Modern kitchen with dark cabinets, sink, and appliances visible in dimly lit room.

Dishwasher buying guide

What is the best dishwasher to buy?

To find a dishwasher that best suits your needs, consider the style and layout of your kitchen. This helpful guide answers some common questions and explains all the different types, sizes and features available to you.

Dishwasher types

Dimensions

Cycle time

Innovative features

Types of dishwashers

There are two main types to choose from, integrated dishwashers and freestanding dishwashers. Since all performance features are available in both types, the key difference is the placement options. Integrated dishwashers are available in a range of sizes and installation options, namely fully integrated dishwashers, semi-integrated dishwashers, and built-under dishwashers. Freestanding dishwashers also come in a range of sizes, including compact (small, table top) versions.

Wooden kitchen cabinet with open dishwasher displaying its interior components.

What is a fully integrated dishwasher?A fully integrated dishwasher (or built-in dishwasher) is permanently installed, with a front panel that matches your kitchen cabinets. This type of dishwasher is practically invisible, offering a sleek look that matches your kitchen design. The control panel is conveniently located on the top edge of the door, making it easy to operate when you open the dishwasher.View fully-integrated dishwashers

Sleek, modern dishwasher in a minimalist, industrial-style setting.

What is a freestanding dishwasher?Freestanding dishwashers are standalone units that can be installed in any space with access to water and drainage. Whether you put it next to other appliances or standing in a niche, such as under the kitchen worktop, your options are flexible. They’re very easy to set up and install, offering all the intelligent functions and programs you’d expect from a Siemens dishwasher.View freestanding dishwashers

Dishwasher dimensions

Standard, taller, slimline, compact, or countertop: the size of dishwasher you need depends on the space available in your kitchen as well as your household size.

Technical drawing of a kitchen appliance with dimensions: 60 cm width, 81.5-85 cm height.

What is the standard size of a dishwasher?The standard dishwasher size has a width of 60cm. The heights vary slightly, with fully integrated, semi-integrated and built-under at 81.5cm and freestanding at 85cm. These full-sized models are ideal for families, as well as singles or couples who like to entertain.

Technical drawing of a rectangular cabinet with dimensions 81.5-85 cm height and 45 cm width.

What size is a slimline dishwasher?For smaller spaces, a slimline freestanding dishwasher measures 45cm wide x 85cm high. Fully-integrated, semi-integrated and built-under slimline models measure 45cm wide x 81.5cm high.

Technical drawing of a cube-shaped appliance with dimensions 86.5 cm height and 60 cm width.

What size is a large capacity dishwasher?At 60cm wide x 86.5cm high, an XXL size dishwasher offers the most washing capacity. These models are available as fully integrated, semi-integrated and built-under appliances, perfect for kitchen with a high worktop.

Schematic diagram of a cabinet or storage unit with dimensions 45 cm width and 55 cm height.

What size is a small dishwasher?Siemens built-in compact dishwashers are 60cm wide and 45cm high, or 60cm wide and 60cm high. The freestanding versions (table top dishwashers) are slightly thinner, with a width of 55cm.

Dishwasher cycle time

The time required to clean a load can vary depending on the programme selected. Typical programme durations range between approximately 1 and 4 hours. The Eco programme is designed to operate with lower energy and water consumption than some other programmes and therefore may take longer to complete. In contrast, programmes such as Half Load and Quick may have shorter run times. The duration of the sensor-controlled autoProgramme can vary according to the load size and level of soiling, while the intelligent Siemens varioSpeed feature can significantly reduce the programme duration.

varioSpeed Plus

Quick wash vs normal wash

Clean in no time: varioSpeed Plus

Simply press the varioSpeed Plus button to reduce dishwashing time by up to 66%*. The reduced time is immediately shown in the remaining time display, and your dishes will be sparkling clean and dry within the shortest time. With varioSpeed Plus you can also switch on the turbo at any time, even if the rinse cycle is already running. Best of all, you can do it all via the Home Connect app on your smartphone and other devices.

*This does not apply to the pre-rinse and quick wash programmes.

View dishwashers with varioSpeed Plus

Dishwasher quick wash vs normal wash

Eco programes run up to 4hrs
Quick cycles: ideal for greater flexibility when dishes and cutlery are needed quickly
Longer programmes allow water and detergent more time to soak and act on soiling, which can reduce the need for higher temperatures. Alternatively, the autoProgramme automatically adjusts the programme duration according to the load size and level of soiling.
There is always the option to use the auto program, leaving it to the intelligent appliance to determine what program time is needed based on the individual load and dirtiness level

Dishwasher interior with various dishes, glasses, and utensils arranged in a blue-tinted metal rack.

Close up of an open Siemens dishwasher with a blue graphic overlay of steam being released.

Zeolith® dryingZeolith® technology converts moisture into heat and uses it to support the drying process, without the need for additional heating during this stage.

Closeup of a Siemens appliance control panel with buttons and knobs on a wooden surface.

Energy consumption: how much energy does a dishwasher use?Dishwashers are surprisingly energy efficient. A standard 1200-watt model with a 1-hour wash cycle uses 1.2 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity. Siemens dishwashers use only approx. 1 kWh of energy for each wash.

Splash of water droplets against a dark background, creating a dynamic and captivating visual effect.

Water consumption: how much water does a dishwasher use?Siemens dishwashers use only 10 - 12 liters of water per wash. To further reduce consumption and cleaning time, select the quick rinse program whenever possible or use the Variospeed Plus feature.