Do you own sterling silver cutlery, plates, or other tableware? If so, you know that keeping them clean and shiny can be a challenge. They are delicate and prone to scratches and can also tarnish easily if not properly cared for. That’s why investing in a good dishwasher that is specifically designed for sterling silver can make all the difference.
But with so many dishwashers in the market, how do you know which one is the best for your precious silverware? That’s where we come in. In this article, we’ll be sharing our top picks for the best dishwashers for sterling silver, based on our own research and experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned silver collector or just starting out, we’ve got you covered. Sit back, relax, and let’s find the perfect dishwasher for your sterling silver treasures!
Factors to Consider
When it comes to washing sterling silver in a dishwasher, not all dishwashers are created equal. In order to ensure that your silverware stays shiny and scratch-free, there are several factors you should consider when choosing a dishwasher specifically for sterling silver.
- Type of Detergent: This is one major factor to consider when choosing a dishwasher for your sterling silver. Look for a detergent that is specifically designed for use with silverware. Some detergents may contain harsh chemicals that can damage the surface of silverware, so it’s important to choose one that is gentle and less abrasive.
- Water Temperature: The water temperature used in the dishwasher can also affect the cleanliness of your sterling silver. High water temperature is usually more effective at removing dirt and grime, but it can also cause discoloration and tarnishing. Therefore, it’s important to choose a dishwasher that has a temperature control feature. This will allow you to adjust the water temperature according to the needs of your silverware.
- Cycle Duration: The length of the dishwasher cycle can also have an impact on the cleanliness of your sterling silver. Longer cycles can be more effective at removing dirt and stains, but they can also be more abrasive and can cause scratches or tarnishing. To minimize the risk of damage, it’s important to choose a dishwasher with a short cycle duration option, specifically for your silverware.
- Loading and Unloading: The way you load and unload your silverware in the dishwasher can also affect its cleanliness and condition. It’s important to avoid overcrowding the dishwasher and to arrange the silverware in a way that minimizes contact with other objects, such as glassware or metal utensils. In addition, when unloading the silverware, handle with care to avoid any accidental scratching or tarnishing.
- Water Softener: Hard water can cause staining and mineral buildup on sterling silverware. If you live in an area with hard water, consider choosing a dishwasher that has a built-in water softener. This will help to remove the minerals that can cause damage to your s
Best Dishwasher for Sterling Silver – Our Top Picks
Sterling silver is a beautiful and durable precious metal that can add a touch of elegance to any table setting. However, it requires special care to maintain its shine and avoid tarnishing or scratching. One of the most convenient ways to clean and maintain sterling silver is by using a dishwasher. But not all dishwashers are created equal, and some may not be suitable for cleaning sterling silver.
After thorough research, we have identified the following dishwashers as the best options for cleaning and maintaining sterling silver items:
Bosch SHXM88Z75N – The Overall Best Dishwasher for Sterling Silver
The Bosch SHXM88Z75N is a high-end dishwasher that offers advanced features for gentle yet thorough cleaning of sterling silver. Its CrystalDry technology provides excellent drying performance, which is crucial for preventing water spots and discoloration on delicate items like sterling silver.
The dishwasher also has a flexible third rack that can accommodate various sizes of silverware and utensils. With an Energy Star certification and a quiet operation, the Bosch SHXM88Z75N is a reliable and efficient option.
Dimensions:
- Width: 23.56″
- Depth: 23.75″
- Height: 33.88″
Pros:
- Advanced drying technology
- RackMatic feature for easy loading and unloading
- Flexible third rack and adjustable tines
- InfoLight system that indicates when the dishwasher is in use
- AquaStop feature for added safety
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- Expensive
Miele G7566SCViSF – Best High-End Dishwasher for Sterling Silver
The Miele G7566SCViSF is a top-of-the-line dishwasher that provides exceptional cleaning performance and advanced features for gentle yet thorough cleaning.
Its patented AutoDos system automatically dispenses the right amount of detergent for each load, ensuring optimal cleaning results while preserving the integrity of sterling silver. The dishwasher also has a BrilliantLight LED illumination that provides excellent visibility inside the dishwasher.
With a 3D MultiFlex tray, the Miele G7566SCViSF offers flexible loading options, allowing homeowners to accommodate various sizes and shapes of items including silvewares.
