainless Steel Dishwashers Equal?
This is an important question to ask while you’re shopping since the short answer is no. While the materials used on the tub will be more or less the same, other factors determine whether you’re paying solely for the tub upgrade, or for additional features that add value to the appliance. That can include decibel ratings, rack quantity, or special cleaning options (we think a Sanitize option is essential), all of which provide more bang for your buck.
An alternative to a fully stainless steel is a semi-stainless interior (also called a hybrid tub). In this version, most of the tub and door are made of stainless steel, while trim and supplementary parts are constructed of high-density plastic. A great example of this approach is the Bosch 100-level dishwashers. The addition of plastic into the construction helps to drive costs down, but it also introduces potential points of wear along with opportunities to harbor germs or bacteria, all of which are drastically reduced by use of a stainless-steel tub.
Take a look at the two examples below. The first, a Bosch 100-level model, features a stainless-steel interior all around, minus the bottom, which uses high-quality plastic. On the other hand, the Café dishwasher is completely metal, and surprisingly, it cost around $250 less. To find great savings like this, make sure to contact an expert from Grand Appliance and TV.
Should I Avoid Plastic Tub Dishwashers?
If your dishwasher budget is within the $500 – $600 dishwasher, you're most likely going to end up getting a dishwasher with a plastic tub. There will be a downgrade in overall performance, but it still more economic and efficient than washing dishes by hand. Additionally, many models feature a high-density plastic tub that performs better than standard plastic tubs.
That being said, if you’re able to afford a dishwasher above the lower-end scale, we highly recommend investing in a dishwasher with a stainless-steel interior. Besides the fact that higher budgets will naturally gravitate toward stainless-steel interiors, doing so comes with a list of benefits that plastic tub dishwashers simply cannot provide, ultimately making dish care an easier job on you with more dependability.
Read More: Grand's Dishwasher Buying Guide
Reliable Dishwashers with Stainless Steel Interiors Near You
To find out more about dishwashers with a stainless-steel tub, you can explore our entire catalog of dishwashers along with our complete inventory of major home appliances from trusted appliance brands online or in-store.
With over 25 locations throughout Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Iowa, including locations in Chicago, Milwaukee, Green Bay, and Indianapolis, you can count on Grand Appliance and TV for all your appliance needs. Shop today!