What is a dishwasher set?

Online stores and websites selling dishwashers almost always list the number of place settings a dishwasher can hold in their descriptions and technical specifications. But what constitutes a place setting is rarely explained. We decided to dedicate an entire article to this question, explaining not just how many pieces a place setting consists of, but also what the dishware should be, what capacity dishwashers can have, and what families they are best suited for.

How many items are included in the set?

First, let's understand how dishwasher manufacturers define the term "dishwasher set." How many dishes are included in a set? It seems like a simple question, but answering it turns out to be quite challenging.

Typically, a set of dishes refers to those items that are necessary for a full meal for one person, namely:

• soup plate;
• flat plate for the second course;
• salad plate;
• saucer;
• coffee or tea mug;
• spoon and fork.

As you can see, the set includes only 6 items. Cookware is not included in the dishwasher capacity calculation. This includes frying pans, pots, ladles, cutting boards, bowls, and other utensils.

However, the minimum set included in the kit can also vary. And this is where some disagreements arise between manufacturers and consumers. The set that is taken into account by manufacturers for calculations usually includes standard tableware, which is distinguished by a flatter shape, for example, as in the photo.

A flat soup bowl that can easily be placed sideways in the compartment will take up much less space than a non-standard deep bowl. To ensure proper cleaning, a non-standard bowl will need to be placed upside down or at least at an angle. This means a set of such dishes will take up more space. This applies not only to soup bowls but also to salad bowls, cups, and glasses. Today, the variety of tableware is vast, and everyone's dishes vary in both shape and size.

Important! A cookware set does not include special cookware, such as microwave-safe dishes. Almost all cookware is dishwasher-safe, but there are exceptions.

Do not put in the dishwasher:

• aluminum cookware, aluminum oxidizes over time;
• silverware;
• plastic utensils that are sensitive to hot temperatures;
• porcelain items with painted elements;
• wooden boards, spatulas, spoons and knives with wooden handles;
• Not all models of washing machines can wash crystal.

Dishwasher capacity

Based on capacity and size, all dishwashers can be divided into three large groups:

• Small or compact dishwashers, which hold 4 to 8 place settings of standard dishes. Most models have a 6-place setting capacity. This type of dishwasher can accommodate small pans and pots, while reducing the number of plates or washing the dishes for cooking separately. Not all oven trays fit.
• Narrow floor-standing dishwashers (45 cm wide) wash 9-12 standard place settings, while premium models can wash 13 or even 14 place settings.
• A full-size dishwasher washes 12 to 17 standard place settings.

How to choose a dishwasher by capacity

When choosing a dishwasher, be sure to evaluate its actual capacity, not the one stated in the specifications. Imagine how many dishes you can fit into it. Typically, for a family of 1-2 people, a compact dishwasher with a capacity of 6 place settings is sufficient. For example, models:

• Candy CDCF 6 – freestanding;
• Bosch SKE 52M55 – partially built-in;
• Siemens SK 76M544 – partially built-in.

For a family of 4-5 people, it's best to choose a dishwasher with a capacity of at least 8 place settings, ideally 9-10. For example, consider the following models:

• Bosch SPV 53M00 – fully built-in (9 sets);
• Bosch SPV 58M50 – fully built-in (10 sets);
• Hansa ZIM 428 EH fully built-in (10 sets);
• AEG F 65402 VI – fully built-in (12 sets).

For a large family, it's worthwhile, without hesitation, to buy a dishwasher that can wash at least 12 place settings at a time. The optimal option would be 14 – 17 sets.

• Bosch SMS 40D02 – freestanding (12 sets);
• Siemens SN 26M285 – freestanding (14 sets);
• Siemens SN 55M540 – partially built-in (13 sets);
• Hansa ZWM 646 IEH – freestanding (14 sets);
• Asko D 5554 XXL FI – fully built-in (17 sets).

Very often, the dishwasher's capacity isn't the deciding factor. Size and dimensions, however, are more important, as there's simply no room for a full-size 12-placeholder dishwasher in a small kitchen. In such cases, it's best to opt for a narrow model. Otherwise, you'll have to run a compact dishwasher several times a day to wash the dishes, which isn't cost-effective.

So, your dishwasher's capacity may be smaller than stated. Instead of 12 place settings, it may only fit 9, depending on the specifics of the dishes. Furthermore, manufacturers themselves recommend against loading the dishwasher completely, as this will result in less cleaning results. Be sure to take this into account when purchasing. Happy shopping!

   

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