Its advanced drying technology ensures that sterling silver items come out dry and sparkling clean, with no water spots or discoloration. The dishwasher also has a quiet operation and energy-efficient design, making it an eco-friendly option for those looking to clean their sterling silver in a high-end dishwasher.
Dimensions: Width: 23.56″ Depth: 22.44″ Height: 33.69″
Pros:
- Advanced AutoDos system for precise detergent dispensing
- BrilliantLight LED illumination for excellent visibility
- Flexible 3D MultiFlex tray for easy loading of sterling silver items
- Advanced drying technology for spotless and discolored-free sterling silver
- Energy-efficient and eco-friendly design
- Quiet operation
Cons:
- High price point
- Requires professional installation
- Limited availability in some areas
Frigidaire FFCD2413US – Best Affordable Dishwasher for Sterling Silver
The Frigidaire FFCD2413US is an affordable dishwasher that provides good cleaning performance and has a spacious interior suitable for cleaning large sterling silver items.
Its heated dry option is perfect for removing excess water from sterling silver items, reducing the risk of tarnishing or corrosion. The dishwasher is also Energy Star certified and has a self-cleaning filter, making it an excellent value for budget-conscious homeowners.
Dimensions:
- Width: 24″
- Depth: 25″
- Height: 35″
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Excellent cleaning performance
- Removable self-cleaning filter
- Multiple wash cycle options
- Heated drying system
- Spacious interior
Cons:
- Limited features
- No adjustable racks
Danby DDW1805EWP – Best Portable Dishwasher for Sterling Silver
The Danby DDW1805EWP is a portable dishwasher that is ideal for small spaces or those who move frequently. It has a stainless steel interior that resists stains and corrosion, and it can hold up to eight place settings.
It also has a quick connect feature that allows for easy installation. This dishwasher is Energy Star certified and has a low water consumption rate.
Dimensions: 17.72 x 22.93 x 32.48 inches
Pros: Portable, stainless steel interior, quick connect feature
Cons: Limited capacity, no advanced features
Maytag MDB4949SHZ – Best Value Dishwasher for Sterling Silver
The Maytag MDB4949SHZ is a dishwasher that offers excellent value for its price. Its durable stainless steel interior and high-temperature wash option make it suitable for cleaning and maintaining sterling silver items.
The dishwasher has a quiet operation and reliable performance, with an Energy Star certification and fingerprint-resistant exterior. While it may have limited rack adjustability and advanced features, the Maytag MDB4949SHZ is a practical and affordable choice for those looking to clean their sterling silver items in a dishwasher.
Dimensions: 24.5 x 23.88 x 34.5 inches
Pros: Durable interior, high-temperature wash option, quiet operation
Cons: Limited rack adjustability, no advanced features
Tips for Cleaning Sterling Silver in a Dishwasher
Loading and unloading sterling silver in a dishwasher can be a little intimidating. But, if you follow some best practices, you can rest assured that your silverware will come out sparkling clean and damage-free.
- Make sure you space your silverware out in the dishwasher. Avoid overcrowding the silverware basket or stacking pieces on top of one another. This can cause scratching, tarnishing, and even bending of the silverware.
- Consider placing your silverware in the top rack of the dishwasher, away from the heating element on the bottom. This will help prevent any heat damage to your silverware.
- When unloading the dishwasher, be sure to handle the silverware gently. Avoid rubbing pieces against each other, as this can cause scratches and damage the surface of the silverware. Instead, use a soft cloth to dry and polish the silverware after washing.
To prevent tarnishing and scratching, you can take a few extra precautions.
- Avoid using detergent that contains bleach or lemon. These ingredients can cause tarnishing and discoloration on your silverware. Instead, opt for a mild detergent that is specifically designed for silverware.
- You can also add a rinse aid to the dishwasher to prevent water spots and streaks on your silverware. This will help keep your silverware looking shiny and new for longer.
- Clean and maintain your dishwasher regularly. Make sure to remove any leftover food debris from the dishwasher before loading your silverware. You can also run a cleaning cycle on your dishwasher once a month to prevent buildup of mineral deposits and other debris.
Conclusion
Finding the best dishwasher for sterling silver can be challenging. However, by considering the factors mentioned above, you can decide on what will keep your silverware sparkling clean and looking like new. Whether you choose a high-end dishwasher with advanced features or a budget-friendly option, ensure to follow best practices for loading and unloading your silverware, and take steps to prevent tarnishing and scratching.
With the right care and maintenance, your sterling silverware can be a treasured addition to your home for years to come.
