A benchtop dishwasher is not a usual choice for white goods, but often comes out on top for it’s many advantages!
A dishwasher is a staple in every kitchen. However, for some, space is a luxury, and having a stationary white good taking up space just doesn’t work.
In comes the benchtop dishwasher. A great addition to any small kitchen that doesn’t have floor space, a benchtop dishwasher, as you’ve probably guessed, sits on your counter and washes all your dirty dishes.
What is a benchtop dishwasher?
A benchtop dishwasher is a small dishwasher that sits on your benchtop, unlike a drawer or compact dishwasher.
While they fit fewer dishes than a standard dishwasher, they work well in small kitchen spaces, including RVs and caravans. Benchtop dishwashers usually only have 6 plate settings, while a standalone dishwasher will have around 16.
A benchtop dishwasher needs a water inlet via a hose, but it can easily be connected to electricity with a simple plug-in. A second hose will come from your benchtop dishwasher and drain the graywater into your sink.
What are the benefits of a benchtop dishwasher?
While the main benefit of a benchtop dishwasher is its size, there are also many other advantages, including:
- More affordable to buy and run
- It doesn’t use as much water as a standard dishwasher
- Easy to install
- Portable, in the sense that you can take it with you when you move
The best benchtop dishwashers for 2024
Devanti benchtop dishwasher 6 place settings in silver, $414.95 (was $518.95), Myer
With all the attributes and features of a conventional dishwasher, this benchtop dishwasher by Devanti is the perfect option for small kitchens. With seven different cleaning programmes and enough space for all your crockery and cutlery, this benchtop dishwasher is small but mighty.
Better yet, this one boasts of having an extremely quiet operation, meaning you can put it on before bed without any unusual noises in the night!
Key features:
- 6 place settings.
- 7 cleaning programmes.
- Baby care mode.
- Push-button function controls.
- 360 degrees rotatable spray arm.
- Removable cutlery basket.
Available at:
- $347.95 from Catch.com.au
- $373.95 from Woolworths
- $347.95 from MyDeal
Midea Mini Second Generation benchtop dishwasher in white, $421, Amazon
Unlike the normal benchtop dishwasher, this ‘Mini’ from Midea has an insulated water tank for filling it up. This means there is no need for connecting your inlet hose to your kitchen tap. Apart from installation, this choice gives you flexible loading choices, an LED digital panel and 6 pre-set wash modes for easy cleaning.
Key features:
- Convenient bottom drawer: Maximum utility with flexible loading.
- LED digital panel: Intuitive control with a clear picture view.
- Self-cleaning filter system.
- The fan drying system operates when the storage function is on to prevent mildew in the dishwasher.
- The insulated water tank allows for another source of water flow by filling it instead of connecting the inlet hose to the tap.
Available at:
- $379 from Big W
- $399 from MyDeal
- $419 from Woolworths
Kogan benchtop dishwasher in white, $309, Kogan
This Kogan benchtop dishwasher is a wonder. Having the most affordable price, this choice will give you 7 different washing programs, the option to delay start your washing cycle and a removable cutlery holder. If you’re looking for a small-scale dishwasher, what more could you want?
One of the best perks of choosing this benchtop dishwasher? You’ll get a two-year warranty!
Key features:
- All the functions you need with 7 washing programs (Intensive, Heavy, Normal, Glass, Rapid, 90-min and Self-cleaning).
- Heated water high pressure 360 degree swivel arm spray.
- Greater flexibility with delay start function.
- Residual heating dry.
- Fantastic 25.4cm maximum plate diameter.
Available at:
- $309 from Dick Smith
Omega 55cm compact benchtop dishwasher, $599, Bing Lee
The Omega benchtop dishwasher was highlighted by Choice as one of the most popular choices for small kitchens. With 6 wash programs, and one of the higher water ratings for dishwashers, it is both water and cleaning efficient. With a two-year warranty, and all the space you could need for a dishwashing load, many have dubbed this benchtop dishwasher as ‘small but mighty!’.
Key features:
- 6 wash programs.
- Option for 30 minute rapid wash.
-
3.5 stars water rating.
-
2.5 stars energy rating.
Available at:
- $686 from Appliances Online
- $659 from Brosa
Domain 6 place stainless steel electronic benchtop dishwasher, $399, MyDeal
Finally, this benchtop dishwasher from Domain is the perfectly sized small dishwasher for all of your washing up needs. With six different cleaning programs, including a rapid option, you can get all the dishes done without having to lift a finger. Better yet, the option for a delay start means setting a time to get them done is only more simple and efficient!
Key features:
- Six Cleaning Programs: (- Intensive – Heavy – Normal – Glass – Rapid – Soak).
- LED Indicator – Programs / Rinse.
- Antiflood Device.
- Residual Drying System.
- Delay Start from 1-24 hours.
- LED Remaining Time and Delay.
Available at:
- $419 from Catch.com.au
How to connect a benchtop dishwasher
A benchtop dishwasher needs to be connected in two different ways: electronically and by water. For most benchtop dishwashers, the electronic connection is simply done by plugging it into an outlet, like you would a microwave.
For a water connection, benchtop dishwashers are usually connected to your kitchen sink tap with an inlet hose. There is also a second hose that is placed into your sink, so that the dirty or ‘gray’ water can be drained from the dishwasher.
Some benchtop dishwashers have their own water tank within them, so you do not need to attach it to your tap.
Do you need a professional to install a benchtop dishwasher?
You do not always need a professional to install a benchtop dishwasher. You can connect the water yourself; however, it is best to check that your kitchen tap is a standard size before attempting it.
If you wish to have a more streamlined look in your kitchen, you can attach the water inlet hose directly to the drain under your sink. If you are unsure how to attach the water inlet hose, it is always best to seek the help of a plumber.
The electronic connection should be as simple as plugging it straight into a power point. As long as a licensed electrician installed the power point, you should be good to go!
Should I buy a benchtop dishwasher?
If you have just moved into a new place or are looking to upgrade, then it may be a great idea to look at a benchtop dishwasher. Although it may not suit every space or situation, a benchtop dishwasher would be good for:
- A smaller household with only 1-2 people.
- A small kitchen that does not have the space for a full-size, under-the-bench dishwasher.
- A rental situation that does not allow the installation of a full-size dishwasher.
- An RV, motorhome or caravan.
Looking to save money on dishwasher? Check out our coupon codes for Big W, Appliances Online and more.
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