The most common dishwasher problems, from 1,408 verified buyers

1. The most common dishwasher problem owners report: “Dishes come out wet”, raised in 24% of the 1 to 3 star reviews, followed by “Awkward racks” (20%).
2. What happy owners praise most: “Cleans well”, in 28% of the 4 and 5 star reviews we read.
3. 94% of verified buyers rated their dishwasher 4 or 5 stars, against 93% across every product type in our study; dishwashers rank 15 of 37 for happy buyers.
4. 3% gave 1 or 2 stars, about 1 buyer in 33.
5. Across the 3 dishwashers with 30 or more ratings, the share of happy buyers ran from 93% to 97%.

Share of the 88 reviews of 1 to 3 stars that raise each problem, grouped across models. What to check before you buy.

1. 1. Dishes come out wet24%
   Came up on 3 models
2. 2. Awkward racks20%
   Came up on 2 models
3. 3. Programmes take hours17%
   Came up on 2 models

The problems above, most common first, and how to avoid each one. Our advice; the order comes from the reviews.

1. 1. Dishes come out wet (24% of complaints)

   Plastics stay wet in most dishwashers. Use rinse aid, open the door at the end, or look for a model with auto door opening.

2. 2. Awkward racks (20% of complaints)

   Check the rack layout against your plates and pans: an adjustable top basket and fold-down tines help with tall items.

3. 3. Programmes take hours (17% of complaints)

   Eco programmes are long by design. Check the length of the quick or daily programme you'll use most.

Share of the 87 newest 4 and 5 star reviews we read that praise each point.

1. 1. Cleans well28%
   Came up on 3 models
2. 2. Easy to set up and use23%
   Came up on 2 models
3. 3. Quiet17%
   Came up on 2 models
4. 4. Light, compact or easy to store7%
   Came up on 2 models