Dishwashers: how to choose the best one (Portugal)

Dishwashers: how to choose the best one (Portugal)

Buying a dishwasher might seem like "just picking a brand and that's it." But to really get it right (and for the customer to be satisfied), it's worth looking at 6 points: type (built-in/freestanding), width (45/60), place setting capacity, energy label A–G, noise (dB), and programs (Eco and automatic) . The EU energy label for dishwashers (since March 1, 2021) shows exactly the data that matters for fairly comparing models.

1) Built-in vs. freestanding installation: which is better for your kitchen?

Free installation

  • Installs more easily (good for rented homes)

  • It typically allows you to move into the future.

Embedded / recessed

  • A cleaner look (furniture door)

  • It requires carefully measuring the niche and confirming ventilation/installation.

➡️ For SEO and filters in UMBOX: create 2 clear collections/filters: “Embed” and “Free Installation” (this improves navigation and conversion).

2) 45 cm or 60 cm: the size that defines your routine

  • 45 cm (slimline): ideal for apartments, couples, small kitchens.

  • 60 cm (standard): best for families and for those who cook a lot.

When comparing, don't just look at the "number." Look at the capacity (place settings) and the label information (energy/water/noise), because there are very efficient compact models.

3) Capacity (place settings): how to understand it without falling into marketing traps

On the label, the EU uses "rated capacity" = the maximum number of place settings (dishes + serving pieces) that the model washes in one cycle when loaded according to the instructions.

✅ Practical rule:

  • 1-2 people: often 9-10 place settings arrive

  • 3–4 people: 12–14 seating configurations is the “sweet spot”

  • Large family / hosting guests: 14–16+ place settings

4) Energy label A–G: how to compare “real consumption” in 10 seconds

The official website of the European Commission explains that the (A–G) label for dishwashers shows:

  • Energy class A–G

  • energy per 100 cycles (Eco)

  • Eco program duration

  • Water per cycle (Eco) in liters

  • capacity (place configurations)

  • noise (dB)

And the QR code provides access to EPREL (the official database) to view detailed model data.

💡 Copywriting tip (for the product page):

"Transparent comparison: kWh/100 cycles + L/cycle + dB , with QR/EPREL."

5) Eco is slower… but it's the most efficient (in terms of energy + water combination).

The “Eco” program is the basic test for the label, and Bosch itself emphasizes that Eco is the most efficient in combining energy and water , although it usually takes longer.

6) Noise (dB): essential in open-space

The label shows the noise level (in dB).
Simple rule for houses with combined living room and kitchen:

  • The lower the dB, the quieter it will seem in everyday life (especially at night).

7) How to spend less on your washing machine (and wash better)

The European Commission recommends good practices that also reduce consumption and increase results:

  • Use the Eco program.

  • Connect with a full load (without overloading).

  • Don't rinse the dishes until they're "clean" first (scraping off large scraps is enough).

  • Use the correct amount of detergent.

  • Maintenance: Regenerating and brightening salt as needed.

FAQ

What is the best dishwasher for an apartment?
Typically a 45 cm or a compact model with good capacity (place settings) and low noise (dB) — check the A–G label.

Does Eco use less fuel even though it takes longer?
Eco is the brand's flagship program and is considered the most efficient in combining energy and water, despite lasting longer.

What should I compare on the energy label?
Primarily kWh/100 cycles , L/cycle , Eco duration , location settings and noise (dB) ; use QR to see details in EPREL.

Do I need to rinse the dishes first?
Official recommendations include not rinsing beforehand (only removing larger residues) and using the correct amount of detergent.