Child safety lock on the dishwasher

Modern dishwashers feature an interesting feature with the telling name "Child Lock." While its purpose is clear from the name, its actual necessity is questionable. In this article, we'll explain the need for a child lock in a dishwasher, explain how it works, and identify which dishwasher models feature this feature.

Is such protection necessary?

Many parents argue that there's no need to protect dishwashers from children, claiming they're not interested anyway, and even if they were, they wouldn't be strong enough to open the door. Indeed, many dishwasher models are equipped with special locks that prevent the door from opening while the program is running. And children themselves aren't particularly keen on these appliances, especially built-in ones. So, it's important to understand which machines are likely to pique the interest of young children.

1. Freestanding dishwashers. These machines stand separately from furniture and often become a source of interest for children.
2. Semi-integrated dishwashersThis appliance is sure to captivate a young child. Firstly, it's partially visible, and secondly, its control panel, with its enticingly flickering lights, is located above the washing chamber door, attracting the little explorer's attention.

Some modern partially built-in dishwashers have color displays that become an object of attention for children.

3. Fully integrated dishwashers. These are the most common type of dishwasher. They rarely attract children's attention, and here's why. Firstly, these dishwashers are completely hidden from view behind the cabinet door. Secondly, because they're built into the cabinet, they make almost no sound. Thirdly, their control panels are located on the edge of the door, so children can't see the display or flashing lights.

So, it turns out that owners of fully integrated dishwashers are right: their children don't show interest in their "home helpers" because they're hidden from prying eyes. Perhaps you shouldn't bother buying a dishwasher with such protection; perhaps a fully integrated model would be better? Although, of course, that's your choice.

If your little rascal does show interest in your "household helper," you might regret not buying a dishwasher with a child safety lock. So, it's probably best to do your research and be prepared for potential problems.

How does it work?

This type of protection is divided into two types: mechanical and electronic. Mechanical protection? What is it? This is the most popular type of protection against child tampering. It's found in many dishwasher models, but owners aren't always aware that their dishwasher has it. Mechanical protection works very simply. Inside or next to the door, there's a special locking mechanism, a kind of latch. This latch is accessed through a groove using a special lever, which acts as a key.

After turning on the dishwasher, insert the lever into the slot and push it to the right. The latch will engage, preventing the dishwasher door from opening. Once the wash cycle is complete, insert the lever again and open the latch. It's that simple.

Electronic protection works differently. The door lock is locked by pressing certain keys on the control panel. You can find out which buttons to press in the instructions. The electronic lock protects not only the wash chamber but also the control panel itself. This is especially true for partially integrated dishwashers. Once the lock is activated, the control panel becomes unresponsive. You won't even be able to turn the dishwasher off using the on/off button.

Both types of protection work well. Mechanical protection is mostly found on budget machines, while electronic protection is found on mid-range and premium machines.

Which models are equipped with it?

Now we're looking at which dishwashers are safe from curious little ones. There are many such models, so we'll only cover a few examples in this short review.

1. Hansa ZWM 475 WH. This narrow freestanding dishwasher with a capacity of 9 place settings features an electronic child safety lock. In our case, the child safety lock blocks the control panel buttons. Price: $241.
2. The Korting KDF is also a narrow freestanding dishwasher with a 44.8 cm wide cabinet. It holds 9 place settings, has 6 wash programs, and a host of useful features, including a child lock for the control panel. It's also affordable—just $306.
3. Vestel VDWIT4514X. This semi-integrated dishwasher features a narrow body and a 10-place setting capacity. It features an electronic lock and a stunning design. It costs approximately $314.
4. The Schaub Lorenz SLG SW is a slim, freestanding dishwasher with seven wash programs and a 10-place setting capacity. Its design is simple, but it offers many useful features. It also features an electronic child safety lock. The average price for this model is $330.
5. The Daewoo Electronics DDW-M1411S is no small machine, but a full-size household dishwasher with increased capacity and a host of features. Its baskets hold 14 place settings, and among other features, it features an electronic safety lock. This model is inexpensive at $390.

Our list doesn't include Bosch or Electrolux washing machines. We deliberately didn't mention them again, as many people already know these well-known brands. You might consider our post an advertisement. We consider it our duty to remind you once again that our articles do not advertise the products of companies that produce dishwashers. Our publications are purely informational and are issued only in the interests of consumers.

So, we've covered the basics of the child-safe feature that protects your dishwasher from tampering. If you still have any questions, please leave a comment and stay active on the forum. We'd love to join the discussion!

   

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